Comoros: Wildlife Expedition

Intrepid Travel · 9 days

4.3

4 Reviews

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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Join the few lucky souls who have ever visited Comoros, a small archipelagic country off Africa’s east coast.

Highlights

Explore the Mwali UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to the second highest marine diversity in the world. Spot humpback whales and spinner dolphins; snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, parrot fish, manta rays, wrasses, fusiliers, and maybe even sea turtles.
Take a short a hiking experience in the subtropical tropical rain forest to observe one of the world’s largest bats, the critically endangered Livingstone flying fox.
Stay in community operated beachside bungalows in Itsamia and visit one of the largest Green turtle nesting sites of the world, where turtles nest year-round; learn from local park rangers about ongoing conservation efforts.
Enjoy a seafood lunch served at Miki’s Place, a lean-to “restaurant” under a baobab next to the sea.
Walk among homesteads, meeting villagers with beautiful welcoming smiles, and stroll through the surrounding gardens to see how local foods are produced.

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle,Boat,Ferry

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Moroni, Comoros

Finishes

Moroni, Comoros

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Moroni

Karibu! Welcome to Comoros! On arrival at Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport, you will be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel, ready for your adventure to begin at 6pm with an important welcome meeting. Then perhaps enjoy dinner in the oasis of the hotel grounds and learn more about this fascinating country from your local leader. A complimentary shared group transfer is included on your arrival. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Moroni

This morning, head north into rugged and jagged geographical formations, created through millions of years of volcanic activity. Your guide will share local myths about the ancient origins of these striking land features, including Dos du Dragon, Lac Salé, the Miraculous Mosque and Trou du Prophete. At this last stop, lunch is served at Miki’s, a rustic lean-to “restaurant” under a baobab tree next to the sea. If Miki is around, he'll be happy to offer his colourful commentary on life in Comoros at no extra charge. After lunch, kick off your shoes and stroll to Maloudja Beach, where you can relax among the coconut palms or go for a dip in the Indian Ocean.

Included Activities:

Moheli - Ylang-Ylang Farm Visit
Moheli - Village walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Moheli

After breakfast, catch a ferry to the island of Moheli. In 2020, this island and its surrounding waters were designated by UNESCO as the Mwali Biosphere Reserve in an effort to protect its rich diversity. You'll take a scenic drive to your beachfront accommodation, passing through tropical rainforests and alongside turquoise ocean views. Upon arrival, have lunch and head out on a village walk, meeting local people and learning about day-to-day life in this remote fishing village. On the outskirts of the settlement, visit a ylang-ylang plantation and distillery. The distillery may not be operating during your visit, but your guide will explain how essential oil is extracted from this tropical plant, which is one of Comoros’ primary exports and forms the basis of Chanel No. 5 perfume and other famous fragrances.

Included Activities:

Moheli Marine Park - Snorkelling & Islands Tour
Moheli - Park Ranger Conservation Presentation

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Moheli

This morning, you'll take to the blue-green waters for some island hopping and snorkelling! These waters are part of the biosphere reserve and are home to the second-highest marine diversity in the world. See the cliffs and frigatebirds of Magnougni Island before hopping off the boat on the uninhabited Ouenefou Island. Pop on your flippers and mask for some snorkelling across vibrant coral reefs with an array of colourful tropical fish. Enjoy a barbecue picnic lunch cooked for you there on the deserted island, then board your boat to return to the lodge. The afternoon is yours to explore and soak up island life however you’d like. Wander the grounds to spot the family of lemurs that often visits, or head for a swim in the lagoon frequented by hawksbill turtles. Early this evening, sit down with a National Park Ranger and learn about the local biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts of the Moheli National Park.

Included Activities:

Moheli - Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip
Ouenefou Island – Barbecue Lunch

Optional Activities:

Moheli - Forest Hike to Waterfall - Free

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Moheli

Head back out on the water after breakfast today, this time in search of whales! Humpback whales migrate thousands of miles to the warm, shallow waters around Mohéli to give birth. If you’re lucky, you may spot some mothers with their new calves. Keep your eyes peeled for spinner and tropical spotted dolphins, too! Back at the lodge, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing at your leisure. It’s often possible to closely observe Seychelles fruit bats, which can grow to up to 80 cm from wing to wing, within the lodge grounds.

Included Activities:

Moheli - Forest Hike and Livingstone Bat Observation

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Moheli

This morning, you'll hike into the subtropical rainforest to see one of the world’s largest bats, the Livingstone's flying fox, with a wingspan of up to 1.4 metres. They’re a critically endangered species found only on Moheli and neighbouring Anjouan Island. Follow a stream towards the mountains as your guide points out local medicinal trees, spices, coffee and fruit trees. After a steep climb, you’ll be able to spot these giant bats sunning themselves in the trees and circling their roosts on the morning thermals. After, you'll return to the lodge for lunch, and the afternoon is free for you to relax after your morning adventure.

Included Activities:

Itsamia - Turtle Nesting Observation
Itsamia - National Park Eco-guard Conservation Presentation

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Itsamia

Today you're off to the other side of Moheli to the village of Itsamia, a major sea turtle traffic hub! First up, learn about the village, its history, its turtles and how it all connects at a presentation by one of the national park’s eco-guards. Every year, more than 20,000 green turtles nest on these beaches, making this stretch of sand one of the highest density nesting sites in the world. There are nesting turtles on this beach almost every night. This afternoon, explore the village of Itsamia on a village walk and then hit the beach to spot turtle nests, where you might witness up to 100 baby turtles emerging from the sand and scurrying down to the water. After dinner, head back to the beach to try to catch a glimpse of momma turtles arriving back on the beach, lugging their 150-kg bodies up the sand in search of the perfect spot to nest. As for you, you’ll rest up in simple beachside bungalows built and operated by the local community as an economic development project. A volunteer from the community will be preparing dinner for you as well.

Included Activities:

Grande Comore - Dos du Dragon Viewpoint
Trou du Prophète - Local lunch Experience

Accommodation:

(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Moroni

Say goodbye to Moheli as you catch a ferry back to the main island, Grand Comore. Lunch will be at a local resident’s home, where you get to see how meals are made and take part in these preparations. Then visit the ancient sultan’s capital of Iconi. This historic village sits in the shadow of a steep volcanic cone, where, in the 1880s, many women jumped to their deaths to avoid enslavement by Malagasy pirates. On a village walk, see the sultan’s palace, Kaviri Djewe, built from coral limestone in the town’s centre, and the historic bangwes, open spaces where men still meet to debate and make decisions for the community. Back in Moroni, walk along the oceanfront with the stunning views of the Old Friday Mosque, which has stood on this since the 15th century. Then walk through the narrow alleyways of the old town, with its carved doors and moss-covered walls. Finish your city tour with a stroll through the town market, full of spices, seafood, and colourful clothing. In the evening, celebrate the end of your adventure over dinner with your travel companions at a local restaurant right on the beach.

Included Activities:

Iconi - Walking Tour
Moroni - Walking Tour of Medina and Markets
Ndrouani – Home Cooked Traditional Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Moroni

Your trip comes to an end today, and there are no activities planned. A complimentary transfer is included. Please confirm your departure flight details at least 14 days before travel.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,140

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Join the few lucky souls who have ever visited Comoros, a small archipelagic country off Africa’s east coast.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 14 Aug 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Alexander

Traveled, October 2023

11/12/2023

A fascinating country with much to offer to anyone with a sense of adventure who is willing to risk things not going quite to plan (we covered everything in the itinerary but not necessarily in the order stated).

4.5

Nils Fredrik

Traveled, October 2023

10/19/2023

Exciting and fun trip to an unexplored destination. Fantastic wildlife, especially underwater - loved snorkelling with Manta rays. Flexibility needed, but everything solved perfectly. Issa was an amazing guide.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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