Best time to visit The Comoros

Expect people to speak English. There are three official languages in the Comoros. The national language is Shikomori – a dialect of Swahili and Arabic – plus French and Arabic. Lots of significantly different dialects are also spoken around the islands, but English is only spoken by a small minority of the population. Bring your credit card. The Comoros is a cash economy and the currency is the Comoros franc. The Comoros has barely any established tourism infrastructure, so don’t expect standards on a par with the Seychelles. Electricity and water supplies are subject to frequent interruptions, roads are often poor and bumpy, and accommodation can be simple and rustic. This is all part of the unspoilt charm of the Comoros, so simply relax and go with flow, spend time chatting to the friendly Comorians and just soak up the islands’ laidback vibe. Arab, Persian, African and European traders have been stopping off at and settling the Comoros since the 15th century, so while here, don’t ignore the islands’ rich history. You’ll see it in Moroni, which is steeped in Arabic heritage dating back to the 10th century, and home to the white colonnaded Ancienne Mosquée du Vendredi and a Medina with atmospheric narrow lanes. Sultans, soothsayers and plantation owners have left their mark on the islands, and you’ll find decaying palaces and a citadel built to protect Mutsamudu on Anjouan from Malagasy attacks. The food is a fusion of Arab, Indian and French flavours – think savoury croissants and samosas – while fresh fish and locally grown exotic fruits are staples.

“With only about 12,000 tourists a year, the Comoros Islands are seldom visited. Consequently, tourist infrastructure is almost non-existent and you will find yourself projected into a completely new environment, far from our Occidental ordinary way of living. As for many of the not so developed destinations, the main challenge in the Comoros is to try our best to take things easy and really connect with our environment. When you’re here, forget about your daily routine and leave aside your phone and emails – this is the key to cut down all tensions. In fact, apart from in Moroni, Internet access is scarce and speed is limited. Then, be indulgent – the local guides are trained but tourism is fairly new to them and they do not always have responses to all of your questions. However, they know the places like the back of their hands and will prove to be essential companions and sincere friends. Finally, embrace the typically island relaxed pace of life and you will be rewarded with the wonders that local fauna and flora offer unconditionally. You can also expect to be welcomed by broad smiles on the faces of local people and enjoy listening as they share their stories and traditions.”