Things to Do in Mohéli, Comores Komori جزر القمر

Mohéli, the smallest of the three main islands of the Comoros archipelago, is a pristine tropical paradise that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Known locally as Mwali, this enchanting island offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Comorian life, with its volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich marine biodiversity. The island is home to Mohéli Marine Park, the country's first marine protected area, which encompasses coral reefs, seagrass beds, and nesting sites for endangered sea turtles. With a population of just over 35,000 people, Mohéli maintains a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere where time seems to move at a different pace. The island's economy is primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and small-scale tourism, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors can explore traditional villages, hike through lush forests, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and witness one of nature's most spectacular events – sea turtle nesting – all while enjoying the warm hospitality of the local Comorian people.

Top Things to Do in Mohéli

Sea Turtle Watching at Mohéli Marine Park

Experience one of nature's most incredible phenomena by witnessing green and hawksbill sea turtles nesting on the beaches of Mohéli Marine Park. The park protects critical nesting sites and offers guided nighttime tours during nesting season (November to April). Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures laying their eggs and, if timed right, witness baby turtles making their first journey to the sea.

Booking Tip: Book turtle watching tours through the Marine Park office in Nioumachoua for around $15-25 per person. Best viewing is during new moon nights between December and March. Tours start around 8 PM and can last several hours, so bring comfortable shoes and insect repellent.

Snorkeling and Diving in Pristine Coral Reefs

Explore some of the Indian Ocean's most pristine coral reefs surrounding Mohéli, where visibility often exceeds 30 meters. The waters around the island are home to over 300 species of fish, dolphins, whales (seasonal), and healthy coral formations. Popular diving spots include the outer reef walls and the lagoon areas protected within the marine park.

Booking Tip: Contact local dive operators in Nioumachoua or Fomboni for diving excursions costing $40-60 per dive including equipment. Best conditions are during the dry season (May to October). Snorkeling gear can be rented for $10-15 per day, and many sites are accessible from the beach.

Hiking to Mount Mlédjélé

Trek to the summit of Mount Mlédjélé, Mohéli's highest peak at 790 meters, for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and neighboring Anjouan and Grande Comore on clear days. The hike passes through diverse ecosystems including coastal vegetation, agricultural areas, and dense tropical forest where you might spot endemic wildlife like the Mohéli scops owl.

Booking Tip: Hire a local guide through your accommodation or the tourist office for $20-30 per day. The hike takes 4-6 hours round trip and requires moderate fitness. Start early morning to avoid heat and afternoon clouds. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and rain gear.

Village Cultural Tours

Immerse yourself in traditional Comorian culture by visiting authentic villages like Hoani, Miringoni, or Djoiézi. These guided tours offer insights into local customs, traditional architecture, handicrafts, and daily life. You'll learn about local farming techniques, visit traditional healers, observe craftspeople at work, and enjoy warm hospitality from village communities.

Booking Tip: Arrange village tours through local guides or the Mohéli Marine Park office for $15-25 per person per day. Tours include traditional lunch and often handicraft demonstrations. Dress modestly and bring small gifts like school supplies for children. Best to visit in the morning when villagers are most active.

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Take boat excursions to spot humpback whales during their migration season (July to November) and year-round populations of spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and pilot whales. The deep waters around Mohéli are part of important marine mammal corridors, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and unforgettable encounters with these magnificent creatures.

Booking Tip: Book whale watching trips through local fishermen or dive operators for $50-80 per person for half-day excursions. Peak whale season is August to October. Early morning trips (7 AM start) offer best chances for sightings and calmer seas. Trips include snorkeling stops and basic refreshments.

Getting There

Reaching Mohéli requires flying into Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport on Grande Comore (the main island) and then taking a domestic flight to Mohéli's Bandar Es Eslam Airport. Air Comores operates regular flights between the islands, though schedules can be irregular and subject to weather conditions. Alternatively, you can take inter-island boats (cargo boats that carry passengers) from Moroni or Anjouan, but these journeys can be long and uncomfortable, taking 3-6 hours depending on conditions. Most international visitors arrive via flights from Nairobi, Dubai, or Paris, with some connections through Mayotte or Madagascar.

Getting Around

Transportation on Mohéli is limited but manageable for the adventurous traveler. The island has a basic road network connecting major towns like Fomboni (the capital), Nioumachoua, and Hoani, though many roads are unpaved and can become challenging during rainy season. Shared taxis (bush taxis) are the most common form of public transport, operating on flexible schedules and costing $1-3 between towns. Motorcycle taxis are available for shorter distances within towns. For more flexibility, you can arrange private car hire with driver through your accommodation for around $40-60 per day. Walking and hiking are popular ways to explore villages and natural areas, though distances can be significant in the tropical heat.

Where to Stay

Fomboni town center

Nioumachoua near Marine Park

Hoani beachfront area

Miringoni village

Itsamia coastal area

Djoiézi rural setting

Food & Dining

Mohéli's dining scene revolves around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with a focus on seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Comorian cuisine. Most meals feature rice, cassava, or breadfruit accompanied by fish, chicken, or goat meat prepared with aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Local specialties include langouste (spiny lobster), coconut crab, and various curry dishes influenced by Indian and Arab culinary traditions. Small local restaurants and family-run establishments serve authentic meals for $5-10, while some guesthouses offer traditional Comorian cooking classes. Fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, jackfruit, and breadfruit are abundant and incredibly flavorful. Don't miss trying the local coffee and vanilla, both grown on the island.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mohéli is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower, and temperatures are more comfortable (24-28°C/75-82°F). This period offers the best conditions for hiking, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities, with calmer seas and clearer skies. However, turtle nesting season occurs during the wet season (November to April), making this period essential for wildlife enthusiasts despite higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional cyclone risk. The shoulder months of May and November can offer good compromises with decent weather and fewer crowds. Whale watching is best from July to November, coinciding with the pleasant dry season weather.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French phrases as English is rarely spoken outside of tourist accommodations, and showing effort to communicate in French or even basic Comorian greetings will be greatly appreciated by locals

Bring cash (Euros or Comorian Francs) as there are no ATMs on the island and credit cards are not accepted anywhere - exchange money on Grande Comore before arriving

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are not available locally, and respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites

Things to Do in Mohéli