January–March
The height of the hot season
Tropical rain, lush vegetation and a warm sea. A period of cyclone alert.
Climate
All year round
Events & seasons
Festivals, traditions and natural events: the archipelago's calendar to help you choose the best time.
27 April
Commemoration of the abolition of slavery (Mayotte)
A public holiday in Mayotte, marked by ceremonies and cultural events.
MayotteMay–October
Dry season, hiking season
The best time to climb Karthala, Ntingui or Choungui.
Nature6 July
Independence Day
National day of the Union of the Comoros: parades, speeches and festivities on all three islands.
Union of the ComorosJuly–August
Grand marriage season
The diaspora returns, with processions and traditional dances, especially on Grande Comore.
Culture10–19 August 2027
Indian Ocean Island Games in the Comoros
For the first time, the Comoros host the Island Games: ten days of competition between athletes from seven Indian Ocean delegations. See our feature on the Games.
Sport14 July
French national day (Mayotte)
Parades and events in Mamoudzou and in the island's towns.
MayotteJuly–October
Humpback whale season
The whales come to give birth in the warm waters of the archipelago. Peak in August–September.
NatureAll year round
Green turtle nesting
At Itsamia (Mohéli), Moya and Saziley (Mayotte), with peaks that vary from beach to beach.
NatureNovember–January
Lychee and mango season
The markets overflow with fruit: an end-of-year treat.
GastronomyLunar dates
Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Maoulid
The great religious festivals follow the lunar calendar and come about ten days earlier each year. The Maoulid gives rise to remarkable chants and processions.
ReligionThe dates of religious festivals follow the lunar calendar and are confirmed
a few days in advance. For the weather, see When to go?