The Comoros lie some 500 kilometres from the coast of Africa and comprise of four islands all with an intriguing character very much their own.
The Comoros lie some 500 kilometres from the coast of Africa and comprise of four islands all with an intriguing character very much their own.
With a rich and varied vegetation, they are the major producer of the world’s perfume essences, processed from the blossoms of ylang-ylang, jasmine and orange, hence the name “Les Iles Parfumées”.
The Comoros are also famous for the prehistoric deep sea fish known as the coelacanthe, thought to be long extinct, but discovered earlier this century in these waters.
MayotteThe French island of Mayotte is the oldest and most southerly of the Comoros. Encircled by a coral reef forming the world’s largest lagoon, with a spectacular and exotic underwater world, its glorious interior is of volcanic peaks, thundering waterfalls, dense jungle and lush plantations. The colonial atmosphere of the capital, Mamoudzou, is distinctly French and here you can sample delicious fresh seafood at a local restaurant or admire the superb crafts of the Comorean artisans.
Examples of our Optional Excursions
Souther Island Tour (half day) - £28 approx
You drive along the coast passing through local villages and lush tropical vegetation before visiting the Vanilla and Ylang-Ylang Museum. Then drive to the Chirongui Pass for a panoramic view over the Chirongui volcanic mountain, the colourful lagoon of Mayotte and Boueni Bay. You then visit the oldest Boabab tree on the island, stop at the local village before arriving at the capital, Mamoudzou.
Aqua Diva Explorer (half day) - £31 approx
Sail aboard the snorkelling boat ‘Aqua Dive’ to discover the beautiful underwater world of the lagoon of Mayotte, one of the biggest closed lagoons in the world. After a leisurely cruise you arrive next to the coral reef where you have time for snorkelling.
Sea Blue Safari (full day) - £83 approx
A speedboat takes you to the famous Passe en S. area for snorkelling - one of the most beautiful and untouched coral reefs on Mayotte (tide and weather permitting). You then visit ‘Islot de sable blanche’ where coral and shells create the effect of pure white sand on the island. You finally visit the seclided beach of Sasilé, when you can enjoy a beacj barbecue with time to swim, snorkel and simply relax.
Anjouan, the 'Scented Isle' is the most densely populated island in the archipelago. Not only is the Arab influence most in evidence here, its deep valleys, waterfalls, profusion of lakes, lovingly-tended plantations and beautiful beaches make the island unforgettable.
Examples of our Optional Excursions
Island Tour (half day) - £25 approx
You stop at the Col de Patsi viewpoint to look up to the highest mountain on the island, N'bingui (1595m), before arriving at the former capital Domani. You visit the mausoleum and have time for a walk around the town. You then drive to the capital Moutsamoudou and visit the Citadel which was built in 1831 with British funds to protect the city from attacks by pirates.
Mauritius lies within the south tropical belt and humidity is generally high. There is a warm coastal climate (particularly between January and April) but climates and temperatures vary on different parts of the island with temperatures being slightly lower with more rain on the inland plateau. The rainy season normally occurs between January and March.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source: www.climate-zone.com and www.weather.com |
Temperatures are in Degrees Centigrade | |||||||||||
| Average Temperature | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 27 |
| Average Max Temperature | 30 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 31 | 31 |
| Average Min Temperature | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 |
| Average Rainfall (mm) | N/A | N/A | 196 | 69 | 8 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 20 | 119 | N/A |
The above average daily temperature and average monthly rainfall figures are given as a guide only and no responsibility can be taken for any errors or omissions. N/A means no data was available.