The four islands of the Comoros archipelago lie between the Northern tip of Madagascar and the African mainland.

The earliest inhabitants were probably of Malay-Polynesian origin. Later settlers came from mainland Africa, Madagascar and the Arab world. The Shirazis from Persia became dominant in the 15th-16th century, establishing sultanates in the Comoros linked to their trading settlements in Kilwa (on the coast of present day Tanzania) and Zanzibar, and dealing in spices and slaves to the Middle East. Comoros became known for Islamic learning and exported teachers to Zanzibar. Today the dominant religion is Islam.

Mayotte was the first island of the archipelago to come under French control. France established protectorates over Ngazidja, Nzwani and Mohéli in 1886 and declared the Comoros a French Colony in 1912, administered from Madagascar. In 1947, the Comoros became a separate French Overseas Territory, gaining a degree of internal autonomy in 1961.

In a referendum held in December 1974, 96% of Comorians on Ngazidja, Nzwani and Mohéli voted for independence from France, but a majority on the island of Mayotte voted against. Political tensions grew until, on 6 July 1975, the Comoros declared independence unilaterally,

Today the Comoros is one of Africa’s big surprises. The Comorians remain polite, friendly and honest, despite the political difficulties that have troubled the country since independence. Having been out of the tourist brochures for sometime the Comorians’ colourful culture is as yet uncorrupted by tourism. The islands themselves are some of the world’s most beautiful, with scores of empty, spectacular beaches and a mysterious ambience reminiscent of Zanzibar. You will also find picturesque old Arab towns, unique wildlife, luxuriant vegetation, which includes vanilla and ylang-ylang plantations, an active volcano and lots of great walking opportunities.