Laying on the beautiful island of Grande Comore, Moroni, the capital of the Union of the Comoros, is the type of city that gradually grows on you. From wandering through small and confined alleys selling wares and spices to admiring the beautiful stretches of the Indian Ocean and sipping on the most delicious scoop of local vanilla tea. Moroni doesn’t exactly fall under the bucket list of travel spots, which is why it’s special: it is real, unadulterated, and unspoiled. Well, welcome to the best-kept secret in the sunny land of cultural and adventure endeavors; here is all you need to know concerning this tiny masterpiece.
Well, first things first, you can’t visit Moroni without getting completely lost in its medina. The reason for that is that, despite every effort to make them organized, they will definitely leave you feeling lost. But that’s half the fun! This network of narrow, direct, elaborative wooden carvings and colorful shops for spices, art pieces, and other local handmade goods is the life of the city. When walking around, do not hesitate to talk to the sellers, taste what local non-restaurant food is like (the samosas are out of this world), and attempt barter skills. Spoiler alert: more than likely, you won’t be able to get used to it, but the vendors will understand and should be grateful. Another site of great architecture also lies within the medina, for instance, the Old Friday Mosque, built in the 15th century. Its whitewashed walls and a glimpse of the ocean make it a great location for those influencer pictures one never knew they needed.
Feeling adventurous? Moroni has got you covered. Mount Karthala dominates the skyline of the city, which is considered to be one of the biggest active volcanoes on Earth. Oh, come on, it is not spewing lava, if I am not mistaken, but certainly, it is alive and functioning. If you are ready and willing to do it, then a climb up to Karthala can definitely not be missed. Well, okay, let’s not kid around—it’s definitely not the walk down the lavender field for this hike. It’s a two-day hike that includes steep slopes, inadequate weather, and the extra joy of being confronted by a goat. But the payoff? Absolutely worth it. Here, you will expect to be updated, physically and otherwise, with top-notch sights of the crater and other islands. And if you are lucky, you get to see stars in one of the cleanest skies at night I have ever come across. Pro tip: groups of pack layers, snacks, and a lot of energy and passion.
Before we consider all that has been stated above, let us devote some time to considering the enchantment of Comorian food. The flavors here are a delightful mix of African, Arabic, and French influences, and every bite feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Start your culinary journey with a plate of “poulet à la vanille,” a dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy vanilla sauce. The kaleidoscope is just about the weirdest thing one can think of, especially in a scientifically inclined world, but trust me, it is wonderful, and it gets the job done. Serve it with fried coconut rice on the side, and you’re good to go. If seafood is what makes you tick, then Moroni men are in a privileged position as the city lies on the shores of the Indian Ocean. There is grilled snapper, octopus curry as well as spicy prawns in this restaurant and all the meals are tasty to the extreme.
Oh, and don’t forget dessert. The local vanilla and ylang-ylang-flavored treats are as aromatic as they are delicious. Wash it all down with a cup of “kahawa,” a spiced coffee that’ll give your morning brew back home a run for its money.
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As you go out there to discover the world and savor its diverse cuisine, you will need to relax. Fortunately, Moroni is not devoid of beautiful beaches; there are a few. Iconi Beach, about 10 km from town, is an excellent place to sit back and sun tan. Picture this: fine, white sand, clear sea, and the sound of the ocean waves. It’s the simplest word for it – paradise. Pack your favorite novel, don’t forget your sunblock, and let the sea breeze do its wonders for you. As for more refueling, if you fancy diversifying the sightseeing, you can go snorkeling here or take a boat and discover the close islets. Regardless of which purpose, it is the last-ditch relaxation spot.
More on that subject, can you believe that there are some of the best and most vivid diving places in the Indian Ocean in Moroni? However, irrespective of whether you’re a professional diver who has been diving time and time again or someone who has never been anywhere near the water, there will always be something to be seen and explored under the water. The coral reefs here are teeming with marine life, from colorful fish and sea turtles to vibrant corals that look like they belong in an alien world. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two. Local dive shops offer guided tours and equipment rentals, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a waterproof camera).
Moroni isn’t just about stunning landscapes and delicious food—it’s also a cultural treasure trove. To truly get a feel for the city, spend some time learning about its traditions and customs. Start by visiting the National Museum of Comoros, where you can dive into the island’s history, from its Arab influences to its colonial past. It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with fascinating artifacts and stories. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a local festival, don’t miss it. From colorful parades to traditional dances and music, these events are a feast for the senses. And if you’re invited to a Comorian wedding, drop everything and go. Trust me, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
No trip is complete without a little souvenir shopping, and Moroni doesn’t disappoint. The local markets are a treasure trove of handmade crafts, spices, and unique keepsakes. Pick up some vanilla pods (they’re some of the best in the world), a bottle of ylang-ylang oil, or a beautifully woven basket. And if you’re a jewelry lover, you’ll find plenty of stunning pieces crafted by local artisans. Just remember to haggle—it’s all part of the experience.
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Moroni is the kind of place that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left. It’s not flashy or overly polished, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, explore, and embrace the beauty of the moment. Whether you’re trekking up a volcano, savoring a plate of vanilla chicken, or simply watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean, Moroni offers an experience that’s as unforgettable as it is unique. So pack your bags, brush up on your French, and get ready for an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.
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