Anjouan, Comoros Travel Guide
Discover Anjouan: Experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and historical charm of this hidden gem in the Comoros archipelago.
Anjouan, also known as Ndzuwani, is a picturesque island in the Comoros archipelago. This island is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical charm. Its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and clear waters make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island is less crowded than many other tourist destinations, offering a peaceful and more intimate travel experience. The capital city, Mutsamudu, is known for its narrow, winding streets and old stone buildings. Walking through the medina feels like stepping back in time. The city’s port, with its colorful boats, is a great place to watch the local fishermen at work. Exploring the local markets will give you a taste of Anjouan’s vibrant culture and an opportunity to try exotic spices and fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to visit Mount Ntingui, the highest peak on the island. A hike to the summit rewards you with stunning views of the island and the surrounding Indian Ocean. The island's waterfalls, such as the Dziancoundre Waterfall, offer refreshing spots to cool off. Anjouan is also home to unique flora and fauna, including some species that are found nowhere else in the world.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Anjouan.
- Learn a few basic phrases in French, as it is widely spoken on the island and will help you communicate with the locals.
- Carry cash, as credit card facilities are limited and ATMs may be scarce outside major towns.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting local markets and religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
- Hire a local guide for hiking trips to ensure safety and to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s natural features.
- Try the local cuisine, especially dishes made with fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Top City Travel Guides in Anjouan
The cities of Anjouan, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Explore Anjouan: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Anjouan
Best landmarks in Anjouan
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Plage de Moya
Experience the serene beauty of Plage de Moya, a tropical paradise in Comoros perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views.
Comores Anjouan Ouzini
Explore the Ouzini Mosque in Anjouan, a serene cultural gem of the Comoros, showcasing stunning architecture and local traditions.
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Restaurant & Grill Le Coraya
Experience authentic Comorian cuisine at Restaurant & Grill Le Coraya in Itsandra, where flavors come alive in a charming tropical setting.
MoCafe
Experience authentic Comorian cuisine at MoCafe in Moroni – where flavor meets hospitality.
Restaurant L'Escale
Discover exquisite Comorian flavors at Restaurant L'Escale in Moroni – a culinary treasure you won't want to miss.
New Select Restaurant
Experience authentic Comorian cuisine at New Select Restaurant in Moroni - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
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Restaurant & Grill Le Coraya
Discover authentic Comorian cuisine at Restaurant & Grill Le Coraya, where every dish tells a story of local flavors and culinary tradition.
New Select Restaurant
Discover the flavors of Comoros at New Select Restaurant, where local cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Moroni.
Johanna Livingstone Hotel
Johanna Livingstone Hotel in Mutsamudu offers cozy accommodations and friendly service, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of Comoros.
Hôtel Le Papillon (île d'Anjouan)
Experience the serene beauty of île d'Anjouan at Hôtel Le Papillon, where comfort meets local charm for an unforgettable stay.
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Hôtel Le Refuge Kpark
Discover tranquility and luxury at Hôtel Le Refuge Kpark, your wellness sanctuary in the heart of Barakani, Comoros.
نجم القمر
Discover the vibrant nightlife at نجم القمر, a lively night club in Ntsaouéni offering unforgettable music and dance experiences.
Best shops in Anjouan
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Magasin Naantil-lahi
Explore the vibrant local culture at Magasin Naantil-lahi, Mutsamudu's premier supermarket for local and international goods.
Plage de Moya
Plage de Moya: A tranquil beach paradise in Comoros, perfect for relaxation, swimming, and savoring local flavors.
Centre Commercial de Bazimini
Explore shopping and local culture at the Centre Commercial de Bazimini, a vibrant hub for locals and tourists in Comoros.
Telma Shops Mutsamudu
Explore the heart of Mutsamudu at Telma Shops, where local culture meets vibrant shopping in Comoros.
Explore Anjouan on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Anjouan, mapped for you.
Anjouan Essentials
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Anjouan, part of the Comoros archipelago, can be accessed primarily via air travel. The main point of entry is Ouani Airport (AJN), which has flights from Moroni (the capital of Comoros) and other regional hubs. International travelers often fly into Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (HAH) in Moroni and take a connecting flight to Anjouan. Alternatively, ferries operate between Anjouan and the other islands in the Comoros, though schedules can be irregular and subject to weather conditions.
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Transportation within Anjouan is mainly via taxis and shared minibuses, known locally as 'bush taxis'. These are the most common and cost-effective means of getting around. Car rentals are available but less common and may require advanced booking. Roads can be rough, especially in rural areas, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle is advisable if you plan to explore beyond the town centers. Walking is also a practical option within smaller towns and villages.
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The official currency of Comoros is the Comorian Franc (KMF). Credit cards are rarely accepted, so it's essential to carry cash. ATMs are available in larger towns but may not be reliable, so it's prudent to bring cash with you. Currency exchange services are available in Moroni and some larger towns but are less common in rural areas.
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Anjouan is generally safe for tourists, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to be cautious with your belongings. Some neighborhoods in Mutsamudu, the capital of Anjouan, have higher crime rates, so it's best to ask locals or your accommodation staff for advice on safe areas to visit.
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In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 18 for medical emergencies. Medical facilities are limited, so it's strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Pharmacies are available in larger towns, but it's advisable to bring any prescription medications you may need. For consular assistance, contact your embassy in Moroni.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be patient; public transport can be slow and crowded. Don't expect strict adherence to schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A respectful greeting in French or the local language, Shikomori, is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like grilled fish and coconut-based curries. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Anjouan like a local, visit the local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with the community by attending local events or festivals. Don’t miss exploring the historic medina of Mutsamudu and hiking in the lush highlands. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby islets for snorkeling and diving in the pristine waters.
When is the best time to visit Anjouan?
Useful Local Phrases for Anjouan
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Anjouan. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloSalama
[sah-lah-mah] - GoodbyeTsalama
[tsah-lah-mah] - YesEhe
[eh-heh] - NoAyi
[ah-yee] - Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
[tah-fah-dhah-lee] - Thank youShukran
[shoo-krahn] - Excuse me/SorryPole
[poh-leh] - How are you?Habari gani?
[hah-bah-ree gah-nee] - Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
[n-zoo-ree nah weh-weh] - Do you speak English?Unazungumza Kiingereza?
[oo-nah-zoon-gum-zah kee-in-ge-reh-zah] - I don't understandSielewi
[see-eh-leh-wee]
- HelloSalama
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
[neen-geh-pen-dah koo-oh-nah men-yoo tah-fah-dhah-lee] - I don't eat meatSikula nyama
[see-koo-lah nyah-mah] - Cheers!Furaha!
[foo-rah-hah] - I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
[neen-geh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah tah-fah-dhah-lee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
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- Help!Msaada!
[m-sah-dah] - Go away!Nenda mbali!
[nen-dah m-bah-lee] - Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
[pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see] - Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
[pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree] - I'm lostNimepotea
[nee-meh-poh-teh-ah] - I'm illNinaumwa
[nee-nah-oom-wah]
- Help!Msaada!
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- I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
[neen-geh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah] - I'm just lookingNatazama tu
[nah-tah-zah-mah too] - How much is it?Ni bei gani?
[nee beh-ee gah-nee] - That's too expensiveHiyo ni ghali sana
[hee-yoh nee gah-lee sah-nah] - Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
[oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-gah-zee beh-ee]
- I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
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- What time is it?Ni saa ngapi?
[nee sah ahn-gah-pee] - It's one o'clockNi saa moja
[nee sah moh-jah] - Half past (10)Nusu (10)
[noo-soo (10)] - MorningAsubuhi
[ah-soo-boo-hee] - AfternoonMchana
[m-chah-nah] - EveningJioni
[jee-oh-nee] - YesterdayJana
[jah-nah] - TodayLeo
[leh-oh] - TomorrowKesho
[keh-show] - 1Moja
[moh-jah] - 2Mbili
[mbee-lee] - 3Tatu
[tah-too] - 4Nne
[n-ne] - 5Tano
[tah-noh] - 6Sita
[see-tah] - 7Saba
[sah-bah] - 8Nane
[nah-neh] - 9Tisa
[tee-sah] - 10Kumi
[koo-mee]
- What time is it?Ni saa ngapi?
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- Where's a/the...?Iko wapi ...?
[ee-koh wah-pee] - What's the address?Nini anwani?
[nee-nee ahn-wah-nee] - Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (katika ramani)?
[oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyesh-ah kah-teekah rah-mah-nee] - When's the next (bus)?Basi inayofuata ni lini?
[bah-see ee-nah-yoh-foo-ah-tah nee lee-nee] - A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ...)
[tee-keh-tee kwan-dah]
- Where's a/the...?Iko wapi ...?
History of Anjouan
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Anjouan, known locally as Ndzuwani, has been inhabited since the early first millennium by Austronesian and Bantu settlers. These early inhabitants established the island's first communities, bringing with them their unique languages, traditions, and agricultural practices. The fusion of these cultures laid the foundation for Anjouan's rich and diverse cultural heritage.
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By the 10th century, Arab traders began to frequent Anjouan, introducing Islam and establishing trade routes that connected the island to the broader Indian Ocean world. The influence of Arab culture is evident in the island's architecture, language, and religious practices, which continue to play a significant role in the daily lives of the Anjouanese people.
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In the 12th century, Shirazi migrants from Persia settled on Anjouan. They brought with them advanced maritime skills and established sultanates that governed the island. The Shirazi era is marked by the construction of impressive coral stone mosques and palaces, some of which still stand today as a testament to their architectural prowess.
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The 16th century saw the arrival of Portuguese explorers, who briefly controlled the island before it fell under the influence of the French in the 19th century. Anjouan became a French protectorate in 1886, and later, part of the French overseas territories. This period brought significant changes, including the introduction of new crops like vanilla and ylang-ylang, which remain important to the island's economy.
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Anjouan, along with the other islands of the Comoros, gained independence from France in 1975. However, the post-independence period was marked by political instability, including multiple coups and secessionist movements. Anjouan declared independence from the Comoros in 1997 but was reintegrated in 2001 following negotiations and the establishment of a new federal system.
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Anjouan is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which celebrate the island’s history and traditions. The most notable is the Mwali Festival, which showcases traditional music, dance, and crafts. These events provide a window into the island’s rich cultural tapestry, offering visitors a chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Anjouanese people.
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Today, Anjouan is a blend of its historical influences and modern developments. The island's economy relies heavily on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Efforts are being made to preserve its unique cultural heritage while also promoting sustainable development. Visitors to Anjouan can explore its historical sites, enjoy its natural beauty, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Neighbouring Regions of Anjouan
The closest regions to Anjouan, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Comoros
Looking beyond Anjouan? Discover Comoros for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore ComorosAnjouan in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Anjouan: The Hidden Gem of Comoros
Anjouan, also known as Ndzuwani, is a picturesque island in the Comoros archipelago. This island is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical charm. Its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and clear waters make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island is less crowded than many other tourist destinations, offering a peaceful and more intimate travel experience. The capital city, Mutsamudu, is known for its narrow, winding streets and old stone buildings. Walking through the medina feels like stepping back in time. The city’s port, with its colorful boats, is a great place to watch the local fishermen at work. Exploring the local markets will give you a taste of Anjouan’s vibrant culture and an opportunity to try exotic spices and fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to visit Mount Ntingui, the highest peak on the island. A hike to the summit rewards you with stunning views of the island and the surrounding Indian Ocean. The island's waterfalls, such as the Dziancoundre Waterfall, offer refreshing spots to cool off. Anjouan is also home to unique flora and fauna, including some species that are found nowhere else in the world.