Things to Do in Anjouan

Anjouan produces some of the world's finest ylang-ylang essential oil. This heart-shaped island rises from the Indian Ocean, its volcanic peaks shrouded in mist and coastline fringed with clean beaches. The landscape shifts dramatically from coastal plains dotted with ylang-ylang plantations to rugged mountain terrain where waterfalls cascade through dense tropical forest. Daily life moves slowly here. The Swahili-influenced culture blends easily with French colonial remnants and Arab traditions, creating a unique atmosphere you won't find anywhere else in the Indian Ocean. Villages cling to hillsides, their red-roofed houses connected by winding paths, while the capital Mutsamudu maintains a sleepy charm with its old medina and bustling harbor.

The dining scene centers around fresh seafood and Comorian specialties that blend African, Arab, and French influences. Local restaurants serve excellent grilled fish, octopus curry, and pilao (spiced rice) for around $5-8 per meal—the island's ylang-ylang and vanilla add unique flavors to desserts and drinks. Most guesthouses offer home-cooked meals that provide authentic tastes of island life, while beachside restaurants in places like Moya specialize in the day's catch. French-influenced bakeries in Mutsamudu produce decent bread and pastries, though don't expect European standards—local markets offer tropical fruits like jackfruit, breadfruit, and various citrus varieties.

May to October offers the best weather. The dry season brings comfortable conditions for hiking and outdoor activities, with less humidity and minimal rainfall—though ylang-ylang flowers are less abundant then. November through April brings higher temperatures, frequent afternoon showers, and more lush landscapes, plus peak ylang-ylang production. Cyclone season runs December through March. The storms can bring rough seas that affect inter-island transport, though direct hits on Anjouan are relatively rare—for the best balance of weather and experiences, visit during May or October.