Things to Do in Moroni, Comores Komori جزر القمر

Moroni, the capital and largest city of the Comoros Islands, is a captivating blend of African, Arab, and French influences nestled on the western coast of Grande Comore (Ngazidja). This historic port city sits in the shadow of the active Mount Karthala volcano, offering visitors a unique combination of Islamic architecture, bustling markets, and stunning ocean views. The old medina, with its narrow winding streets and traditional Swahili houses, tells the story of centuries of trade and cultural exchange in the Indian Ocean. Despite being one of the world's least visited capitals, Moroni offers an authentic and unspoiled travel experience. The city's waterfront is lined with dhows and fishing boats, while the historic Friday Mosque stands as a testament to the islands' deep Islamic heritage. Visitors can explore vibrant local markets filled with ylang-ylang perfumes, vanilla, and colorful textiles, or venture into the surrounding countryside to discover pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes that remain largely untouched by mass tourism.

Top Things to Do in Moroni

Explore the Old Medina and Friday Mosque

Wander through the historic medina's labyrinthine streets lined with traditional Swahili architecture and coral stone buildings. The ancient Friday Mosque, dating back to the 15th century, is one of the oldest mosques in the southern hemisphere and features beautiful Islamic architecture with intricate carved decorations.

Booking Tip: No booking required for street exploration; mosque visits are free but dress modestly and remove shoes. Best visited in early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid midday heat. Hire a local guide for $10-15 to learn about the history and architecture.

Mount Karthala Volcano Hiking

Trek to the summit of Mount Karthala, one of the world's largest active volcanic craters, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations. The challenging hike takes you through diverse ecosystems from tropical forests to lunar-like volcanic landscapes at the rim of the massive caldera.

Booking Tip: Essential to book with experienced local guides ($50-80 per person for 2-day trek including camping gear). Best attempted during dry season (May-October). Bring warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at altitude. Most operators require 2-3 days advance booking.

Itsandra Beach and Coastal Activities

Relax at Itsandra Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline near Moroni, featuring black volcanic sand and clear turquoise waters. The area offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and observing traditional fishing methods used by local communities.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free; rent snorkeling gear locally for $5-10 per day. Local fishermen offer boat trips for $20-30 per person. Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring sun protection as shade is limited on the volcanic sand beaches.

Volo Volo Market Experience

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Moroni's main market, where vendors sell everything from exotic spices and ylang-ylang perfumes to colorful fabrics and fresh tropical fruits. This bustling marketplace provides authentic insight into daily Comorian life and culture.

Booking Tip: No booking required; market is open daily 6 AM-6 PM, busiest in mornings. Bring small bills for purchases and be prepared to bargain. Consider hiring a local guide ($10-15) to help navigate and translate. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.

Traditional Dhow Sailing and Fishing

Experience the traditional maritime culture of the Comoros by joining local fishermen on their wooden dhows for a sunset sailing trip or fishing expedition. These authentic boats have been used for centuries in the Indian Ocean and offer a unique perspective of Moroni's coastline from the water.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local fishermen at the harbor for $25-40 per person for 2-3 hours. Best times are early morning (5-8 AM) for fishing or late afternoon (4-7 PM) for sunset trips. No advance booking usually needed, but confirm weather conditions. Bring motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness.

Getting There

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport, located about 20 kilometers north of Moroni, is the main gateway to the Comoros. The airport receives flights from several African destinations including Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Antananarivo, as well as connections through Mayotte and Réunion. Air Austral, Kenya Airways, and AB Aviation are the primary carriers serving the route. From the airport, taxis charge approximately $15-25 to reach central Moroni, or you can arrange hotel transfers in advance. There are also inter-island flights connecting to Anjouan and Mohéli islands for those planning to explore the entire archipelago.

Getting Around

Getting around Moroni is relatively straightforward due to its compact size. Taxis are the most convenient option for visitors, with short trips within the city costing $3-8, though it's essential to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Shared taxis (taxi-brousse) are cheaper at around $1-2 per ride but can be crowded and have fixed routes. For exploring the old medina and central areas, walking is often the best option as many streets are narrow and pedestrian-friendly. Car rentals are available but not recommended for first-time visitors due to challenging road conditions and local driving customs. Motorcycle taxis are popular with locals but not advised for tourists unfamiliar with traffic patterns.

Where to Stay

Moroni City Center

Itsandra Beach Area

Volo Volo District

Harbor Front

Badjanani Neighborhood

Airport Road Area

Food & Dining

Moroni's dining scene reflects the islands' multicultural heritage, blending African, Arab, Indian, and French culinary influences. Local restaurants serve traditional Comorian dishes like langouste à la vanille (lobster with vanilla), pilaf rice with fish or meat, and tropical fruits like breadfruit and jackfruit. The waterfront area offers several restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, while the medina has small local eateries serving authentic Comorian cuisine at very affordable prices ($3-8 per meal). French-influenced restaurants can be found near the city center, offering more upscale dining experiences ($15-25 per meal). Don't miss trying the local ylang-ylang honey and vanilla-infused dishes that showcase the islands' famous agricultural products. Street food vendors offer grilled fish, samosas, and tropical fruit juices throughout the city.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Moroni is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable, ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F). This period offers the clearest skies for volcano hiking and the calmest seas for water activities. The wet season from November to April brings higher humidity, frequent rainfall, and potential cyclones, though temperatures remain warm year-round. July and August are particularly popular due to cooler temperatures and minimal precipitation, but this is also when accommodation prices may be slightly higher. The shoulder months of May and October offer good weather conditions with fewer tourists and better value for money.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French or Arabic phrases as English is not widely spoken; most locals appreciate the effort and it will enhance your cultural interactions

Always carry cash in Comorian francs as credit cards are rarely accepted outside of major hotels, and ATMs are limited with frequent service interruptions

Respect local Islamic customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting mosques or traditional neighborhoods; women should cover shoulders and wear long pants or skirts

Things to Do in Moroni