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Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao
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The Ylang-Ylang plantations of Bambao on Anjouan Island are the epicenter of the Comorian perfume oil industry. The Comoros is the world's leading exporter of essential oil derived from the Cananga odorata tree, an indispensable ingredient for international luxury perfumery. In the Bambao region, the trees are meticulously pruned to remain low, allowing for the manual harvesting of the fragrant yellow blossoms. The extraction process often still utilizes traditional copper stills located directly within the plantations to ensure maximum freshness. Harvesting continues year-round, with the oil's quality being heavily dependent on atmospheric humidity and the speed of distillation after picking. These plantations are not only a defining feature of Anjouan's landscape but also provide the economic backbone for thousands of small-scale farmers. The pervasive, sweet scent of ylang-ylang in the valleys of Bambao has earned the Comoros the nickname 'The Perfume Isles'.
- Location: Comoros
- Nearby: Djoumoichongo (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 | 194 | 147 | 144 | 137 | 69 | 41 | 35 | 25 | 23 | 40 | 45 | 101 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao on Grande Comore are known for their extensive fields, whose flowers are harvested for perfume production. They form the backbone of the Comorian fragrance industry.
Visiting
The plantations are generally open to the public, often allowing walks among the trees. Local guides explain the cultivation and harvesting of the flowers.
Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the road running through the plantations, offering views of the green canopy. On clear days, the vista extends to the Mohéli Channel.
Local products
Main products are fresh ylang-ylang flowers and the essential oil extracted from them. Local markets in Bambao also sell dried flowers and handcrafted perfumes.
Active season
The harvest season falls during the rainy season from November to April, when the trees bloom most heavily. Pickers then work daily from sunrise until early morning.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the capital Moroni and the active volcano Karthala. The beaches of Bambao also provide relaxation after the plantation tour.
Geography
Facts
- Comoros provides approximately 80% of the global ylang-ylang supply.
- Bambao on Anjouan is the most productive cultivation area in the country.
- Trees are kept at a height of 2 meters to allow for manual blossom picking.
- Roughly 50 kilograms of flowers are needed to produce one liter of oil.
- Distillation typically takes place in wood-fired copper stills on-site.
- The plant was introduced to the islands by the French in the late 1800s.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Ylang-Ylang?
A tree with intensely fragrant yellow flowers used to extract essential oil for perfumes.
Can you visit the distilleries?
Yes, many plantations in Bambao offer tours where you can observe the distillation process.
When does Ylang-Ylang bloom?
The trees bloom almost year-round, but the main harvest period is during the rainy season.
Why are the trees kept so short?
The branches are bent downwards so that the flowers remain easily reachable for the pickers.
Can you buy the oil directly on-site?
Yes, pure essential oil can often be purchased directly from the producers.
Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao: where is it located?
Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao is located in Comoros.
Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Ylang-Ylang Plantations of Bambao: why is it worth visiting?
The Ylang-Ylang plantations of Bambao on Anjouan Island are the epicenter of the Comorian perfume oil industry.
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Nearby cities
Moroni
Moroni is the capital of the Comoros, situated at the foot of Mount Karthala on the island of Grande Comore.
Iconi
Iconi is one of the oldest cities in the Comoros, located south of Moroni.
Mbéni
Mbéni is a significant city in the northeast of Grande Comore.
Mitsamiouli
Mitsamiouli is a coastal town in the north of Grande Comore, known for its beautiful beaches.
Vouvouni
Vouvouni stands at the foot of Mount Karthala near Moroni.
Mvouni
Mvouni lies on the slopes near Moroni on Grande Comore.
Tsidjé
Tsidje is a suburb on the edge of Moroni.
Ntsoudjini
Ntsoudjini is an inland town on Grande Comore, known for its scholars.
Foumbouni
Foumbouni is the most important city in the south of Grande Comore island.
Djoumoichongo
Djoumoichongo is a rural settlement in the southwest of Grande Comore.
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Bandamadji
Bandamadji is a settlement in the northern part of Grande Comore.
Itsandra
Itsandra is a historic coastal town located just north of Moroni.
Dembéni
Dembéni is a town in the southeast of Grande Comore.
Singani
Singani is a west coast village on Grande Comore.
Koimbani
Koimbani is the administrative center of the Oichili region on Grande Comore.
History & landmarks
Malouzini Stadium
The Malouzini Stadium is the largest and most modern football stadium in the Comoros, located south of Moroni.
Lycée Saïd Mohamed Cheikh
This secondary school in Moroni is the country's most prestigious educational institution and has produced many leaders.
Alliance Française de Moroni
The Alliance Française in Moroni is a cultural venue for events, classes, and public programs.
Palais de Justice (Moroni)
The Palais de Justice in Moroni is the seat of the supreme court of the Comoros and a significant government building.
Central Bank of the Comoros
The Central Bank building in Moroni is a symbol of the country's financial independence and economic stability.
Government Palace
This administrative building in Moroni houses key ministries and government offices of the Comoros.
Volovolo Central Market
Volovolo Market is Moroni's busiest market and a key place for daily shopping.
Radio Comores Building
The national broadcaster building in Moroni is a landmark for communication and information on the islands.
More places
Nature Trail in Karthala Forest
This family-friendly trail runs along the lower slopes of Mount Karthala.
Bambao Essence Distillery
In this major industrial facility, precious ylang-ylang oil is extracted through steam distillation for the world market.
Botanical Garden of Mvouni
The botanical garden in Mvouni showcases a collection of native and exotic plants and is a popular destination for school trips.
Spice Garden of Moroni
Near the capital, visitors can see the variety of Comorian spices like pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg in their natural environment.
Coelacanth Marine Area
The Coelacanth Marine Area off Grande Comore is linked to the famous living fossil.
Indian Ocean Printing Works
One of the largest printing works in the country, producing newspapers, state documents, and educational materials.
Mount Karthala
Mount Karthala is an active shield volcano and the highest point in the Comoros, located on Grande Comore island.
Moroni Customs Warehouse
This logistics center is used for the clearance and storage of imported goods before they are distributed nationwide.