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Turtle Beaches of Itsamia
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The turtle beaches of Itsamia on Mohéli Island are among the most significant nesting sites for Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the entire Indian Ocean. Each year, thousands of females arrive at the pristine sandy shores of Itsamia village to lay their eggs. The uniqueness of this location lies in the extraordinary commitment of the local community, which established a turtle protection association as early as 1991. Residents conduct nightly patrols along the beaches to prevent poaching and gather vital data for scientific research. Today, Itsamia serves as a global model for community-based conservation, where ecotourism provides a sustainable source of income for the village. Visitors have the opportunity to witness the nocturnal egg-laying process or the hatching of young turtles under expert guidance, ensuring minimal disturbance to the animals. The beaches are integrated into the Mohéli Marine Park, ensuring the protection of this fragile ecosystem at a national level.
- Location: Comoros
- Nearby: Dziani Boundouni (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 turtle beaches of Itsamia on Mohéli are active year‑round, but the main nesting season for Green Sea Turtles is from November to March. During these months, females come ashore almost every night to lay their eggs.
Best time of day
Turtles come ashore mainly at night between 8 pm and midnight to nest. Early morning you can see the tracks in the sand and possibly observe hatchlings emerging and crawling to the sea.
Etiquette
Do not disturb nesting turtles - do not use flashlights or flash photography, as this disorients them. Keep at least 10 metres distance and move slowly and quietly on the beach.
What to bring
Bring a red-filtered torch to observe turtles without blinding them. Light, long‑sleeved clothing protects against mosquitoes, and closed‑toe shoes are recommended for sand and uneven ground.
Getting there
Itsamia is located on Mohéli island, reachable only by ferry or small plane from the main island Grande Comore. Shared taxis run from the island capital Fomboni to the beaches - the journey takes about 30 minutes.
What to expect
Turtle watching requires night‑time patience and quiet behaviour - prepare for several hours of waiting. Not every night is active; the best strategy is to plan multiple nights and join local guides.
Geography
Facts
- Over 2,000 Green Sea Turtles nest in Itsamia every year.
- The peak nesting season occurs between the months of May and August.
- The local community association has protected the nests since 1991.
- A single Green Sea Turtle can lay up to 150 eggs in one clutch.
- Hatchlings typically emerge after an incubation period of 45 to 60 days.
- Itsamia is a core zone of the Mohéli Marine Park, established in 2001.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you watch turtles nesting?
Yes, Itsamia is one of the world's most important sites for green turtles, which come ashore at night year-round.
Are there rules for observation?
Do not use white light and keep your distance so as not to disturb the animals; guides will instruct you.
When do the baby turtles hatch?
About 60 days after nesting; with some luck, they can be seen heading to the ocean.
Is there accommodation in Itsamia?
There are simple bungalows run by the local community right on the beach.
Is a guide mandatory?
Yes, nocturnal beach visits are only allowed with authorized eco-guides for the protection of the animals.
Turtle Beaches of Itsamia: where is it located?
Turtle Beaches of Itsamia is located in Comoros.
Turtle Beaches of Itsamia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Turtle Beaches of Itsamia: why is it worth visiting?
The turtle beaches of Itsamia on Mohéli Island are among the most significant nesting sites for Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the entire Indian Ocean.
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Moimbassa
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Wanani
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Djoyezi sits next to Fomboni on Mohéli.
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Kangani
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Dziani Boundouni
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Itsamia
Itsamia is a village in eastern Mohéli, famous for its sea turtles.
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