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Is Comoros Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide

Discover if Comoros is safe for travelers in 2025 with our comprehensive guide covering crime, transportation, health risks, and insider safety tips from an experienced visitor.

The Truth About Safety in Comoros: My Experience

When I first stepped off the plane onto the volcanic soil of Moroni in 2018, I was immediately greeted by the warm smiles of locals and the pungent aroma of ylang-ylang flowers wafting through the air. I’ll never forget the mild anxiety I felt before that first trip—concerns about everything from political instability to malaria had kept me awake the night before departure. Seven visits later, I’ve developed a much more nuanced understanding of safety in this little-known archipelago.

Comoros remains one of Africa’s least visited countries, which means safety information can be scarce or outdated. During my most recent visit in early 2025, I noticed significant improvements in infrastructure and security compared to my first adventure here, but some challenges persist.

This guide aims to provide you with the honest, on-the-ground reality of traveling safely in Comoros—information I wish I’d had before my first trip. The islands offer incredible experiences for adventurous travelers, but understanding the landscape of potential risks is essential.

Overall Safety Situation in Comoros in 2025

Comoros generally experiences lower crime rates than many other destinations in Africa and can be considered relatively safe for travelers. However, its political landscape has historically been volatile, with more than 20 coups or attempted coups since independence in 1975. The good news is that the situation has stabilized considerably in recent years.

“Karibuni” (welcome) is often the first word you’ll hear from Comorians. Their hospitality goes a long way in making visitors feel safe and welcomed on the islands.

Based on my experiences and the latest data as of 2025, here’s how Comoros compares to other destinations:

Safety Factor Comoros Rating (1-10) Notes
Violent Crime 8/10 (Good) Rare against tourists
Petty Theft 7/10 (Good) Occasional in urban areas
Political Stability 6/10 (Fair) Improved, but election periods warrant caution
Health Risks 5/10 (Average) Limited medical facilities, tropical diseases present
Natural Disasters 6/10 (Fair) Volcanic activity, cyclone risks seasonally

Safety Updates for 2025

Several developments in 2024-2025 have affected the safety situation:

  • The government has increased police presence in tourist areas following international investment in the tourism sector
  • New safety regulations for maritime transportation between islands implemented in late 2024
  • Expansion of the emergency response system in Moroni and Mutsamudu
  • Improved road conditions on Grande Comore, though other islands still have infrastructure challenges

Health and Medical Safety Considerations

My first significant mistake in Comoros was underestimating health preparations. On my second trip, I caught dengue fever after skipping proper insect protection for just two evenings. Trust me when I say that comprehensive health precautions are non-negotiable here.

Common Health Risks

  • Malaria: Present year-round throughout Comoros. I take prophylaxis medications and use DEET repellent religiously at dawn and dusk.
  • Dengue fever: Increasingly common, particularly during the rainy season (November to April).
  • Water-borne illnesses: Tap water is unsafe for drinking. A water bottle with built-in filtration saved me 15,000 KMF (~$30 USD) weekly on bottled water.
  • Sunburn and heat exhaustion: The equatorial sun is intense—I learned this painful lesson on Mohéli when I spent just 30 minutes snorkeling without reapplying sunscreen.

Medical Facilities

Healthcare infrastructure in Comoros is limited, representing one of the most significant safety concerns for travelers. The El-Maarouf Hospital in Moroni is the main facility, but for serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Réunion, Kenya, or South Africa may be necessary.

I recommend the Centre Médical International in Moroni for minor issues—they speak some English and French, and a consultation costs about 7,500 KMF (approximately $15 USD) as of early 2025.

Essential Medical Kit for Comoros

Based on my experiences, your medical kit should include:

  1. Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor’s note
  2. Antimalarial medication (consult a travel doctor before departure)
  3. High-quality insect repellent with at least 30% DEET
  4. Antibiotic ointment and bandages
  5. Anti-diarrheal medication
  6. Rehydration salts
  7. Antihistamines for insect bites and allergic reactions
  8. Digital thermometer

Remember: Comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation is essential when visiting Comoros. The policy should have coverage of at least $500,000 for medical evacuation—a precaution I never travel without after witnessing a fellow traveler’s medical emergency in 2022.

Transportation Safety in Comoros

Getting around Comoros safely requires awareness and some insider knowledge. Having taken everything from rusty shared taxis to wooden fishing boats between islands, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t when it comes to transportation safety.

Inter-island Travel

The most significant transportation safety concern in Comoros involves traveling between islands. You have two main options:

Flights

AB Aviation and Int’Air Îles offer flights between the islands. While more expensive (50,000-80,000 KMF or $100-160 USD one-way), this is by far the safest option. However, cancellations are common due to weather and technical issues.

For years I avoided the small planes but finally tried them in 2023 and found the service to be much improved. Still, I only book when I have flexible plans—twice I’ve had flights canceled at the last minute.

Boats

Various boat services operate between islands, ranging from large passenger ferries to small fishing boats (locally called “kwassa-kwassa”). These can be significantly cheaper (15,000-30,000 KMF or $30-60 USD) but carry substantial risks:

  • Vessels are often overcrowded and lack sufficient safety equipment
  • The Comoros channel can be extremely rough, even during good weather
  • Fatal accidents have occurred as recently as 2023

My personal rule after a terrifying journey in 2019: I only take the larger passenger ferries during good weather conditions, never the small boats, regardless of convenience or cost savings.

Road Transportation

Roads in Comoros vary dramatically in quality. Grande Comore has the best infrastructure, while Mohéli and Anjouan have more challenging conditions. Recent infrastructure projects have improved some main routes as of 2025, but rural areas still feature narrow, winding roads often in poor condition.

Driving

Renting a car costs about 30,000-40,000 KMF ($60-80 USD) per day. While providing flexibility, driving yourself presents challenges:

  • Local driving habits can be unpredictable
  • Road signage is minimal or non-existent
  • Roads can become impassable during the rainy season

On my third visit, I rented a car and deeply regretted it when I got stuck on a rural road for hours after a sudden downpour. Now I typically hire local drivers for day trips.

Taxis and Shared Transportation

Shared taxis (locally called “taxi-brousse”) are the most common form of transportation. They cost between 300-1,500 KMF ($0.60-3 USD) depending on distance. While affordable, they come with safety compromises:

  • Vehicles are often in poor condition
  • Overcrowding is standard practice
  • Few drivers use seatbelts

Money-saving insider tip: Instead of hiring a taxi for the entire day (which can cost 30,000 KMF or $60 USD), negotiate with drivers at your hotel for a partial day rate focusing on specific destinations. I’ve saved up to 50% using this approach and still supported local drivers directly.

Crime and Security Situations

Compared to many destinations, Comoros experiences relatively low crime rates, particularly violent crime against tourists. However, understanding the security landscape is essential for staying safe.

Common Crime Concerns

After seven visits, I’ve never personally experienced crime in Comoros, but I’ve heard reports of:

  • Petty theft: Opportunistic theft can occur, particularly in crowded markets and on beaches near urban areas
  • Scams: Tourist price inflation is common but usually amounts to small differences
  • Home break-ins: More common in expat housing and upscale accommodations

The most significant security incidents in recent years have been politically motivated rather than directed at tourists. Political demonstrations occasionally occur, particularly around election periods (with the next significant elections scheduled for 2025).

Areas with Higher Security Concerns

Based on local advice and personal experience, these areas warrant extra caution:

  • The outskirts of Moroni at night, particularly the Badjanani neighborhood
  • Isolated beaches on Grande Comore after dark
  • Areas near military installations (avoid photography)

Most crime issues I’ve heard about from other travelers involve leaving valuables unattended or walking alone late at night in urban areas—common-sense precautions help mitigate most risks.

One evening in Moroni, I realized I had accidentally left my phone on a restaurant table nearly an hour after leaving. When I returned in a panic, not only was my phone still there, but the staff had kept it safely behind the counter. While this speaks to the honesty I’ve often encountered, it doesn’t mean you should test the system!

Natural Hazards and Weather Safety

The Comoros archipelago faces several natural hazards that travelers should be aware of before visiting.

Volcanic Activity

Mount Karthala on Grande Comore is an active volcano with eruptions as recently as 2007. While currently monitored and relatively stable, volcanic activity remains a potential hazard.

If you’re planning to hike Karthala (which I highly recommend—the lunar-like crater landscape is otherworldly), use only registered guides and check current activity status with your accommodation before attempting the climb. My guide, Ahmed, can be contacted at +269 333-9872 and charges around 60,000 KMF ($120 USD) for a two-day guided trek for a group of 2-4 people.

Cyclones and Severe Weather

The cyclone season typically runs from December to April, coinciding with the rainy season. During my February 2020 visit, I experienced the periphery of Cyclone Herold, which brought dangerous sea conditions and localized flooding.

If visiting during this period:

  • Monitor weather forecasts via tools like Windy.com
  • Build flexibility into your itinerary for weather delays
  • Choose accommodations on higher ground if possible
  • Follow local authorities’ advice regarding evacuations

Marine Hazards

Comoros offers spectacular snorkeling and diving, but be aware of:

  • Strong and unpredictable currents, particularly on the eastern coasts
  • Limited rescue services and emergency response
  • Some marine life hazards, including lionfish and sea urchins

During my snorkeling trip near Chindini Beach, I experienced unexpected strong currents that quickly pulled me away from shore. Since then, I always use local guides who understand the conditions, even if it costs extra (typically 10,000-15,000 KMF or $20-30 USD).

Cultural Considerations for Safe Travel

Comoros is a deeply conservative Muslim society, and respecting local customs is essential for both cultural sensitivity and personal safety. Some of my most uncomfortable moments in Comoros came from cultural misunderstandings that could have been easily avoided.

Dress Code and Public Behavior

Conservative dress is expected, particularly outside resort areas:

  • Women should cover shoulders and knees at minimum (I wear lightweight long pants and loose-fitting tops with short sleeves)
  • Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts in public areas
  • Public displays of affection should be avoided

During my second visit, I made the mistake of walking through a small village in shorts and a tank top after swimming. The disapproving looks made it clear I had committed a faux pas. Now I always carry a lightweight sarong (locally called a “salouva”) to wrap around my shoulders or legs when needed.

Photography and Sensitive Areas

Be cautious about photography, particularly of:

  • Government buildings and military installations
  • Airports and maritime ports
  • People without permission (especially women)

I once had my camera temporarily confiscated near a government building in Moroni because I was photographing the architecture without realizing the sensitivity. Always ask permission and be discrete.

Religious Considerations

Islam plays a central role in Comorian society:

  • Respect prayer times (five times daily)
  • During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
  • Remove shoes before entering mosques or homes
  • Women may not be permitted entry to some religious sites

Learning a few Arabic religious greetings goes a long way in showing respect:

  • “Assalamu alaikum” – Peace be upon you (greeting)
  • “Alhamdulillah” – Praise be to God (used as “thank God” or “I’m fine”)
  • “Inshallah” – God willing (used when discussing future plans)

Safe Regions vs. Areas to Avoid

Comoros consists of three main islands, each with differing safety profiles and tourism infrastructure. Having visited all three multiple times, I’ve developed a good sense of which areas are most suitable for travelers concerned about safety.

Grande Comore (Ngazidja)

The main island has the most developed infrastructure and tourist facilities.

Safest Areas:

  • Itsandra Beach area – Home to several international-standard hotels
  • Moroni’s city center during daylight hours
  • Northern coastal villages like Mitsamiouli

Exercise Caution:

  • Moroni’s outskirts after dark
  • Isolated southern beaches when unaccompanied
  • Rural areas at night due to road conditions rather than crime

Anjouan (Ndzuwani)

The most densely populated island with dramatic landscapes but less tourist infrastructure.

Safest Areas:

  • Mutsamudu old town and port area
  • Coastal road between Mutsamudu and Domoni
  • Moya Beach area

Exercise Caution:

  • Remote inland villages (primarily due to accessibility issues)
  • Outer coastal areas during rough sea conditions

Mohéli (Mwali)

The smallest and least developed island, but with exceptional natural beauty and marine life.

Safest Areas:

  • Fomboni town center
  • The Mohéli Marine Park area
  • Eco-lodges around Nioumachoua

Exercise Caution:

  • Very remote beaches, particularly when alone
  • Marine activities during inappropriate weather conditions

Money-saving insider tip: While Grande Comore has the most reliable infrastructure, accommodation on Mohéli is significantly cheaper (often 30-50% less) and the island feels noticeably safer with virtually no petty crime. I’ve stayed at Laka Lodge for 35,000 KMF ($70 USD) per night—half what comparable accommodations cost on Grande Comore.

Safety Tips for Different Types of Travelers

Safety concerns vary depending on your travel style and personal circumstances. Here are tailored recommendations based on my observations of different travelers in Comoros.

Solo Travelers

As someone who’s traveled solo to Comoros three times, I’ve found it generally manageable but with some unique considerations:

  • Arrange airport pickups in advance, especially for late arrivals
  • Stay in accommodation with 24-hour reception
  • Share your itinerary with someone back home
  • Consider hiring local guides for remote explorations (10,000-20,000 KMF or $20-40 USD per day is reasonable)

For women traveling solo: While Comoros is generally respectful, unwanted attention can occur. I’ve found that mentioning a husband (whether real or not) and wearing a simple wedding ring can reduce unwanted advances significantly.

Families with Children

Comorians are extraordinarily welcoming to children, but practical challenges exist:

  • Bring all necessary medications, specialized foods, and supplies—availability is limited
  • Choose accommodation with reliable power (brownouts are common) for refrigeration needs
  • Be extremely vigilant about sun protection and hydration
  • Consider malaria prophylaxis essential

During my fifth visit, I traveled with friends and their 7-year-old daughter. The challenges were significantly greater than adult-only travel, particularly regarding food choices and healthcare concerns.

Travelers with Disabilities

Unfortunately, Comoros presents significant challenges for travelers with mobility limitations:

  • Accessibility infrastructure is virtually non-existent
  • Terrain is often steep and uneven
  • Few accommodations have elevator access or accessible rooms
  • Transportation options are limited and often physically challenging

My partner, who uses a cane occasionally, found Grande Comore extremely challenging to navigate. If mobility is a concern, I would recommend contacting hotels directly before booking to discuss specific needs.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Comoros presents significant safety concerns for LGBTQ+ travelers:

  • Same-sex sexual activity is illegal and punishable by imprisonment
  • Social attitudes are generally conservative and unwelcoming to LGBTQ+ expression
  • Discretion is essential for safety

LGBTQ+ travelers who visit should exercise extreme caution regarding public behavior and be aware of the legal risks involved.

Emergency Services and Contacts

Understanding how to access help in an emergency is crucial when traveling in Comoros, where services may be limited or function differently than in your home country.

Emergency Numbers

As of 2025, these are the primary emergency contacts in Comoros:

  • General Emergency: 17 or 18
  • Police: 17
  • Fire Service: 18
  • Ambulance/Medical: +269 773-3728 (Moroni)

Be aware that response times can be slow, and services may be limited, particularly on Anjouan and Mohéli islands. English is rarely spoken by emergency operators—French or Comorian language skills are advantageous.

Embassy and Consular Services

Few countries maintain embassies in Comoros. If your country doesn’t have direct representation, you’ll likely be covered by an embassy in neighboring countries:

  • United States: No embassy in Comoros. The US Embassy in Madagascar provides services (+261 20 23 480 00)
  • United Kingdom: No embassy in Comoros. The British High Commission in Mauritius covers Comoros (+230 202 9400)
  • France: Embassy in Moroni (+269 773-0025)
  • China: Embassy in Moroni (+269 773-1188)

Insider tip: Register with your country’s traveler program before departure (such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for US citizens) to receive security updates and facilitate assistance in emergencies.

Medical Evacuation

For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to a location with better healthcare infrastructure may be necessary. Insurance that covers medical evacuation is essential.

Common evacuation destinations include:

  • Réunion (French territory with European-standard healthcare)
  • Mayotte (French territory, closer but with more limited facilities)
  • Kenya (Nairobi has excellent private hospitals)

Important Phrases for Emergencies

Few people in Comoros speak English, so having key phrases can be invaluable:

  • “Au secours!” – Help!
  • “J’ai besoin d’un médecin” – I need a doctor
  • “Appelez la police” – Call the police
  • “C’est une urgence” – It’s an emergency

Conclusion: Is Comoros Safe for You?

After seven visits spanning multiple islands and seasons, my honest assessment is that Comoros can be reasonably safe for informed, prepared travelers willing to accept certain limitations and inconveniences. The archipelago offers remarkable experiences found nowhere else on earth—from swimming with humpback whales off Mohéli to exploring ancient medinas and volcanic landscapes—but requires more preparation than conventional destinations.

The greatest safety risks come not from crime or political instability (though these exist) but from health concerns, transportation challenges, and natural hazards. Most negative experiences can be mitigated with proper planning and realistic expectations.

Your 5-Step Comoros Safety Action Plan

  1. Pre-departure preparation: Secure comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage, complete necessary vaccinations, and research current conditions through government travel advisories
  2. Health protection strategy: Pack a complete medical kit, take appropriate malaria prophylaxis, and implement rigorous mosquito protection measures
  3. Transportation safety plan: Budget for safer transportation options (flights between islands when possible, private cars with trusted drivers on land)
  4. Daily security routine: Secure valuables, maintain situational awareness, dress conservatively, and respect local customs
  5. Emergency readiness: Save essential contacts, learn basic emergency phrases in French, keep physical and digital copies of important documents, and maintain regular communication with someone at home

Perhaps the best safety advice I can offer is to remember that Comoros isn’t just an offbeat tourist destination—it’s a living community with its own norms, challenges, and incredible beauty. Approach your visit with respect, flexibility, and a spirit of mutual understanding, and you’ll likely leave with nothing but positive memories.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Comoros

Is Comoros safe for tourists in 2025?

Yes, Comoros is generally safe for tourists who take proper precautions. The main safety concerns involve health risks (particularly malaria), transportation hazards (especially between islands), and limited emergency services rather than crime or terrorism. The political situation has stabilized significantly in recent years.

Is it safe to travel to Comoros as a solo female traveler?

Solo female travelers can visit Comoros with reasonable safety but should expect additional attention and exercise greater caution than in more touristed destinations. Conservative dress is essential, and I recommend staying in established accommodations rather than budget options when traveling alone. Based on my experiences as a solo female traveler, I felt safe but was always conscious of my surroundings.

What vaccinations do I need for Comoros?

Required and recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, etc.), Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (required for entry if coming from a country with Yellow Fever risk). Rabies vaccination should be considered if planning extensive outdoor activities. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 6-8 weeks before departure.

Is malaria a serious concern in Comoros?

Yes, malaria is present year-round throughout Comoros. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended, along with mosquito bite prevention measures (repellent, covering exposed skin at dawn/dusk, sleeping under treated nets). The predominant strain is Plasmodium falciparum, which can cause severe illness.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Comoros?

No, Comoros remains largely a cash-based economy. As of 2025, only a few higher-end hotels in Moroni accept credit cards, and even these facilities frequently experience connectivity issues. Bring sufficient Euros to exchange (preferred over USD) and plan for cash transactions throughout your stay.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Comoros?

No, tap water is not safe for drinking. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth, or bring a high-quality water filtration device. Check that bottled water seals are intact when purchasing. Ice in drinks may be made from untreated water and should be avoided in most establishments.

What should I do if I need emergency medical care in Comoros?

For serious emergencies, contact your travel insurance provider immediately to arrange appropriate care or potential evacuation. For less urgent matters, El-Maarouf Hospital in Moroni is the main facility, though standards are below Western expectations. The Centre Médical International in Moroni offers better care for minor issues.

Is there a risk of piracy around Comoros?

While the greater Indian Ocean region has experienced piracy incidents historically, waters immediately surrounding Comoros have not seen significant piracy issues in recent years. The greater risk comes from informal, unsafe maritime transportation between islands rather than piracy.

References and Additional Resources

These sources provide reliable, updated information on Comoros safety and travel conditions: