Things To Do
in Moroni
Moroni is the capital city of the Comoros, perched along a sheltered Indian Ocean coastline on Grande Comore. It blends African, Arab, and French influences visible in its mosques, markets, and colonial-era architecture. The harbor is lively with fishing boats and dhow traffic, while the old town centers around winding lanes and colorful facades.
Visitors come for seafood, sea views, and a low-key gateway to Comoros' natural beauty and island culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Moroni International Airport and check into your hotel. Take a moment to relax and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel while taking in views of the island.
Explore the vibrant streets of Moroni, visiting local markets and shops to experience the unique culture. Try some delicious local dishes for lunch at a nearby café. Don't miss the beautiful architecture of historic buildings like the Friday Mosque.
End your first day with a stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy the sunset views over the Indian Ocean while sipping a refreshing coconut drink. Dine at a local restaurant, savoring Comorian cuisine specialties.
Begin your day by exploring the Old Town of Moroni, rich with history and charm. Visit the Governor's Palace and other significant landmarks, absorbing the local history. Enjoy a coffee at a quaint café while watching the locals start their day.
Visit the National Museum to learn about the Comoros' culture and heritage. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Comorian lunch in the Old Town. Wander through colorful streets, engaging with local artisans and vendors.
Attend a cultural performance featuring local music and dance, immersing yourself in the traditions of the Comoros. Relish dinner at a beachside restaurant, listening to the sound of the waves. Cap the night off with a stroll along the beach under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-75 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Moroni | $2-7 |
| 🥤Beverage or coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich blend of cultures and welcoming people
- Excellent seafood and coastal scenery
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Smaller choice of international brands and services
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Moroni
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning or late-afternoon light over colorful boats, piers, and gentle waves creates warm, painterly scenes.
Architectural photography with white walls and domes; best in soft morning light or around sunset.
Narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and local life offer intimate street photography opportunities.
Silhouettes of boats and masts against a vivid Comorian sunset produce striking silhouettes.
Rugged coastline with sea spray and dramatic horizons ideal for expansive sea-and-sky shots.
Food in Moroni
Moroni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh lobster served with rice and a squeeze of lemon, often enjoyed with a coconut-based sauce.
Must-Try!
A fragrant rice dish cooked with stock, cumin, cinnamon, and meat or fish.
Chicken simmered in coconut milk and curry spices, usually served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, vanilla, spices, and local snacks.
Samosas, fried plantains, grilled fish skewers, and fresh coconut water sold by vendors along the quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Conservative clothing is respectful, especially near mosques and in traditional areas.
A friendly greeting is appreciated; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Be mindful around mosques during prayer times; photography of people and religious spaces should be approached with discretion.
Safety
Tipping in Moroni
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips in restaurants or for taxi drivers are customary when service is good. Carry some local currency (KMF) for handouts and small bills.
Cash is widely preferred; credit cards are less common outside hotels and larger establishments. Some places may accept euros, but cash in Comorian francs (KMF) is safest.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; seas are generally calmer for boating and snorkeling; expect sunny skies and comfortable humidity.
Frequent brief showers and higher humidity; mornings can be clearer before rain; pack a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor time.
Moroni at Night
Hiking in Moroni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Africa’s largest volcanoes; challenging multi-day hike with panoramic crater views, requiring a guide and planning.
Accessible day hikes along volcanic coastlines with ocean viewpoints and wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Moroni by plane.
Located near Moroni on Grande Comore; primary international gateway to the Comoros and main hub for domestic flights.
Access point for Mayotte; occasional connections to Moroni via inter-island flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, speaking Shikomori and French, with deep Arab and African cultural influences.
Smaller communities contributing to trade history and cuisine.
A minority present in urban areas, often connected to business, tourism, or governance.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and community matches forming a social staple.
A growing sport in schools and urban centers with local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moroni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and salads; request dishes without meat or fish stock and ask about dairy or egg components if needed.