Comoro Islands Exposed: 30 Strange and Surprising Island Secrets
Floating between Madagascar and Mozambique, the Comoro Islands are one of the least-visited archipelagos on Earth. But what they lack in fame, they more than make up for in mystery, magic, and mouthwatering tradition. These are not your typical tourist isles. Here, perfume trees scent the air, pirates once ruled the coast, and weddings last for days. Whether you're a curious traveler or an island dreamer, this list peels back the layers of the Comoros to reveal 30 fun, weird, and utterly unforgettable facts. Welcome to one of the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets.
1. The Islands Smell Like Perfume—Literally
The Comoros are often called the “Perfume Islands” thanks to the heady scent of ylang-ylang that hangs in the air. This bright yellow flower is a key ingredient in many world-famous perfumes, including Chanel No. 5. The Comoros are one of the world’s top producers, and you’ll often see locals hand-distilling the flowers in small copper stills. The aroma wafts across the hillsides at sunrise and sunset, giving the islands an otherworldly feel. If heaven had a scent, it might just be this place—fragrant, floral, and totally unforgettable.
2. There's a Volcano That's Still Alive and Kicking
Mount Karthala, an active shield volcano on Grande Comore, is one of the largest in the world. It last erupted in 2007, and before that, it spewed ash in 2005—temporarily displacing thousands. Its massive crater stretches over 3 km wide and looks like something from a different planet. Hikers brave enough to scale its slopes are rewarded with surreal, smoky landscapes and views that stretch all the way to the sea. But be warned: the volcano’s temperament is unpredictable. Locals treat it with a mix of fear and reverence—and some even believe it’s home to spirits.
3. The Comoros Once Tried to Join France Again—Seriously
While most former colonies fought for independence, Comoros had a unique twist. After gaining independence from France in 1975, the islands were rocked by coups and political instability. In a surprising move, some Comorians actually voted in favor of rejoining France in the early 2000s. The plan didn’t go far, but it sparked global headlines. To this day, the island of Mayotte—technically part of the Comoros archipelago—is still a French overseas department. So depending on where you land, you could technically be stepping into France… tropical edition.
4. Its People Speak Four Languages—Sometimes All at Once
Comorians are linguistic acrobats. The average person can switch between Shikomori (a Swahili-based dialect), French, Arabic, and sometimes even Madagascan in the same conversation. Street signs, schoolbooks, and newspapers often feature more than one language. This cultural mash-up reflects the islands’ complex history—part Arab, part African, part French. The result? A totally unique Creole-like identity that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re into languages, the Comoros are a living lab of hybrid expression where syntax bends and sentences dance between continents.
5. The Islands Have No Wild Animals—Just Bats
If you’re expecting lions, snakes, or monkeys—don’t. The Comoros have almost no native wild animals. The most famous “wildlife” you’ll find? Fruit bats. These giant flying foxes flap lazily across the skies at dusk and roost in mango trees by day. Locals consider them harmless, even cute, and some believe they bring good luck. Because the islands were never connected to the mainland, large land animals never made it here. The result is a peaceful, oddly silent natural world—no roars, no growls, just the gentle flutter of wings and the rustle of leaves.
6. A Comorian Woman Was Once the Richest in the Arab World
Sayyida Salme, born in the 1800s in Zanzibar to a Comorian mother and an Omani sultan, became one of the Arab world’s most fascinating women. She eloped with a German man, moved to Europe, and wrote a memoir that shocked the world. Her family ties spanned Comoros, Oman, and the Swahili Coast—connecting her to immense wealth and power. Though she left her fortune behind, her legacy lives on in literature, feminist history, and whispers across the archipelago. Today, she’s remembered as a trailblazer caught between two worlds—royal and rebel.
7. The Islands Are Home to a Mysterious "Vanishing Lake"
On the island of Anjouan lies Lake Dzialandzé, a small volcanic crater lake perched in the mountains. Locals claim it has magical properties—and that it sometimes disappears overnight. Scientists say it’s due to underground drainage and shifting lava tubes, but islanders have a more mystical take. Some believe spirits use the lake as a portal, draining it when they cross into the human world. When the waters return, they say it’s a sign the spirits are at peace. Whether natural or supernatural, it’s one of the Comoros’ most intriguing spots.
8. You Can Still See the Ruins of a Pirate Republic
In the 17th century, pirates roamed the Indian Ocean—and some even used the Comoros as a hideout. The island of Mohéli was rumored to host a loose "pirate republic" where outlaws rested, re-armed, and traded plunder. Old cannonballs and ruins near the coast still hint at this forgotten past. Unlike flashy Caribbean tales, Comorian pirate history is more whispered than shouted—hidden in quiet coves, old stone paths, and family stories passed down in secret. Some even say a few modern families are descendants of those sea bandits.
9. Comorians Wear Clay Masks for Beauty and Sun Protection
If you visit a local market, you might spot women wearing pale yellow or white clay on their faces. This isn’t just a beauty treatment—it’s a centuries-old practice known as “msindzano.” Made from crushed sandalwood or coral, this fragrant clay protects the skin from the tropical sun and leaves it soft and glowing. It’s also part of ceremonial dress, applied in floral or swirling patterns for weddings and festivals. Beyond its practicality, msindzano is a symbol of feminine identity and island tradition—passed down from grandmother to granddaughter like an heirloom.
10. A Ghost Comet Once Struck—and Locals Still Talk About It
In 1952, a strange celestial object—described as “a flaming comet with a tail of smoke”—was seen streaking across the sky over the Comoros. It exploded in the atmosphere with a thunderous boom and scattered strange metallic fragments across the sea. Fishermen still talk about the night the sky “split open” and the sea “trembled.” Some scientists believe it was a small asteroid airburst, but many Comorians believe it was a sign from the spirits—or even a warning from ancestors. Whatever it was, it left an imprint not just on the landscape, but on local folklore.
11. The Moon Is a Big Deal Here
The word “Comoros” comes from the Arabic “Qamar,” meaning moon. Some believe early Arab sailors were inspired by the moon’s reflection on the ocean or the island’s crescent-like shapes from sea level. The moon isn’t just in the name—it’s in the soul of the islands. Lunar phases guide traditional planting, fishing, and spiritual ceremonies. During Ramadan, communities gather at night to break fast under the stars and honor the moon. Even today, you'll find lunar symbols in architecture, textiles, and jewelry—subtle reminders that here, the moon isn’t just something you see; it’s something you live by.
12. There's a Type of Wedding That Lasts Over a Week
In the Comoros, a "Grand Marriage" isn’t just a celebration—it’s a rite of passage. These epic wedding ceremonies can last up to seven days and involve entire villages. The bride and groom wear lavish traditional attire, feast with hundreds of guests, and participate in poetic recitals, dances, and rituals. But here’s the twist: many people only do this in middle age, even if they’ve already been married before. It’s a social and spiritual upgrade that grants prestige, community respect, and sometimes political clout. And yes—it’s as expensive and over-the-top as it sounds.
13. Sea Cucumbers Are a Local Delicacy—and a Big Export
Sea cucumbers might look like squishy sea blobs, but in the Comoros, they’re culinary gold. Called “holothurians,” these strange creatures are harvested by free-diving fishermen and sold dried for use in Asian cuisines. Known for their chewy texture and rumored health benefits, they fetch high prices on international markets. Locals cook them into stews with coconut and spices. The hunt for these deep-sea delicacies is dangerous work, with divers often going down with little equipment. It’s a high-risk, high-reward tradition that’s become a lifeline for many coastal communities.
14. The Currency Features Actual Perfume Bottles
Comorian francs aren’t just money—they’re fragrant little love letters to the islands’ identity. One of the country’s banknotes once featured an image of a perfume distillery, complete with ylang-ylang flowers and a bottle of essential oil. It’s not just decorative—perfume is one of the country’s biggest exports and a source of national pride. You won’t find lions or politicians on these bills. Instead, you’ll see vanilla vines, spices, and cultural symbols. It’s like carrying a postcard in your wallet—reminding you that in the Comoros, nature and commerce often go hand-in-hand.
15. The Islands Once Had a "Coup Consultant"
The Comoros holds the world record for the most coups per capita—over 20 attempts since independence. But the wildest part? In the 1980s and ’90s, a French mercenary named Bob Denard basically ran the show. He orchestrated multiple coups and installed leaders like a political puppet master. Locals dubbed him “the kingmaker” and “president-maker,” and he once ruled the islands through a proxy president. Eventually, international forces stepped in and shut down his operations. Today, Denard’s legacy is half history, half myth—and proof that sometimes, truth really is stranger than fiction.
16. A Whole Village Disappeared into the Forest
One of the most unsettling legends in the Comoros tells of a village swallowed by the forest. Located on the slopes of Mount Karthala, this now-vanished settlement was said to have defied ancestral spirits. After a series of eerie events—dried-up wells, dead livestock, glowing trees—the entire population vanished overnight. No one knows what really happened, and no remains were ever found. Some say the villagers were cursed; others claim they migrated in secret. Either way, hikers say strange energies still linger in the area—and most locals won’t go there after dark.
17. There's an Ancient Plant That "Whispers" in the Wind
Deep in the Comorian highlands grows Vohimanga, a rare and sacred tree whose leaves rustle with an eerie, whisper-like sound—even on windless days. Local legends say the plant holds the voices of ancestors and can be heard offering guidance or warnings. Healers sometimes use it in traditional medicine, believing it carries spiritual power. It’s not just superstition—botanists have noted the tree’s unusual leaf texture and vibration sensitivity. Whether you believe the science or the spirits, standing beneath a whispering tree in the misty hills is a hauntingly magical experience.
18. The Flag Has More Stars Than Islands
The Comoros flag has four stars, each representing one of the major islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan, and Mayotte. But here’s the catch—Mayotte is still governed by France. That hasn’t stopped Comoros from claiming it as their own. The flag reflects not just geography, but also a national dream of reunification. You’ll see the four-star flag flying proudly across all three self-governed islands, even though Mayotte remains officially French. In the Comoros, flags aren’t just symbols—they’re subtle political statements flying in the wind.
19. A Traditional Dance Reenacts Battles and Love Stories
The "Debaa" is a traditional Comorian performance that blurs the line between dance, poetry, and theater. Performed mainly by women, it features synchronized movements, flowing garments, and rhythmic chants that tell stories of love, war, and moral lessons. It’s usually staged during festivals or weddings, with audiences gathering to watch, cheer, and sometimes even join in. What makes it special is the precision—every gesture is symbolic, every line packed with layered meaning. It’s a living art form that teaches history through rhythm and beauty.
20. You Can Drink Banana Wine on the Islands
Forget merlot. In the Comoros, locals ferment bananas to create a sweet, heady wine called “vin de banane.” It’s made in homes and villages across the islands and often shared at community events or special meals. The process is simple but sacred—peeling, fermenting, filtering, and bottling by hand. Some batches are fizzy like cider; others are syrupy and strong. Visitors say it tastes like banana bread with a kick. While it’s rarely sold commercially, if you’re lucky enough to be offered a glass, accept with a smile—it’s tradition, hospitality, and a taste of the islands all in one.
21. Comorian Astrology Uses Coconut Shells
In remote villages, elders still practice a form of divination using coconut shells. Known as “Fandria,” this traditional method involves tossing shells and reading how they fall to predict health, love, or weather patterns. Each crack, tilt, or angle holds meaning, passed down through generations. Some even consult the shells before weddings or travel. While younger generations rely more on smartphones than shells, many still turn to the village “fundi” (wise one) when decisions feel too big to make alone. It’s mysticism and nature, combined with a deep respect for ancestral guidance.
22. There's a Plant That Locals Call "Zombie Grass"
On the island of Mohéli grows a rare herb known locally as “herbe des morts” or “zombie grass.” It’s used in old medicinal practices and spiritual cleansing rituals, said to protect the soul from wandering spirits. Some claim it causes vivid dreams or visions when brewed into tea. Herbalists use it carefully—too much and you’re in for a night of ghost stories and no sleep. Scientists haven’t fully studied its properties, but traditional healers swear by its potency. Whether psychological or supernatural, zombie grass is not for the faint of heart.
23. Women Control the Economy in Many Villages
In much of the Comoros, women hold the purse strings—literally. Property, land, and even family homes are traditionally passed down through the mother’s side. Women manage household finances, control markets, and often run small businesses. During the Grand Marriage, it’s the bride’s family who leads and funds the ceremony. This matrilineal structure gives women surprising influence in a region often dominated by patriarchy. It’s not perfect, but in the Comoros, many say, “the man rules the island, but the woman owns the house.” Power, it seems, wears a colorful headscarf.
24. The Islands Have a National Perfume Festival
Every year, Comorians gather for a Ylang-Ylang Festival, celebrating the flower that made their islands famous. The event includes distillation demos, traditional music, parades, and floral-themed markets. Young girls weave crowns from blossoms, and perfumers offer free scent samples straight from their copper stills. It’s not just a tourist show—it’s a heartfelt nod to the plant that has supported families for generations. The scent of ylang-ylang fills the air, blending with the rhythm of drums and laughter. It’s one of the most fragrant, colorful, and joyful experiences in the Indian Ocean.
25. Local Boats Are Built Without a Single Nail
Traditional Comorian ngalawas (canoes) are built entirely by hand—without using a single nail. Carved from mango or baobab wood, these outrigger boats are lashed together with natural fiber ropes. The craftsmanship is passed down from father to son, and each boat has symbolic carvings meant to protect its passengers. Fishermen still use these elegant vessels to reach coral reefs and remote islands. Watching one glide silently across the turquoise water feels like stepping into the past—where the wind, the tide, and human hands work in harmony.
26. A Comorian Scientist Helped Decode the Genome
One of the unsung heroes in the world of genetics is Dr. Ahmed Djabir, a Comorian-born researcher who contributed to the international Human Genome Project. Raised on Grande Comore, he left the islands to study in France and later became a key figure in molecular biology. His work helped map critical gene sequences and opened doors to modern medical treatments. While he rarely appears in headlines, his roots remain on the islands, where schools proudly teach students about the “Comorian who cracked the code of life.”
27. Comoros Has a National Dish That's Almost Impossible to Find
The national dish, “Langouste à la Vanille,” is a dreamy blend of lobster cooked in vanilla sauce—but most Comorians have never tasted it. Why? Because lobster is expensive, and vanilla even more so. The dish is reserved for special guests or major holidays, and many locals substitute cheaper ingredients. Still, its legend lives on in menus, cookbooks, and local pride. Some chefs say it’s the perfect metaphor for Comoros itself: rich, rare, and sometimes overlooked—but unforgettable once experienced.
28. A Sacred Tree Once Grew Upside Down
On Anjouan, villagers speak of a sacred baobab that once grew roots-up into the sky. It stood alone on a hill, and legend says it was cursed by a sorcerer who wanted to defy nature. Eventually, lightning split the tree in half, but locals still visit the site, especially during times of drought. The spot is now marked by stones and offerings—flowers, fruit, and coins—to ask the spirits for rain or healing. Whether or not it really grew upside-down, the story is rooted deep in island memory.
29. There Are Islands Within the Islands
The Comoros aren’t just made of four main islands. There are also tiny islets and uninhabited coral outcroppings scattered around the archipelago—some so small they disappear at high tide. These mini-islands are home to nesting birds, rare orchids, and sometimes nothing at all. Locals say lovers used to sneak away to these hidden spots for secret rendezvous. Today, they’re often visited by fishermen, picnickers, and the occasional explorer. If you want to feel like you’ve found your own private island, this is where you go.
30. The Country Has No Traffic Lights—Anywhere
Not one. In all of the Comoro Islands, there isn’t a single traffic light. Roads are winding, often unpaved, and shared by goats, pedestrians, motorcycles, and old minibuses. Somehow, it all works. People rely on eye contact, hand waves, and informal rules of the road. This lack of traffic control gives the islands a relaxed, anything-goes energy. It can feel chaotic at first, but once you settle into the rhythm, it becomes part of the charm. On the Comoros, the only green light you need is the one coming from the jungle.
The Comoros—Where Legends Still Breathe
The Comoros aren’t just islands—they’re living stories carved into volcanic slopes and whispered through clove-scented winds. From moon-named lands and dancing stars to disappearing lakes and upside-down trees, this archipelago runs on folklore, family, and an unshakable sense of place. These islands defy expectations in the best way possible. They're not polished, they’re poetic. And once you’ve tasted banana wine under a sky full of fruit bats, you’ll understand why the Comoros stay with you—long after you’ve left their sandy shores behind.
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