The island state of the Comoros is located on the east coast of Africa, northeast of Madagascar. The Comoros are located in the Indian Ocean and consist of four islands: Mwali, Ngazidja, Ndzuwani and Mayotte. The island of Mayotte does not formally belong to the Comoros, but is a French overseas territory. Geographically and historically, however, it belongs to the Comoros and is also claimed by them.
The best time to visit the Comoros
Entry to Comoros
German citizens need a visa to enter the Comoros. This can be applied for at the international airport on Ngazidja and can also be taken directly with you. For the issuance of the visa, a return ticket and, if applicable, proof of sufficient financial resources are required. The visa is then valid for a period of 45 days, with the possibility of extension. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJZx2KWhQYc
Infrastructure
The Comoros are not particularly developed for tourism. The expansion of the infrastructure cannot be compared with German or European standards either. In the meantime, however, there are well-developed airports and international hotels.
Things to do in Comoros
The Comoros Islands are surrounded by coral reefs that are among the most beautiful in the world. Precisely because the archipelago has so far been largely spared from mass tourism, it enjoys great popularity with divers from all over the world. Beginner-friendly diving courses are also offered. In addition to colorful corals, the rare humpback whales can also be observed underwater. Mayotte is also home to one of the largest lagoons in the world. Another highlight in the Comoros is the hike up one of the volcanoes. The islands are all of volcanic origin and therefore have magnificent mountains that make the hearts of hikers beat faster. The hike to the still active volcano Karthala is highly recommended. However, you should be in good physical condition and plan up to three days for the hike. On the ascent, you will be rewarded by the sight of a unique landscape and a beautiful view. A trip to Moroni, the capital of the island of Ngazidja, is also worthwhile. The city with just under 100,000 inhabitants definitely brings a lot of joy to those interested in history. Friends of architecture also get their money’s worth in Moroni, the unique construction of the mosques is spectacular. In the Comoros, you are greeted by white sandy beaches, which, in combination with the turquoise water, invite you to relax. The sandy beach Nioumachoua is particularly recommended. Gentle waves and water temperatures between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius provide the basis for boat tours, diving or for lying comfortably on the beach. With a little luck, whales can also be observed. Another recommended beach is Chindini Beach. Located in the southern part of the island of Ngazidja, it is the perfect place to relax and listen to the sound of the sea. The sandy beach is also particularly child-friendly, as the sea depth is generally low and rises only slowly.
Safety
The crime rate in Comoros is very low, but there are occasional attacks on tourists. Therefore, it is advisable to keep your passport and other important identification documents safe and only take as much cash as necessary with you. The Comoros are shaped by Islamic culture and holidaymakers should adapt to it out of respect. The consumption of alcohol should be avoided at least in public and women should not wear clothing that is too skimpy in cities.
Holidays in the Comoros: The most important information
Important telephone numbers
- Emergency Call (Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance): 17
- Police: +269 773 012
- Fire Department: +269 773 015
- Ambulance: +269 773 013
- German Embassy in Tanzania (responsible for the Comoros): +255 22 2212 300
German Doctors
There are no German doctors in the Comoros.
If necessary, one should contact the local hospitals and clinics:
- El-Maarouf National Hospital (Moroni): +269 773 110
- Clinique de Bambao Mtsanga (Anjouan): +269 771 335
Opening hours
- Shops: Usually Monday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 14:00, dinner from 19:00 to 22:00.
- Banks: Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 16:00.
Airport
- Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH): The main airport in the Comoros, about 20 km north of Moroni.
- Ouani Airport (AJN): Airport on the island of Anjouan.
Post / Stamps
- Post Offices: In the larger cities.
Main post office in Moroni.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. - Stamps: Available at the post office.
- Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 300 KMF (approx. 0.60 EUR); Postcard: approx. 300 KMF (approx. 0.60 EUR)
Safety
- Crime: Comoros is considered relatively safe, but tourists should exercise caution and observe common safety precautions, especially in busy areas and at night.
- Emergency number: 17
Current
- Voltage: 220-240 volts
- Sockets: Type C and E (as in France, adapters for German plugs are not necessary)
Tip
- Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory, but is appreciated with good service (approx. 10%).
- Taxis: Round up the amount
- Hotels: 500-1000 KMF per day for cleaning staff
Customs
- Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
- Alcohol: Travellers are allowed to carry 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine.
- Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
- Other items: Goods with a total value of up to 300 EUR are duty-free.
Result The Comoros are an extremely exciting travel destination. Especially the partly untouched landscapes and hikes in the mountains are unique. It is also positive that the Comoros have not yet become the focus of mass tourism and holidaymakers can enjoy and explore the islands in peace. However, travellers should be aware that infrastructure and supply are not up to European standards and that they should inform themselves about the conditions before departure, for example on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.
