Moroni, Comoros: Travel Guide to the Perfume Islands of the Indian Ocean

Moroni, the capital of the Union of the Comoros, sits on the west coast of Grande Comore (Ngazidja), the largest island of a volcanic archipelago between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique. Known as the "Perfume Islands" for their plantations of ylang-ylang, vanilla and cloves, the Comoros blend African, Arab, French and Malagasy influences in a uniquely Swahili-Islamic culture. With a whitewashed medina, an active volcano, black and white sand beaches and some of the least visited coral reefs in the world, Moroni is a destination for travellers seeking authenticity far from the crowds.

Search hotels in Comoros →Order an eSIM for your trip

Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Moroni and Grande Comore

1. Old Friday Mosque and the Medina

Moroni's most iconic landmark is the Old Friday Mosque (Ancienne Mosquée du Vendredi), a gleaming white building with arches and a minaret overlooking the old harbour. Its origins date back to the 15th century, and it was rebuilt and expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries. Behind it, the medina is a maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors and coral-stone houses, reflecting the city's long history as a Swahili trading port connected to Arabia, Persia and East Africa. Small shops sell spices, fabrics and perfumes.

Booking tip: International platforms like GetYourGuide offer few, if any, tours in the Comoros. Arrange a guided walk through your hotel or a local guide. Non-Muslims should ask permission before entering the mosque, and dress modestly throughout the medina.

2. Mount Karthala

Rising behind Moroni, Mount Karthala is one of the largest active volcanoes in the world, with a summit at about 2,360 metres and one of the biggest volcanic craters on Earth. It has erupted many times, most recently in the 2000s. The ascent is a challenging one- or two-day hike through tropical forest, heathland and lava fields to the crater rim, where hikers are rewarded with an otherworldly landscape and sweeping views over the island and the ocean.

Booking tip: The hike must be done with an experienced guide. Arrange it through a local operator, and bring camping gear, water and warm clothing for the cool nights near the summit.

3. Volo Volo Market

Volo Volo Market is Moroni's busiest market, where vendors sell fruits, vegetables, fish, spices, colourful fabrics and household goods. It's a great place to experience daily life, see the island's famous spices and buy vanilla, cloves and ylang-ylang products at local prices.

Booking tip: Visit in the morning, when the market is most lively, and bargain politely.

4. Lac Salé and the Northern Beaches

On the northern tip of Grande Comore, Lac Salé is a striking saltwater crater lake set in a volcanic crater near the sea. According to local legend, its water changes colour. Nearby, beaches such as Mitsamiouli and Itsandra offer white sand and turquoise water, contrasting with the black volcanic rocks. Le Trou du Prophète, a sheltered bay, is a favourite swimming spot.

Booking tip: Hire a car with a driver for a day trip around the island's northern coast.

5. Mohéli Marine Park and the Other Islands

The island of Mohéli (Mwali) is home to the Mohéli National Park, where green turtles nest on the beaches, humpback whales pass offshore between July and October, and divers can explore unspoilt reefs. The island of Anjouan (Ndzuani) is known for its lush mountains, waterfalls and the historic town of Mutsamudu.

Booking tip: Inter-island flights and boats can be irregular; plan with a local operator.

Practical Travel Tips for Moroni

Before You Go

  • Visas: visitors can usually obtain a visa on arrival; check current requirements.
  • Health: malaria precautions are recommended, and a yellow fever certificate may be required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Culture: the Comoros is a conservative Muslim country. Dress modestly, and be respectful during Ramadan.
  • Safety: check your government's latest travel advice, as political tensions can occasionally lead to demonstrations.

Getting Around

  • By air: Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport is about 20 kilometres north of Moroni, with flights from East Africa, Madagascar and the Middle East.
  • Taxis: shared taxis are inexpensive; private taxis can be hired for excursions.
  • Inter-island travel: small planes and ferries connect the islands.
  • Money: the currency is the Comorian franc, pegged to the euro. Cash is essential, and euros are widely exchanged.
  • Languages: Comorian (Shikomori), French and Arabic.

Local Culinary Specialties

  • Langouste à la vanille: lobster cooked in a vanilla sauce, a local delicacy.
  • Mataba: cassava leaves cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish.
  • Pilao: spiced rice with meat, reflecting Swahili and Arab influences.
  • Grilled fish: freshly caught and served with plantains or breadfruit.
  • Fresh tropical fruits: mangoes, papayas and coconuts.

Best Time to Visit

  • May–October: the cooler, drier season and the best time for hiking Karthala.
  • July–October: humpback whale season.
  • November–April: hot and humid, with a risk of cyclones.

Conclusion: Plan Your Trip to Moroni

Moroni combines a historic medina, volcanic landscapes, fragrant spice plantations and pristine beaches. Whether you're exploring the Old Friday Mosque, hiking Mount Karthala or spotting turtles on Mohéli, the Comoros offers a rare and authentic island adventure.

Plan ahead: arrange your visa and island transport in advance, and book your excursions with trusted local guides.