Alright, let me tell you about my trip to Comoros. It wasn’t exactly on everyone’s bucket list, which is kind of why I picked it. I was tired of the usual spots, you know? Wanted something a bit off the beaten path. So, I did some quick research, which wasn’t much to be honest, and just decided to go for it.
Getting Things Sorted and Heading Out
First off, figuring out the flights was a bit of a puzzle. Not many direct routes, that’s for sure. Ended up with a couple of connections, pretty standard for these less-traveled places. Packed light, mostly summer clothes, some sturdy shoes, and a good hat. Always need a good hat.
Landing in Moroni, on Grande Comore, the main island, was an experience. The airport was small, pretty basic. But the air! That warm, humid, tropical air hit me right away. It smelled of spices and the sea. Different, you know?
Exploring Grande Comore (Ngazidja)
I spent my first few days just getting my bearings in Moroni. The capital city. It’s lively, a bit chaotic, but in a good way. I wandered through the old quarter, the Medina. Lots of narrow, winding streets. Some buildings looked like they’d been there for centuries, and probably have. It wasn’t polished or restored for tourists, it just was. Saw kids playing football in tiny squares, people going about their day. Very real.
The Volo Volo Market was a must-see. Or rather, a must-smell and must-hear. So many sounds, colors, and smells. Spices, fish, fruits I’d never seen before. I tried to haggle for a few things, probably paid the ‘tourist price’ but it was all part of the fun.
Heard a lot about Mount Karthala, this huge active volcano that kind of looms over the island. Some folks hike up. I looked at it, considered it for about five minutes, and then decided a nice cool drink by the coast was more my speed that day. It’s impressive, though, even from a distance, often with its peak covered in clouds.
I did check out some beaches. Mitsamiouli up north was nice. Not your postcard-perfect, manicured resort beach, but wilder, more natural. Found this really interesting spot called Lac Salé, a saltwater crater lake. Locals say it’s got no bottom. Spooky cool.
Island Hopping to Mohéli (Mwali)
After a bit, I decided to see another island. Took a boat over to Mohéli. That boat trip, wow. Let’s just say it was an adventure. Hold on to your hat, and maybe your stomach. Mohéli is much quieter than Grande Comore. Greener, too, felt like stepping back in time.
The main reason I went to Mohéli was for the Mohéli Marine Park. They’re big on turtle conservation there. I went out on a little boat, hoping to see some. And I did! Saw a few green turtles swimming around. That was pretty special. The island itself is just super chill. Not much to ‘do’ in a touristy sense, which was perfect.
- Quiet walks
- Watching the local fishermen
- Just soaking in the peace
Anjouan (Ndzuwani) – The One I Missed
I had plans, or at least thoughts, about visiting Anjouan as well. Heard it’s famous for its old ylang-ylang and spice plantations. But, you know how it goes. Time runs out, or you just get comfortable where you are. So, Anjouan will have to wait for another time, if I ever make it back.
Food and Just General Feelings
The food was simple but good. Lots of fresh fish, obviously. Rice, plantains, coconut milk in everything. I tried breadfruit for the first time. It’s filling, I’ll give it that. Don’t go expecting Michelin stars, but it’s honest, local cooking.
Overall, Comoros was something else. It’s not an easy place to travel, not always comfortable. Things don’t always run on time, or as planned. But that’s part of its charm, I guess. It felt genuine. The people were generally friendly, curious. It’s definitely not for the package holiday crowd. But if you’re looking for something raw, something real, and you’ve got a bit of patience, then yeah, Comoros is an experience you won’t forget quickly. It definitely stuck with me.
