Driving in Comoros: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national license. EU licenses may be accepted but confirm locally.
• Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory where available. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas like Moroni and 80 km/h on rural roads. The blood alcohol limit is 0.08%.
• Road Conditions: Roads on Grande Comore are mostly paved but narrow; rural roads on Mohéli and Anjouan can be unpaved and rough, especially during the rainy season.
• Car Rental: Rentals are available in Moroni but limited—expect to pay $40-60 per day. Four-wheel drives are recommended for rural exploration.
• Parking: Parking in Moroni is informal—find a spot near the medina or port. Avoid blocking narrow streets to prevent issues.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Response times may be slow outside Moroni.

Currency in Comoros: Using the Comorian Franc for Your Trip

• Comorian Franc (KMF): The official currency. Notes come in 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 KMF; coins in 25, 50, 100, and 250 KMF.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or hotels in Moroni. Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas but carry KMF for smaller vendors.
• Payment Methods: Cash is king—cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels. ATMs are scarce, so bring enough cash for your trip.
• Costs: A street meal costs around 1,000-2,000 KMF ($2-4), while a mid-range hotel in Moroni may charge 20,000-30,000 KMF ($40-60) per night.

Legal Guide to Comoros: Laws Travelers Should Know

• Local Laws: Drug possession carries severe penalties, including imprisonment. Public drinking is frowned upon, especially during Ramadan.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and during religious events. Women should cover shoulders and knees. More in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
• Photography Restrictions: Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, or locals without permission, especially in conservative areas.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection should be minimal. Respect Islamic customs—avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan fasting hours.
• Customs Rules: You can bring up to 200 cigarettes and 1 liter of alcohol duty-free. Declare cash over €10,000 upon entry.
• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the local police in Moroni at 773-2323.

Travel Safety in Comoros: Staying Safe on Your Trip

• Crime: Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in Moroni’s markets—keep valuables secure. Violent crime is rare but stay vigilant at night.
• Road Safety: Roads can be poorly maintained, especially on Mohéli and Anjouan. Avoid driving during the rainy season due to flooding risks.
• Health Risks: Malaria is prevalent—use mosquito repellent and take prophylaxis. Tap water isn’t safe; stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are limited outside Moroni.
• Natural Hazards: Cyclones can occur from November to April—monitor weather updates. Mount Karthala eruptions are rare but possible; follow local guidance.
• Scams: Be cautious of unofficial guides offering tours—book through reputable operators in Moroni. Negotiate prices for taxis in advance.
• Medical Facilities: The El-Maarouf Hospital in Moroni is the best option for emergencies, but facilities are basic. Ensure you have travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. The French Embassy in Moroni (for many nationalities) can assist in crises—contact them at +269 773 0950.

Culture & Etiquette in Comoros: What to Know

• Greetings: A handshake is common—say “Mhoro” in Comorian or “Bonjour” in French. Elders are greeted with respect, often with “Shikamoo.”
• Dining Customs: Meals are often communal—eat with your right hand. Remove shoes before entering homes. Tipping isn’t expected but appreciated (5-10%).
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly at mosques like Badjanani in Moroni—cover shoulders and knees. Non-Muslims should ask permission before entering.
• Festivals: The Maulid Festival (November/December) celebrates the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday with music, dance, and communal feasts across the islands.
• Language Tips: Comorian (Shikomoro) is widely spoken, but French is the tourism language. Learn basics like “Jeje” (Thank you) in Comorian to connect with locals.
• Hospitality: Comorians are welcoming—accept offers of tea or food as a sign of respect. Be prepared for warm, community-oriented interactions.

Local Cuisine in Comoros: Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

• Langouste à la Vanille: Lobster cooked in a creamy vanilla sauce, a unique Comorian delicacy often found in Moroni.
• Mataba: Cassava leaves stewed with coconut milk, a staple often paired with fish or rice.
• Grilled Fish: Freshly caught fish, seasoned with spices and grilled, commonly sold by street vendors near the port.
• Tamarind Juice: A refreshing drink made from tamarind, often spiced with cloves, popular at local eateries.
• Pilao: A spiced rice dish with meat or fish, influenced by Arab and Indian flavors, often served at celebrations.
• Where to Eat: In Moroni, Chez Momo in the medina serves authentic langouste à la vanille with ocean views. On Mohéli, Le Laka Lodge offers mataba and grilled fish in a serene beachfront setting. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Comoros: Must-Visit Places

• Mount Karthala (Grande Comore): An active volcano offering challenging treks and panoramic views. Search for a guided trek on Tiqets.
• Mohéli Marine Park: A biodiversity hotspot with coral reefs, turtles, and the rare coelacanth. Search for snorkeling tours on Tiqets.
• Medina of Moroni: A historic quarter with narrow alleys, spice markets, and the Badjanani Mosque. Search for walking tours on Tiqets.
• Chomoni Beach (Grande Comore): A stunning white-sand beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Search for beach activities on Tiqets.
• Itsandra Beach (Grande Comore): A popular spot near Moroni for sunset views and local seafood stalls. Search for activities on Tiqets.
• Lac Salé (Anjouan): A saltwater lake in a volcanic crater, known for its emerald waters and hiking trails. Search for tours on Tiqets.
• Dining Spots: In Moroni, Chez Momo in the medina offers langouste à la vanille with ocean views—reservations suggested. On Mohéli, Le Laka Lodge provides mataba and grilled fish in a tranquil beachfront setting, blending nature with culinary delight.

Flights to Comoros: Travel Options

Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) in Moroni is the main entry point, with flights from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa. No direct flights from Europe—expect a layover. Airport transfers to Moroni take 30 minutes by taxi.

Create Your Packing List for Comoros