Staying connected in the Comoros Islands can be tricky if you’re relying on expensive roaming packages. The better option? Picking up a local prepaid SIM card or eSIM. Whether you’re exploring the markets of Moroni, hiking on Mount Karthala, or relaxing on Miheli’s beaches, here’s everything you need to know — from where to buy a SIM to the best data plans, coverage, and activation tips.
Basics: Mobile Operators in Comoros
Comoros has two main mobile network providers:
- Huri (Comores Telecom) – The state-backed veteran with the widest coverage, offering 2G, 3G, and “4.5G” LTE services.
- Telma Comores – A newer competitor with aggressive pricing, solid 4G speeds, and better VoIP (WhatsApp/Skype) accessibility.
Both networks operate nationwide, but coverage quality varies between islands.
Availability & Where to Buy
Best places to get a SIM card:
- Moroni International Airport (Prince Said Ibrahim) – Both Huri and Telma often have small kiosks in arrivals for immediate connectivity.
- Official operator stores – Found in Moroni, Fomboni, and Mutsamudu; better prices and more plan options than at the airport.
- Authorised resellers – Mobile phone shops and some supermarkets carry SIM cards and recharge vouchers.
- Street vendors – Common in busy markets, but make sure the SIM is sealed and unused.
Tip: Always carry your passport for SIM registration.
Frequencies & Compatibility
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: Band 20 (800 MHz)
Before you buy, check your phone supports these frequencies — especially Band 20 for LTE.
Coverage & Speed
- Huri: Excellent rural coverage, including remote parts of Grande Comore and Anjouan. LTE speeds are decent for browsing and streaming but not blazing fast.
- Telma: Strong urban and semi-urban coverage, particularly in Moroni and Mohéli, with faster average LTE speeds than Huri. Rural coverage is improving but not yet as wide.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Huri (Comores Telecom) | Telma Comores |
|---|---|---|
| SIM Price | 2,000 KMF (~$4) | 2,000 KMF (~$4) |
| 4G Coverage | Almost nationwide | Expanding rapidly |
| Data Speed | Moderate | Fastest in urban areas |
| VoIP | Restricted | Allowed |
| Best For | Rural travel, reliability | Affordable data, WhatsApp calls |
Biometric Registration & Device Rules
Comoros doesn’t currently require full biometric registration, but all SIM purchases must be linked to your passport details. There’s no mandatory IMEI/device registration system, but your phone must be unlocked to accept a local SIM.
What to Expect When Buying
- SIM purchase is quick — usually under 10 minutes at an official store.
- Airport purchases are convenient but often include smaller starter packages at higher prices.
- USSD codes are used for plan activation, data add-ons, and balance checks.
- Network instructions are mostly in French, so have Google Translate handy if needed.
Websites & Apps
- Huri (Comores Telecom): comorestelecom.km
- Telma Comores: telma.km
Official apps are not widely promoted, but some services can be accessed through the websites, including top-ups and plan details.
SIM Card Prices
Both operators sell prepaid SIMs for around 2,000 KMF (~$4 USD) without credit. Tourist packs with preloaded data and minutes are available for slightly more.
eSIM Options
Local operators do not yet offer eSIMs.
However, travelers can buy international data eSIMs that work on Telma or Huri networks:
- Airalo Karthala eSIM – from 1 GB/7 days ($4.50) to 20 GB/30 days ($40).
- GoMoWorld – 2 GB/30 days (~$19).
Note: These eSIMs are data-only — no local calls or SMS.
Prepaid Plans
Huri (Comores Telecom):
- 500 MB / 7 days – 1,000 KMF
- 2 GB / 7 days – 2,000 KMF
- 7 GB / 15 days – 5,000 KMF
Telma Comores:
- 300 MB + night bonus / 7 days – 2,000 KMF
- 5 GB / 30 days – 7,000 KMF
- 15 GB / 30 days – 10,000 KMF
Data Add-Ons
Extra data can be purchased via USSD menus:
- Huri:
*124#→ choose “Internet” - Telma:
*445#→ select data package
Add-ons can range from small social-media bundles to large gigabyte packs.
Tourist SIM Packages
Some stores offer tourist-specific bundles:
- Telma Tourist Pass: 10 GB (7 days) ~ €15
- Huri Tourist Pack: 5 GB + 100 local minutes + 100 SMS (7 days) ~ €10
Activation & Balance Check
- Activation: SIMs are usually activated at the counter; if not, you may need to dial a USSD code provided on the packaging.
- Balance Check:
- Huri:
#123# - Telma:
*130#(varies; confirm with staff)
- Huri:
Customer Service
- Huri Customer Care: via official stores or comorestelecom.km
- Telma Support: via stores or telma.km
Store staff generally speak French; English is less common.
Conclusion
If you’re traveling across all three islands and need reliable coverage, Huri (Comores Telecom) is the safer bet. But if you’re sticking mainly to towns and want better prices plus WhatsApp calls, Telma Comores is the clear winner. For short trips, a tourist SIM or eSIM ensures you’re online without the hassle of local paperwork.