Comoros travel advice
Latest updates: Laws and culture – updated information on Ramadan 2025
Last updated: ET
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- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Comoros - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in the Comoros due to the limited availability of emergency services and inadequate medical facilities.
Safety and security
Crime
Although infrequent, petty crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft from unlocked cars occurs.
- Exercise caution in crowded outdoor markets, parks and beaches
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Avoid walking alone at night
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur, especially before, during and after elections. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Curfew orders can be declared with minimal notice.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Swimming
Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year. Beaches are generally unsupervised. There is no warning system to alert of unsafe conditions.
Roads
Road safety
There are major road safety issues in the Comoros. Fatal accidents are common and often involve pedestrians. Police and emergency services assistance is limited in Grande Comore and extremely limited in Mohéli and Anjouan.
Road conditions
Road conditions are poor throughout the country. Most main roads are paved, while secondary roads are not.
Driving can be dangerous due to:
- poorly maintained roads and potholes
- narrow and curved roads
- stray animals
- lack of signage
- pedestrians walking on main roads
- insufficient or non-existent lighting and vehicles not using their headlights
- poorly maintained vehicles
Driving habits
Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and speeding is common. Priority is not given to pedestrians or other drivers.
If you choose to drive in the Comoros:
- avoid driving after dark
- always drive defensively
- fill your gas tank before you travel
- always carry a cellphone and charger
Public transportation
Public transportation is limited, unreliable, crowded and sometimes unsafe.
Taxis
Taxis and car rentals are preferable to public transportation.
If you use taxi services:
- ask for your taxi at the front desk if you’re using hotel services
- make sure the driver does not pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
- negotiate the fare in advance
- have small bills available for payment
If you decide to rent a car:
- only use service providers recommended by a trusted contact
- consider renting a car with a hired driver rather than driving yourself
Maritime transportation
It’s possible to travel among the Comoros islands by boat. Ferry accidents have occurred due to poor maintenance, overcrowding, lack of security equipment and measures.
If you choose to travel by ferry:
- make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
- don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
- verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator
- avoid using water transportation during bad weather conditions
Shortages
Fuel shortages
Fuel shortages occur occasionally.
Local authorities may impose rationing measures for fuel. These measures could lead to a reduction of essential services and line-ups at gas stations.
- Never let your tank go lower than half-full
- Keep a supply of fuel on hand
- Carefully plan all road travel
Power outages
Power outages occur regularly across the islands. Local authorities may implement power cuts to conserve power.
Water shortages
Due to below-average rainfall in the recent years, the Comoros experience regular water shortages.
Women safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.
2SLGBTQI+ persons
2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.
and could be victim of harassment and verbal or physical violence. Avoid public display of affection.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live Piracy Report - International Maritime Bureau's Piracy Reporting Centre
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Comorian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Comoros.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at the Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni or at other points of entry. The visa fee can be paid in euros. Travellers who overstay their visa are subject to fines and possible arrest.
Visa information – Permanent MIssion of the Union of the Comoros to the United Nations
Other entry requirements
You must present an onward or return ticket at your point of entry.
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Malaria
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.
Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
- Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
- Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
- Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
- Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
- season
- year
- region
- elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Dengue
- In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication available in Canada to prevent dengue.
Learn more:
Dengue
Insect bite and pest prevention
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medical services and facilities
Medical facilities and services are not up to Canadian standards.
Medical facilities and supplies are limited in the Comoros, including in Moroni. The frequent interruption of electricity and water supplies can affect hospitals. It may be difficult to obtain adequate care from health professionals.
Medical facilities usually require an initial cash deposit, or a payment guarantee o. In major facilities in Moroni, a confirmation that you have medical insurance could be sufficient. In the event of a medical emergency, air evacuation abroad may be necessary.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Medication
Some prescription medications may not be available in the Comoros.
If you take prescription medications, you are responsible for determining their legality in the country.
- Bring enough medication for your stay
- Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
- Pack them in your carry-on luggage
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect a mandatory minimum five-year jail sentence, heavy fines and deportation.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption in public is illegal. Convicted offenders are subject to fines and possible imprisonment.
Identification
Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.
- Always carry valid identification or a photocopy of it
- Keep a photocopy of your passport and your visa or travel permit in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
- Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents
Photography
Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:
- airports
- ports
- military sites
- government buildings
Always ask permission before photographing official buildings or individuals.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Comoros.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Comoros, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Comoros.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Comoros by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Comoros to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
- Children and travel
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Request emergency assistance
In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.
In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:
- drinking
- eating
- smoking
Dress and behaviour
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- avoid kissing in public
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
Driving
You must carry the International Driving Permit.
2SLGBTQI+ persons
Comorian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face up to 5 years imprisonment and heavy fines.
2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Comoros.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Money
The currency in the Comoros is the Comorian franc (KMF).
The economy is mostly cash-based. ATMs are not widely available. Banking facilities are minimal. Most businesses don’t accept credit cards.
Natural disasters and climate
Climate change
Climate change is affecting the Comoros. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.
Rainy season
Monsoons and rarer tropical cyclones usually occur during the hot and humid rainy season, which runs from December to April. During this period, even small storms can quickly develop into major monsoons.
Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Infrastructure may be damaged.
- Monitor local media for the latest information, including on road conditions
- Stay away from flooded areas
- Monitor weather reports
- Follow instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Volcanoes
The Comoros archipelago is located in an active seismic and volcanic zone. Mount Karthala is an active volcano near Moroni. Eruptions can occur at any time.
If you are planning to hike on or around Mount Karthala:
- consult local authorities before travelling
- monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media
- follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 17
- medical assistance: 269 772 03 73
- firefighters: 18
Consular assistance
There is no Canadian government office in the Comoros. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the High Commission of Canada in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Dar Es Salaam - High Commission of Canada
Comoros, Seychelles, Zambia
Appointment Book your appointment onlineFor emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
Risk Levels
Take normal security precautions
Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.
Exercise a high degree of caution
There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.
Avoid non-essential travel
Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.
Avoid all travel
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.
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