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The Ultimate Budget Guide to Comoros in 2025: Island Paradise Without Breaking the Bank

Your ultimate guide to exploring Comoros on a budget in 2025. Discover affordable accommodation, transportation, food options, and hidden gems across this beautiful African archipelago.

Introduction: Why Comoros Should Be Your Next Budget Destination

The first time I set foot on Comorian soil back in 2018, I was overwhelmed by the pristine beaches, the smell of ylang-ylang in the air, and the warmth of the locals who greeted me with “Karibu Komori” (Welcome to Comoros). What was supposed to be a quick stopover during my East African travels turned into a three-week love affair with this hidden gem. Now, after visiting seven times, I can confidently say that the Comoros Islands remain one of Africa’s best-kept secrets – and surprisingly affordable if you know how to navigate them.

This volcanic archipelago nestled between Madagascar and the East African coast offers everything a traveler could dream of: untouched beaches, vibrant coral reefs, active volcanoes, and a fascinating blend of African, Arab, and French influences – all without the crowds and price tags of more popular destinations.

In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned (often the hard way) about traveling through Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan on a tight budget. From negotiating transportation to finding affordable guesthouses and eating like a local, this is the guide I wish I’d had during my first visit.

Getting to Comoros: Finding Affordable Flights

The international gateway to Comoros is Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) near the capital Moroni on Grande Comore island. Finding budget flights requires flexibility and planning, but it’s entirely possible.

Best Time to Book

I’ve found that booking 3-4 months in advance typically yields the best deals, especially if you’re planning to visit during the high season (May to October). Flight prices have increased about 15-20% since 2023, but deals can still be found.

Airlines Serving Comoros

  • Ethiopian Airlines – Often the most reasonably priced option, connecting through Addis Ababa
  • Kenya Airways – Good connections through Nairobi
  • Air France – More expensive but direct flights from Paris (note: these have reduced frequency post-pandemic)
  • AB Aviation – Regional carrier with connections from Tanzania and Madagascar

Money-Saving Tip: Flexible Routing

One of my best discoveries was that flying into Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) or Dzaoudzi (Mayotte) and then taking a regional flight can sometimes save up to 30% compared to direct routes. During my 2023 trip, I saved nearly $400 by flying to Dar es Salaam and then catching a budget flight to HAH.

Insider Tip: If you’re flexible with dates, Tuesday and Wednesday departures typically offer the lowest fares to Comoros. I’ve saved up to 15% by adjusting my travel dates by just a day or two.

Visa Requirements and Entry Procedures

As of 2025, most visitors need a visa to enter Comoros. The good news is that the process has become much more streamlined in recent years.

Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities can obtain a 45-day tourist visa on arrival at HAH airport. The current fee is 30 euros (approximately 17,000 Comorian francs). They accept euros or US dollars, but I recommend bringing exact change as the currency exchange at the airport offers poor rates.

During my last visit in late 2024, the visa process took about 30 minutes. You’ll need:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Proof of onward travel (return ticket)
  • Hotel booking for at least your first night

The yellow fever vaccination certificate requirement was officially dropped in 2023, but I still recommend bringing it just in case, as some immigration officers might ask for it.

E-Visa Option

In 2024, Comoros launched an e-visa system through their official immigration website. While slightly more expensive at 35 euros, it saves time at the airport and gives you peace of mind before traveling.

Money Matters: Currency, ATMs, and Budget Planning

Managing money in Comoros requires some advance planning, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

Currency Information

The Comorian franc (KMF) is the local currency. As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately:

  • 1 USD = 450-460 KMF
  • 1 EUR = 490-500 KMF

I’ve noticed the official exchange rates at banks are typically 3-5% lower than what you might find at local currency exchangers in markets, particularly in Moroni’s Volo Volo market.

ATMs and Cash

ATMs exist but are unreliable. They’re mainly found in:

  • Moroni (BNPI Bank near the port and BIC bank in the city center)
  • Mutsamudu on Anjouan (one ATM at the BNPI branch)
  • Fomboni on Mohéli (occasionally working ATM at the post office)

On my last trip, I found that only about half the ATMs were functioning, and most had daily withdrawal limits of around 150,000 KMF (approximately 300 EUR). International cards often incur fees of 4-6%, so I recommend bringing euros in cash for exchange.

Insider Tip: Negotiate exchange rates with local money changers in the markets. Showing that you know a fair rate and being willing to walk away can often get you 10-15 KMF more per euro than the initial offer. Just make sure to count your money carefully before leaving!

Daily Budget Breakdown for 2025

Expense Category Budget Option (KMF) Mid-range Option (KMF)
Accommodation 10,000-15,000 25,000-45,000
Meals (3 per day) 5,000-8,000 15,000-25,000
Local transportation 2,000-4,000 10,000-15,000
Activities 5,000-10,000 15,000-30,000
Daily Total 22,000-37,000 KMF
(€45-75)		 65,000-115,000 KMF
(€130-230)

Budget Accommodation Options Across the Islands

Finding affordable places to stay in Comoros has become easier since my first visit, though online booking remains limited. Here are my tried-and-tested recommendations for each island:

Grande Comore (Ngazidja)

Moroni and Surroundings

  • Jardin de la Paix – Simple rooms from 15,000 KMF (30 EUR) in the Badjanani neighborhood. The shared bathroom is basic but clean, and Madame Fatima’s breakfast is delicious. I stayed here during my first two visits.
  • New Paradise Guesthouse – Located in Itsandra village, 10 minutes north of Moroni. Basic fan rooms for 20,000 KMF (40 EUR). Not online, but you can call +269 333-8456 to reserve.
  • Auberge du Grand Karthala – In M’vouni village near the Karthala volcano trailhead. Dormitory beds for 10,000 KMF (20 EUR) and private rooms for 15,000 KMF (30 EUR). Great base for hiking. Contact: +269 346-2178.

Mohéli (Mwali)

  • Laka Lodge – While their bungalows are mid-range, they offer tent camping for 7,500 KMF (15 EUR) per person, including breakfast. This is where I stayed in 2023 while whale watching. Contact via WhatsApp: +269 352-7217.
  • Mohéli Community Guesthouse – In Nioumachoua village. Basic rooms for 12,500 KMF (25 EUR). The facilities are simple, but it funds local conservation projects. No online presence, but you can arrange through Mohéli Marine Park office: +269 771-5630.

Anjouan (Ndzuwani)

  • Al-Amal Hotel – In downtown Mutsamudu. Basic rooms with fan from 15,000 KMF (30 EUR). The rooftop offers great city views. Contact: +269 771-2312.
  • Moya Beach Bungalows – Simple beachfront rooms in Moya village for 20,000 KMF (40 EUR). Worth the slight splurge for the location. Contact: +269 338-9514.

Insider Tip: Most budget accommodations in Comoros aren’t online. Once in the country, ask locals about “chambres chez l’habitant” (homestays). In smaller villages, many families offer rooms for 7,000-10,000 KMF (15-20 EUR) per night, often including breakfast. This is how I discovered my favorite place to stay in Chindini village, where Mama Halima’s cooking alone was worth the stay!

Getting Around: Budget Transportation Options

Transportation between and within the Comoros islands can be an adventure, but it’s also where you can save significant money if you’re willing to travel like locals do.

Inter-Island Travel

By Air

Flying between islands with AB Aviation costs approximately 50,000-75,000 KMF (100-150 EUR) one-way. While this is the fastest option, it’s not always reliable, with frequent schedule changes and cancellations. In 2024, service improved with more consistent schedules, but I still recommend having flexible plans.

By Sea (Budget Option)

Cargo boats (known locally as “kwassa-kwassa“) operate between the islands, costing just 5,000-10,000 KMF (10-20 EUR). However, these aren’t officially sanctioned for tourists and lack safety equipment. During my second visit, I took one from Grande Comore to Mohéli – an unforgettable 5-hour journey crushed among people, goats, and merchandise. While incredibly affordable, I don’t recommend this unless you’re a very adventurous traveler comfortable with significant risks.

The Middle Ground

Official passenger boats now operate between the islands 2-3 times weekly. They cost about 25,000-35,000 KMF (50-70 EUR) one-way and take 3-5 hours depending on the route. These are my recommended option, offering a reasonable balance of cost, safety, and experience. Book through agents in Moroni near the port or through your accommodation.

On-Island Transportation

Shared Taxis (Budget Option)

These old Peugeot 504s and Toyota minivans are the backbone of public transportation on all three islands. They follow set routes and cost just 500-1,500 KMF (1-3 EUR) depending on distance. They leave when full (very full!) and can be flagged down anywhere along their route.

Routes in Moroni typically run from Volo Volo market to outlying neighborhoods. Look for vehicles with passengers already inside – empty taxis are usually private hires.

Private Taxis

For shorter distances in towns, private taxis (usually yellow) cost 1,000-2,000 KMF (2-4 EUR) for short trips within city centers. Always negotiate before getting in!

Car Rental

Renting a small car costs around 30,000-40,000 KMF (60-80 EUR) per day. While this seems expensive compared to other options, splitting it between 3-4 travelers can make it economical if you want to explore remote areas. Rental agencies are sparse – I recommend Comores Location Plus in Moroni, which has improved their fleet significantly since 2023.

Insider Tip: On Grande Comore, the coastal “ring road” is now mostly paved, but interior roads remain challenging. If hiring a driver (25,000 KMF/50 EUR per day), choose one with a 4WD vehicle. My driver Ibrahim (+269 334-9872) knows every shortcut and viewpoint on the island and has saved me countless hours.

Eating on a Budget: Food and Drink

Food in Comoros is a delightful blend of African, Arab, and French influences. With some local knowledge, you can eat very well while spending very little.

Street Food and Markets

The most affordable and authentic dining experiences come from street vendors and markets:

  • Mkatra foutra – Fluffy rice flour pancakes served with honey or coconut sauce. My breakfast staple at just 300-500 KMF (less than 1 EUR) each.
  • Brochettes – Grilled meat skewers available on street corners in the evening. 500-1,000 KMF (1-2 EUR) per skewer.
  • Samosas – Locally called “sambusa“, these triangular pastries filled with spiced meat or fish cost 250-500 KMF (0.50-1 EUR) each.
  • Fresh seafood – Visit any coastal village in the morning when fishermen return. You can buy fresh fish for 1,000-2,000 KMF (2-4 EUR) and have it grilled on the spot for a small fee.

The best markets for food shopping are Volo Volo in Moroni, the central market in Mutsamudu (Anjouan), and the waterfront market in Fomboni (Mohéli). Prices at these markets are typically 30-40% lower than in small shops.

Local Restaurants

Simple local eateries offer filling meals at reasonable prices:

  • Le Rapide near the old Friday Mosque in Moroni – Daily specials for 3,000-4,000 KMF (6-8 EUR), including their famous octopus curry that I still dream about.
  • Chez Madame Zahra in Chindini village (Grande Comore) – No menu, just the catch of the day with rice and plantains for 2,500 KMF (5 EUR).
  • Port-side shacks in Nioumachoua (Mohéli) – Fresh grilled fish with coconut rice for 2,000-3,000 KMF (4-6 EUR).

Self-Catering

If your accommodation has kitchen access, buying and preparing your own food is extremely economical. A typical shopping list with 2025 prices:

Item Quantity Price (KMF)
Rice 1kg 1,000-1,200
Fresh fish 1kg 1,500-2,500
Tomatoes 1kg 800-1,200
Bananas Bunch 500-700
Coconut 1 whole 300-500
Bread (baguette) 1 loaf 250-300
Bottled water 1.5L 500-700

Insider Tip: Learn the greeting “Bariza ngazidja” (How are you?) in Comorian and use it before starting price negotiations at markets. This simple courtesy often resulted in vendors giving me the “local price” rather than the “tourist price” – a difference of up to 30% on some items!

Drinks and Water

Comoros is a Muslim country, so alcohol is limited. Local drinks include:

  • Fresh coconut water – 300-500 KMF (less than 1 EUR) each
  • Freshly squeezed fruit juices – 1,000-1,500 KMF (2-3 EUR)
  • Local coffee – Strong and flavored with cardamom, 500 KMF (1 EUR) per cup

Always drink bottled or thoroughly purified water. I bring a portable water filter, which has saved me thousands of francs over multiple trips while reducing plastic waste.

Budget Activities and Experiences

The beauty of Comoros is that many of its best experiences cost very little or nothing at all. Here’s how to enjoy the islands without spending much:

Grande Comore

Free and Nearly-Free Activities

  • Old Friday Mosque (Ancienne Mosquée du Vendredi) – This 15th-century mosque in Moroni’s medina is an architectural marvel. Free to view from outside; modest dress required.
  • Itsandra Beach – Just 15 minutes north of Moroni, this public beach has black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Free entry, though I recommend buying a drink (1,000 KMF/2 EUR) from one of the small shacks as courtesy.
  • Chomoni Beach – My favorite beach on the island, with turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling. About 30 minutes north of Moroni by shared taxi (1,000 KMF/2 EUR one-way).
  • Moroni Markets – Wandering through Volo Volo market is an assault on the senses – spices, fresh produce, clothing, and household goods. The fish market near the port is particularly lively around 6-7am.

Worth the Splurge

  • Karthala Volcano Hike – Climbing the active volcano (2,361m) requires a guide. The standard rate is 35,000 KMF (70 EUR) for a group of up to 4 people for the full day. This includes transport to the trailhead from Moroni. Contact the Karthala Guides Association.
  • Trou du Prophète (Prophet’s Hole) – This natural swimming hole near Mitsamiouli is surrounded by legends. Entry is 1,000 KMF (2 EUR), and shared taxis from Moroni cost about 1,500 KMF (3 EUR) each way.

Mohéli

Free and Nearly-Free Activities

  • Beaches – Nioumachoua’s beaches are pristine and completely free. I often had entire stretches to myself, even during high season.
  • Turtle watching – Itsamia village is world-famous for green turtle nesting. For just 5,000 KMF (10 EUR), local conservation guides will take you to observe nesting (seasonal, mainly December-March).
  • Village visits – The villages of Fomboni, Nioumachoua, and Itsamia welcome visitors. Bring small gifts like school supplies or fishing hooks rather than money when visiting.

Worth the Splurge

  • Mohéli Marine Park – Snorkeling trips to see pristine reefs cost around 15,000-20,000 KMF (30-40 EUR) per person, including equipment. Book through the Marine Park Office in Nioumachoua for the best rates.
  • Whale watching – From July to October, humpback whales migrate through the waters around Mohéli. Tours cost 25,000 KMF (50 EUR) per person, but seeing these magnificent creatures up close is worth every franc.

Anjouan

Free and Nearly-Free Activities

  • Mutsamudu Medina – The ancient stone town with its narrow alleyways and carved doors is perfect for wandering. Free.
  • Moya Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in the Comoros, with powdery white sand. Free entry.
  • Dziani Boundouni Lake – This crater lake in the island’s interior is accessible via a beautiful (but challenging) hike. Free entry, though a local guide (5,000 KMF/10 EUR) is recommended as trails aren’t marked.

Worth the Splurge

  • Waterfall hikes – Anjouan is known as “the island of waterfalls.” Guides to Tratinga Falls cost about 10,000 KMF (20 EUR) for a half-day hike.
  • Ylang-ylang distillery tours – Anjouan produces some of the world’s finest ylang-ylang essential oil. Tours of small distilleries cost around 5,000 KMF (10 EUR) and usually include samples to take home.

Insider Tip: Many “guided tours” in Comoros have negotiable rates, especially in the low season (November-April). During my last visit in February 2024, I managed to join another group for the Karthala hike, paying just 15,000 KMF (30 EUR) instead of the full price. Don’t be afraid to ask around at your accommodation – other travelers are often happy to share guides and split costs.

Communication and Connectivity on a Budget

Staying connected in Comoros has improved dramatically since my first visit, but it still requires some planning to manage costs.

SIM Cards and Mobile Data

Two mobile operators serve Comoros:

  • Comores Telecom (Huri) – Better coverage on all islands but slightly more expensive
  • Telma Comores – Good coverage in urban areas and cheaper data packages

Getting a SIM card requires registration with your passport. The SIM itself costs around 2,000 KMF (4 EUR), and data packages start at:

Package Comores Telecom (KMF) Telma (KMF) Validity
1GB 3,000 2,500 7 days
5GB 10,000 8,500 30 days
10GB 15,000 12,000 30 days

I typically buy a Telma SIM in Moroni and opt for the 5GB package, which is sufficient for maps, basic browsing, and staying in touch during a 2-week trip.

WiFi Access

Free WiFi is rare in Comoros, but available at:

  • Upmarket hotels – Places like Le Galawa in Moroni or Golden Tulip on Grande Comore offer free WiFi to customers, even if you just buy a coffee (1,500 KMF/3 EUR).
  • Some restaurants – Le Select and La Paillote in Moroni have reasonably reliable free WiFi for customers.
  • Internet cafés – Still common in urban areas, charging around 500-1,000 KMF (1-2 EUR) per hour.

Insider Tip: Download the Maps.me app and the Comoros maps before your trip. Unlike Google Maps, it works completely offline and shows many small paths, beaches, and viewpoints not marked on other maps. This saved me countless times when exploring remote areas without mobile coverage.

Language Tips for Budget Travelers

Language skills can significantly impact both your experience and your budget in Comoros. While French is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few words in Comorian can help you connect with locals and often leads to better prices.

Essential Comorian Phrases

  • “Kwezi” (Hello)
  • “Marahaba” (Thank you)
  • “Ndjema” (Good)
  • “Ghali mno” (Too expensive)
  • “Karibu” (Welcome)

Using even these simple phrases brought smiles to people’s faces and often led to invitations for tea or meals in homes – experiences no money could buy.

Bargaining in Comoros

Negotiating prices is expected in markets, for taxis, and with tour guides. Some guidelines:

  • Start by offering about 60-70% of the initial asking price
  • Bargain with a smile – it’s a social interaction, not a battle
  • Walking away often results in being called back with a better offer
  • Round numbers are typically “tourist prices” – locals pay odd amounts

My most successful bargaining tactic has been to learn the numbers in Comorian (moja, mbili, tatu…) and negotiate in the local language. This usually earns respect and better prices.

Health and Safety on a Budget

Staying healthy doesn’t have to be expensive in Comoros, but requires some preparation.

Budget-Friendly Health Tips

  • Water purification – I bring a SteriPen UV purifier (one-time purchase around $50) rather than buying bottled water, saving about 15,000 KMF (30 EUR) on a two-week trip while reducing plastic waste.
  • Malaria prevention – Malaria is present year-round. While prescription medications are recommended, budget travelers can reduce risk by using DEET repellent (available locally for 2,500 KMF/5 EUR) and sleeping under mosquito nets (most accommodations provide these).
  • Basic medications – Bring a small supply of essential medications from home. Local pharmacies stock basics, but selection is limited and prices are higher.

Budget-Friendly Safety Measures

  • Shared transportation safety – While shared taxis are economical, avoid overcrowded vehicles. Sometimes spending an extra 500 KMF (1 EUR) for a less crowded option is worth it.
  • Beach safety – Many beautiful beaches have strong currents. Ask locals before swimming, particularly on the eastern coasts of the islands.
  • Money security – Rather than buying an expensive money belt, I use multiple pockets and keep only daily cash accessible. I leave larger amounts and spare cards at accommodations (ideally in rooms with private lockers).

Comoros is generally safe for travelers, with petty theft being the main concern in urban areas. The investment in a small padlock (2,000 KMF/4 EUR locally) to secure your backpack and room door is worthwhile.

Avoiding Tourist Traps and Hidden Costs

Even in a lesser-visited destination like Comoros, there are ways tourists end up spending more than necessary.

Common Tourist Traps

  • Airport taxis – Taxis from HAH airport to Moroni charge fixed rates of 15,000 KMF (30 EUR). Instead, walk 500 meters to the main road and catch a shared taxi for just 1,000 KMF (2 EUR). I’ve done this on every visit except my first, saving significantly.
  • Souvenir pricing – At the Volo Volo market in Moroni, similar ylang-ylang oils can range from 5,000-15,000 KMF (10-30 EUR) depending on packaging and shop location. The more tourist-oriented the shop appears, the higher the markup.
  • “Special” guided tours – Some hotel reception desks offer guided tours at 2-3 times the price you could arrange directly. During my 2023 visit, a hotel wanted 75,000 KMF (150 EUR) for a Karthala hike I eventually booked directly for 35,000 KMF (70 EUR).

Hidden Costs to Watch For

  • Inter-island departure tax – When leaving islands by boat, there’s often a 1,000 KMF (2 EUR) port fee not included in ticket prices.
  • Photography “fees” – At some sites, particularly in villages, you might be asked for money to take photos. This is usually just opportunistic rather than official.
  • Currency exchange commission – Banks charge 3-5% commission on exchanges. Money changers in markets often offer better rates but count your money carefully.

Insider Tip: When hiring guides or boats for excursions, clearly establish what’s included. On my first trip to Mohéli Marine Park, I negotiated what I thought was a complete price, only to discover later that equipment rental, lunch, and park fees were all “extra.” Now I always ask: “Is this the total price with everything included?” in both French and basic Comorian.

Sustainable Budget Travel in Comoros

One of the joys of traveling in Comoros is that many budget choices are also environmentally and socially sustainable.

Environmental Sustainability that Saves Money

  • Water purification – Using refillable bottles and water purification saves money and reduces plastic waste on islands with limited recycling.
  • Local transportation – Shared taxis and boats have a lower per-person carbon footprint than private options, while costing significantly less.
  • Solar charging – I bring a small solar charger (one-time purchase of about $30) for my phone and camera. This is particularly useful on Mohéli and in rural areas where power outages are common.

Social Sustainability that Enhances Experiences

  • Community-based tourism – In Itsamia (Mohéli), the community-run guesthouse costs just 15,000 KMF (30 EUR) per night, with proceeds supporting sea turtle conservation. The insights from local guides are far more valuable than what you’d get at a conventional hotel.
  • Direct purchases – Buying handicrafts directly from artisans and food from producers not only reduces costs but ensures money reaches local communities. The woodcarvers in Domoni (Anjouan) sell beautiful pieces for about half what you’d pay in tourist shops in Moroni.
  • Skills exchange – During my 2023 stay in Mitsoudjé village, I helped a family practice English for three afternoons. In return, they invited me for meals and showed me how to prepare traditional dishes – a far more memorable experience than any restaurant could provide.

The most sustainable approach is often to travel slowly, spending more time in fewer places. Not only does this reduce transportation emissions, but it also lowers your daily cost average as you’ll discover more free activities and local prices.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for an Affordable Comoros Adventure

Visiting Comoros on a budget is not only possible but can lead to more authentic and memorable experiences. After seven visits spanning several years, I’ve refined my approach to maximize value while minimizing costs.

Your 5-Step Budget Travel Action Plan

  1. Book flights strategically – Set fare alerts 4-5 months in advance, consider alternative routing through regional hubs like Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, and aim for Tuesday/Wednesday departures for the best rates.
  2. Plan your island-hopping wisely – Arrange your itinerary to match the passenger boat schedule (typically Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday departures), avoiding expensive flights between islands.
  3. Pack multi-purpose items – Bring a water purifier, basic medical supplies, a sarong (serves as beach towel, privacy curtain, and modest dress for mosque visits), and a headlamp (power outages are common).
  4. Connect with locals before arrival – Join Facebook groups like “Comoros Travel Tips” to connect with locals who can recommend truly affordable accommodation and activities not listed online.
  5. Budget realistically but flexibly – Aim for 30-40 EUR per day (excluding flights), keeping a contingency fund for unexpected opportunities like whale watching when in season or joining impromptu celebrations in villages.

Comoros rewards travelers who approach it with flexibility, respect, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones. The memories of sharing spiced coffee with elders in a Mohéli village, swimming in pristine waters while the call to prayer echoed across the bay, and hiking through cloud forests to reach Karthala’s crater – these experiences are priceless, yet accessible even on a modest budget.

The islands may not have the tourism infrastructure of nearby Seychelles or Mauritius, but that’s precisely what makes them special. In Comoros, you’ll find natural beauty uncrowded by mass tourism, cultural authenticity, and the warm hospitality that makes budget travel in Africa so rewarding.

As we say in Comorian: “Safari njema” – have a good journey!

FAQ: Budget Travel in Comoros

Is Comoros safe for budget travelers?

Yes, Comoros is generally safe for travelers, including those on a budget. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main concerns are petty theft in urban areas and natural hazards like strong currents at some beaches. As a budget traveler staying in simpler accommodations, take basic precautions like using padlocks on doors and keeping valuables secure. During my seven visits, I’ve never experienced any safety issues beyond occasional power outages and transportation delays.

What’s the absolute minimum budget needed for Comoros?

Excluding international flights, a determined budget traveler could manage on 25-30 EUR (12,500-15,000 KMF) per day by staying in basic guesthouses or homestays (7,000-10,000 KMF), eating street food (3,000-5,000 KMF), using shared transportation (1,000-2,000 KMF), and focusing on free activities like beaches and hiking. This would be a no-frills experience but entirely doable. Adding another 10-15 EUR per day significantly increases comfort and options.

When is the cheapest time to visit Comoros?

The rainy season (November to April) offers the lowest prices, with accommodation rates dropping by 20-30% and fewer tourists competing for services. However, heavy rains can disrupt transportation and some activities. I’ve found that November and April – at the edges of the rainy season – offer the best balance of lower prices and decent weather. The absolute cheapest month is usually February, but be prepared for regular afternoon downpours.

Do I need to visit all three islands?

No, focusing on one or two islands can significantly reduce costs by eliminating expensive inter-island transportation. If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend choosing Grande Comore plus either Mohéli (for nature and marine life) or Anjouan (for culture and landscapes). Each island offers enough activities for 5-7 days, and the money saved on transportation can enhance your experience through better activities or occasional splurges.

Can I use credit cards in Comoros?

Credit card acceptance is extremely limited, even in 2025. Only a few upscale hotels in Moroni and one or two car rental agencies accept cards, often adding a 3-5% surcharge. Plan to operate almost entirely in cash, bringing euros to exchange. I typically bring about 50 EUR per day of my stay, exchanging small amounts as needed rather than all at once.

Is it possible to volunteer in exchange for accommodation?

Yes, though formal volunteer arrangements are limited. During my 2023 visit, I met travelers who arranged to help at marine conservation projects in Mohéli and at small guesthouses in exchange for accommodation. These arrangements were made through personal connections rather than formal programs. Your best approach is to spend a few days in Moroni making connections, then inquire directly with small businesses or NGOs about potential exchanges.

What’s the biggest budget mistake visitors make in Comoros?

The biggest mistake is overplanning and prepaying for tours and transportation before arrival. Local prices are almost always significantly lower than what’s quoted online or through international agencies. During my second visit, I met travelers who had paid over 200 EUR for a Karthala volcano tour that costs 70 EUR when arranged locally. Maintain flexibility in your itinerary and arrange activities on the ground for the best value.

References

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