Hiking to Lake Dzialandzé on Anjouan Island

Lake Dzialandzé serves as the primary freshwater source for the southern regions of Anjouan, Comoros, situated approximately 910 meters above sea level within an ancient volcanic crater. This high-altitude wetland covers about 2 hectares of surface area and was officially designated as a Ramsar Site of International Importance on February 9, 2006. Visitors typically reach the lake by ascending the slopes of Mount Ntingui, which peaks at 1,595 meters. The trail is often slippery due to the island's high annual rainfall—which can exceed 3,000 millimeters in these mountainous zones—making the trek a technical challenge despite the relatively short distance. Most hikers find that the humidity at this elevation creates a microclimate significantly cooler than the coastal capital of Mutsamudu.

Ecological Significance and the Ramsar Status

The lake is the centerpiece of a 1,300-hectare protected area that functions as a critical reservoir for the island's biodiversity. Because Anjouan is one of the most densely populated islands in the archipelago, the preservation of this watershed is a matter of survival for the local agricultural economy. The basin traps moisture from the clouds, feeding the rivers that supply water to the valleys below. It is quite common to see the water level fluctuate significantly between the rainy and dry seasons; during particularly dry spells, the lake can appear more like a shallow marsh than a deep body of water.

Habitat for Endemic Species

The primary draw for naturalists is the presence of the Livingstone’s fruit bat, a critically endangered species with a wingspan that can reach up to 1.4 meters. These bats roost in the tall trees surrounding the crater, often visible in the early morning or late afternoon when they begin their foraging flights. The forest canopy also supports the Comoro scops owl and several species of lemurs that are endemic to the Comoros chain. Seeing these creatures requires a level of patience—and silence—that many casual tourists fail to maintain, often missing the wildlife entirely by talking too loudly on the trail.

Freshwater Management for Anjouan

Beyond its beauty, the lake provides essential ecosystem services by regulating the flow of water to the Lingoni and Tatinga rivers. Local communities depend on this stable supply for irrigation and domestic use, which has led to strict regulations regarding deforestation around the crater rim. I have observed that while the lake is open to visitors, there is a palpable sense of local ownership over the water quality. It is vital to avoid using soaps or leaving any waste near the shore, as there is no filtration system between this crater and the village taps below.

Navigating the Trail to Mount Ntingui

Reaching Dzialandzé involves a steep climb that starts from various points, though the most common access begins near the village of Dindi or the road leading toward the center of the island. The terrain consists of volcanic soil that turns into a slick, clay-like mud after the frequent afternoon showers. Sturdy boots with deep lugs are non-negotiable here; sneakers will almost certainly lead to a fall on the descent. Many travelers underestimate the vertical gain involved in the first three kilometers, which can be exhausting in the thick tropical air.

Preparation and Local Guides

While some seasoned hikers might attempt the route solo using GPS, hiring a local guide from Mutsamudu or a nearby village is the only reliable way to find the specific roosting sites of the fruit bats. A guide usually costs between 10,000 and 20,000 Comorian Francs depending on whether the trip includes the full summit of Mount Ntingui. These guides possess the local knowledge to steer you away from overgrown paths that appear to be shortcuts but lead into dense, impassable brush. Their ability to spot a camouflaged lemur at thirty paces adds immense value that a map simply cannot provide.

What to Expect on the Ascent

The trail begins in agricultural plots where locals grow cloves, vanilla, and ylang-ylang, filling the air with an intense floral scent that defines the Anjouan experience. As the elevation increases, the cultivated land gives way to secondary forest and eventually primary cloud forest characterized by moss-covered trunks and giant ferns. The views of the Mozambique Channel are spectacular on a clear day, but these windows of visibility are often short-lived. I recommend beginning the hike no later than 7:00 AM because by 11:00 AM, the clouds usually roll in from the ocean, completely enveloping the lake in a thick white mist that makes photography nearly impossible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for Lake Dzialandzé?

There is no official ticket booth or government-mandated entrance fee for the Ramsar site itself. However, it is standard practice to hire a local guide for roughly 15,000 KMF to ensure safety and support the local economy. Visitors should also be prepared for informal community-led conservation fees if they are part of a larger organized tour group.

Can I swim in Lake Dzialandzé?

Swimming is strongly discouraged and often prohibited by local customs because the lake is the primary drinking water source for surrounding villages. The water is also quite silty with a muddy bottom, which does not provide a pleasant swimming environment. Preserving the water purity is essential for the health of the downstream population and the resident wildlife.

How long does the hike to the lake take?

A round trip from the nearest road access typically takes between 4 and 6 hours depending on your fitness level and the trail conditions. The ascent to the lake takes about 2 to 3 hours of steady climbing, while the descent can be slower if the ground is exceptionally muddy. If you choose to continue past the lake to the summit of Mount Ntingui, expect to add another 2 hours to the total duration.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best window is during the dry season from May to October when the trails are less hazardous and the chance of clear views is higher. Even during these months, the high-altitude forest can receive rain, so waterproof gear remains necessary. July and August offer the most comfortable temperatures for the strenuous climb, though these are also the peak months for local travel.