Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified Visa on Arrival Process
Comoros has streamlined its visa on arrival system for 2026, allowing most visitors to obtain a 45-day visa directly at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport or ports for a fee of around €30-50. Ensure you have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to avoid delays at immigration.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Comoros, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. This is a strict requirement enforced at all entry points to prevent issues upon arrival.
Renew your passport early if it's nearing expiration, as Comoros immigration officials do not accept exceptions, and it could lead to denied entry.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 50 countries, including the US, EU nations, UK, Canada, Australia, and many African countries, can enter visa-free for up to 45 days or obtain a visa on arrival without prior application.
This policy promotes tourism to the islands, but always verify your nationality's status on the official Comoros tourism website before booking flights.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring a pre-arranged visa, apply through the Comoros embassy in your country or online via the e-visa portal (fee around €50), providing documents like a completed form, passport photos, flight itinerary, and hotel bookings.
Processing typically takes 5-10 business days, so apply at least a month in advance to account for any delays or additional requirements.
Border Crossings
Most arrivals are via air to Moroni's Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport on Grande Comore, where immigration is straightforward but can involve queues; sea arrivals from neighboring islands like Mayotte require similar checks at ports.
Inter-island ferries between Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan often have minimal border formalities, but carry your passport for random inspections.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and sometimes required, covering medical evacuations (essential due to limited healthcare on the islands), trip delays, and activities like diving or hiking on volcanic trails.
Policies should include coverage for tropical diseases; providers like World Nomads offer plans starting at $5/day tailored for adventure travel in remote areas.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 45 additional days can be applied for at the Immigration Office in Moroni, requiring proof of funds, accommodation, and a valid reason like extended research or family visits (fee approximately €30).
Apply at least one week before expiration to avoid overstay fines of €10 per day, and note that extensions are not guaranteed for all nationalities.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Comoros uses the Comorian Franc (KMF). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Moroni by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or Booking.com.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for routes from Africa or Europe via hubs like Nairobi or Paris.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at street vendors or small kombo (eateries) for fresh grilled fish and plantains under KMF 5,000, avoiding resort restaurants to save up to 60% on food costs.
Visit local markets in Moroni or Mutsamudu for affordable spices, fruits, and ready-to-eat meals that reflect authentic Comorian flavors.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for shared taxis (taxis-brousse) between islands for KMF 3,000-10,000 per leg, or buy multi-day ferry passes for inter-island travel to cut costs by 40%.
Local bus networks on Grande Comore are inexpensive at KMF 500-1,000 per ride and provide an immersive way to see rural life.
Free Attractions
Explore volcanic craters on Karthala, pristine beaches on Mohéli, and cultural sites like the Badani Palace in Anjouan, all accessible without fees for authentic, low-cost adventures.
Hiking trails and whale-watching spots from shore are free, offering stunning natural beauty without guided tour expenses.
Card vs Cash
Cash is king in Comoros with limited ATM availability outside Moroni; cards are accepted at major hotels but carry KMF in small notes for markets and taxis.
Exchange euros or dollars at banks for better rates than informal changers, and avoid carrying large amounts due to petty theft risks in crowded areas.
Diving & Activity Passes
Purchase a multi-dive package at local centers for KMF 20,000 per session instead of single dives, saving 25% on exploring Comoros' rich marine biodiversity.
National park entry for Mohéli Marine Park is low-cost at KMF 5,000 for multiple days, covering snorkeling and turtle watching.
Smart Packing for Comoros
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical heat, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and modest mosque visits on the islands.
Include quick-dry fabrics for humidity and a sarong or scarf for cultural respect in conservative areas like Anjouan.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type C/E plugs (220V), a solar-powered charger for remote areas with unreliable electricity, waterproof phone case, and offline maps of the islands.
Download French language apps and a flashlight app, as power outages are common outside urban centers.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a robust first-aid kit with antimalarials, bandages for coral cuts, and vaccinations proof for yellow fever if required.
Include high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen, DEET insect repellent for malaria-prone areas, and water purification tablets for remote hikes.
Travel Gear
Pack a durable daypack for island explorations, reusable water bottle with filter, snorkel gear for spontaneous beach stops, and a money belt for securing cash on ferries.
Bring multiple copies of your passport and visa, plus a dry bag for boat trips between Grande Comore and Mohéli.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy water shoes or sandals for rocky beaches and volcanic paths on Karthala, paired with lightweight hiking boots for inland trails.
Avoid new shoes to prevent blisters during long walks in humid conditions; flip-flops suffice for urban Moroni but not rugged terrain.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable soap, shampoo, and lotion for sensitive skin in humid climates, plus a wide-brim hat and after-sun aloe for intense UV exposure.
Pack wet wipes and a compact mosquito net for outdoor evenings, as pharmacies are scarce outside the capital.
When to Visit Comoros
Dry Season (May-October)
Best time for sunny days with temperatures of 25-30°C, low humidity, and calm seas ideal for diving at sites like the Coelacanth Capital on Grande Comore.
Fewer rains mean better access to hiking Mount Karthala and exploring markets without interruptions; whale migrations peak in July-August.
Peak Dry Months (June-August)
High season with warm weather around 28-32°C, perfect for beach lounging on Anjouan and inter-island ferries with minimal delays.
Crowds are light compared to other Indian Ocean destinations, but book accommodations early for festivals like the Grand Comore Carnival.
Shoulder Season (April-May & October-November)
Mild temperatures of 24-29°C with occasional showers, great for budget travel and birdwatching in Mohéli's protected reserves.
Lower prices on hotels and flights, plus vibrant local harvests offering fresh ylang-ylang and vanilla tastings in rural villages.
Wet Season (December-March)
Budget-friendly with heavy rains but warm 26-30°C temps; ideal for indoor cultural experiences like visiting spice plantations during downpours.
Avoid if prone to seasickness due to rough waters, but enjoy fewer tourists and lush greenery for photography on the islands.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Comorian Franc (KMF). Tied to the Euro (1 EUR = 491.97 KMF). ATMs are limited; carry cash and use cards sparingly at hotels.
- Language: Comorian (Shikomor), Arabic, and French are official. English is spoken in tourist areas but French helps for navigation.
- Time Zone: East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3. No daylight saving time changes.
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/E plugs (European two-pin), but sockets vary; a universal adapter is essential.
- Emergency Number: 17 for police, 18 for fire, 15 for ambulance. Medical services are basic; have evacuation insurance.
- Tipping: Not customary but appreciated; add 5-10% at restaurants or KMF 500-1,000 for guides and drivers.
- Water: Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or purified water to avoid gastrointestinal issues common for travelers.
- Pharmacies: Available in Moroni and major towns; stock up on essentials like malaria prophylaxis before arrival.
