Comoro Islands

The Comoro Islands are an Indian Ocean archipelago in the northern Mozambique Channel, forming the island nation of the Union of the Comoros together with the separately administered island of Mayotte. The group is volcanic in origin and includes several inhabited islands plus smaller islets.

Major attractions are the volcanic landscapes and active volcanoes, notably Mount Karthala on Grande Comore, and coastal reefs and lagoons that support fishing and diving. Each main island has distinct landscapes and cultural settlements; marine biodiversity and traditional agriculture are key local features.

Islands in the chain were formed by volcanic activity and have long histories of settlement, trade and Islamic sultanates before European colonization. In the 19th and 20th centuries the islands came under French control; the Union of the Comoros became independent in 1975 while Mayotte chose to remain under French administration.

The archipelago sits roughly between northeastern Mozambique and northwestern Madagascar in the Mozambique Channel off southeastern Africa. The islands are small and dispersed, with the capital Moroni located on Grande Comore.

• Geology and setting: The archipelago is volcanic in origin and lies in the northern Mozambique Channel between Madagascar and the east African coast, with a mix of coral reefs, volcanic peaks and lagoons.
• Travel note: Political status varies between islands; Mayotte is administered by France while the Union of the Comoros comprises the other main islands, a fact that affects travel documents and entry requirements.

What to See #

• Grande Comore (Ngazidja): Largest island in the chain and the seat of the national capital, with the active Mount Karthala volcano on its southern interior.
• Anjouan (Ndzuwani): Mountainous and densely vegetated, known for terraced landscapes and historic towns; frequently affected by internal migration and local trade.
• Mohéli (Mwali): Smallest of the main islands, notable for marine biodiversity and coastal reefs; it has lower population density than the other major islands.
• Mayotte (Maore): Politically administered by France as an overseas department and collectivity since the 1970s and 2000s changes; claimed by the Comorian government.