Things to Do in Sima, Comores Komori جزر القمر

Sima is a charming coastal town located on the island of Anjouan in the Comoros archipelago, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Comorian life. This picturesque settlement sits along pristine beaches where turquoise waters meet volcanic landscapes, creating a stunning backdrop for exploration. The town serves as an excellent base for discovering Anjouan's natural wonders, from lush tropical forests to dramatic mountain peaks. With its blend of African, Arab, and French influences, Sima showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Comoros through its architecture, local markets, and warm hospitality. The town's strategic location makes it ideal for accessing both coastal attractions and inland adventures, while its relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure ensures an off-the-beaten-path experience that few travelers get to enjoy.

Top Things to Do in Sima

Explore Traditional Villages and Markets

Wander through Sima's authentic local markets and nearby traditional villages to experience genuine Comorian culture. Visit bustling souks filled with spices, textiles, and local crafts while interacting with friendly vendors and artisans. The colorful displays of ylang-ylang products, vanilla, and traditional pottery provide insight into the island's agricultural heritage.

Booking Tip: No formal booking required - simply explore independently during morning hours (7-11 AM) when markets are most active. Bring small denomination Comorian francs for purchases, and consider hiring a local guide for 2000-3000 KMF to help with language barriers and cultural context.

Beach Activities and Water Sports

Enjoy the pristine beaches around Sima with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and traditional fishing boat excursions. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for observing marine life, while the sandy shores provide perfect spots for relaxation. Local fishermen often offer boat trips to secluded coves and coral reefs.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but boat excursions cost 5000-8000 KMF per person for half-day trips. Best conditions are during calm weather periods (May-October). Look for experienced local boat operators with proper safety equipment and negotiate prices in advance.

Hiking and Nature Exploration

Trek through Anjouan's lush interior forests and volcanic landscapes accessible from Sima. The trails lead through tropical vegetation, past waterfalls, and up to scenic viewpoints overlooking the coastline. Wildlife spotting opportunities include endemic bird species and unique flora adapted to the volcanic soil.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for 3000-5000 KMF per day as trails can be challenging to navigate independently. Best hiking conditions are early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and insect repellent.

Ylang-Ylang Plantation Visits

Tour the famous ylang-ylang plantations that make the Comoros one of the world's leading producers of this precious essential oil. Learn about the cultivation and distillation process while walking through fragrant flower fields. Many plantations offer demonstrations of traditional harvesting and processing methods.

Booking Tip: Contact plantations directly or through local hotels to arrange visits costing 2000-4000 KMF per person. Best visited during flowering season (October-June). Some plantations offer souvenir essential oils at better prices than markets.

Sunset Viewing and Photography

Experience spectacular sunsets from Sima's coastal vantage points and elevated locations inland. The combination of ocean horizons and mountainous backdrops creates dramatic lighting conditions perfect for photography. Local viewpoints offer unobstructed views across the Mozambique Channel.

Booking Tip: No booking required - scout locations during daytime for best sunset spots. Popular viewpoints are free to access. Best sunset viewing is year-round from 5:30-6:30 PM. Consider combining with a beachside dinner at local restaurants.

Getting There

Reaching Sima requires flying into Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport on Grande Comore island, then taking a domestic flight to Ouani Airport on Anjouan island (approximately 30-minute flight). From Ouani Airport, Sima is accessible by taxi or local transport, taking about 45 minutes along coastal roads. Inter-island flights operate several times daily through Comores Aviation, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel periods. Alternative transportation includes inter-island boats, though these are less reliable and weather-dependent.

Getting Around

Transportation in Sima primarily relies on walking for short distances within the town center, as most attractions and amenities are concentrated in a small area. For longer distances and excursions, shared taxis (taxi-brousse) and private taxis are available, with negotiated fares typically ranging from 500-2000 KMF depending on distance. Motorcycle taxis offer a quicker but more adventurous option for short trips. Renting a car is possible but challenging due to limited rental agencies and rough road conditions. Many visitors find that hiring a local driver for day trips provides the best combination of convenience and local knowledge.

Where to Stay

Sima Town Center

Coastal Road Area

Hillside Locations

Near Ouani Airport

Mutsamudu (nearby larger town)

Beachfront Guesthouses

Food & Dining

Sima's dining scene centers around local Comorian cuisine featuring fresh seafood, rice dishes, and tropical fruits. Small local restaurants (hotely) serve traditional meals like langouste (lobster), grilled fish with coconut rice, and curry-influenced dishes reflecting the islands' Indian Ocean connections. Street food vendors offer affordable options like samosas, grilled meat skewers, and fresh fruit. Most establishments are family-run with limited menus but authentic flavors, and meals typically cost 1500-4000 KMF. French colonial influence appears in some dishes and the availability of baguettes and pastries in local bakeries.

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 Sima is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable (24-28°C). This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, hiking, and water sports, with calmer seas and clearer skies for photography. The wet season (November-April) brings higher temperatures, humidity, and frequent rainfall, though it's also when ylang-ylang flowers are in peak bloom. Cyclone season (December-March) can bring severe weather, making travel more challenging. For the best balance of good weather and flowering plants, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or October.

Insider Tips

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

Always carry cash in Comorian francs as credit cards are not widely accepted and ATMs are scarce

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites, as the Comoros is a predominantly Muslim country

Things to Do in Sima