Things to Do in Comoros

About Comoros

The Comoros islands sit between Madagascar and Mozambique, and almost nobody goes there. These four volcanic islands blend African, Arab, and French culture in ways you won't find anywhere else. The combination works. Trade winds carry ylang-ylang scent across the archipelago. Traditional dhows still move cargo and people between the islands, powered by monsoon winds the way they've been for centuries. Stone villages cling to cliffsides. The call to prayer echoes across the water at the same time humpback whales pass through offshore waters. Markets sell spices while vendors speak Comorian, Arabic, and French—often in the same conversation. Each island is different. Grande Comore has an active volcano that lights up the sky at sunset. Mohéli runs a marine park where sea turtles nest on empty beaches under clear night skies. You'll meet locals living their actual lives, not performing culture for visitors. Mass tourism hasn't arrived yet. That could change.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Inter-island flights with Air Austral or Ewa Air cost 25,000-45,000 Comorian francs ($56-$100). Shared taxis on each island cost 500-2,000 francs ($1.11-$4.44) for short trips—negotiate before entering. Rent motorcycles for 3,000-5,000 francs ($6.67-$11.11) daily but bring international license.

Money: The Comorian franc is pegged to the euro (491:1). Exchange at Banque Centrale des Comores for consistent rates. ATMs are very limited; bring euros or US dollars in cash. Budget 8,000-15,000 francs ($17.78-$33.33) daily for meals and activities.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees as 98% of population is Muslim. Remove shoes when entering homes and mosques. Learn basic Comorian: 'salama' (hello) and 'marahaba' (thank you). Respect Ramadan observances when visiting.

Food: Try langouste (spiny lobster) and coconut curry at Itsandra Beach Hotel where seafood meals cost 4,000-8,000 francs ($8.89-$17.78). Sample fresh ylang-ylang honey for 1,500-2,500 francs ($3.33-$5.56) per jar. Drink bottled water costing 300-600 francs ($0.67-$1.33) as tap water isn't reliable.

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 lively 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 ensoiasts should time visits around turtle nesting season (October-February) on Mohéli.