Welcome to Comoros

If you have your eye on Mauritius or the Seychelles, consider the quieter sister, the Comoros. Mass tourism hasn’t arrived here yet, so you’ll have off-the-beaten-path, authentic tropical experience.

On Grande Comore, you’ll find the lively capital of Moroni, home to an old town that is reminiscent of those found on mainland Africa and in the Middle East. Explore further and find gorgeous, sheltered beaches, marine parks, turtle nesting sites, quiet villages and more.

Unique Facts

• Three main islands and numerous small islands make up the Comoros archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The largest is Grande Comore.
• The ylang-ylang is endemic to the islands and used to produce essential oils and perfumes. Other important agricultural crops include vanilla, coconuts, bananas and cassava.
• The official dish of the Comoros is lobster with vanilla sauce. A close second is Mtsololoa, a plantain, coconut milk and seafood or meat stew.
• The highest point in the Comoros – and an active volcano – Mount Karthala sits 7,746 feet above sea level.
• Snorkelers and divers are treated to one of the world’s largest coral atolls, home to fish, shells, coral, large turtles, manta rays, marlin and whale sharks.

Language

The Comoros’ official languages are Comorian, French and Arabic.

When To Go

The best time to go to the Comoros is the dry season, April to November.

Airports

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting the Comoros: Hepatitis A, Malaria and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and E. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Comorian Franc

Getting Around

The road conditions vary in the Comoros. Some urban roads are paved; most roads are not and may be very narrow, potholed and poorly lit. Drive slowly and use caution after dark.

Avoid public transportation and instead choose taxi service or a rental car with driver.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Antananarivo
Lot 207 A, Point Liberty
Andranoro, Antehiroka
105 Antananarivo
Madagascar
Telephone: +( 261) (20) 23-480-00
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (261) (20) 23-480-00
Fax: +(261) (20) 22-584-06
AntanACS@state.gov or AntanVISA@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

n/a

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 772 03 73
Police: 17
Fire: 18

Safety and Security

The most commonly reported crimes are petty crimes of opportunity such as pickpocketing. Use standard safety precautions and do not leave personal belongings unattended.