Comoros
About
| The islands are of volcanic origin and are surrounded by coral reefs. The more energetic visitors will be eager to climb to the top of Mount Karthala, an active volcano on Ngazidja, or enjoy a vast range of watersports. Itsandra, a fishing village 6km from Moroni, has a fine beach and the town was once the ancient capital of the island, complete with royal tombs and a fortress. Mitsamiouli, a town in the north of the island, is known both for its good diving facilities and for having the best Comoran dancers. |
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| Capital: | Moroni (YVA & HAH) |
| Currency: | Comoros Franc (KMF) (Euro and US Dollar are largely accepted in tourist areas) |
| Language: | Arabic and French. The majority of locals speak Shikomoro (a Swahili-Arabic blend) |
| Dialling code from SA: | + 269 |
| Time Zones: | UTC/GMT +3 hours (1 hour ahead of South Africa) |
| Side of the Road: | Right |
| Best Time to Go: | May to October (Dry Season). The islands have a tropical climate. The wet season is from October to April, where heavy rains occur and the weather is hot and humid. The dry season is cooler and more comfortable. |
| Best For: | Island relaxation |
| Plugs: | 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs with two rounded pins are used. |
| Drinking Water: | All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Milk is unpasteurised. |
| Health: | Medical facilities are very limited. It is advisable to carry basic medical supplies. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended and it should include emergency air evacuation coverage. |
| Customs: | As a predominately Islamic country, dress should always be conservative: women should keep their arms and legs covered and swimwear should be reserved for the beach. Alcohol is available, but should not be drunk in public places. Respect to religious customs should also be shown during the month of Ramadan. |
| Travel Tips / Warnings: | Credit cards are generally only accepted in tourist locations. Outside of Moroni, banking facilities are limited. Electricity shortages can occur. Le Kartala volcano on Ngazidja is active and it is advised to check before travelling to that region. Check the local political situation on Anjouan before finalising travel plans to that island. |
| Duty Free: | The following goods may be imported into the Comoros by persons 18 years of age and over without incurring customs duty: • 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g of tobacco. • 1 bottle of alcoholic beverage. • 1 bottle of perfume. |
| Prohibited Imports: | Plants or soil, except on presentation of an import permit issued from the Comoros Agriculture Department, together with a phytosanitary certificate of the place of origin. |
Issuing Authorities
Comoros Embassy
200 Beckett Street, Arcadia, (Cnr Beckett & Church str), Pretoria
Tel: 012 343 8594
E-mail: embassycomorospretoria@gmail.com
Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1, 27; Mar 18, 29-31; May 1; Jun 7-8, 27; Jul 6; Sep 5; Nov 12
Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1, 16; Mar 18-20; May 1, 27-28; Jun 17; Jul 6; Aug 26; Nov 12
Visa Requirements
Visas are required by all passport holders.
An entry visa, valid for 45 days, is obtained on arrival at the airport.
For stays longer than 45 days or visits other than tourism, you can apply at the embassy.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Passport with at least six months validity and at least 3 blank pages.
- Return ticket
- Accommodation booking / Tour itinerary
Visa Cost
Entry Visa: EUR30
Payment must be made in cash. Exact change is recommended.
SA Representative
South African Embassy in Moroni, Comoros
P.O. Box 2589, Moroni
Tel: +269 7 73 4783 / 8081
Email: moroni@dirco.gov.za
Web: dirco1.azurewebsites.net/comoros
Travel Health
| Compulsory: | None |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio |
| Malaria Risk |
