Things to Do in Mohéli, Comores Komori جزر القمر

Mohéli, the smallest of the three main Comoros islands, is a pristine tropical paradise that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. This enchanting island offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Comorian life, with its lush mountainous interior, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. The island is renowned for its marine national park, which protects critical nesting sites for green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles, making it one of the most important conservation areas in the Western Indian Ocean. With a population of just over 35,000 people, Mohéli maintains a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere where visitors can experience genuine hospitality and unspoiled natural beauty. The island's economy is primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and small-scale tourism, with vanilla, ylang-ylang, and coconuts being the main crops. From exploring traditional villages and hiking through tropical forests to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and witnessing sea turtle nesting, Mohéli offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and ecological discovery that appeals to adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.

Top Things to Do in Mohéli

Sea Turtle Watching at Mohéli Marine National Park

Experience one of nature's most incredible spectacles by witnessing green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles nesting on the pristine beaches of Mohéli Marine National Park. The park protects critical nesting sites and offers guided nighttime tours during nesting season (November to April) where visitors can observe these magnificent creatures laying their eggs. During other months, you can still explore the park's beautiful beaches and learn about conservation efforts at the visitor center.

Booking Tip: Book turtle watching tours through local guides or your accommodation for around $30-50 per person. Best viewing is during nesting season (November-April), with tours typically starting around 8 PM. Choose operators who follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines and contribute to conservation efforts.

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 and marine life is abundant. The waters around the island are home to colorful coral formations, tropical fish species, dolphins, and occasionally whale sharks. Popular diving spots include the coral gardens near Nioumachoua and the drop-offs around the marine park, offering experiences suitable for both beginners and advanced divers.

Booking Tip: Arrange diving and snorkeling through local dive operators for $40-80 per dive or $25-40 for snorkeling trips. Equipment rental is available but bringing your own mask and snorkel is recommended. Best conditions are during the dry season (May to October) when seas are calmer.

Village Cultural Tours and Traditional Life Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Comorian culture by visiting traditional villages where life has remained largely unchanged for generations. These cultural experiences include observing traditional fishing methods, learning about local crafts like mat weaving and wood carving, and participating in daily activities such as spice harvesting. Many tours also include visits to local mosques, traditional markets, and family compounds where you can learn about Comorian customs and social structures.

Booking Tip: Arrange village tours through local guides or community-based tourism initiatives for $20-40 per person per day. Tours often include traditional meals and can be customized based on interests. Best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and respect prayer times.

Hiking Mount Mlédjélé and Forest Exploration

Trek through Mohéli's lush tropical forests to reach Mount Mlédjélé, the island's highest peak at 790 meters, offering panoramic views of the entire island and neighboring Anjouan. The hiking trails wind through dense vegetation where you can spot endemic bird species, fruit bats, and unique flora including wild orchids and medicinal plants. The forest ecosystem is remarkably well-preserved and provides insight into the island's natural biodiversity.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for forest hikes at $25-40 per day including guide fees. Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and plenty of water. Best hiking conditions are during the dry season (May-October), and early morning starts are recommended to avoid afternoon heat and potential rain.

Traditional Fishing and Island Boat Excursions

Join local fishermen on traditional outrigger boats (ngalawa) to experience authentic fishing methods while exploring Mohéli's stunning coastline and nearby islets. These excursions often include visits to secluded beaches, snorkeling stops at coral reefs, and opportunities to learn traditional fishing techniques. Many trips also incorporate dolphin watching, as several species of dolphins are commonly seen in the waters around the island.

Booking Tip: Book fishing excursions through local fishermen or tour operators for $30-60 per person for half-day trips. Trips typically include basic equipment and sometimes lunch. Best conditions are early morning or late afternoon, and prices may be negotiable for longer excursions or larger groups.

Getting There

Reaching Mohéli requires flying into Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport on Grande Comore (the main island), then taking a domestic flight to Bandar Es Eslam Airport on Mohéli with Comores Aviation International. Flights operate several times per week and take about 30 minutes, costing around $80-120 one way. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Moroni (Grande Comore) or Mutsamudu (Anjouan), though schedules are irregular and dependent on weather conditions. International visitors typically arrive via Air Austral, Kenya Airways, or Ethiopian Airlines connecting through Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Réunion.

Getting Around

Transportation on Mohéli is limited but manageable, with shared taxis (taxi-brousse) being the primary means of getting around the island for about $2-5 per journey. These converted pickup trucks or minibuses connect major villages and run on flexible schedules throughout the day. For more independence, you can rent a car through your accommodation or local operators for around $40-60 per day, though roads can be challenging and a 4WD vehicle is recommended for some areas. Many visitors also hire motorcycle taxis for short distances or arrange private car transfers through their hotels. Walking and cycling are pleasant options for exploring local areas, and boat transfers are available for reaching some coastal locations.

Where to Stay

Nioumachoua (main town with basic amenities)

Fomboni (administrative capital with government services)

Hoani (coastal village with beach access)

Miringoni (traditional village setting)

Itsamia (near marine park activities)

Djoiezi (quiet rural location)

Food & Dining

Dining options on Mohéli are limited but authentic, focusing on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Comorian cuisine influenced by African, Arab, and French culinary traditions. Local restaurants and family-run establishments serve dishes like langouste (lobster), grilled fish with coconut rice, and curry-spiced vegetables, typically costing $8-15 per meal. Traditional specialties include pilao (spiced rice with meat or fish), mataba (meat or fish cooked in banana leaves), and fresh tropical fruits like breadfruit, jackfruit, and mangoes. Most accommodations offer meal services, and it's common to arrange home-cooked meals with local families for an authentic cultural experience. Alcohol is available but limited due to the predominantly Muslim population.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Comoros

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Cafe Villamor

4.8 /5

(182 reviews) 2

bakery cafe store

View on Map Website

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 sea conditions are ideal for diving and snorkeling. This period offers the most comfortable weather for hiking and outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F). However, if you're specifically interested in sea turtle nesting, plan your visit between November and April despite this being the wetter season. The wet season brings higher humidity, frequent afternoon showers, and rougher seas, but also lush green landscapes and fewer tourists. Avoid the peak cyclone season from January to March when weather can be unpredictable and some activities may be cancelled.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French or Comorian phrases as English is rarely spoken outside of tourism contexts

Bring cash (Comorian francs) as ATMs are extremely limited and credit cards are not widely accepted

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are difficult to find and expensive on the island

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites

Be flexible with schedules as island time operates differently and weather can affect transportation and activities

Things to Do in Mohéli