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Anjouan

Anjouan, Comoros

Anjouan, one of the stunning islands that make up the Comoros archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience. Located at the crossr…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Anjouan.

Top Hotels in Anjouan

Top Flights to Anjouan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Anjouan.

Tours

Explore the Historical Architecture

Discover the rich history of Anjouan by visiting its well-preserved historical buildings and structures, including the iconic mosques and old colonial houses.

Shopping

Island Market Shopping

Experience the local culture by shopping at bustling island markets offering traditional crafts, clothing, and fresh produce from Anjouan.

Outdoor

Hiking on Mount Ntringui

Trek through the lush green trails of Mount Ntringui and reach the summit for breathtaking views of the island.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Anjouan.

Currency

KMF | KMF | Comorian franc

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Anjouan, Comoros is '0.3 million'.

Languages

Comorian, French, Arabic

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Anjouan.

What people love

Anjouan, one of the islands in the Comoros archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, offers several appealing aspects for travelers considering a visit:

Natural Beauty: Anjouan is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The island features lush green mountains, beautiful beaches, and tropical forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking scenic beauty.
Cultural Experience: Anjouan, like the rest of the Comoros, has a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience the unique blend of African, Arab, and French influences in the local culture, cuisine, and architecture.
Authentic Island Life: The island offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to more commercialized tourist destinations. This allows visitors to experience the authentic lifestyle and hospitality of the Comorian people.
Diving and Snorkeling: The waters around Anjouan are home to diverse marine life, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling. The coral reefs and vibrant underwater ecosystems attract enthusiasts looking for underwater adventures.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities: The island's terrain is perfect for hiking and exploring. There are various trails that lead through forests and up mountains, offering panoramic views of the island and the ocean.
Historical Sites: Anjouan has historical sites, including old sultanates and colonial buildings, which provide insight into the island's past.
Biodiversity: The island is home to a variety of endemic species of flora and fauna, appealing to those interested in biodiversity and ecological tourism.

Travelers to Anjouan can expect a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration in a relatively untouched environment.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Anjouan in Comoros could include:

Limited infrastructure: Anjouan, like many remote island destinations, may have limited infrastructure such as roads, transportation options, and healthcare facilities. This could make traveling around the island more challenging and accessing services more difficult.
Language barrier: The official languages of the Comoros are Comorian, French, and Arabic. While French is widely spoken, there may still be a language barrier for English-speaking travelers, which could make communication and navigation more challenging.
Political instability: Comoros has experienced political instability in the past, which could impact travel plans and safety. It's important to stay informed about the current political situation and any potential risks before traveling to Anjouan.
Health risks: Like many tropical destinations, Anjouan may have health risks such as mosquito-borne diseases like malaria or dengue fever. Travelers should take necessary precautions such as using insect repellent and taking anti-malarial medication if recommended.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Anjouan is not as developed for tourism as some other destinations, so amenities and services geared towards tourists may be limited. This could impact the overall travel experience in terms of accommodations, dining options, and activities.

It's important to research and plan carefully before traveling to Anjouan to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Anjouan, also known as Ndzuwani, is one of the islands that make up the Union of the Comoros, an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa. The history of Anjouan is rich and complex, marked by periods of Arab and European influence, colonial rule, and struggles for independence.

Early History

Arab Influence: The Comoros Islands, including Anjouan, were settled by Bantu-speaking peoples, and from the early centuries AD, they were part of the Indian Ocean trade network. By the 10th century, Arab traders and settlers began to arrive, bringing Islam, which has had a lasting influence on the culture and society of the islands.

European Contact

Portuguese and French Exploration: In the 16th century, the Portuguese explored the islands. However, it was the French and later the British who showed more sustained interest in the Comoros. Anjouan became a strategic location due to its position along the trade routes in the Indian Ocean.

Colonial Era

French Colonization: In the 19th century, the French began to exert control over the Comoros Islands. By the late 19th century, in 1886, Anjouan became a French protectorate, and in 1912, it was fully integrated into the French colonial empire as part of the colony of Madagascar and Dependencies.

Towards Independence

Movement for Independence: After World War II, movements for independence gained momentum across Africa. In 1975, the Comoros declared independence from France. However, Anjouan and other islands faced political instability and economic challenges following independence.

Political Turbulence

Secessionist Movements: In 1997, Anjouan and Mohéli declared their independence from the Comoros, seeking to become separate entities due to dissatisfaction with the central government on Grande Comore. This led to attempts at secession, although by 2001, a new constitution was adopted that allowed for greater autonomy for the islands within the Union of the Comoros.

Modern Era

Reintegration and Autonomy: Anjouan rejoined the Union of the Comoros under the new federal structure, which provided for a degree of autonomy for each island. Despite this, political tensions have persisted, with periodic unrest and attempts at coups affecting the political landscape.

Significant Figures

Ahmed Abdallah: A prominent political figure in the Comoros who played a significant role during the post-independence period.
Mohamed Bacar: A controversial figure who led Anjouan during its secessionist period in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and was involved in a coup attempt in 2008.

Important Landmarks

Mutsamudu: The capital city of Anjouan, known for its historical architecture, including a citadel and a medina with narrow, winding streets.
Mount Ntingui: The highest peak on Anjouan, providing stunning views and opportunities for hiking.
Sultan's Palace: Located in Mutsamudu, this historical site reflects the island's Arab-influenced past.

Anjouan's history and culture are deeply intertwined with the broader history of the Comoros and the Indian Ocean region. The island continues to navigate the challenges of autonomy and development within the Union of the Comoros.