Comoros

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Union of the Comoros is an island nation in southern Africa in the Mozambique Channel between Madagascar and Mozambique. The population is about 780,000 people. The government is a republic with a president serving as chief of state and head of government. The country gained independence from France in 1976. Since that time, Comoros has suffered through 20 coups or attempted coups, as well as some islands threatening to secede from the Union. Comoros is one of the poorest countries in Africa due to few natural resources, price fluctuations of exports, and political instability. The country is heavily dependent on foreign aid. A new constitution in 2001 brought some degree of political stability by granting the islands more autonomy.

Comoros is making efforts to develop the tourism industry, however, the unstable political situation has prevented growth. The islands offer beautiful unspoiled beaches, small villages to visit, snorkeling, and scuba diving, and travellers can arrange a guide and take a two-day hike up the Karthala volcano.

Currency	KMF: Comorian franc
Language	Comorian; Arabic; French
Capital	Moroni
Recent Alerts	1
Latest Alert	July 23, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Comoros (23 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Comoros. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Comoros through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Comoros.
Typhoid Fever Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Comoros, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Rabies Rabies occurs in the Comoros in bats.
Chikungunya Fever Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Dengue Fever Dengue fever occurs in this country.
Malaria All areas of this country are at risk for malaria.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Comoros.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Rabies Vaccine Pre-travel vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities that may bring them in direct contact with bats.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Comoros.

Anti-malarial Drugs Recommended medications are atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine. Anti-malaria drug resistance for chloroquine is present.

Safety and Security in Comoros

Emergency Numbers

269 772 03 73

Personal Safety

The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur in any crowded area or tourist destination. Always be alert in your personal surroundings and safety. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight. Exercise caution in crowded market areas, beaches, and parks.

Comoros is a liberal Muslim country. Travellers should take note of whether they will be travelling during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, respect the religious practices of the country and avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Always dress conservatively to respect local customs, including at the beach. It is considered disrespectful to expose much of the body, so shoulders, knees, and midriff areas should be covered.

Violent crime generally does not occur.

Essential services, such as running water and electricity, are not reliable even at the best of hotels. Outside urban areas, essential services may not exist. Follow strict food and water precautions.

Exercise caution when driving as road conditions may be poor, roads may be unlit at night and rural roads may be unpaved.

If sailing in the area, be aware that piracy is a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.

Transportation by boat is available among the three islands but can be dangerous due to overloading, poor mechanical condition, and lack of life vests.

Taking photos of military or governmental installations is prohibited.

LGBTI travellers should note that same-sex behaviour is prohibited.

Due to its location in an active seismic zone, Comoros is at risk for earthquakes. It is also at risk for volcanos, cyclones and monsoons (November-April).

Political Unrest

This country has experienced political instability since 1976. There are occasional strikes or protests in Comoros, and some have become violent. Always avoid public gatherings and demonstrations since even peaceful gatherings can become confrontational and violent.

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Updated: July 23, 2021