By Laila Hassani Mze
MORONI, COMOROS — Perched at the crossroads of the Mozambique Channel and the Indian Ocean, the Comorian archipelago is emerging from obscurity into the limelight. With its dramatic volcanic landscapes, sheltered coral lagoons, and centuries-old Swahili heritage, this cluster of islands is quietly carving a niche in sustainable tourism—and for good reason.
“We’re custodians of paradise, not just promoters of it,” says Mohammed Rachidi, Director-General of the Comoros Tourism Board. With a new tourism law enacted in late 2018 to streamline investment and promote eco-travel, the nation is sending a clear signal: Comoros is open for responsible business. voyagesafriq.com
Three Islands, Infinite Charm
From the mist-clad peaks of Anjouan to the marine reserves surrounding Mohéli, each island unfolds a distinct landscape and experience:
- Mohéli National Park, first declared a marine sanctuary in 2001 and later a biosphere reserve, shines as a beacon of community-led conservation. Local residents collaborate to protect green turtles and corals while initiating homestays and guided eco-tours.
- Off Grande Comore’s coast lies the Coelacanth National Park, founded in 2010 to preserve the ancient coelacanth fish, dolphins, and vibrant reefs—a magnet for divers seeking something extraordinary.
- On Anjouan’s rugged Sima Peninsula, Shisiwani National Park, established in 2016, protects mangrove forests and endemic lemurs—its trails already drawing nature lovers.
This punctuated patchwork of protected areas reveals deliberate intent: safeguarding biodiversity while laying foundations for ecotourism.
Cultural Roots, Sustainable Routes
Comoros is not just remarkable for its scenery but also for its history—an epic blend of Arab, African, French, and Swahili influences visible in centuries-old mosques, stone palaces, and market bazaars.
Recognizing this, UNESCO has supported a “Capacity‑Building in Sustainable Tourism Development” project since 2020. National authorities and youth guides on all three main islands are being equipped with the skills to welcome visitors without sacrificing heritage authenticity.
From pilot training workshops to the launch of a comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Management Plan, these efforts are embedding sustainability at the core of Comoros’ travel narrative.
Growth Backed by Data
A 2023 World Bank report ranks tourism among Comoros’ key untapped sectors. Analysts envision a future where targeted reforms and strategic investments could elevate GDP per capita threefold by 2050—provided that infrastructure, connectivity, and investment protections improve.
Already, projects like the El Maarouf Hotel in Moroni and upgrades to inter-island ferry links are underway, signaling confidence in Comoros’ travel potential.
Authentic Travel, Tangible Impact
For eager explorers, this means one-of-a-kind escapes:
- Guided snorkeling in Mohéli’s luminous reefs
- Kayak expeditions through Shisiwani’s mangroves
- Heritage walks across Anjouan’s stone alleyways and sultanate palaces
- Nights spent with local families cooking aromatic fish curries by lantern light
“Tourists don’t just pass through—we host them,” explains Amina Mze, a youth-certified guide at UNESCO’s first training session. “They leave with memories; we leave with opportunity.”
Looking Ahead
Challenges remain: the lack of wide sandy beaches constrains mass tourism; road conditions need improvement; and public services must keep pace. But with clear legal frameworks, growing investment, and community mobilization, the trajectory is encouraging.
Comoros isn’t chasing crowded resort status—it’s pioneering niche, purpose-driven travel. Its heritage sites, ecological treasures, and storied traditions are being reframed not as relics, but as assets.
This “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” is preparing to illuminate its own path, showing the world that authentic charm and sustainable ambition can coexist—and thrive.
Sources:
- Indian Ocean Island of Comoros enacts tourism law worldbank.orgconfinity.com+7reddit.com+7en.wikipedia.org+7en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+8reddit.com+8unesco.org+8en.wikipedia.org+2voyagesafriq.com+2reddit.com+2
- Comoros trains youth tour guides (UNESCO) unesco.org+1whc.unesco.org+1
- Comoros finalizes Sustainable Tourism Management Plan (UNESCO) unesco.org+3unesco.org+3whc.unesco.org+3
- Sustainable cultural tourism through World Heritage (UNESCO) whc.unesco.org+1unesco.org+1
- Comoros Country Economic Memorandum (World Bank) worldbank.org
