Africa

39 Comoros

39 Comoros

Comoros is a lesser-visited Indian Ocean archipelago offering volcanic landscapes, marine biodiversity, and distinct island cultures shaped by African, Arab, and French influences. Travelers can combine quiet beaches, mountain hikes, and local coastal towns with a slower pace than mainstream island destinations. Logistics can be limited, so flexible planning is important.
Comoros flag

Visa Information

Below is a summary of how I entered, whether through a visa or another permitted route.

Visa Required
No
Duration
Up to 45 days
Cost
€30 (paid in USD or EUR on arrival)

Required Documents

Prepare these before applying

  • Passport valid for 6 months
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Hotel reservation or accommodation details
  • Proof of sufficient funds

Notes

Visa on arrival available for all nationalities at Comoros entry points.

Last updated 2 weeks ago

Draft: This expense data is still being reviewed and may be updated.
S.No Date Details (Notes) Category Unit Cost / Unit Amount Currency Amount (NPR)
1 Visa & Documents 30.00
2 ~30000/night Accommodation 60,000.00
3 ~9000/day Food & Dining 18,000.00
4 Free Activities
5 Food purchases Activities 5,000.00
6 Transport 5,000.00
7 Activities 10,000.00
8 Free Activities
9 Free Activities
10 Activities 15,000.00
11 Transport 25,000.00
12 Activities 10,000.00
13 Activities 5,000.00
14 Accommodation 40,000.00
15 Food & Dining 14,000.00
16 Transport 25,000.00
17 Activities 5,000.00
18 Activities 8,000.00
19 Accommodation 20,000.00
20 Food & Dining 8,000.00
21 Connectivity 5,000.00
22 Insurance 40.00
23 Miscellaneous 10,000.00
24 Miscellaneous 5,000.00
25 Transport 8,000.00
26 EUR 30 + KMF 301,000 + USD 40
Total 301,070.00

Last updated 5 days ago

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General Tips

Grande Comore (Ngazidja) is the largest island with Mount Karthala volcano. Moroni is the capital city. Snorkel with sea turtles, fish, and dolphins. Whale watching from July to October during humpback migration season. Visit Chomoni and Itsandra beaches. Moheli has an excellent marine park. Anjouan is known as 'The Perfumed Island'. Mix of African, Arab, and French cultures with Islamic customs. Colorful kangas are part of local dress. Embrace the slow and soulful pace of life.

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Visa and Entry

A visa is required and available on arrival at the airport. It costs between EUR 30-50 and must be paid in US dollars or Euros. The visa lasts 45 days and can be extended with a compelling reason.

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Currency and Payments

The Comorian Franc (KMF) is the official currency. Comoros is overwhelmingly a cash economy. Credit cards are not widely accepted, and ATMs are scarce. Bring sufficient cash in Euros, which are often accepted with change given in KMF. There are very few ATMs on the islands.

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Getting Around

Shared taxis (taxis-brousse) cover towns with single rides costing EUR 1-3. Always negotiate fares upfront as there are no meters. Inter-island travel is by boat, though ferries can be unreliable and safety standards vary. Domestic flights between islands are available but limited.

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Electricity and Plugs

Comoros uses Type C and E plugs with 220V/50Hz. Bring a universal adapter. Power outages are frequent across the islands, so a portable power bank and flashlight are essential.

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Health and Safety

Malaria is present on all islands, so take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent. Drink only bottled or purified water. Medical facilities are very basic. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.

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Local Customs

Comoros is a predominantly Muslim country. Dress modestly, especially in towns and villages. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful. French and Comorian (Shikomori) are the main languages; basic French is very helpful.

Last updated 5 days ago

1

Moroni & Grande Comore Coast

📍 Moroni

Explore the capital Moroni starting with the Ancienne Mosquee du Vendredi (Old Friday Mosque) in the medina, then wander through the aromatic Volo Volo Market for vanilla, ylang-ylang, and cloves. Drive to Chomoni Beach and Itsandra Beach for swimming in warm Indian Ocean waters with volcanic rock formations as a backdrop. In the evening, try pilaou (spiced rice) and grilled fish at a local restaurant in Moroni.

2

Mount Karthala & Island Exploration

📍 Grande Comore

Take a guided excursion toward Mount Karthala, one of the world's largest active volcanic craters at 2,361 meters, hiking through tropical forest with endemic bird species. Visit Lac Sale (Salt Lake), a volcanic crater lake near Bangoi-Kouni, and snorkel off Galawa Beach to see sea turtles and colorful reef fish. End the day at Itsandra Beach watching the sunset while sampling mataba (cassava leaves in coconut milk) and mkatra foutra (coconut rice cake).

Last updated 2 weeks ago

Langouste à la Vanille

Grilled lobster prepared with Comorian vanilla sauce, showcasing the islands' prized vanilla beans.

Pilaou

Spiced rice dish with meat, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, influenced by Arab and Swahili cuisine.

Mataba

Cassava leaves cooked in coconut milk with tuna or meat, a staple Comorian dish.

Mkatra Foutra

Dense coconut rice cake served with spiced grilled meat, a festival food.

Embrevade

Fried cassava fritters seasoned with garlic and spices, a crispy snack sold at local markets.

Last updated 2 weeks ago

Moroni

Moroni is the national capital on Grande Comore, known for coastal markets, mosques, and as the main entry point for inter-island travel.

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Grande Comore (Ngazidja)

Grande Comore is the largest island, featuring volcanic terrain, black-lava coastline, and Mount Karthala landscapes.

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Moheli

Moheli is known for marine conservation zones, quieter coastal villages, and strong snorkeling or eco-travel opportunities.

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Anjouan

Anjouan offers green mountain ridges, old medina-style settlements, and a more rugged island atmosphere for slower exploration.

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Last updated 2 weeks ago