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Perfume Islands Paradise: A Week in Comoros

Volcanic Peaks, Pristine Beaches, and Island Adventures

Trip Overview

Discover the enchanting Comoros archipelago, where volcanic landscapes meet turquoise waters and Swahili culture thrives. This week-long journey takes you across three main islands—Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan—exploring active volcanoes, pristine marine parks, and traditional villages. Experience the laid-back rhythm of island life while snorkeling with sea turtles, hiking through ylang-ylang plantations, and sampling fragrant Comorian cuisine. The itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, offering both cultural immersion and natural wonders. You'll witness the unique blend of African, Arab, and French influences that define these islands, often called the 'Perfume Islands' for their aromatic spice exports.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
May to October (dry season, ideal for hiking and diving)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, Nature lovers, Off-the-beaten-path travelers, Diving enthusiasts, Cultural explorers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival in Moroni & Coastal Exploration

Moroni, Grande Comore
Arrive in the capital city of Moroni, settle into island time, and explore the historic medina and waterfront.
Morning
Arrival and Medina exploration
Land at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport and transfer to your accommodation. After settling in, explore Moroni's ancient medina with its narrow winding streets, white-washed buildings, and the iconic Badjanani Mosque overlooking the ocean. Wander through the old Friday Mosque and observe local life in this atmospheric quarter.
3-4 hours $15-20
Arrange airport transfer in advance through your accommodation
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant serving fresh grilled fish
Comorian seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Harbor walk and local markets
Stroll along Moroni's picturesque harbor where traditional dhows bob in the water. Visit the bustling Volo Volo market to see local produce, spices, and handicrafts. Purchase some ylang-ylang perfume or vanilla as souvenirs. Watch fishermen bring in their daily catch and experience the vibrant colors and aromas of island commerce.
2-3 hours $10-15
Evening
Sunset at the corniche and dinner
Watch the sunset from the coastal road, then enjoy dinner at a local eatery serving mataba (cassava leaves with coconut) and langouste

Where to Stay Tonight

Moroni city center (Mid-range guesthouse near the medina)

Central location provides easy access to attractions and restaurants while immersing you in local atmosphere

Exchange money at the airport or banks in Moroni as ATMs are unreliable; bring euros for best exchange rates
Day 1 Budget: $85-110
2

Mount Karthala Volcano Trek

Mount Karthala, Grande Comore
Embark on an unforgettable trek to one of the world's largest active volcanic craters, witnessing dramatic landscapes and endemic flora.
Morning
Early morning volcano ascent
Depart before dawn for Mount Karthala, one of the world's most active volcanoes. The challenging 6-8 hour trek takes you through lush vegetation zones, past lava fields, and up to the massive crater rim at 2,361 meters. Marvel at the otherworldly landscape of solidified lava flows and, on clear days, panoramic views of the entire island and neighboring Mohéli.
8-10 hours round trip $60-80
Hire a local guide the day before; mandatory for safety and navigation
Lunch
Packed lunch at the crater rim
Picnic provisions Budget
Afternoon
Descent and village visit
Make your way back down the mountain, stopping at a traditional village along the route. Rest your legs and interact with locals who live on the volcano's slopes. Learn about their agricultural practices and how they monitor volcanic activity. The descent offers different perspectives of the dramatic landscape you ascended earlier.
3-4 hours Included in guide fee
Evening
Recovery and early dinner
Return to Moroni for a well-deserved rest and hearty meal at a local restaurant serving pilao (spiced rice) and grilled chicken

Where to Stay Tonight

Moroni city center (Same guesthouse as Day 1)

Convenient base for early morning departure and post-trek recovery

Bring warm layers and rain gear; temperatures drop significantly at the summit and weather changes rapidly
Day 2 Budget: $95-125
3

Journey to Mohéli Island

Mohéli
Travel to the smallest and most pristine of the main islands, known for its exceptional marine biodiversity and relaxed atmosphere.
Morning
Flight to Mohéli
Take a short domestic flight from Moroni to Mohéli's Bandar Es Eslam Airport. The scenic 30-minute flight offers aerial views of the archipelago. Upon arrival, transfer to the southern coast near the marine park. Mohéli's untouched beauty and slower pace provide a stark contrast to Grande Comore, with fewer tourists and pristine natural environments.
3-4 hours including transfers $120-150
Book inter-island flights at least a week in advance as seats are limited
Lunch
A beachside restaurant near your accommodation
Fresh seafood and coconut curry Mid-range
Afternoon
Beach relaxation and snorkeling
Settle into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the pristine beaches near Moheli Laka Lodge. Wade into crystal-clear waters for casual snorkeling from shore, spotting colorful reef fish and coral formations. The protected marine park ensures abundant marine life even in shallow waters. Enjoy the tranquility of this unspoiled paradise.
3-4 hours $0-10
Evening
Sunset and traditional dinner
Watch the spectacular sunset over the Mozambique Channel and dine on freshly caught fish prepared with local spices and coconut

Where to Stay Tonight

Near Moheli Laka Lodge, southern Mohéli (Eco-lodge or beachfront bungalow)

Proximity to marine park and turtle nesting sites; peaceful setting for nature immersion

Bring cash for your entire Mohéli stay; there are no ATMs on the island
Day 3 Budget: $140-180
4

Marine Park Adventures

Mohéli Marine Park
Dive into Mohéli's protected waters to swim with sea turtles, explore coral reefs, and discover one of the Indian Ocean's best-kept secrets.
Morning
Snorkeling expedition in the marine park
Join a guided snorkeling tour in Mohéli Marine Park, one of the Indian Ocean's most pristine protected areas. Glide alongside green and hawksbill sea turtles in their natural habitat, observe dolphins if you're lucky, and explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. The park's conservation efforts have created an underwater paradise with exceptional visibility and biodiversity.
3-4 hours $40-60
Book through your accommodation or Moheli Laka Lodge the evening before
Lunch
Return to your lodge for a fresh seafood lunch
Grilled octopus and local vegetables Mid-range
Afternoon
Kayaking and coastal exploration
Paddle along Mohéli's dramatic coastline in a kayak, exploring hidden coves and mangrove channels. The calm waters make for easy paddling while offering opportunities to spot marine life from above. Visit small fishing villages accessible only by boat and interact with friendly locals who maintain traditional lifestyles largely unchanged for generations.
2-3 hours $25-35
Evening
Night turtle watching (seasonal)
If visiting during nesting season (November-March), join a guided night walk to observe sea turtles laying eggs on protected beaches

Where to Stay Tonight

Near Moheli Laka Lodge, southern Mohéli (Same eco-lodge as Day 3)

Continued access to marine activities and turtle nesting sites

Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine park's delicate ecosystem
Day 4 Budget: $95-130
5

Anjouan: The Pearl of the Comoros

Anjouan
Travel to the most mountainous island, known for its dramatic scenery, cascading waterfalls, and fragrant spice plantations.
Morning
Flight to Anjouan and Mutsamudu exploration
Fly to Anjouan and transfer to Mutsamudu, the island's charming capital. Explore the historic citadel with its crumbling ramparts and cannons overlooking the harbor. Wander through the atmospheric old town with its carved wooden doors and balconies reflecting Swahili-Arab architecture. Visit the former sultan's palace and learn about Anjouan's complex history as a trading hub.
4-5 hours including flight $130-160
Confirm flight times the day before as schedules can change
Lunch
A restaurant in Mutsamudu's old quarter
Comorian curry and sambusas Budget
Afternoon
Spice plantation tour
Visit a working ylang-ylang and clove plantation in Anjouan's lush interior. Learn about the distillation process that makes Comoros one of the world's leading producers of ylang-ylang essential oil. Walk through fragrant groves of vanilla, cloves, and cinnamon while your guide explains traditional cultivation methods. Purchase pure essential oils directly from producers at excellent prices.
2-3 hours $20-30
Evening
Coastal dinner and harbor views
Dine at a waterfront restaurant watching dhows return to port, enjoying fresh lobster and coconut-infused dishes

Where to Stay Tonight

Mutsamudu or nearby coastal area (Small hotel with ocean views)

Central location for exploring Anjouan's attractions and easy access to beaches

Anjouan's roads are steep and winding; hire a local driver familiar with mountain routes
Day 5 Budget: $160-200
6

Waterfalls and Mountain Villages

Anjouan interior
Discover Anjouan's spectacular interior with cascading waterfalls, terraced hillsides, and traditional mountain communities.
Morning
Waterfall hike
Trek through Anjouan's verdant interior to visit spectacular waterfalls hidden in the mountain forests. The trail winds through terraced farms growing bananas, taro, and cassava, offering glimpses of traditional agriculture. Cool off with a swim in natural pools beneath the cascades, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The dramatic scenery showcases why Anjouan is considered the most beautiful of the Comoros islands.
3-4 hours $30-40
Hire a local guide through your accommodation for trail navigation and cultural insights
Lunch
A simple eatery in a mountain village
Home-cooked Comorian food Budget
Afternoon
Village cultural experience
Visit traditional villages perched on Anjouan's steep hillsides, where life continues much as it has for centuries. Meet local artisans crafting traditional items, observe women preparing food using time-honored methods, and learn about community structures and customs. The warm hospitality of Anjouanais villagers provides authentic cultural exchange rarely found in more touristed destinations.
2-3 hours $10-15
Evening
Farewell dinner on the beach
Enjoy a special final evening meal at a beachside location, savoring grilled fish, coconut rice, and tropical fruits while reflecting on your island adventures

Where to Stay Tonight

Mutsamudu or nearby coastal area (Same hotel as Day 5)

Convenient for early departure the next morning

Purchase vanilla pods and essential oils on Anjouan as they're cheaper and fresher than in Moroni
Day 6 Budget: $85-115
7

Return to Grande Comore & Departure

Moroni, Grande Comore
Return to Moroni for final explorations and souvenir shopping before your departure from the Perfume Islands.
Morning
Flight to Moroni and last-minute shopping
Take the morning flight back to Grande Comore. If time permits before your international departure, visit local craft markets for last-minute souvenirs including traditional basketwork, carved wooden items, and locally produced essential oils. Stop by shops selling Comorian vanilla, spices, and ylang-ylang products. Take a final stroll through Moroni's streets, capturing last photos of the medina and harbor.
3-4 hours $120-150
Coordinate inter-island and international flight times carefully to allow sufficient connection time
Lunch
A final meal at a Moroni restaurant
Favorite Comorian dishes from your trip Mid-range
Afternoon
Departure preparations
Transfer to Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport for your international departure. Arrive at least two hours before your flight as check-in procedures can be slow. Browse the small airport shops for any forgotten souvenirs. Reflect on your week exploring one of Africa's least-visited yet most rewarding destinations, taking with you memories of pristine nature and warm island hospitality.
2-3 hours $20-30
Evening
International departure
Depart Comoros with memories of volcanic peaks, turtle encounters, and the fragrant Perfume Islands

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

International flight departure

Keep some euros aside for airport departure tax if not included in your ticket
Day 7 Budget: $160-200

Practical Information

Getting Around

Inter-island travel relies on small domestic flights operated by AB Aviation; book in advance as capacity is limited. On each island, hire private drivers or taxis for day trips as public transport is minimal. Grande Comore and Anjouan have paved coastal roads but mountain routes can be rough. Mohéli has limited road infrastructure. Most accommodations can arrange airport transfers and day trip transportation. Walking is feasible in town centers but impractical between sites.

Book Ahead

Book inter-island flights at least one week ahead. Reserve Moheli Laka Lodge area accommodations early as options are limited. Arrange volcano guides the day before trekking. Most other activities can be organized upon arrival through accommodations.

Packing Essentials

Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, hiking boots, lightweight layers for volcano trek, snorkeling gear (though often provided), cash in euros, waterproof bag, modest clothing respecting local Muslim culture, French phrasebook

Total Budget

$820-1,060 for the week (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in local guesthouses instead of lodges ($20-40/night), eat at local restaurants and markets exclusively, skip inter-island flights by using cargo boats where possible (less comfortable but authentic), self-guide easier hikes with downloaded maps, snorkel from public beaches rather than organized tours. This reduces daily costs to $50-70, making the week feasible for $400-500.

Luxury Upgrade

Book Moheli Laka Lodge directly for premium eco-luxury accommodations with full board, arrange private boat charters for marine park exploration, hire private guides for all excursions, stay in the best available hotels on each island, enjoy sunset dhow cruises, arrange helicopter transfers between islands if available, and include scuba diving packages. Budget $250-350 per day for luxury experience.

Family-Friendly

Focus on beach time and snorkeling rather than strenuous hikes, skip the full Karthala trek in favor of shorter nature walks, spend extra days on Mohéli for relaxed turtle watching and swimming, choose accommodations with family bungalows, arrange cultural activities like spice plantation visits that engage children, bring plenty of snacks as kid-friendly restaurants are limited, and consider visiting during turtle nesting season for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Comoros

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Comoros

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Comoros

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Comoros

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Comoros

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