Things to Do in Sima, Comores Komori جزر القمر

Sima is a charming coastal town located on the island of Anjouan (Ndzuani) in the Comoros archipelago. This picturesque settlement offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Comorian island life, with its blend of African, Arab, and French colonial influences evident in the architecture, culture, and daily rhythms of local life. The town is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches that showcase the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean. As one of Anjouan's notable communities, Sima provides an excellent base for exploring the island's diverse attractions, from aromatic spice plantations and cascading waterfalls to coral reefs teeming with marine life. The town maintains a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere where traditional fishing boats dot the coastline and local markets buzz with the trade of vanilla, ylang-ylang, and other fragrant spices that have made the Comoros famous throughout the region.

Top Things to Do in Sima

Spice Plantation Tours

Explore the aromatic world of Comoros' famous spice industry with guided tours through local plantations growing vanilla, ylang-ylang, cloves, and cinnamon. These educational experiences offer insight into traditional cultivation methods and the economic backbone of the islands. Visitors can learn about the harvesting process and purchase high-quality spices directly from producers.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost $15-25 per person and are best arranged through local guides or your accommodation. Visit during morning hours for cooler temperatures and active harvesting. Look for guides who speak your language and can provide historical context.

Snorkeling and Diving

Discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding Anjouan with snorkeling and diving excursions to pristine coral reefs. The warm Indian Ocean waters host an incredible diversity of tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral formations. Multiple dive sites cater to different skill levels, from shallow lagoons perfect for beginners to deeper walls for experienced divers.

Booking Tip: Diving costs range from $40-80 per dive depending on location and equipment. Book with certified PADI operators and check equipment quality beforehand. Best visibility occurs during dry season months with minimal rainfall runoff.

Waterfall Hiking

Trek through Anjouan's lush interior to discover spectacular waterfalls cascading down volcanic slopes through dense tropical forest. These hikes offer opportunities to spot endemic bird species and experience the island's diverse ecosystems. The most popular trails lead to multi-tiered falls with natural swimming pools at their base.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost $20-35 per person and require moderate fitness levels. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, and waterproof bags. Local guides are essential for navigation and can be arranged through hotels or tour operators.

Traditional Fishing Experiences

Join local fishermen on traditional outrigger boats for authentic fishing experiences using time-honored methods passed down through generations. These excursions provide cultural immersion while learning about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of marine resources to island communities. Catch often includes snapper, tuna, and other tropical species.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost $30-50 per person including equipment and local guide. Early morning departures offer best fishing conditions and calmer seas. Negotiate prices directly with boat owners at the harbor for better rates.

Cultural Village Tours

Immerse yourself in authentic Comorian culture through guided visits to traditional villages where you can observe local crafts, architecture, and daily life. These tours often include demonstrations of traditional weaving, wood carving, and cooking methods. Visitors gain insight into the unique blend of African, Arab, and Malagasy influences that shape Comorian society.

Booking Tip: Village tours cost $15-25 per person and work best when arranged with advance notice to ensure community availability. Bring small gifts like school supplies for children and dress modestly out of respect. Local cultural centers can recommend authentic experiences.

Getting There

Reaching Sima requires flying into Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport on Grande Comore, then taking a domestic flight to Anjouan's Ouani Airport, which operates several times weekly. From Ouani Airport, Sima is accessible by taxi or local transport, approximately a 30-45 minute drive depending on road conditions. Alternative inter-island transportation includes ferry services, though schedules can be irregular and weather-dependent. International visitors typically connect through Nairobi, Dubai, or Dar es Salaam, with Air Austral, Kenya Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines providing regional service to the Comoros.

Getting Around

Local transportation in and around Sima relies primarily on shared taxis (taxi-brousse), private taxis, and motorbike taxis for shorter distances. Rental cars are available but limited, and roads can be challenging with steep gradients and occasional poor surfaces, especially during rainy seasons. Walking is practical for exploring the town center, while longer excursions to beaches, plantations, or hiking trails typically require arranged transportation through accommodations or local tour operators. Boats are essential for accessing some coastal areas and can be hired directly from local fishermen at the harbor.

Where to Stay

Sima Town Center

Coastal Areas Near Beaches

Hillside Locations with Views

Near Ouani Airport

Traditional Village Guesthouses

Eco-Lodge Areas

Food & Dining

Sima's dining scene centers around fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic Comorian cuisine influenced by African, Arab, and French culinary traditions. Local restaurants and family-run eateries serve specialties like langouste (lobster), coconut curry dishes, and pilaf rice seasoned with local spices. Street food options include samosas, grilled fish, and tropical fruit from roadside vendors. Many accommodations offer home-cooked meals featuring ingredients sourced from local markets and spice gardens, providing authentic flavors and supporting community economies.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Sima is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are more comfortable (24-28°C), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, diving, and cultural tours. The wet season from November to April brings higher temperatures, increased humidity, and frequent rainfall that can affect transportation and outdoor activities, though this is also when the landscape is most lush and waterfalls are at their most spectacular. Cyclone season runs from January to March, potentially disrupting travel plans.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French or Comorian phrases as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas

Bring cash (Comorian francs) as ATMs are scarce and credit cards rarely accepted

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are expensive and hard to find locally

Things to Do in Sima