Things to Do in Comoros

Where volcanic peaks pierce azure skies and ylang-ylang perfumes drift on warm Indian Ocean breezes, the Comoros archipelago exists as one of Africa's best-kept secrets. This enchanting quartet of islands—Grande Comore, Anjouan, Mohéli, and Mayotte—weaves together African, Arabic, and French influences into a tapestry of extraordinary beauty and cultural richness. Ancient dhows still navigate crystalline waters between pristine coral reefs, while traditional medinas echo with the melodic calls to prayer and the gentle rhythm of daily commerce. Here, time moves at the pace of coconut palms swaying above black volcanic beaches, and every sunset paints the horizon in impossible shades of amber and rose. The Comorian way of life unfolds like a living poem—from the intoxicating spice markets of Moroni to the untouched rainforests where lemurs play in cathedral-like canopies, this is a destination where authentic discovery still awaits the curious traveler.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Inter-island travel relies on small aircraft and occasional ferries that can be unreliable due to weather. Book flights through AB Aviation or Comores Aviation in advance. Taxis don't use meters—negotiate fares beforehand or arrange airport transfers through your accommodation.

Money: The Comorian franc (KMF) is the official currency. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels in Moroni. Bring euros or US dollars to exchange at banks, as ATMs are scarce and often out of service.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or local villages—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking publicly during daylight hours to show respect.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water and avoid ice cubes. Enjoy fresh seafood at reputable restaurants near the coast. Try local specialties like langouste (lobster) and pilao rice, but avoid street food unless it's freshly cooked and served hot.

When to Visit

The Comoros enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (May-October) offers the most comfortable conditions with temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F), minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and refreshing trade winds. This is peak tourist season with accommodation prices 40-60% higher, though crowds remain minimal given the islands' remote nature. The wet season (November-April) brings higher temperatures of 28-32°C (82-90°F), substantial rainfall (200-400mm monthly), and potential cyclones between January-March. However, this period offers 30-50% lower prices and spectacular tropical storms that clear quickly. The ylang-ylang harvest occurs April-May, creating an intensely fragrant atmosphere. Religious festivals follow the lunar calendar: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major celebrations with vibrant community gatherings, while the annual Maulidi festival (typically March-April) features traditional music and dance. Adventure travelers should visit during the dry season for hiking Mount Karthala volcano. Beach lovers can enjoy excellent conditions year-round, though snorkeling visibility peaks during dry months. Budget-conscious travelers benefit from wet season visits, when the islands are equally beautiful but more affordable, with fewer tourists and more authentic local interactions.