Plizio Visual Lab

Dugong Sanctuary of Mohéli

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The Dugong Sanctuary of Mohéli is part of the Mohéli Marine Park and shelters one of the rarest marine mammal populations in the Indian Ocean. The dugong (Dugong dugon), often called the sea cow, is critically endangered within the waters of the Comoros. The sanctuary encompasses extensive seagrass meadows that serve as the primary feeding grounds for these gentle marine giants. Due to their extreme shyness and the small population size, sightings are infrequent, making the protective status of this area even more vital. The establishment of the marine park in 2001 was a milestone for dugong conservation, as it restricted the use of gillnets, which posed a lethal threat to the species. Local fishermen are actively involved in monitoring the waters and reporting sightings to support ongoing scientific research. Preserving this habitat is essential not only for the survival of the dugongs but also for the overall marine biodiversity of the archipelago.

Location: Comoros
Nearby: Kangani (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	27	26	25	25	25	26	27	28
Rain mm	221	156	140	99	45	30	25	17	14	24	42	96

📋 Practical info

📅

Best season

The best time to visit the Dugong Sanctuary of Mohéli is the dry season from May to October. During these months, sea conditions are calmer, improving visibility over the seagrass meadows and the dugongs grazing there.

🌅

Best time of day

Early morning is optimal for observing dugongs feeding in the seagrass meadows. The animals are typically most active at this time, retreating to deeper water during the midday heat.

📜

Etiquette

Always maintain a respectful distance from dugongs and do not approach them by boat or while snorkeling. Touching or feeding the animals is strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

🎒

What to bring

Snorkeling gear including mask, fins, and snorkel is essential for exploring the underwater world. A waterproof underwater camera helps capture the rare encounters with dugongs.

🧭

Getting there

The sanctuary is accessible by boat from the island of Mohéli; local operators organize trips to the seagrass meadows. It is advisable to inquire in advance about exact departure points and permits.

🦌

What to expect

Dugongs are rare and shy; even under optimal conditions it may take hours to spot one. Patience and calm behavior on board greatly increase the chances of a sighting.