Things to Do in Iconi

Iconi, Comoros - Complete Travel Guide

Iconi sits quietly along the western coast of Grande Comore, the largest island in the Comoros archipelago. This small coastal town might not grab headlines like Moroni, but it offers something increasingly rare in the Indian Ocean - an authentic Comorian experience largely untouched by mass tourism. The town's coral stone buildings and narrow streets tell stories of centuries-old trade routes, while its position along the coast provides stunning views of the Mozambique Channel. You'll find a community where Arabic, French, and Comorian blend naturally in daily conversation, and where traditional dhows still dot the shoreline alongside more modern fishing boats.

Top Things to Do in Iconi

Traditional Dhow Building Workshops

Local craftsmen still build traditional dhows using techniques passed down through generations. You can actually watch the entire process unfold over weeks or months, depending on when you arrive. The woodworking skills are genuinely impressive, and most builders are happy to explain their methods if you show genuine interest.

Booking Tip: No formal booking needed - simply ask locals to point you toward the boat builders. Mornings tend to be most active. A small tip (500-1000 Comorian francs) for the craftsman's time is appreciated but not expected.

Coral Stone Architecture Walking Routes

Iconi's old quarter showcases some of the finest coral stone architecture in the Comoros, with buildings that date back several centuries. The intricate geometric patterns carved into doorways and walls reflect the island's Arab-Swahili heritage. You'll likely have these historic streets mostly to yourself, which makes the experience feel like a personal discovery.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration works best here. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography. Consider hiring a local guide through your accommodation for 2000-3000 francs to learn the stories behind specific buildings.

Coastal Fishing Village Interactions

The fishing community here operates much as it has for generations, with early morning departures and late afternoon returns. You might find yourself invited to help sort the catch or simply observe the organized chaos as boats return. The social dynamics are fascinating - there's a clear hierarchy and system that governs everything from boat positions to fish distribution.

Booking Tip: Best experienced around 5-6 AM when boats depart or 4-5 PM when they return. No booking required, but respect that this is people's livelihood. Purchasing fish directly supports the community and often opens conversations.

Local Market Immersion

Iconi's market operates on a rhythm that reflects both local needs and weekly supply boats from other islands. You'll find everything from locally grown ylang-ylang to imported goods from Madagascar and mainland Africa. The spice section alone is worth the visit - vendors often let you sample before buying, and the quality tends to be excellent.

Booking Tip: Markets are most active Tuesday through Thursday when supply boats typically arrive. Bring small bills (100-500 franc notes) as vendors rarely have change for large denominations. Bargaining is expected but keep it friendly.

Traditional Music and Dance Gatherings

Comorian twarab music and traditional dances happen organically during celebrations and festivals, but also during more informal community gatherings. The music blends Arabic, African, and Malagasy influences in ways you won't hear elsewhere. When you do encounter it, the experience tends to be genuinely communal rather than performative.

Booking Tip: Ask at your accommodation about upcoming celebrations or community events. Wedding celebrations sometimes welcome respectful visitors. No formal costs, but bringing a small gift (fruit, sweets) is culturally appropriate.

Getting There

Iconi lies about 15 kilometers north of Moroni along the coastal road, making it easily accessible from Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport. Shared taxis (called 'taxi-brousse') run regularly between Moroni and Iconi for around 500 Comorian francs per person, though the schedule tends to be flexible rather than fixed. Private taxi arrangements cost roughly 3000-5000 francs for the journey. The road is paved but can be rough in sections, particularly during rainy season. If you're arriving from other Comoros islands, you'll need to fly or take a boat to Grande Comore first, as inter-island transport doesn't serve smaller towns directly.

Getting Around

Iconi is compact enough that walking covers most areas of interest within 20-30 minutes. The town essentially follows the coastline, with most activity concentrated along the main road and the old quarter just inland. Motorcycle taxis operate locally for longer distances or if you want to reach more remote coastal areas - expect to pay 200-500 francs for short rides. For day trips to nearby villages or natural sites, hiring a private taxi or motorcycle for half or full days works well, typically costing 8000-15000 francs depending on distance and duration. That said, much of Iconi's appeal lies in its walkable scale and the conversations that happen naturally when you're on foot.

Where to Stay

Near the old town center

Coastal road guesthouses

Family-run accommodations

Traditional coral stone houses

Beachfront simple lodges

Local homestay arrangements

Food & Dining

Dining in Iconi centers around small family-run restaurants and local homes that serve meals to visitors. You'll find excellent fresh fish prepared with local spices, often grilled simply to let the quality speak for itself. Rice dishes with coconut, lentils with coriander, and various curry preparations reflect the island's cultural mix. Many meals include locally grown fruits like breadfruit, mangoes, and papayas. Don't miss trying locally prepared ylang-ylang tea if offered. Most eating establishments don't have formal menus - instead, you'll typically be offered whatever was prepared that day. Prices tend to be very reasonable, usually 1000-3000 francs for a full meal. The best food often comes from asking locals for recommendations rather than looking for obvious restaurant signs.

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 dry season from May to October offers the most comfortable weather for walking around town and engaging in outdoor activities. Temperatures stay pleasant, usually in the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius, and humidity levels are more manageable. That said, the wet season from November to April brings its own appeal - the landscape becomes incredibly lush, and you'll have even fewer tourists around. Rain typically comes in heavy but relatively short bursts rather than all-day drizzles. For cultural experiences and community interactions, timing matters less than attitude and respect. Local festivals and celebrations happen throughout the year, often tied to Islamic calendar events or agricultural cycles, so it's worth asking about upcoming events whenever you visit.

Insider Tips

Learn basic greetings in Comorian (Shikomoro) - 'Bariza' for hello goes a long way in opening conversations and showing respect

Friday afternoons can be quiet as many people attend mosque services, but this makes Saturday mornings particularly social and active

Ylang-ylang flowers are harvested very early in the morning when their scent is strongest - if you're interested in this local industry, ask about joining a harvest around 4-5 AM