Anjouan, Comoros’s Best Waterfalls, Sultans & Spice-Scented Trails (2026)
While crowds flock to the beaches of neighboring Mayotte, Anjouan, Comoros delivers a raw, untamed beauty without the tourist infrastructure or inflated prices. Here, you won’t find sprawling resorts, but you will hike through cloud forests to thundering waterfalls, explore crumbling 15th-century sultan palaces, and walk through villages where the air is thick with the scent of cloves and ylang-ylang. This is the Comoros of legend, where history and nature are woven into the fabric of daily life.
Why Anjouan, Comoros Stands Out
Scenic view of Independence Hall with modern Philadelphia skyline in the ba…, Anjouan, Comoros
- Historic Architecture: The 15th-century Sultan’s Palace of Domoni, with its intricate Swahili-Arabic carvings, stands as a powerful testament to the island’s role in the Indian Ocean trade routes.
- Cultural Scene: The Grand Mariage, a multi-day celebration of union and status, is a vibrant spectacle of traditional music, elaborate costumes, and communal feasting unique to Comorian culture.
- Local Specialties: You must try Langouste à la Vanille, a dish of fresh local lobster simmered in a rich, fragrant vanilla sauce that captures the island’s spice-producing soul.
Pro Tip: The absolute best time to visit is between May and October, during the dry season. For the most dramatic waterfall views at Ntingui or Dzialandzé, plan your hike for the late morning, after the overnight mists have cleared but before the afternoon clouds roll in from the Indian Ocean.
Map of Anjouan, Comoros
Use these interactive maps to explore Anjouan, Comoros and plan your route:
📍 View Anjouan, Comoros on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open Anjouan, Comoros in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Anjouan is served by Ouani Airport (AJN). Int’Air Îles connects it to Moroni (Grand Comore) and Mohéli. From the airport, your best bet is a pre-arranged taxi (approx. 5,000 KMF / $10 USD to Mutsamudu). Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: There are no train services on the island or in the Comoros archipelago.
- By Car: Renting a 4×4 is highly recommended for exploring the mountainous interior. Roads can be rough. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com, though local agencies in Mutsamudu may offer better on-the-ground rates.
- Local Transport: Shared taxis (known as “taxi-brousse”) are the primary public transport, connecting main towns. For specific sites, hiring a taxi for the day (approx. 40,000-60,000 KMF / $80-$120 USD) is the most efficient option.
Best Time to Visit
Anjouan has a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season offers the best conditions for hiking and exploration, while the wet season brings lusher landscapes but challenging trails.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (May–Oct) | 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F), low rainfall, sunny skies | Ideal for hiking to waterfalls, clear coastal views, and cultural festivals; peak season for travel. |
| Wet Season (Nov–Apr) | 24°C – 30°C (75°F – 86°F), high humidity, daily heavy rains | Landscapes are intensely green, fewer visitors; trails can be slippery and some roads impassable. |
| Shoulder (Apr/Oct–Nov) | Transitional weather, sporadic showers | A good balance of manageable weather and thinner crowds; a chance to see the island waking up or winding down seasonally. |
Budgeting for Anjouan, Comoros
View of Sacré-Cœur Basilica dome framed by columns, overlooking Paris skyline., Anjouan, Comoros
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 15,000 KMF ($30) for a basic guesthouse | 40,000 KMF ($80) for a comfortable hotel or B&B | 80,000+ KMF ($160+) for the island’s best lodges |
| Meals | 3,000 KMF ($6) for street food/maquis | 8,000 KMF ($16) for a restaurant meal with drink | 15,000+ KMF ($30+) for fine dining (limited options) |
| Transport | 1,000 KMF ($2) for shared taxi rides | 15,000 KMF ($30) for a half-day taxi hire | 60,000 KMF ($120) for a full-day private 4×4 with driver |
| Activities | Free hikes, beach visits | 10,000 KMF ($20) for guided waterfall trek | 25,000 KMF ($50) for a private boat trip or cultural tour |
| Daily Total | 25,000 KMF ($50) | 70,000 KMF ($140) | 150,000+ KMF ($300+) |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Ntingui & Dzialandzé Waterfall | A challenging hike to the island’s highest peak (1,595m) rewards you with breathtaking views and a stunning 80-meter waterfall. | Daylight hours; start by 8 AM | Free, but a local guide is recommended (10,000 KMF) |
| The Citadel of Mutsamudu | Explore the labyrinthine, 18th-century Swahili stone town with its fortified gates, narrow alleys, and historic mosques. | Always accessible | Free |
| Sultan’s Palaces (Domoni & Itsandra) | Two of the best-preserved examples of pre-colonial Comorian architecture, offering a glimpse into the island’s sultanate past. | Daylight hours; may need to find caretaker | Small donation (1,000-2,000 KMF) |
| Chissioua Ouénéffou Sandbar | A stunning, ephemeral white-sand bar that appears in the turquoise lagoon near Sima, perfect for swimming and picnics. | Accessible at low tide | Boat trip required (approx. 15,000 KMF per group) |
3-Day Itinerary: Anjouan, Comoros’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Historic Heart & Coastal Charm
- Morning (7-9 AM): Start early with a walk through the ancient Citadel of Mutsamudu. Get lost in the quiet alleys before the day’s heat. Your best bet is to find the old Friday Mosque and the fortified gates.
- Afternoon (12-3 PM): Drive to the coastal village of Bambao for a seafood lunch at a local maquis like Chez Mama, where you must try the grilled fish with coconut rice. Afterwards, visit the fragrant ylang-ylang distillery in Bambao to see how the island’s “perfume” is made.
- Evening (6-8 PM): Enjoy sunset views from the cliffs near Mutsamudu port, followed by dinner at Hotel Al Amal in Mutsamudu for their excellent Comorian buffet.
Day 2: Mountain Majesty & Waterfalls
- Morning (7 AM): Hire a 4×4 and guide (approx. 40,000 KMF total) for the trek to Dzialandzé Waterfall. The 2-3 hour hike through lush forest culminates at a powerful, cascading fall—bring a swimsuit for the refreshing pool.
- Afternoon (1 PM): Enjoy a packed lunch by the waterfall. On the return journey, stop in the village of Adda to see clove and vanilla cultivation firsthand.
- Evening (6 PM): Return to your accommodation to relax. For dinner, seek out a small local maquis in Mutsamudu for authentic mabawa (grilled chicken) or ladu (sweet rice balls).
Day 3: Sultans, Sandbars & Spice
- Morning (8 AM): Take a shared taxi (3,000 KMF) south to Domoni, Anjouan’s second city. Explore the remarkable Sultan’s Palace and the vibrant, bustling market.
- Afternoon (12 PM): Continue to Sima on the west coast. Arrange a local boat (around 15,000 KMF for a small group) to the magical Chissioua Ouénéffou sandbar for swimming and snorkeling in the lagoon.
- Evening (6 PM): Have a final fresh seafood dinner in Sima before heading back. If it’s a Friday evening, you might hear the rhythmic beats of traditional Ndzedze music practice—a perfect cultural send-off.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: The official languages are Comorian (Shingazidja dialect), Arabic, and French. Learning a few phrases like “Jeje” (Hello) and “Marahaba” (Thank you) is greatly appreciated.
- Customs: Comorian society is conservative and Muslim. Always ask permission before photographing people. The Grand Mariage is a sacred institution; observe respectfully if you encounter a celebration.
- Tipping: Not widely expected, but a 5-10% tip for excellent service in restaurants or for a particularly helpful guide is a generous gesture.
- Dress Code: Modest dress is essential. Cover shoulders and knees for both men and women, especially when visiting towns, villages, and religious sites. Swimwear is only for the beach.
- Business Hours: Shops open early (7-8 AM), close for a long lunch (12-3 PM), and reopen until 5-6 PM. Friday is the holy day, so most businesses are closed in the morning.
Where to Eat: Anjouan, Comoros’s Best Bites
Dining in Anjouan is an adventure in local flavors. You’ll eat at simple, family-run maquis (small local eateries) where the day’s catch or a simmering stew dictates the menu. The cuisine is a fragrant blend of Swahili, Arabic, and French influences, centered on rice, coconut, fresh seafood, and the island’s famed spices.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Langouste à la Vanille: The island’s signature dish. Fresh spiny lobster cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Anjouan’s bourbon vanilla. Best tried at Hotel Retaj in Mutsamudu.
- Mabawa: Succulent, marinated grilled chicken, often served with crispy fried bananas. You’ll find the best at roadside maquis in the late afternoon.
- Pilao: A festive spiced rice dish cooked with meat (often goat or chicken), raisins, and nuts, revealing the Arab influence. Look for it on Fridays or during celebrations.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Various Maquis in Mutsamudu Market | Grilled fish, mabawa, and hearty stews served with rice | 3,000 – 5,000 KMF |
| Mid-range | Chez Mama, Bambao | Fresh seafood platters and local coconut-based curries | 7,000 – 12,000 KMF |
| Fine dining | Hotel Al Amal Restaurant, Mutsamudu | Elaborate Comorian buffets and the best Langouste à la Vanille | 15,000 – 20,000 KMF |
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from very basic guesthouses to a handful of comfortable, characterful hotels. Most options are concentrated in or near Mutsamudu, the capital. For a more immersive experience, consider a stay in a village guesthouse. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments, though many smaller places require direct contact.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- Mutsamudu Centre: The most practical base, with the most dining options and easy access to transport. It’s bustling and historic. Best for first-time visitors and those without a car.
- Coastal Villages (Bambao, Sima): Offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with direct beach or lagoon access. Ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and nature, but you’ll need transport to explore the island.
- Moya Region: Located in the lush interior, this area provides cool, misty mountain air and proximity to hiking trails. Perfect for adventure travelers and those wanting to escape the coastal humidity.
Street view of One World Trade Center in New York City surrounded by urban …, Anjouan, Comoros
FAQs: Your Anjouan, Comoros Questions Answered
1. Is Anjouan, Comoros safe at night?
Anjouan is generally safe, with low violent crime. However, petty theft can occur. Avoid walking alone in unlit areas of towns at night. In villages, it’s very safe. Always use common sense: secure your valuables and take registered taxis after dark.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Comorian Franc (KMF) is the official currency. Euros are sometimes accepted for larger purchases. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside of the major hotels in Mutsamudu. Your best bet is to carry ample cash in euros (to exchange) or KMF. ATMs are available in Mutsamudu but can be unreliable.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
Ouani Airport is about 10km from Mutsamudu. Pre-arranging a pickup with your hotel is the easiest option. Otherwise, you can negotiate with a taxi driver at the airport; the fare should be around 5,000 KMF ($10 USD) to Mutsamudu. Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience, though local options are more common.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
No, but it helps. French is the language of business and government,
