Where perfumed trade winds carry the intoxicating scent of ylang-ylang across volcanic peaks and turquoise lagoons, the Comoros archipelago exists as Africa's best-kept secret. These four emerald jewels scattered between Madagascar and Mozambique pulse with an enchanting blend of African, Arab, and French influences that creates something entirely unique. Here, time moves to the gentle rhythm of dhow sails catching monsoon winds, while ancient Shirazi traditions weave easyly through daily life in stone villages perched on dramatic cliffsides. The call to prayer mingles with the haunting songs of humpback whales, and spice-laden markets buzz with conversations in Comorian, Arabic, and French. Each island whispers its own story—from Grande Comore's active volcano painting sunsets in shades of fire, to Mohéli's pristine marine park where sea turtles nest under star-drunk skies. This is a land where authenticity isn't performed for tourists but lived genuinely, where every encounter feels like a privileged glimpse into a world untouched by mass tourism's heavy hand.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book inter-island flights with Ewa Air well in advance, as schedules change frequently due to weather. Taxis don't use meters—negotiate fares beforehand (typically 2,000-5,000 KMF for local trips). Rent a 4WD vehicle for exploring; roads can be challenging, especially during rainy season.

Money: Bring euros in cash—ATMs are scarce and often out of service. Exchange money at banks rather than hotels for better rates. The Comorian franc (KMF) is pegged to the euro. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels in Moroni.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural villages—cover shoulders and knees. Friday prayers are sacred; avoid loud activities nearby. Learn basic Comorian greetings like 'Bariza' (good morning). Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops.

Food Safety: Try the national dish 'langouste à la vanille' at established restaurants. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Street food is generally safe in busy areas—look for high turnover. Fresh tropical fruits are excellent; peel them yourself for safety.

When to Visit

The Comoros enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons that dramatically affect both experience and pricing. The dry season (May to October) offers ideal conditions with temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F), minimal rainfall (under 100mm monthly), and refreshing trade winds. This peak period sees hotel rates increase by 40-60%, especially July-September when French tourists escape summer heat. The wet season (November to April) brings higher temperatures of 27-32°C (80-90°F), heavy rainfall (200-400mm monthly), and potential cyclones, but also 30-50% lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds. March-April can be particularly challenging with cyclone risks. For the best balance of weather and value, visit May-June or September-October when conditions are excellent but crowds thin. Key festivals include Independence Day (July 6th) with busy celebrations, and the moveable Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr, which bring unique cultural experiences but may limit services. Serious divers should visit September-November when visibility peaks and humpback whales migrate through. Budget travelers will find January-February offers the lowest prices, though weather can be unpredictable. Wildlife enthusiasts should time visits around turtle nesting season (October-February) on Mohéli.

Comoros location map