The caldera
A plain of ash.
Rokaso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rokaso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · ZcarstvnzAuthor of original photo: Rokaso — CC BY-SA 4.0
Mount Karthala is an active shield volcano and the highest point of the Comoros at 2,361 metres above sea level. It is the southern and larger of the two volcanoes that form Grande Comore island. A broad caldera 3 by 4 km crowns it, and hikers climb to see it. The volcano has erupted more than twenty times since the 19th century, and these frequent eruptions shaped its wide caldera. Eruptions on 17 April 2005 and 29 May 2006 ended a quiet spell. The crater lake that formed after the 1991 eruption is gone, replaced by dark grey rock. Even so, the island has largely escaped widespread destruction. From the caldera rim you see a broad grey plain of ash and volcanic rock ringed by dark rock walls. Thick green forest and scrub cover the outer slopes. From the top on clear days the view takes in the whole island and the ocean. It is about 12 km from Moroni in a straight line. The climb takes a full day or two with a night out, so take a local guide. Carry plenty of water and warm clothes. Check news of volcanic activity before you go.
A plain of ash.
On the slopes.
From the top.
Southern Grande Comore, Comoros
A full day, or two with a night out.
Yes, last erupting in 2006, so check the news.