Comoros

Quick Facts

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Capital

Moroni

Population

596,000

Government

Republic

Religions

Islam (Sunni)

Languages

French

Calling Code

+269

Nationality

Comoran

Local name

Comores

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Introduction

villa de leyva

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The Comoros archipelago marks where the Indian Ocean turns into the Mozambique Channel. The uncertainty of its geographic identity (is it part of the ocean or part of the channel?) is representative of the island group's wider issues with instability. When in the 1960s the Comoros achieved independence from colonial ruler France, Mayotte (one of the archipelago's four islands) opted instead to maintain its French allegiance, a move which divided the island group but granted Mayotte a much more favourable future than the newly formed Comoros republic was to experience. Coups frequent Comoran history pages.

Maybe it's this instability which has stunted the growth of Comoros tourism. In any case, the Comoros do not enjoy the popularity of nearby island destinations. But if you can cope with the political situation, the islands actually offer a fantastic holiday. Expect the usual collection of brilliant beaches, stunning sunsets and picture-perfect inland forests and rivers.

Brief History

Geography

Regions/Islands

There are 4 major islands that make up the Comoros Archipelago as well as many minor islets. These are the 4 major islands.

• Ngazidja (Grande Comore)
• Mwali (Mohéli)
• Nzwani (Anjouan)
• Mahoré( Mayotte)

Cities

• Moroni
• Fomboni
• Domoni
• Mutsamudu
• Tsémbéhou

Sights and Activities

Karthala Volcano

Moroni is a good base for a climb up the Karthala Volcano (4000 metres), which boasts spectacular views of the still active crater. You can gaze inside and see the smoke rising. The volcano erupted quite recently, about three years ago. With the access road and the climb, you should reckon with several hours for the climb. I cannot now remember how many, as it was some 35 years ago that I got to the crater edge. Probably an early start is advisable. Take plenty of water and perhaps some fruit with you.

Mount Ntingui

The hard and sleep climb from Lac Dzialandzé up to the normally cloud-covered summit of 1595meter high Mount Ntingui is rough but rewarding. As it is the highest point on Anjouan, on a rare clear day, you will have stunning views over all four of hte islands of the archipelago that makes up the Comoros.

Arab Quarter

The Arab Quater is made up by the neighbourhood around the port and the Ancienne Mosquée de Vendredi (old Friday mosque). It is a medina with narrow streets lined with buildings dating back to Swahili times. It much looks like the better known Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar although it is much smaller. Still, it is just as good and sees far few travellers. Especially the carved Swahili doors found on many houses are worth the stroll.

Other sights and activities

• Nouvelle Mosquée de Vendredi - Moroni

Events and Festivals

Weather

Getting there

Plane

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) near the capital Moroni is where all international flights arrive and depart. International destinations include Comores Aviation flights to and from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Nosy Be in Madagascar. Yemenia flies to Sana'a and Dar es Salaam and Nairboi is served by Kenya Airways and Mombasa with African Express Airways.

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Red Tape

Money

Work

Study

Language

Eat

Sleep

Drink

Health

Safety

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