The Value of Clean Water Photo by IWRM AIO SIDS via Flickr Creative Commons

All nationalities need a visa to enter the Comoros which are issued upon arrival. Applicants need to show valid documents, including a completed application, an original passport with validity of at least six months past the date of travel, passport-size pictures, and proof of an onward or return ticket. Fees vary depending on the type of visa applied for.

Health and Safety

Vaccination against tuberculosis is recommended, but not required, and precautions against widespread diseases like hepatitis B and E, as well as malaria should be taken. It is best to take anti-malaria pills and sleep under treated mosquito nets. Medical facilities on the islands are good, but mostly private. The best ones can be found in Anjouan and Grande Comore. It is recommended that you purchase comprehensive travel and health insurance before journeying to Comoros in case of emergencies.

Comorians eat healthy diets based on fruits and vegetables. Water from the tap may be contaminated, so stick to distilled, bottled water or boiled water for drinking.

There are very few safety issues for travelers in the Comoros, except perhaps poor road conditions. It is crucial that you have a local guide, especially when hiking up Mt Karthala. More importantly, check the political situation before making your final flight arrangements, as clashes between the African Union and rebel forces may still disturb the peace.

Click here to learn about History and Culture in Comoros