Comoros - basics - Countries Guide

Time: Local time is GMT +3.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs and one with receptacle with male grounding pin, are in use.

Language: French and Arabic are the official languages. There are many varieties of Comorian spoken too.

Health: There is a risk of malaria throughout the year, and dengue fever outbreaks occur. Cholera outbreaks also occur, but are a low risk to travellers. Visitors should drink bottled or boiled water as a preventative measure. Medical facilities are limited and medications may not be available. Travellers are advised to bring their own personal medical kit and travel insurance should be comprehensive.

Tipping: Tips of 10% are appreciated for good service.

Safety: The islands are relatively crime-free, but visitors should be aware that muggers and pick-pockets will target those who look like they are carrying valuables. It is not advisable to walk around at night, particularly in the town centres. Cyclones are possible between January and April, and Le Kartala volcano on Ngazidja is active and erupts periodically. It is advisable to check on the situation before visiting that part of the island. Foreign governments currently advise against travel to Anjouan due to the unstable political situation.

Customs: The islands are largely Muslim and visitors should respect local traditions and sensitivities, especially during the month of Ramadan. Women in particular are advised to dress conservatively, covering shoulders and legs when away from the beach.

Communications: The international dialling code for the Comoros is +269. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). International calls made within the country require operator assistance. There is limited cell phone coverage, but this is growing. The Societe Nationale des Telecommunications provides a GSM 900 network. Internet access is scarce. A few hotels provide Internet.

Duty Free: Passengers of 18 years and older can bring 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g tobacco, one bottle of alcohol and one bottle of perfume without paying customs duty.

Climate: Located just south of the equator, the islands have a maritime tropical climate with a hot and humid wet season from November to April, and a cool, drier season between May and October. Rainfall and temperature vary from island to island, but generally temperatures average from 78°F to 86°F (26°C to 29°C) in the wet season and about 66°F (19°C) from May to October.