The successive arrivals of Arabs, Africans and Madagascans have left a lasting mark on this archipelago. Their influence has been significant on the level of both population and culture. The ethnic mix has given birth to a rich and original culture. The architecture of mosques, minarets, public squares and ramparts all attest to a 1000-year old Islamic culture. The climate is tropical with a hot rainy season from November to May and a cooler drier season from June to October.

With their mountainous landscape and luxurious landscape, the Comoros are islands of diversity and contrast. The rich soil is marked here and there by wide fissures and imposing hills. With such variety of colour and shape, the Comoross are like a painting that unite the deep green of their lush vegetation, the black of the lava, the brilliant white of the beaches, and the turquoise blue of the ocean.

Geography

Area
1862 square kilometers

The Union of the Comoros is formed of a four-island archipelago situated at the north end of the Mozambique canal between Madagascar and the African continent. This union includes the three autonomous islands

• Ngazidja (Grand Comoros)
• Grand Comore is home to the capital city Moroni, and is the most developed of the three islands.
• Nzwani (Anjouan)
• Moheli (Mwali)
• and Maore (Mayotte)

which are still administered by France, having chosen to remain under the French flag when the country moved toward independence.

General Information

Status
Islamic federal republic

Administrative division
For each autonomous island, a government manages local affairs

National holiday
July 6 (independence day)
Capital
Moroni Currency
Comorian franc

Languages spoken
The national language is Comorian (a dialect derived from Swahili and Arabic). Official languages are French and Arabic. English is spoken by a minority.

Principal industries
Fairly limited; include agriculture, maritime activities and tourism

Agriculture
The country's sole resource. Food crops are centered around cassava and rice. Also specializes in plants for perfume-making
vanilla (70% of exports); ylang ylang, vetiver and formerly cloves.

Tourism Information

Visa
All visitors must have a valid passport and a visa which can be obtained upon arrival. Passengers in transit do not require a visa.

Electricity
220 V, 50 Hz

Water
The water is potable, but bottled mineral water is available.

Important information
Revealing outfits and beachwear are not acceptable in towns and villages.
Don't buy products made from tortoise shell, coral or shells (especially black) which are protected species.