Security travel advice for The Comoros

How safe are the Comoros?

Threat level: Medium
Most visits to the Comoros should be trouble-free as the crime rate is relatively low and most crime only occurs in the main cities at night. The threat of terror in The Comoros is also low, however, the general travel advice for the Comoros is that visitors should still be vigilant when in the main cities and keep local laws and customs in consideration during your visit.

There has been civil unrest on the Island of Anjouan, where gunshots and explosions have been reported recently. It is advised to limit your movements around Anjouan and avoid crowds and demonstrations, as clashes have occurred before between protesters and security forces.

COVID-19 Situation in the Comoros
There were reported cases of coronavirus in the Comoros. Since September, the country has reopened its borders and international flights have resumed. But international travellers must undergo a PCR test less than 72 hours prior to travelling to be allowed entry. Further to this, there are additional measures in place to curb the spread of the virus and avoid a surge in new cases including a limit on the number of passengers in public transport and the compulsory use of face masks in public places. To avoid contracting the disease, wash your hands regularly, wear a face mask, maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary gatherings and travel.

Recent Security Risk Events
The Comoros is a predominantly Islamic country and the best travel advice for the Comoros is that visitors should respect all local traditions and religious customs. Be aware that actions that visitors might normally consider acceptable may offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

Homosexuality is illegal in the Comoros and acts of homosexuality can result in severe punishments including up to 5 years in prison. There is still no recognition of legal rights or legal protection for same sex couples so you should exercise extreme caution when visiting the country.

Security Risks
Crime rates are low throughout the country and travel advice for the Comoros is that visitors should be cautious in built up areas and popular tourist locations. Basic security precautions will help to ensure a trouble-free visit. Avoid walking alone at night and do not carry large sums of cash as pick pockets often target tourists and are known to operate in popular tourist locations.

There have been some instances of sexual assault. Cases like these are uncommon and are not thought to be specifically aimed at foreign visitors. To decrease your vulnerability, be cautious in bars and nightclubs, avoid leaving your drink unattended and be wary of accepting drinks from strangers.

The threat of piracy and armed robbery against ships is significant, with attacks occurring in coastal waters in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.

The Comoros's International Relations

The Comoros is a well-established member of the United Nations and the African Union. The country has strong relations with its African neighbours and many Arab countries, it is also a member of the Arab League. Their most significant international relationship is that with France as the country offers aid, cultural, and defence support to their former colony.

Travelling around the Comoros

You can drive in the Comoros with some national licences, but some nationalities will need an international driving licence. You can find out more information from your local Comorian Embassy.

Roads around the main cities are in relatively good condition but roads in rural areas tend to be quite poor condition. The rainy season, which typically runs from December until June, can render some roads impassable due to landslides.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

Emergency Services in the Comoros

All emergency services:18

The Comoros Overview

Capital: Moroni
Official languages: Comorian, Arabic and French
Religion: Islam (Sunni)
Currency: Comorian franc (KMF)

Consular information for the Comoros

The United States of America does not have an Embassy in the Comoros, all Consular activites are carried our by its Embassy in Port Louis, Mauritius.
U.S. Embassy Port Louis
Rogers House,
4th Floor,
P.O. Box 544,
President John Kennedy St,
Port Louis,
Mauritius
Telephone: +230 202 4400
Email: PTLConsular@state.gov
The United Kingdom does not have an Embassy in the Comoros, all Consular activites are carried our by British High Commission in Port Louis, Mauritius.
British High Commission in Port Louis
7th floor, Cascades Building,
Edith Cavell Street,
P.O. box 1063,
Port Louis,
Mauritius
Telephone: +230 202 9400
Email: bhc@intnet.mu

Visa requirements for the Comoros

Most foreign nationals including British and American citizens will need to apply for a visa before arriving in Chad. This can be done through the closest Chadian Embassy and should be arranged far in advance to departure. Your passport should be valid for at least six months and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is also required to enter the country.

Health Care and Immunisations

It is advised that visitors to Chad are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is recommended for most travellers to also get a Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations.

If you are coming from a country where there is a risk of Yellow Fever, or transiting for longer than 12 hours in an at risk country, you will have to provide a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination. There is some risk of the disease in the country; check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Medical facilities in Chad are poor and serious medical emergencies may require you to be evacuated to South Africa. You should ensure that you have medical insurance that covers the cost of evacuation.

Malaria and waterborne diseases such as cholera are common through Chad especially during the rainy season. It is recommended you take malaria preventative medication and maintain a high standard of personal hygiene.