WHEN TO TRAVEL TO THE COMOROS

Location

Climate

The Comoros is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, made up of four main islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan and Mayotte. Each of these islands has a unique identity and offers a different experience to visitors.

When to go to the Comoros: seasons and climate

The climate of the Comoros is equatorial, with two distinct seasons:

• Southern winter: This season generally runs from April to November and is marked by less rain and milder temperatures. This makes it the ideal time to visit the Comoros if you prefer more pleasant weather conditions and wish to avoid heavy rains.
• Southern summer: This season, which runs from December to March, is characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperatures, particularly between January and February. Although the landscapes are particularly lush during this period, weather conditions can make certain activities and travel difficult.

Best time to visit Comoros

Depending on weather conditions, the best time to visit the Comoros is between May and October, during the austral winter. Temperatures remain pleasant, generally fluctuating between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius, ideal for enjoying beaches and outdoor activities without suffering from the heat.

Major cultural events in the Comoros

The Comoros have a rich cultural and historical heritage, with traditions stemming from African, Arab and Malagasy influences. If you'd like to discover this cultural diversity during your stay, don't miss these events:

• Maouloud: This religious celebration commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It takes place every year in November or December, depending on the Muslim calendar, and offers visitors an insight into the rites and traditions of the Comorian Muslim community.
• International Island Film Festival : This cinematographic event takes place every two years (odd-numbered years) on the island of Mohéli, and showcases films and documentaries made on islands around the world.
• Yawl Festival: This traditional sailing competition takes place every year in Anjouan, bringing together crews from all the islands of the archipelago for a spectacular race.

Public holidays in Comoros

Public holidays are important moments in Comorian life, and can be an opportunity to discover certain local traditions. Here are a few major holidays:

• New Year's Eve: On January 1, Comorians celebrate the arrival of the new year with festivities and fireworks.
• Independence Day: July 6 marks the independence of the Comoros from France, achieved in 1975. Official ceremonies and cultural events are organized on this occasion.
• National holiday: On November 12, the Comoros celebrate a national day of reconciliation between the islands of the archipelago after a period of political and social tension.
• Religious holidays : As the Comoros are predominantly Muslim, certain religious holidays such as Eid el-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan) and Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) are also observed as public holidays.

Low and high season in Comoros

Low season

There low season generally corresponds to the austral summer period, from December to March. During this period, rainfall is heavier and can make travel difficult. However, prices of accommodation and tourist activities tend to be lower, which can be interesting if you're traveling on a budget.

High season

There high season coincides with the austral winter, which runs from April to November. With more favorable weather conditions, this is also the period when visitor numbers are highest. Rates for hotels and tourist activities can be higher during this period, so it's advisable to book your accommodation in advance to benefit from the best prices.

The Comoros, located in the Indian Ocean, is an archipelago made up of three main islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan and Mohéli. Rich in history and culture, this island state attracts thousands of foreigners every year for tourism, business or visiting relatives. To better understand this phenomenon, we will analyze the statistics on immigration to the Comorosand international tourism figures.

Comoros immigration statistics

According to data published by the Comorian government, there has been a steady increase in the number of foreigners choosing the Comoros as a destination, whether for a holiday or a business trip. temporary or permanent residence. The reasons for immigration are diverse: job search, investment, study or family reunification. The majority of immigrants come from neighboring countries in East Africa, such as Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mozambique. There is also a significant presence of French nationals, given the historical links between the Comoros and France.

The main immigrant groups in Comoros

• Immigrants from African countries: around 60% of the foreign population residing in the Comoros comes from Africa. Among them Malagasy and Tanzanians are the most numerous.
• French immigrants : accounting for almost 20% of foreigners in the Comoros, French nationals often hold positions in the public sector or international organizations.
• Other nationalities : Although in the minority, there are also immigrants from Asia, Europe and other parts of the world for a variety of professional or personal reasons.

Most popular visas in Comoros

To enter and stay in the Comoros, foreign nationals must obtain a visa adapted to the duration and purpose of their visit. Here are the main types of visa issued by the Comorian authorities:

• Tourist visa : This visa is intended for travelers wishing to discover the Comoros for a period of up to 90 days. It is generally granted for a non-renewable stay, and does not allow professional activity.
• Business visa : This visa is for people visiting the Comoros for professional reasons, such as attending conferences, concluding contracts or carrying out one-off assignments. The duration of this visa varies according to the needs of the applicant.
• Study visa : foreign students wishing to study in Comoros must apply for this visa, which will allow them to reside in the country for the duration of their course.
• Family reunification visa : intended for family members of Comorian citizens or foreigners legally resident in the Comoros, this visa authorizes a long-term stay of up to several years.

It is important to note that visa applications are subject to specific conditions and criteria, such as justification of the reason for stay, absence of criminal record and proof of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses on site.

International tourism figures for the Comoros

Tourism is one of the main sources of revenue for the Comorian economy. Every year, the country welcomes around 30,000 international visitorsThe region's inhabitants are attracted by its paradisiacal beaches, its culture and its unique natural heritage.

Comoros' main tourist markets

Statistics show that the majority of tourists coming to Comoros are from France, closely followed by travelers from neighboring African countries. There has also been an increase in the number of tourists from other parts of the world, such as Europe, North America and Asia.

Profile of international tourists to Comoros

Foreign visitors to the Comoros are mainly looking for relaxation, adventure and authenticity. Popular activities include swimming and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters, hiking in the verdant mountains, and exploring traditional villages and historic sites.

The importance of tourism to the Comorian economy

The tourism sector accounts for a significant share of Comoros' gross domestic product (GDP) and contributes significantly to local job creation. In addition, spending by international tourists has a positive impact on several other sectors of the economy, such as hotels, restaurants and transport.