Stay Connected in Comoros
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Comoros isn't exactly a digital hotspot, but you can definitely stay connected with a bit of planning. The archipelago has basic mobile coverage through a couple of local carriers, though you'll find connectivity concentrated mainly around Moroni and other population centers. Internet speeds tend to be modest by international standards—think browsing and messaging rather than streaming Netflix. The infrastructure is improving gradually, but it's still developing nation territory. WiFi pops up in most hotels and some cafes in urban areas, though reliability varies quite a bit. The good news is that staying connected isn't complicated once you know your options, whether that's grabbing a local SIM or setting up an eSIM before you arrive.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Comoros.
Network Coverage & Speed
Comoros has two main mobile operators: Comores Telecom (the state carrier) and Telco SA. Coverage is reasonably solid in Moroni and the main towns across Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli, but it gets patchy once you venture into rural areas or mountainous terrain—which, given the volcanic landscape, is fairly common. You're looking at 3G as the standard, with some 4G availability in urban centers, though speeds can be inconsistent. Realistically, you'll get enough bandwidth for WhatsApp, email, and basic browsing without too much frustration. Video calls might work during good conditions, but don't count on it being crystal clear. Inter-island connectivity can be particularly variable. The network tends to be more reliable during off-peak hours, which is worth keeping in mind if you need to upload something important. Overall, it's functional rather than fast, but adequate for most travel needs if you adjust your expectations accordingly.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM is actually a pretty smart option for Comoros, mainly because it saves you the hassle of hunting down a SIM card shop when you land. Providers like Airalo offer regional plans that cover Comoros, and you can set everything up before you leave home—which is genuinely convenient when you're dealing with a destination that isn't exactly swimming in tourist infrastructure. The cost is typically higher than local SIMs, but the difference isn't enormous, and you're paying for convenience and certainty. You'll have data the moment you step off the plane, which matters more than you might think when you need to contact your hotel or check directions. The main limitation is that you're stuck with whatever data package you buy, so estimate generously. It's particularly worth considering if your phone supports eSIM (most newer iPhones and flagship Androids do) and you value not dealing with physical SIM cards.
Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards are available from both Comores Telecom and Telco SA, with shops in Moroni and at the airport, though airport availability can be hit-or-miss depending on when you arrive. You'll need your passport for registration, which is standard procedure. Pricing is genuinely budget-friendly—you're looking at a few dollars for a basic package with decent data allowance. The catch is that the process can be time-consuming, especially if there's a language barrier (French and Arabic are the main languages, with limited English). Shop hours can be unpredictable, and activation isn't always instant. That said, if you're staying for an extended period or traveling on a really tight budget, the savings add up. Top-ups are available at small shops throughout the islands, though finding them outside main towns requires a bit more effort. It's the cheapest option, just not necessarily the most straightforward one.
Comparison
Here's the honest breakdown: local SIM is cheapest (maybe $5-10 for a month), eSIM is most convenient (roughly $15-25 depending on data), and international roaming is expensive enough that you shouldn't even consider it unless your company is paying. If you're pinching every penny and don't mind potential airport hassles, go local. If you value your time and want guaranteed connectivity from arrival, eSIM makes more sense. Roaming rates from most carriers are genuinely outrageous for a destination like Comoros, so that's really only for emergencies.
Staying Safe on Public WiFi
Public WiFi in Comoros—hotels, cafes, the occasional restaurant—comes with the same security risks you'd face anywhere, but actually matters more when you're traveling. You're likely accessing booking confirmations, checking bank accounts, maybe scanning passport copies to hotels. Hotel networks in particular tend to be pretty basic security-wise, and you're sharing them with other travelers and staff. Airport networks, when available, are even sketchier. The risk isn't necessarily that someone's actively targeting you, but rather that these networks often lack proper encryption, making it relatively easy for anyone with basic technical knowledge to intercept data. A VPN like NordVPN encrypts your connection, which essentially creates a secure tunnel for your data—means your sensitive information stays private even on dodgy networks. It's one of those things that feels unnecessary until you need it, but given how much personal data we access while traveling, it's genuinely worth having.
Protect Your Data with a VPN
When using hotel WiFi, airport networks, or cafe hotspots in Comoros, your personal data and banking information can be vulnerable. A VPN encrypts your connection, keeping your passwords, credit cards, and private communications safe from hackers on the same network.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Honestly, go with an eSIM through Airalo. You're dealing with enough unknowns in Comoros without adding 'find a SIM card shop' to your arrival stress. Having working data immediately means you can contact your accommodation, use maps, and generally feel oriented from the moment you land. That peace of mind is worth the modest extra cost.
Budget travelers: If you're genuinely on a shoestring budget, local SIM is cheaper—probably save yourself $10-15. But factor in the time and potential frustration of sorting it out after a long flight. For most people, the eSIM convenience is worth skipping one restaurant meal for.
Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM makes more sense here. The savings accumulate over time, and you'll have opportunity to sort out any activation issues without the pressure of needing immediate connectivity.
Business travelers: eSIM is really your only practical option. Your time is valuable, you need reliable connectivity from arrival, and the cost difference is negligible in a business context. Set it up before you leave and forget about it.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Comoros.
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