Mount Ntringui: Trekking the Highest Peak of Anjouan

Mount Ntringui rises 1,595 meters above the Indian Ocean as the highest elevation point on Anjouan island. This volcanic mass is the heart of the Mount Ntringui National Park, a protected area covering 79.14 square kilometers of central highlands established in 2010. Unlike the active, barren volcanic fields of Mount Karthala on Grande Comore, Ntringui is defined by dense, humid montane forests and persistent cloud cover.

By serving as a critical watershed, the park protects dozens of perennial streams that originate in these highlands to provide water for coastal villages. Much of the original forest cover on Anjouan has been lost to agriculture over the last century, making this high-altitude refuge one of the last places to see the island native flora in its primary state. The air here is noticeably cooler than the tropical heat of Mutsamudu, requiring hikers to adjust to a damp, temperate climate as they ascend.

Navigating the Slopes and Crater Waters

Lake Dzialandzé and the Southern Route

The trek to the summit usually begins with a visit to Lake Dzialandzé, which sits at an elevation of 900 meters. This crater lake covers approximately 2 hectares and represents the largest freshwater body on Anjouan. The water often appears dark and still, surrounded by a wall of ferns and ancient trees that thrive in the constant humidity of the high altitudes.

Reaching the lake requires a steady climb of about an hour from the nearest road access points. The terrain here is relatively manageable during the dry season, but the trail can quickly become a muddy stream bed during the rains of December or January. Local residents often describe the lake as the mother of all water on the island—a spiritual and practical recognition of its role in the ecosystem.

Summit Elevation and Visibility

From the lake, the push to the 1,595-meter summit becomes significantly more demanding. The incline sharpens, requiring hikers to use tree roots as natural ladders to navigate the steeper sections of the trail. Visibility at the top is notoriously poor due to the cloud forest environment which remains shrouded in mist most of the year.

On the rare occasion that the mist clears, it is possible to view all four islands of the Comoros archipelago simultaneously from the peak. Most visitors find themselves standing in a thick white haze, but the sense of isolation and the sound of the wind through the high-altitude Ericaceae shrubs provide a unique atmospheric experience. The summit itself is marked by an open space where the wind often strips away the taller trees.

Rare Wildlife of the Montane Forest

Observing the Livingstone Fruit Bat

The primary draw for many nature enthusiasts is the chance to see the Livingstone fruit bat, Pteropus livingstonii. With a wingspan that can reach 1.4 meters, it is one of the largest and rarest bat species in the world. Recent surveys estimate that only 1,200 to 1,500 of these bats remain on Anjouan, with a few hundred more on the neighboring island of Moheli.

Gliding between high-canopy trees, these bats are most active in the mid-afternoon, often appearing before dusk. Unlike many other bat species, they do not wait for complete darkness to forage, making them easier to observe in flight. They rely heavily on the endemic Nuxia pseudodentata trees for roosting, which are increasingly restricted to the steep slopes of the national park.

The Moya Forest Fragment

The park also provides a habitat for the Anjouan scops owl and the mongoose lemur. The Moya Forest encompasses about 500 hectares of contiguous forest and remains the best place to observe these endemic species in their natural environment. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for the Comoro blue pigeon and the Anjouan sunbird, both of which are common in the higher elevation canopy above 800 meters.

Practical Logistics for the Hike

Finding Guides in Mutsamudu

Hiring a local guide from Mutsamudu or the village of Bambao is essential because the trails are not marked and frequently change due to rapid vegetation growth and landslides. While there is no standardized national park entry fee at a formal visitor center, visitors should expect to pay for the guide's time and any 4x4 transportation needed to reach the trailhead. Negotiating these rates a day in advance is common practice among independent travelers.

Gear Requirements for Rain and Mud

Proper footwear is the most important piece of equipment for this environment. Even during the dry season between May and October, the trails remain damp and slippery under the forest canopy. Boots with deep lugs are necessary to maintain grip on the slick roots and loose volcanic soil. It is also wise to carry a waterproof jacket, as the microclimate on the mountain can produce sudden downpours even when the coast is sunny.

Water and food must be carried in, as there are no facilities within the park boundaries. Most guided trips include a lunch stop at the lake, but travelers should bring at least two liters of water for the round trip. The descent can be just as taxing as the climb; many hikers find that sliding on the mud is more effective than trying to walk on the steepest sections during the return journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Mount Ntringui?

The mountain reaches a peak of 1,595 meters, or roughly 5,233 feet, making it the highest point on the island of Anjouan. This elevation creates a distinct montane forest climate that is significantly cooler than the coastal regions.

Can I see the Livingstone fruit bat during the day?

These bats are frequently seen gliding between roosts as early as 3:00 PM and are easily identified by their 1.4-meter wingspan. They are more active during daylight hours than most other fruit bat species.

Is Lake Dzialandzé suitable for swimming?

Swimming is not recommended because the lake is a vital source of drinking water for the island and holds local cultural significance. The water is often very cold and the edges are difficult to navigate due to deep mud.

How long does the hike to the summit take?

A round trip from the trailhead to the summit usually takes between five and seven hours depending on the weather conditions. The section from Lake Dzialandzé to the top is the most time-consuming part due to the steep terrain.

Do I need to book a guide in advance?

While it is possible to find guides in Mutsamudu, booking through a local operator a day ahead ensures you have an experienced eco-guard and reliable 4x4 transport. Prices are generally negotiated based on the size of the group.