What to See and Eat in Moroni, Comoros

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique, the Comoros Islands are among the least visited yet most culturally rich destinations in the world. At the heart of this volcanic archipelago lies Moroni, the capital city and main gateway to the islands. With its crumbling medina, ancient mosques, bustling markets, and Indian Ocean coastline, Moroni is a destination that feels like a time capsule — one filled with East African, Arab, French, and Swahili influences.

For the curious traveler, Moroni offers the opportunity to experience island life untouched by mass tourism, with flavors and traditions you won’t find anywhere else. Here's a full guide on what to see and eat in Moroni, Comoros.

Why Visit Moroni?

Moroni is not a polished tourist city — and that’s precisely its charm. You’ll find crumbling colonial buildings, narrow alleyways scented with cloves and vanilla, and friendly locals ready to strike up a conversation. The mix of African, Arab, and French culture is visible in the architecture, language, food, and dress.

Top reasons to explore Moroni:

- Authentic culture with little commercial influence
- Fascinating blend of Islamic, African, and colonial heritage
- Delicious and unique Swahili-Arab cuisine
- Access to volcanic landscapes and nearby islands
- A truly off-the-beaten-path destination

Top Attractions in Moroni

1. Old Medina of Moroni
This labyrinth of alleys and coral-stone buildings is the oldest part of the city. It’s where you’ll find life happening at a local pace — kids playing soccer, women in colorful salouvas shopping for spices, and fishermen unloading their morning catch. Walk without a map and let yourself get a little lost.

2. Badjanani Mosque (Friday Mosque)
This iconic whitewashed mosque with its elegant minaret is the symbol of Moroni. Dating back to the 15th century, it sits right on the waterfront and is still actively used for prayer. While non-Muslims can't enter, it’s well worth admiring from the outside, especially at sunset when the sky turns orange over the sea.

3. Volo Volo Market
This bustling market is the commercial heart of Moroni. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and island spices to handmade beauty products and imported goods from Dubai and China. It's a full sensory experience and a great place to buy cloves, vanilla pods, ylang-ylang oil, and colorful fabrics.

4. Itsandra Beach and Fortress
Located just a short drive north of Moroni, Itsandra is a quiet beach with soft sand and turquoise waters. The nearby ruins of a 19th-century fortress overlook the ocean and offer great photo opportunities. This is where locals often gather on weekends for swimming and picnics.

5. Mount Karthala
The largest active volcano in the Comoros looms in the distance from Moroni and is an adventure waiting to happen. While hiking to the summit takes a full day and requires a guide, the views and biodiversity (including orchids, giant tree ferns, and rare birds) are worth the effort for experienced hikers.

6. National Museum of Comoros
Small but insightful, this museum offers exhibits on Comorian history, culture, and natural sciences. Learn about the sultanates that ruled the islands, traditional wedding costumes, and the biodiversity of the archipelago.

What to Eat in Moroni

Comorian cuisine is a flavorful fusion of African, Arab, Indian, and French influences. You’ll find dishes rich in spices like clove, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric, often cooked in coconut milk and served with rice or cassava.

Here are the must-try dishes:

- Langouste à la vanille: Lobster cooked in a vanilla and coconut cream sauce — a uniquely Comorian delicacy.
- Mkatra siniya: A type of coconut rice cake baked in the oven, often served during celebrations.
- Poulet au coco: Chicken stewed in a creamy coconut sauce with garlic, ginger, and spices.
- Samoussas: Similar to samosas, these triangular pastries are filled with meat, fish, or vegetables and served as snacks.
- Pilaou: A spiced rice dish cooked with beef or goat, infused with cinnamon, clove, and tomato.
- Green bananas and cassava: Often boiled and served as a side dish.
- Fresh seafood: Including grilled tuna, red snapper, and octopus.

Top Restaurants and Street Food Spots

- Le Sim Sim: Known for its coconut chicken and fresh fish. Friendly staff and great views of the harbor.
- Le Jardin de la Paix: Mid-range restaurant with outdoor seating, serving everything from seafood to French-influenced pasta dishes.
- Les Arcades: A café and bakery in town that’s good for breakfast or pastries with Comorian coffee.
- Local street vendors near Volo Volo Market: Great for snacks like samoussas, grilled corn, and fried plantains.

Cultural Tips for Visiting Moroni

- Language: French is the official language, but most locals speak Shikomori (a Swahili dialect with Arabic influences). English is rare, so learning a few French or Swahili phrases is helpful.
- Religion: Comoros is a Muslim-majority country. Dress modestly—especially in public markets or villages—and respect local customs.
- Photography: Always ask before taking pictures of people or inside religious sites.
- Friday Closures: Many shops and offices close midday on Fridays for prayers.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated in restaurants (5–10%).

Where to Stay in Moroni

Luxury
- Golden Tulip Grande Comore Moroni: The most upscale hotel in town, with sea-view rooms, a pool, and restaurant.
- Retaj Moroni: A comfortable and modern hotel with great access to both the city and airport.

Mid-Range
- Al Camar Lodge: Boutique accommodation with clean rooms and friendly service.
- Le Karthala Hotel: Simple but well-maintained and popular with business travelers.

Budget
- Guesthouses near the Old Medina: Expect basic amenities, but warm hospitality and proximity to local sights.
- Auberge du Nord: Affordable, family-run guesthouse with local charm.

Suggested Itinerary: 2–3 Days in Moroni

**Day 1**
- Morning: Explore the Old Medina and visit the Friday Mosque
- Afternoon: Browse the Volo Volo Market and pick up spices
- Evening: Dinner at Le Sim Sim with coconut chicken and grilled tuna

**Day 2**
- Morning: Visit the National Museum and take a short trip to Itsandra Beach
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or explore the old fortress
- Evening: Enjoy samoussas and street food, then sip tea with locals

**Day 3 (Optional)**
- Full-day hike to Mount Karthala with a local guide
- Alternatively, take a boat trip to Mohéli or other islands in the Comoros chain

When to Visit Moroni

- May to November: The dry season, with sunny skies and comfortable temperatures
- December to April: Rainy season, with occasional storms and high humidity
- July and August: Best months for cultural festivals and music events

Getting Around

- Taxis: Shared taxis are the norm. Agree on prices in advance.
- Minibuses: Cheap and widely used by locals but can be confusing for visitors.
- Walking: Most of Moroni is walkable, especially the Medina and waterfront.
- Car rental: Possible, but driving conditions can be rough.

Souvenirs to Take Home

- Ylang-ylang essential oil: Grown locally and used in perfume production
- Vanilla pods: High quality and affordable
- Handmade jewelry and wooden crafts from the Medina
- Colorful salouvas (traditional garments)
- Local spices like clove, cinnamon, and turmeric

Estimated Daily Budget

- Budget: $40–$60 USD
- Mid-Range: $70–$120 USD
- Luxury: $150+ USD

Final Thoughts

Moroni may not have the flash of Zanzibar or the polish of Seychelles, but that’s exactly what makes it extraordinary. It’s a city full of texture, rhythm, and soul—where ancient mosques stand beside vanilla-scented alleyways, and where sunsets over the Indian Ocean feel like scenes from a dream.

For travelers willing to go a little further and dig a little deeper, Moroni offers a truly authentic cultural and culinary experience. It’s a place that stays with you—long after the spices in your suitcase have faded.