Moonlight Shadows | Long Weekend in Comoros

The Islands of the Moon, Comoros, are a small cluster of volcanic isles drifting between Africa and Madagascar, blending African and Arab cultures with a French accent.

The name "Comoros" comes from the Arabic word Qamar, meaning moon, a name given by old sailors who saw something magical in these shores. And in many ways, the moon still fits in a distant, beautiful reference, that’s always pulling the tides and the past together.
Their flag proudly flies four stars, even though only three of the islands are truly part of the country today. The fourth star belongs to Mayotte, which chose to stay with France after independence in 1975, despite the rest of the islands voting to break away. Still, Comoros keeps Mayotte on the flag, not just out of habit, but out of hope, memory, and maybe a little stubbornness too.

The four islands of the Comoros are home to 500 plant species, 21 bird species, 9 reptile species, and 2 species of fruit bats that are found only in this archipelago. However, deforestation has caused significant changes to the landscape and threatens the survival of these rare plant and animal species. The Comoros are reminiscent of Madagascar. Most of the species found in the Comoros are related to those from the "eighth continent" (Madagascar) and Africa. A small number also originate from Asia.

The archipelago was formed by volcanic activity. The oldest island is Mayotte, and the youngest is Grande Comore. It is on this last island that eruptions of the Karthala volcano (over 2,300 masl) still occur.
Today Comoros enjoy their independence to the full extent. Since gaining independence, the islands have changed hands many times, experiencing over 20 coups, more than the number of years under stable governance. It has rightfully earned the nickname “the Coup Capital of the World.”

Country has zero traffic lights and roads are so chill and bumpy that no one bothers. Locals say, "We have goats and patience instead." Thanks to vast ylang-ylang plantations, parts of the islands literally smell like perfume., the air is often scented with flowers and yes, people do stop and sniff the air. In fact, this cousin of custard apple with yellowish flowers is a key ingredient in luxury perfumes, ie. Channel no. 5. Although the plant came to the Comoros from the much larger Indonesia, it is the African country that is the largest producer of ylang-ylang oil, an important ingredient in many perfumes. The Comoros is also the second largest producer of vanilla in the world.

Despite being a sovereign nation, the Comorian franc is still tied to the euro and printed in France. However, in rural areas, vanilla and cloves are so valuable they’re sometimes used in bartering.

The Livingstone’s fruit bat and Comoros drongo are among the national wildlife symbols. Bat curry is still a local delicacy in some villages. They're fruit bats, and apparently... "tastes like chicken,"

But in a background, it is still an untouched tropical paradise where volcanic peaks meet coral reefs, ancient Islamic culture shapes daily life with a quiet rhythm of tradition and hospitality. Spice-scented beachside villages with sacred mosques blend seamlessly with passing sea turtles and whales, all moving to the gentle rhythm of island time. Inshallah, it could be your perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure: raw, real, and refreshingly undiscovered.

Let’s go!

Day 1 // Grande Comore: The Historic Town of Itsandra

Arrival to Moroni International, immigration and check–in
to our beach side hotel.
After short refreshment head out to discover the historic town of Itsandra.
Once the beating heart of Swahili civilization on the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore), Itsandra has roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was once the capital of the island and its first seaport, a hub where merchants and travelers converged. Today, remnants of this vibrant past still linger. The fortress of the 17th century, once linked to the city by a walled corridor, stands proudly, while fragments of ramparts dotted with observation holes whisper tales of bygone days.

The Arab quarter, with its mausoleum of Al Habib Omar Bin Sumet and centuries-old mosques, offers a spiritual glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you stroll through public squares framed by monumental gates, you’ll feel the timeless rhythm of a place where history and community converge. Before returning, we’ll explore a local handcrafts shop, where fine woodcarvings and artisanal creations celebrate the artistry of the Comorian people.
Day 2 // Grande Comore North
Today we are set to explore the scenic northern coast and its volcanic history. As we follow the eastern coast we will see where lava flows enter the sea and how the mangrove forests are now growing in the lava beds.
In Bangwa Kouni village, we’ll visit the “Miraculous Mosque,” said to have appeared overnight, as well as the tombs of some of the earliest Arab travelers to the islands. Lunch today is at Trou du Prophète, a tranquil bay, followed by time to relax on Maloudja Beach, where the coconut palms lean gracefully toward the sea. Quick stop at island’s largest baobab tree, so huge a dozen visitors can stand inside its hollow trunk.

After lunch, we continue to the volcanic crater lake of Niamawi, one of the island’s most fascinating geological formations. Separated from the open ocean by only a narrow ridge of volcanic rock, the lake sits remarkably below sea level, an unusual natural phenomenon that has intrigued visitors and geologists for many years.

Next to it lies the Dragon’s Tail, a partially submerged volcanic crater whose curved rim stretches into the Indian Ocean like a natural peninsula. Shaped by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion, this dramatic coastal formation offers breathtaking panoramic views of crashing waves, rugged cliffs, and the endless blue horizon beyond.
We’ll end up busy day at a sunset beach with well-deserved dip
in Indian ocean.
Day 3 // Mount Karthala (2,361m)
Today, the adventure reaches new heights with a trekkup Mount Karthala, the largest active volcano in the world. From Mvouni village, vehicles take us partway up the slopes, before we hit a 6k trail (700 m altitude).
The trail winds through lush forest and volcanic rock, eventually opening onto the vast caldera at the summit. Here, steam vents rise from the earth, and the crater within a crater offers a breathtaking reminder of the island’s geological power. A picnic lunch at the rim allows time to absorb the view of the island below, of the endless sea beyond, and of the raw forces that continue to shape Comoros. It’s definitely one of the most spectacular hikes in the Indian Ocean.
Day 4 // Dolphins & departure
Before bidding farewell to the Comoros, our morning begins out on the Indian Ocean in search of dolphins. Setting off by boat at sunrise, we will cruise along the coast where pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins are often seen playing in the warm turquoise waters. There may be an opportunity to swim alongside these graceful marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Unfortunately its time to check out and head back to airport. Bye-bye Comoros x

Activities: Trekking, boating, snorkelling, sightseeing, encounter of wildlife, cultural immersion.
Accommodation & meals: beach side 4 star hotel and lodge - shared rooms. Meals excluded.

Cost: 4,950 AED excl. flights until JUNE 01.
Flights by Ethiopian, you can use any alternative connection.

Specifically excluded: Insurance, visa, meals.
Visa: Nationals of any country can obtain a visa on arrival.
Note: Wildlife spotting can not be guaranteed.

See yah in Comoros xx

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / [info@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com)