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Vanilla Fields of Anjouan
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The vanilla fields on Anjouan Island represent one of the most valuable agricultural sectors in the Comoros. The Bourbon vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) grown here is world-renowned for its intense aroma and superior quality. Cultivation is exceptionally labor-intensive, as every single orchid blossom must be hand-pollinated due to the absence of natural pollinators on the islands. Following the harvest, the green pods undergo a months-long process of sweating, drying, and curing until they develop their characteristic dark color and full fragrance. Anjouan's rich volcanic soil and tropical climate provide well-suited conditions for these climbing plants, which are typically grown on support trees in mixed-crop systems. Alongside ylang-ylang, vanilla is the country's primary export commodity, though it is subject to significant price fluctuations on the global market. For the local population, the vanilla harvest is a central cultural and economic event that dictates the rhythm of life for entire village communities.
- Location: Comoros
- Top sights: Dindri · Chandra, Comoros · Tsimbeo
- Nearby: Bazmini (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 222 | 162 | 150 | 119 | 58 | 33 | 27 | 21 | 19 | 36 | 50 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The vanilla fields of Anjouan are among the world's most significant producers of high-quality Bourbon vanilla. They form the backbone of the island's agricultural economy and attract visitors interested in spice cultivation and the unique terroir of the Comoros.
Visiting
The vanilla fields are generally open landscapes that can be viewed from public roads and footpaths through the fertile valleys. Some plantations may allow guided visits to observe the cultivation process, especially during the flowering or harvest periods.
Where to view it
Scenic viewpoints along the winding valley roads offer extensive views of the vanilla vines climbing on support trees. Elevated spots on the hillsides provide a panoramic perspective of the terraced fields that characterize the Anjouan highlands.
Local products
Local markets offer fresh and cured Bourbon vanilla beans from Anjouan, often sold directly by farmers. Visitors can also find vanilla extracts, vanilla sugar, and handcrafted items like vanilla-scented soaps and oils during the harvest season.
Active season
The fields are most active during the manual pollination season in the dry season and the subsequent harvest period. The peak activity occurs when the vanilla pods are ripe and ready for the curing process, typically several months after pollination.
Nearby
Combine a visit to the vanilla fields with tours of other spice plantations on Anjouan, such as ylang-ylang or clove farms. The island also provides beautiful beaches and the historic town of Mutsamudu for a complete cultural experience.
Geography
Facts
- Every vanilla flower must be hand-pollinated between October and January.
- Comoros is consistently ranked as a top global producer of Bourbon vanilla.
- It takes up to 10 months for the pods to reach maturity after pollination.
- The curing process involves blanching the pods in hot water at 63-65°C.
- Vanilla vines require partial shade and are often intercropped with food crops.
- Vanilla is the world's second most expensive spice after saffron.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Vanilla Fields of Anjouan (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Comorian vanilla?
Bourbon vanilla from the Comoros is considered one of the best in the world due to its intense aroma.
When is the vanilla harvest?
The harvest usually takes place between May and August, followed by a months-long drying process.
Does vanilla have to be pollinated by hand?
Yes, in the Comoros, every flower is hand-pollinated because the natural pollinators are absent.
Where can you buy vanilla beans on Anjouan?
Best at local markets or directly from cooperatives in the villages.
How is the vanilla dried?
The pods are alternately kept in the sun and shade until they turn their characteristic black color.
Vanilla Fields of Anjouan: where is it located?
Vanilla Fields of Anjouan is located in Comoros.
Vanilla Fields of Anjouan: what is there to see?
Highlights include Dindri, Chandra, Comoros, Tsimbeo.
Vanilla Fields of Anjouan: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Vanilla Fields of Anjouan: why is it worth visiting?
The vanilla fields on Anjouan Island represent one of the most valuable agricultural sectors in the Comoros.
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Nearby cities
Mutsamudu
Mutsamudu is the second largest city in the Comoros and the capital of Anjouan island.
Tsembehou
Tsembehou is a highland town in central Anjouan.
Domoni
Domoni is a historic city on the east coast of Anjouan island.
Mirontsi
Mirontsi is a suburb of Mutsamudu and an important residential area.
Adda-Douéni
Adda-Douéni is a densely settled town in eastern Anjouan.
Ouani
Ouani is located near Mutsamudu and hosts the airport of Anjouan island.
Sima
Sima is an important town in the west of Anjouan island.
Moya
Moya is a coastal town in the south of Anjouan, known for its picturesque setting.
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Barakani
Barakani lies between Mutsamudu and Ouani on Anjouan.
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Mrémani
Mrémani is a town in the southern highlands of Anjouan island.
Ongojou
Ongojou is a town in the central part of Anjouan.
Bambao
Bambao is a significant region and town on Anjouan.
Pomoni
Pomoni is a historic town on the west coast of Anjouan.
Bazmini
Bazmini is a small town in northeastern Anjouan.
History & landmarks
Old Mutsamudu City Gates
The historic city gates of Mutsamudu mark the entrances to the old medina and are relics of the former fortification.
Mutsamudu Port
Mutsamudu has the only deep-water port in the Comoros, which is crucial for international freight traffic.
Grand Mosque of Mutsamudu
The Grand Mosque of Mutsamudu is an architectural landmark in the second largest city of the Comoros.
Ouani Airport Terminal
The Ouani airport terminal is the main air gateway to Anjouan.
Nature
Lake Dzialandzé
Lake Dzialandzé is a crater lake in the highlands of Anjouan and an important water source for the island.
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River Ajaho
The Ajaho is one of the few permanent rivers on the island of Anjouan.
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River Goulat
The Goulat is a river in northwestern Anjouan that flows into the Indian Ocean.
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Lingoni Waterfalls
The Lingoni Waterfalls are an impressive natural spectacle in the heart of Anjouan.
More places
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Coffee Plantations of Tsembehou
The cool highlands of Tsembehou on Anjouan offer ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality coffee.
Mount Ntingui
Mount Ntingui is the highest peak on Anjouan island, offering spectacular views across the archipelago.
Mutsamudu Vanilla Center
This center specializes in the sorting, curing, and packaging of the world-famous Comorian Bourbon vanilla.
Livingstone's Fruit Bat Habitat
Livingstone's fruit bats are one of the largest and rarest bat species in the world, living only in the mountain forests of Anjouan and M…
Vassy Forest
The Vassy Forest is one of the last remaining primary rainforest areas on Anjouan.
Historic Mosque of Mirontsi
The mosque of Mirontsi is a significant religious monument on Anjouan with characteristic architecture.
Anjouan Carpentry Workshop
In this workshop, high-quality furniture and construction elements are crafted from local wood for the archipelago.
Ylang-Ylang Distillery of Ouani
The Ouani ylang-ylang distillery shows how the island's flower harvest is turned into essential oil.