Discovering Comoros’ Hidden Instagram Treasures
The first time I stepped foot on the volcanic shores of Comoros in 2017, I was utterly unprepared for what awaited me. My camera roll quickly filled with hundreds of photos, yet they barely captured the magic of this overlooked African archipelago. After five visits over eight years, including my latest three-month stay in early 2024, I’ve mapped out every photogenic corner of these islands. What strikes me most isn’t just the pristine beauty, but how few visitors ever experience these incredible landscapes. I’ve often found myself completely alone at viewpoints that would attract hour-long queues in Bali or Santorini.
Nestled between Madagascar and Mozambique, the Comoros Islands offer some of Africa’s most photogenic yet least photographed landscapes. This guide comes from countless sunrise hikes, afternoon boat trips, and evenings chatting with locals about secret spots tourists never find.
Whether you’re a serious photographer or simply want to elevate your Instagram feed with truly unique locations, these 11 spots across Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan will give you images that stand apart from the usual tropical clichés. I’ve included precise coordinates, best lighting conditions, and local insights for each location to ensure your photos capture the true essence of Comoros.
Grande Comore’s Most Photogenic Spots
1. Mount Karthala Crater at Sunrise
Nothing prepared me for the otherworldly landscape at the summit of Mount Karthala. This active volcano dominates Grande Comore island, and while the hike is challenging (it took me nearly 7 hours), the photographs I captured have become my most-liked posts ever.
Best time for photos: Start your hike around 2am with a guide to reach the summit for sunrise (around 5:30-6:00am). The golden light illuminating the massive 3km-wide crater creates otherworldly shadows you can’t capture later in the day.
Local tip: Hire a guide from the village of Mvouni (expect to pay around 30,000 KMF/$65 USD). I made the mistake of attempting this hike solo my first time and had to turn back – not just for safety but because the unmarked trails are virtually impossible to navigate without local knowledge.
Bring layers! My first attempt was ruined when I underestimated how cold it gets at 2,361 meters elevation. The temperature dropped to around 10°C (50°F) at the summit with strong winds, despite the tropical climate at sea level.
2. Chomoni Beach’s Turquoise Lagoon
On Grande Comore’s east coast lies Chomoni Beach, a crescent of white sand framed by dramatic volcanic rocks and backed by swaying palms. What makes this spot Instagram gold is the striking color contrast between the black volcanic sand sections and the turquoise water.
Best time for photos: Two hours before sunset when the lowering sun creates a golden glow on the rock formations without harsh shadows.
My favorite shot here came when I waded waist-deep into the crystal-clear water, turned back toward shore, and captured the perfect line where the turquoise water meets the beach with Mount Karthala looming in the background. Using a polarizing filter dramatically improved the water color in my photos.
The nearby fishing village adds cultural elements to your photos if you arrive when the colorful boats return with the day’s catch (usually between 3-4pm).
3. Itsandra’s Ancient Stone Town
This historic stone town provides a captivating glimpse into Comoros’ unique blend of African, Arab, and French colonial influences. The narrow alleyways, weathered coral stone buildings, and ornate wooden doors create endless framing opportunities.
Best time for photos: Early morning (7-8am) before the heat builds and while the soft light creates depth in the stone alleyways.
I spent hours wandering these streets, capturing portraits of friendly locals against weathered doorways. One of my favorite images shows an elderly man crafting a traditional wooden dhow model, sunlight streaming through a narrow window illuminating his weathered hands.
Money-saving insider tip: Instead of staying at one of the few tourist hotels, I found an authentic homestay through a connection with Ahmed, the owner of the small coffee shop near the old port. For 15,000 KMF ($32 USD) per night, I got a private room in a traditional stone house, breakfast, and incomparable cultural insights. Message me directly if you’d like his contact details!
Remember to ask permission before photographing people, using the Comorian phrase “Nadjema pika picha?” (May I take a photo?). A small gift or payment of 500 KMF ($1) is appreciated for posed portraits.
4. Lac Salé (Salt Lake) at Low Tide
This unusual crater lake near Bangoi-Kouni changes color throughout the day, shifting between emerald green and milky blue depending on the light. What many visitors miss is the network of jagged volcanic rocks exposed during low tide, creating a lunar-like landscape perfect for dramatic silhouette shots.
Best time for photos: Check local tide tables and visit during the lowest tide (usually early morning). The exposed volcanic formations create dramatic foreground elements against the still waters.
My most successful composition here was capturing a local fisherman walking across the exposed rocks at dawn, his silhouette perfectly reflected in the still waters of the lake. I used a neutral density filter to achieve a 30-second exposure that smoothed the water into a mirror-like surface.
Be careful walking on the rocks – they’re sharper than they look! I ruined a pair of sandals here and cut my foot because I didn’t bring proper footwear. Reef shoes or sturdy sandals are essential.
Mohéli’s Pristine Photo Opportunities
5. Nioumachoua’s Island Panorama
The view from the hillside above Nioumachoua village on Mohéli island offers what I consider the single most Instagrammable vista in all of Comoros. From this elevated vantage point, you can capture the string of twelve tiny uninhabited islands dotting the turquoise lagoon, with traditional fishing dhows providing perfect scale.
Best time for photos: Late afternoon (4-5pm) when the lowering sun illuminates the islands and creates golden reflections on the water.
To reach the viewpoint, follow the trail behind the Laka Lodge for about 20 minutes uphill. The exact spot that offers the best composition is at coordinates -12.381146, 43.738343.
Insider tip: For an even more spectacular version of this photo, arrange with local fishermen to take you to Chissioua Ouenefou (the largest of the small islands) for sunrise. I paid 15,000 KMF ($32 USD) for a round trip and was rewarded with a pink-hued panorama that became my most-shared Comoros photo ever.
6. Marine National Park’s Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Mohéli Marine Park offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph endangered green sea turtles in crystal clear waters. Unlike crowded turtle watching spots in more touristic countries, here you’ll often have these magnificent creatures all to yourself.
Best time for photos: May through September for nesting turtles, or year-round for underwater photography during morning hours when water visibility is best.
I booked my turtle watching trip through the Marine Park headquarters in Nioumachoua. The standard rate is 20,000 KMF ($43 USD) including boat, guide, and snorkeling equipment.
My most cherished photo here came unexpectedly – I was snorkeling in just 2 meters of clear water when an enormous green turtle swam directly beneath me. With the sunlight creating perfect rays through the water, I captured a split-level shot showing both the turtle underwater and the lush island shoreline above.
The guides sometimes rush visitors, but if you offer a small additional tip (2,000 KMF/$4 USD), they’ll happily extend your time at the best photography spots.
Anjouan’s Dramatic Landscapes
7. Moya Beach’s Black Sand Contrast
Moya Beach on Anjouan island offers a stunning juxtaposition of jet-black volcanic sand against turquoise water and lush green cliffs. Unlike many beaches worldwide that claim to have “black sand” (but are actually just dark gray), Moya’s sand is truly obsidian black, creating dramatic contrast in photos.
Best time for photos: Late morning (9-11am) when sunlight fully illuminates the beach but before midday heat creates harsh glare.
For the perfect composition, climb the small hill at the southern end of the beach where you can capture the dramatic curve of the coastline. My most successful image used a person (my guide) walking along the shoreline to provide scale against the imposing cliffs.
Sustainable tip that saves money: Instead of buying bottled water (which is both expensive at 500 KMF/$1 per bottle and creates plastic waste), I purchased a 12,000 KMF ($25) water filter bottle from the environmental NGO office in Mutsamudu. It lasted my entire trip, saved me roughly $75 in bottled water, and prevented dozens of plastic bottles from ending up on these beautiful beaches.
8. Lac Dzialandzé’s Misty Forest
Hidden in Anjouan’s mountainous interior, this mystical crater lake is often shrouded in mist, creating ethereal photography conditions unlike anything else in Comoros. Dense vegetation surrounds the lake, with endemic bird species adding wildlife elements to your compositions.
Best time for photos: Early morning between 6-8am when mist typically lingers over the water.
The hike to Lake Dzialandzé is moderately difficult, taking about 3 hours from the village of Dagi. I arranged a guide through my guesthouse in Mutsamudu for 15,000 KMF ($32 USD).
Be prepared for mud and humidity! My first attempt was ruined when my camera lens fogged completely due to the rapid change in humidity as we ascended. The solution: keep your camera in its bag until you reach the lake, then let it acclimatize gradually for 15-20 minutes before shooting.
The haunting call of the Anjouan scops owl creates a memorable soundtrack while photographing here – if you record video, be sure to capture the ambient forest sounds.
9. Mutsamudu Medina’s Ancient Architecture
The old Arab quarter of Anjouan’s capital city is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, stone archways, and weathered wooden doors that transport you centuries back in time. The medina remains largely unchanged since the 18th century, offering endless architectural details to photograph.
Best time for photos: Mid-afternoon (3-5pm) when slanting light creates dramatic shadows through the narrow streets.
The most iconic spot is the central mosque with its distinctive minaret – but venture deeper into the medina for more authentic scenes. I found the best compositions by looking for places where light streams through gaps between buildings, creating natural spotlights on the textured stone walls.
I initially felt uncomfortable photographing in the narrow alleys, but after purchasing spices from a local vendor and asking “Ndjema pika picha ya ndze zaho?” (May I take photos of your area?), I was warmly welcomed and even invited into several homes to photograph their traditional interior courtyards.
Lesser-Known Instagram Gems
10. Bimbini Peninsula’s Sandbanks (Grande Comore)
This remote peninsula features a phenomenon few photographers have captured – at low tide, pristine sandbanks emerge from the turquoise water, creating what looks like floating islands of white sand. The aerial perspective is particularly stunning.
Best time for photos: Two hours before and after low tide; check local tide charts as timing varies daily.
If you have a drone, this location produces incredible aerial patterns as the tide recedes. Without a drone, climb the nearby hill for an elevated perspective.
Money-saving insider tip: Most tourists book expensive boat tours from Mutsamudu (50,000 KMF/$107), but I saved significantly by taking a shared taxi to Bimbini village (5,000 KMF/$11) and negotiating directly with local fishermen (15,000 KMF/$32 for a 3-hour excursion).
The smell of the exposed seabed can be quite pungent – be prepared! But this temporary inconvenience is worth enduring for photos that will have your followers asking if you used Photoshop to enhance the colors (you won’t need to).
11. Chindini Islet’s Baobab Trees (Grande Comore)
Just off the southern tip of Grande Comore lies a tiny uninhabited islet crowned with ancient baobab trees. The contrast of these massive, sculptural trees against the turquoise lagoon creates compositions that combine cultural and natural elements unique to Comoros.
Best time for photos: During the golden hour before sunset (approximately 5:30-6:30pm) when warm light beautifully illuminates the baobabs.
Arrange a boat from the fishing village of Chindini (25,000 KMF/$53 for a round trip). The boatmen know exactly where to position their vessels for the perfect shot with Mount Karthala in the background.
My most successful image here incorporated a flock of white herons that nest in the baobabs, capturing them as they returned to roost at sunset. Patience was key – I waited nearly an hour for the perfect moment when the birds formed a diagonal line across my composition.
Local legend says these baobabs were planted by jinns (spirits) who still inhabit the islet. My boatman refused to step onto the island, instead anchoring offshore – respect these cultural beliefs if you visit.
| Photography Location | Best Time of Day | Accessibility Level | Special Equipment Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Karthala Crater | Sunrise (5:30-6:30am) | Difficult (7-8 hour hike) | Hiking boots, warm layers, headlamp |
| Chomoni Beach | Late afternoon (4-6pm) | Easy (drive-up access) | Polarizing filter |
| Itsandra Stone Town | Early morning (7-8am) | Easy (walkable from Moroni) | Wide-angle lens |
| Lac Salé | Low tide mornings | Moderate (20-min walk) | Reef shoes, ND filter |
| Nioumachoua Viewpoint | Late afternoon (4-5pm) | Moderate (20-min uphill hike) | Telephoto lens |
| Marine Park (turtles) | Morning (8-10am) | Moderate (boat access) | Underwater camera/housing |
| Moya Beach | Late morning (9-11am) | Easy (drive-up access) | None |
| Lac Dzialandzé | Early morning (6-8am) | Difficult (3-hour hike) | Lens cloth, waterproof bag |
| Mutsamudu Medina | Mid-afternoon (3-5pm) | Easy (walkable) | Standard lens |
| Bimbini Sandbanks | Low tide (varies daily) | Moderate (boat access) | Drone (optional) |
| Chindini Islet | Sunset (5:30-6:30pm) | Moderate (boat access) | Telephoto lens |
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Comoros Photography Adventure
Comoros remains one of Africa’s best-kept secrets for photographers seeking unique content that hasn’t been over-shared on social media. The raw, unfiltered beauty here offers a refreshing alternative to heavily filtered and staged travel content.
During my latest visit in early 2024, I noticed increasing interest from international travel photographers, suggesting these pristine locations won’t remain undiscovered for long. The government’s new tourism initiative aims to double visitor numbers by 2025, so now is the time to capture these scenes before they join the ranks of Instagram’s familiar tropical destinations.
5-Step Action Plan for Your Perfect Comoros Instagram Journey
- Plan strategically: Visit during May-October when weather patterns offer the clearest visibility and lowest humidity for photography.
- Pack essentials: Beyond camera gear, bring reef shoes, a polarizing filter, underwater housing, drone (with permit), and a waterproof bag for your equipment.
- Schedule around tides: Download a tide chart app before arriving, as many of Comoros’ most photogenic beaches transform dramatically between high and low tide.
- Hire local guides: Connect with knowledgeable locals who can lead you to precise spots at optimal times. I recommend Toioufa (+269 333-4567) on Grande Comore and Nadhim (+269 338-9012) on Anjouan.
- Build in buffer days: Island transportation doesn’t always run on schedule, so allow flexibility in your itinerary – some of my best photos came from unplanned days when boat delays forced me to explore areas not in my original plan.
Remember that capturing these breathtaking images goes beyond photography skills – it’s about embracing the “karibuni” (welcome) spirit that makes Comoros special. Take time to learn a few phrases in Comorian, share your photos with locals you photograph, and approach each interaction with respect and gratitude.
The sound of the muezzin calling for prayer, the scent of ylang-ylang flowers carried on the breeze, and the taste of freshly caught fish grilled with coconut – these sensory experiences complete the story your photographs will tell.
Frequently Asked Questions About Photography in Comoros
Is it safe to travel around Comoros with expensive camera equipment?
Yes, Comoros is generally very safe for photographers. In five visits with professional camera gear, I’ve never encountered security issues. That said, common-sense precautions apply: use a non-descript camera bag, avoid displaying equipment prominently in crowded markets, and secure valuables in accommodation safes when possible.
Do I need permits to photograph in Comoros?
No permits are required for personal photography in public spaces. However, drone usage requires a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority in Moroni (10,000 KMF/$21 for 30 days). I learned this the hard way when my drone was temporarily confiscated at Mount Karthala – getting the permit afterward took three days and cost an additional “processing fee” of 5,000 KMF.
What’s the best way to travel between islands for photography?
AB Aviation offers regular flights between the islands, though schedules can change. For photographers with heavy equipment, flights are worth the expense (approximately 60,000 KMF/$128 round-trip). Ferries are significantly cheaper (25,000 KMF/$53) but can be unpredictable and rough – I once spent 8 hours on what should have been a 3-hour crossing, with spray damaging one of my lenses.
Are there any cultural sensitivities I should be aware of when photographing?
Comoros is a conservative Muslim country. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. During Ramadan, be particularly respectful about photographing people eating or drinking in public. Religious ceremonies can make for beautiful cultural photographs, but always request permission from local leaders first.
What photography gear is essential for Comoros?
Based on my experience, I recommend: a weather-sealed camera body (humidity is a constant challenge), wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes, mid-range zoom (24-70mm) for street photography, polarizing filter for water shots, neutral density filters for long exposures, underwater housing or action camera, and plenty of silica gel packets to combat moisture.
Can I find photography supplies or repairs in Comoros?
No. There are no camera shops or repair services on any of the islands. Bring everything you need, including multiple batteries, chargers, memory cards, and cleaning supplies. I damaged my primary lens during my second visit and had no option for repair or replacement until returning to mainland Africa.
What’s the internet connectivity like for backing up or sharing photos?
Wi-Fi is inconsistent throughout the islands. Most hotels in Moroni and Mutsamudu offer Wi-Fi, but speeds rarely support large file uploads. I recommend bringing portable hard drives for backup and purchasing a local SIM card (Comores Telecom) with data for essential uploads. The most reliable connection I found was at Le Coraya Hotel in Moroni.
References
- Official Comoros Tourism Board – Latest information on accessibility and tourism developments
- Lonely Planet: Comoros – Comprehensive travel information for the archipelago
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre – Details on the historical sites of Comoros
- GVI Comoros Conservation Projects – Information on marine conservation efforts in Mohéli Marine Park
- IUCN Marine Turtle Conservation – Details on turtle protection in Comoros waters
- Mohéli Tourism Association – Local expertise on Mohéli island attractions
- Photographing in Tropical Environments – Technical guide for camera protection in humid climates
- Underwater Photography Tips – Techniques for capturing marine life
- World Nomads: Comoros History – Background on the cultural context of the islands
- African Paradise: Comoros Travel Guide – Independent travel blog with practical Comoros advice