The Comoros is an archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean, located off the coast of East Africa between Mozambique and Madagascar. It consists of three main volcanic islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli. The fourth island, Mayotte, remains a French overseas department, but is claimed by Comoros. 🇰🇲

Area: The Comoros has a total area of 2,171 sq. km. The major islands are Grande Comore (Ngazidja), Anjouan (Nzwani), and Moheli (Mwali). Mayotte, another island in the archipelago, remains under French administration.

Population: As of July 1, 2020, the estimated population of Comoros was 897,219. The largest city is the capital, Moroni, with around 42,872 people, followed by Mutsamudu (Anjouan) with about 23,594.

Language: The official languages of Comoros are Arabic, French, and Shikomoro (Comorian). While Comorian is spoken by the majority (around 96%), French is used in government and commerce. Each island has a slightly different dialect of Comorian, such as Shingazija on Grande Comore, Shimwali on Moheli, and Shinzwani on Anjouan.

Currency: The currency used in Comoros is the Comorian Franc (KMF).

Religion: Islam is the state religion, with approximately 98% of the population being Sunni Muslim. The constitution specifies that the principles and rules regulating worship and social life are based on Sunni Islam under the Shafi’i doctrine. There are also small minorities of Roman Catholics, Shia Muslims, Ahmadi Muslims, and Protestants.

Capital: The capital city of Comoros is Moroni, located on Grande Comore island.

Major Cities: Besides Moroni, other significant cities include Mutsamudu, Fomboni, and Domoni.

Attractions: Comoros offers a range of attractions for nature lovers and those interested in culture and history:

• Mount Karthala: An active volcano and the highest point in Comoros, offering opportunities for challenging hikes into its crater.
• Mohéli Marine Park: The nation’s first protected area, known for its populations of green turtles, dolphins, whales, and exotic birds.
• Nzwani (Anjouan) Island: Features picturesque waterfalls and lush vegetation. Its main town, Mutsamudu, boasts Swahili-Shirazi architecture, with 17th-century houses, twisting alleyways, mosques, and a citadel. The ancient capital of Domoni is also worth exploring.
• Beaches: Comoros has many beautiful white-sand beaches, including those at Galawa, Bouni, Chomoni, Itsandra, and Planet Plage.
• Mitsamiouli: A town on Grande Comore with popular white-sand beaches and the remains of a Royal Palace.
• Friday Mosque (Moroni): A significant mosque in Moroni, offering attractive views from its top.

Natural Wonders:

• Mount Karthala: As mentioned, this active volcano is a prominent natural wonder.
• Lac Niamawi: A crater lake near the site of a city destroyed by a volcanic eruption around the 16th century. Its color changes throughout the day.
• Mount Ntringui: Another notable peak in the Comoros.
• Dos du Dragon (Dragon’s Back): A distinctive curving headland on Grande Comore with tall, spiky rocks resembling a dragon’s back.
• Lake Dzia Landze: Located within Mount Ntringui Park, this lake serves as a primary water supply for islanders.

Architecture: Comorian architecture is a blend of traditional Swahili styles, French colonial influences, and modernist designs.

• Traditional Swahili: Characterized by the use of coral blocks, wooden beams, and straw roofs, visible in older houses in Moroni and other towns.
• French Colonial: Buildings from this period feature neoclassical styles with ornate facades, columns, and pediments.
• Medinas: The historic medinas (old towns) of Mutsamudu, Domoni, Itsandra, Iconi, and Moroni showcase exceptional traditional urban planning, with masonry public squares, monumental gates, and ancient mosques.
• Palace of the Sultans of Bambao: Ruins overlooking the sea, along with ancient walls, are significant historical architectural sites.

Roads: Road conditions in Comoros are generally poor. Most main roads are paved, but secondary roads are often unpaved and poorly maintained, with potholes common. Driving can be challenging due to these conditions. The total road network is approximately 849 km, with 79% being asphalted.

Hotels: Comoros offers a range of accommodation options, from more upscale resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

• Mid-range to Luxury: Options like Itsandra Beach Hotel & Resort (4-star) in Batsa Itsandra offer direct beach access and sea views. Retaj Moroni Hotel (3-star) is suitable for family travelers.
• Budget-friendly: Hotels like Chalets Chomoni (3-star) on the beachfront in Chomoni and Le Dhow in Moroni offer comfortable stays at lower prices. Mohéli Vanilla Lodge in Nioumachoua is another option.

Restaurants: Moroni and other cities have a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine.

• Comorian Cuisine: Restaurants such as Restaurant Le Régal, Chez Babou, Les Saveurs des Îles, Dzindani, FTV, and C LA VIE are known for authentic Comorian dishes.
• Other Cuisines: New Mumbai Restaurant offers Indian cuisine, while Al-hourba Traiteur and Comores Pizza Hamramba provide fast food and pizzas. L’Aquarium Sarl is known for fresh seafood.
• Street Food: Vouvouni, among other areas, offers a vibrant street food scene with dishes like Zanzibari-style biryani, grilled meats, and spiced rice dishes. Fresh coconut water and fruit salads are also popular.

Cuisine: Comorian cuisine is influenced by its diverse history, including African, Arab, and French culinary traditions. Staples include rice, fish, coconut, and various spices. Common dishes often feature fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices like vanilla and cloves, which are also key exports.

Annual Travel: Tourist arrivals in Comoros have fluctuated. In 2023, the number of tourist arrivals was 20,297, a decrease from 50,360 in 2022. The average annual tourist arrival rate between 2003 and 2023 was around 24,846.