Islands of the Moon

Islands of the Moon

Experience a fascinating range of natural wonders, spend time discovering new experiences, eat new foods, and learn new cultures. Explore Grande Comore, as you tour historical towns, conquer Mt. Karthala, take in moving landscapes and ocean views, and discover spectacular geographical features resulting from its volcanic history. Immerse yourself in mother nature and marine life in the UNESCO Biosphere on Mohéli, home to the second highest levels of marine biodiversity in the world. And discover rich culture and beautiful birds and waterfalls in the forests of Anjouan. This extensive tour allows you to explore all three islands and discover their secrets…

 

 

DAY 1 – Arrival

Upon arrival at Moroni International Airport (HAH), you will be met by our guide and driver, and be transferred to Transfer from Moroni Airport to the Golden Tulip Resort and settle into your sea view room. The evening is yours to enjoy as you take in the view of the coastline and prepare for your upcoming days of discovery.

DAY 2 – Flight to Anjouan; Tour medina and citadel

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport and take-off for Anjouan. In the afternoon you will tour the old stone town of Mutsamudu, observe its architecture and the historical citadel.

DAY 3 – Hike to Lake Dzialandzé, transfer to Domoni

This morning, drive into the central highlands and enjoy a short trek through the forest to Lake Dzialandzé, a crater lake on Mount Ntringui. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake. Continue on a driving tour around the island to the ancient city of Domoni.

DAY 4 – Island tour: Domoni tour, Moya beach, Mutsamudu

After breakfast, take a walking tour in the town of Domoni, viewing the historic artistry of the beautifully carved wooden doors. Proceed on a driving tour along the picturesque coast of the island and come to stunning Moya Beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch at Moya and take a few minutes to relax on the beach and swim in the ocean, then continue the island tour to return to Mutsamudu.

DAY 5 – Flight to Mohéli

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Mohéli. On arrival, you will take a scenic coastal drive to Laka Lodge for accommodation on full-board. Mohéli is listed by UNESCO as a Biosphere of global importance. In the afternoon, relax on the beach, swim in the lagoon, and watch the friendly lemurs which often come to the hotel grounds.

DAY 6 – Mohéli Laka Lodge

This day is a great chance to continue relaxing on the picturesque beach or take advantage of the optional activities provided. Visit the uninhabited islands of the marine park, surrounded by vibrant coral and home to some of the highest levels of marine biodiversity in the world!

DAY 7 – Laka Lodge

After a restful night, you will have morning breakfast, then enjoy the day at leisure or take advantage of the optional activities provided. Consider a hike in the rain forest to view black pepper, cinnamon, coffee, and ylang-ylang grown in harmony with nature, finally discovering the roosting place of Livingstone’s Flying Fox, a giant fruit bat with a wingspan up to 1.4 meters!

DAY 8 – Laka lodge

A day to relax on the beach or take advantage of the optional activities. Perhaps try an introductory scuba dive in the amazing coral gardens or take a kayak to explore the mangroves.

DAY 9 – Itsamia

After lunch, you will leave for Itsamia, following the road as it winds through the tropical forest with stunning views of the island. On arrival at Itsamia, tour this village of the green sea turtle. Learn of the conservation efforts of the village and be on the lookout for turtle nests hatching on the beach. After dinner, with the nightly high tide, you will be guided to observe the arrival and nesting of green sea turtles on the beaches surrounding the village. Overnight accommodation and dinner at Itsamia Community Bungalows.
(Note that the community bungalows feature very simple accomodation in a project which benefits the local community. Bucket showers, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms are provided.)

DAY 10 – Flight to Moroni and Legends of the North tour

After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Mohéli airport to return to Grande Comore. You will be met by your driver and guide and leave for the discovery tour of the northern coast of Grande Comore. Observe the remnants of eons of volcanic action at Lac Salé crater lake and Dos du Dragon, an eroded coastal crater. Enjoy lunch overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and stop for a swim in the warm water and a few minutes of contemplation under the coconut palms. Then continue to check-in at Golden Tulip Resort.

DAY 11 – Karthala Expedition

Get an early start from the hotel to begin your trek to the top of Mt. Karthala, the active volcano which towers over the island. Choose the trekking or driving option which you prefer and enjoy the trail as it climbs through the pristine forest harbouring a variety of trees, exotic plants, and birds. An ascent to the highest peak of the archipelago (2,361m) with great views of the island sloping into the ocean. Tour the caldera, enjoy a picnic lunch, and return later to the Golden Tulip Resort for the evening.

DAY 12 – Moroni medina and markets, Departure

After enjoying a relaxing morning breakfast, embark on a walking tour of the old stone town of Moroni and its architecture. Spend some time in the markets, taking in the local goldsmiths, tropical spices, and fresh-caught seafood. Enjoy lunch at the New Select restaurant and then transfer to the airport for departure in the afternoon.

Islands of the Moon

Visit: Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan
Duration: 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS
Languages: English
● What is indicated in the program
● Beverages and Meals not indicated
● Personal expenses, and other expenses not mentioned from above.
Cancellation Policy:
● All cancellation must be written
● Any cancellation 30 Days prior to arrival date: No charge
● Any cancellation between 29 Days – 15 Days prior to arrival date: 50% of tour charge
● Any cancellation between 14 Days – 7 Days prior to arrival date: 75% of tour charge
● Any cancellation less than 7 Days: 100% of tour charge

Price

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Islands of the Moon

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