In common with a few other places, such as the wine-growing areas of France, one of the key attractions of the Comoros is its main non-tourist commercial activity. The islands’ vegetation is rich and varied: 65 per cent of the world’s perfume essence comes from the Comoros, being processed from the blossoms of ylang-ylang, jasmine and orange. Spices, including nutmeg, cloves, pepper, basil and vanilla, are another mainstay of the economy. Ylang-ylang base has uses in hairdressing, the treatment of rheumatism and, mixed with coconut oil, as sun cream. For further information on the Comoro
Islands’ economy, see the
Business Profile section.
Ngazidja (Grande Comore)The capital Moroni is a charming, peaceful town containing a few broad squares and modern government buildings, as well as old, narrow, winding streets and a market place. There are numerous fine mosques including the Vendredi Mosque, from the top of which there is an attractive view.
The more energetic may climb to the top of Mount Karthala and then descend into the crater of this active volcano. The crater is claimed to be the largest still active anywhere in the world. It is usual to make one overnight stop at the shelter provided. The Karthala volcano erupted in 2003 and it may be worth checking the situation between traveling to this part of the island.
Itsandra, a fishing village 6km (4 miles) from Moroni, has a fine beach and there are opportunities to see dances performed by the local men. The town was once the ancient capital of the island, complete with royal tombs and a fortress.
There are hot sulphur springs at Lac Salé and a 14th-century village at Iconi. Mitsamiouli, a town in the north of the island, is known both for its good diving facilities and for having the best Comoran dancers. There are many bats and spiders on the island, the former often appearing in broad daylight.
Mwali (Mohéli)Dhows (Arab sail boats) are built on the beach at Fomboni on the smallest of the main islands. There is a fine waterfall at Miringoni. Giant turtles may be seen at Niumashuwa Bay.
Nzwani (Anjouan)This island is notable for its waterfalls and abundant vegetation. The main town of Mutsamudu is built in Swahili-Shirazi style, complete with 17th-century houses with carved doors, twisting alleyways, mosques and a citadel. The ancient capital of Domoni is also worth a visit. The best beaches are in the Bimbini area. There are perfume distilleries at Bambao.
Mahore (Mayotte)This French-administered island is surrounded by a coral reef and has good beaches and excellent scuba-diving facilities. Tourists may explore the lagoon (claimed to be the largest in the world) by dugout canoe. The town of Dzaoudzi contains some old fortifications worthy of a visit. Pamanzi is a forested islet 5km (3 miles) offshore, fragrant with a wealth of vegetation. At Sulu, a waterfall plunges straight into the sea. There are the remains of an old mosque at Tsingoni. Elsewhere, there are 19th-century sugar refineries. For further information, see the
French Overseas Possessions section.
NoteTravel to Mayotte from the Comoros Islands may be problematic owing to the fact that this is disputed territory.
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