Mount Karthala
Karthala
An active volcano at 2,361 m with a huge compound crater. The summit is reached on a two-day hike with overnight camping.
Karthala is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Its summit crater is about 3 to 4 km wide and contains the deep pit known as Choa. The usual route starts from Mwéni or Mbéni village, passes through rainforest and heathland scrub, and takes 6 to 8 hours one way. Hikers usually camp overnight on the crater rim. Local guides and porters are required. Bring enough water, since there are no water sources on the mountain. Night temperatures can drop below 10°C.
Opening hours
Guide required; best in dry season
Nearby sights
- Singani Lava Flows
- Musée des Comores (CNDRS)
- Volo Volo Market
- Moroni Medina & Old Harbour
- Old Friday Mosque, Moroni
- Iconi
- Chomoni Beach
- Itsandra Beach