The Comoros Islands, scattered off the tropical water of the Indian Ocean, are not your typical gateway. If you want to drop off the face of modernity for a while or if you want authentic locals to pass the time with, then what are you waiting for? Those who make it to Comoros will tell you it lives up to the paradise hype; ylang-ylang, palm trees, and the scent of clove and garlic in the air.
It is known as the “perfume island” for a good reason and the plantation that patchworks its verdant interior – garlic and clove -read more like the essentials of an Arabian cook’s larder. There is so much pristine beauty and yummy delicacies that you won’t even mind the lack of modern amenities. Just be careful…. once you spend time on Moheli’s beaches, you may never want to leave! Its scenic beaches are infectious and bewitching. You will love it here!
Comoros seems like a speck within the greater array of African jewels, but a postcard-perfect concoction of Karthala Volcano Crater, Chomoni Beach, Dziancoundre Waterfall, Grand Comore, Lac Sale, and Mayotte shows every inch is buzzing as the next. Better still, Comoros’ unspoiled beauty, authenticity, and seclusion make it a real luxury holiday.
Highlights
Comoros Capital: Moroni
Population: 862,044 people
Area 1,659 km²
Major Religion: Islam
Official Language: Comorian, Arabic, and French
Climate: They are two seasons: the dry and cool season from May to October and the humid season from November to April. Thus, the best time to visit Comoros is between April to November.
Dialing code: +269
Comoros Currency
Currency: Comorian franc
Symbols: CF
DESTINATION AND CULTURE
The local culture is a hodgepodge of French, Arab, and African influences. The residents have a strong regard for music, and other performance arts, and local artisans are skilled in pottery, sculpture, and basketry.
Mitsamiouli Dancers
Mitsamiouli, located in the north of Grand Comore, is famous for having some of the best Comoran dancers in the archipelago. You won’t help but join their infectious cultural dance.
Mutsamudu architecture
The main town on Anjouan, Mutsamudu, was built in the Swahili Shirzi style, and its authentic architecture and design are a delight to see. Try it!
Comoros Cuisine
Comoros is a hotbed hospitality with diverse restaurants serving different food across the globe – at some of the best prices.
Comorian cuisine also owes a lot to both French and Arab influences, creating a fusion of European classics with a Middle Eastern twist that sees sauces spiced with cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, and even vanilla poured over rice dishes. Traditional delicacy includes; plantain, cassava, and bananas.
Perfume
As the world’s number one producer of ylang-ylang essence, you can visit a perfume flower plantation where you can get a sample of concentrated perfume oil straight from the source.
Karthala Volcano
Do you think of yourself as an intrepid traveler or adventurer? If the answer is yes, you may well want to consider putting Karthala Volcano on your bucket list! This volcano can seriously push your holiday to the edge, literally, but be warned; the volcano is super active, so make sure you trek with caution!
Chomoni Beach
Located on Grand Comore, the spectacular Chomoni beach is full of feel-good vibes, so much so that you will find it hard to leave thanks to the unique black volcanic rocks that dot its white sand shores, adding to its beauty.
Itsamia
Who does not like sea turtles? They are amazing creatures who are simultaneously awe-inspiring. Luckily, the tiny village of Itsamia on Moheli offers a perfect “turtle experience,” not only will you see a mother turtle lay her egg, but you will also see the hatchlings being released into the ocean. Magical!
Moheli
Moheli beaches aren’t for those who want a crazy atmosphere, but if you are after a place to truly unwind, reconnect and disappear for a while, the beaches of Moheli got you covered. Here you can go in search of the endemic Livingstone fruit bats, as well as an endangered green turtle that comes here every year to lay eggs. You will have a fun experience seeing these magnificent creatures jump and splash into the water AWE!
Mayotte
Divers rejoice! Mayotte is abundant with excellent dive sites. With crystal clear water you may be able to dive alongside dolphins, sea turtles, rays, barracudas, and a seemingly infinite amount of other marine species on the small island of Mayotte.
Giant fruit bats
If the idea of bats with wingspans more than 2 meters does not freak you out, check out the Livingstone fruit bats, which can only be seen on Anjouan or Moheli.
Dziancoundre Waterfall
If you are one of those people who appreciate natural beauty more than size, Dziancoundre Waterfall’s picturesque setting makes it a must-see. Avid nature photographers will want to spend a week or more here. These Fall’s rules! It is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and wildly inhale the exquisite smell of the ylang-ylang, vanilla, and clover that are grown throughout the island. Brilliant!
Lac Sale
Lac Sale is made even more beautiful by the incredible backdrop of blue Indian Ocean waters. You can walk around the entire caldera rim if time allows.
How to get a visa to Comoros
- Fill out and sign the application form. Attach your passport (2 coloreds) valid for at least six months from the time of arrival in Comoros. The passport should have one blank visa page for entry and exit stamps. Also, attach documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit to Comoros!
Helpful Travelling tips
- Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
- Currency and Banking. The currency of Comoros is the Comorian franc. There are approximately 1CF = $0022.
- Recommended packing list. Sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, camera, and a portable backpack with a zipper for daily use.
- Dress Modest