#Comoros officially the Union of Comoros is an # archipelago country in the #IndianOcean, at the northern end of #Mozambique Channel off eastern #Africa coast. It shares maritime borders with #Madagascar and #Mayotte to the southeast, #Tanzania to the northwest, Mozambique to the west, and the #Seychelles to the northeast. Its capital and largest city is #Moroni. It is also a member state of #AfricanUnion, Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and Indian Ocean Commission.
The country has three official languages namely #Comorian, #French and #Arabic. It is the only OIC nation in the southern hemisphere 1,861 km2 Comoros that became independent in 1974 from #France is the fourth-smallest African nation by area. As a nation formed at a crossroads of different civilizations, the archipelago is noted for its diverse culture and history. Predominantly #Muslim the country consists of three major #islands namely #GrandeComore, #Mohéli, and #Anjouan, and numerous smaller islands, all in the volcanic Comoro Islands belt. The fourth major island of #Mayotte, although Mayotte voted against independence from France in 1974.
Since that referendum, Mayotte has never been administered by an independent Comoros government and continues to be administered by France as an overseas department. Comoros was first settled by #Bantu speakers from East Africa, Arabs, and Austronesians. In 933, Comoros was referred to by #Oman sailors as Perfume Islands, for its scent of yellow ylang-ylang, a key ingredient of perfumes.
The #Portuguese arrived here at the end of the 15th century led by #VascodaGama and for much of the 16th century Comoros provided provisions to the Portuguese fort at Mozambique and although there was no formal attempt by the Portuguese crown to take possession, a number of Portuguese traders settled. It then became part of the #French colonial empire during the 19th century and remained so before its independence in 1975. Famed for its beautiful #beaches, Comoros #Archipelago is known as a volcanic island, together with the high mountains in the north of Madagascar.
Despite being so small the island nation is known for its #biodiversity. There are six #nationalparks in Comoros. The islands are known for their exotic #flora and #fauna. The islands of Comoros, which is one of the world’s poorest countries, has an economy based on subsistence #agriculture, and #fishing. The country is known for #ecotourism which is still growing. Known for its #corralreefs, pristine blue waters, and stunning locations, Comoros is an excellent location for #whalewatching enthusiasts such as #humpbackwhales.
There are a few #hotels on the islands that too in capital #Moroni that offer mid-range to budget accommodation for #tourist. The islands are heaven for #seaddfood lovers only a few #restaurants to offer quality. There are opportunities for growth but being a poor country it lacks #investment. There are still few good places to visit on the islands these include #Mohéli, #Fomboni, #Anjouan, #GrandeComore, Mount Karthala, Moroni, #Mayotte, Petite Terre, Mamoudzou and Mt Ntingui.
The islands are ideal for an extended weekend visit the #airport at Moroni is the only point of entry and exists with flights from #Madagascar, #Tanzania, and #Reunion. The other islands can be accessed by #ferry/#boat service. The islands are ideally suited for those who love peace and tranquillity. #Adventure seekers can go on #trekking #hiking trips on the various islands. Overall, the islands offer great opportunities for #tourism growth.
