Plizio Visual Lab

Lac Salé

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Lac Salé, also known as the Salt Lake of Mitsamiouli, is a striking crater lake located at the northern tip of Grande Comore. It sits right by the coast, surrounded by steep volcanic rock walls that provide a sharp contrast to the deep blue water. Geologically, it is a maar, formed by a phreatomagmatic explosion when magma encountered groundwater. Despite its proximity to the ocean, the lake's water is extremely saline, giving it its name. Local legends suggest that the lake formed on the site of a former village that sank as punishment for the villagers' lack of hospitality. Lac Salé is a popular destination for travelers as it is easily accessible from the main road and features spectacular photographic opportunities. Although the lake has no visible connection to the sea, its water level responds to the tides, indicating underground fissures in the volcanic rock. The surroundings are characterized by sparse vegetation and dark basalt rocks, enhancing the dramatic atmosphere of this geological natural wonder.

Location: Comoros
Top sights: Trou du prophète · Grand Baobab
Nearby: Itsandzéni (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

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Getting there

Located at the northern extremity of Grande Comore, this impressive crater lake is usually accessed via the coastal ring road, easily reached by hired taxi or a rented vehicle.

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Best season

The dry season months between May and November provide the clearest skies and most pleasant conditions for admiring the dramatic contrast between the deep blue water and the volcanic rock.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain features a short but steep, uneven path leading up to the crater rim, consisting of loose volcanic stones and dirt, requiring careful footing while walking around the edge.

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What to bring

Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are strongly recommended due to the jagged volcanic rock, along with sun protection and a camera to capture the panoramic panoramic coastal views.

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Parking

Visitors can usually park securely near the base of the small volcanic hill, right off the main road, before beginning the short ascent on foot to view the lake from above.

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Safety

Keep a safe distance from the crater's precipitous edges, as the loose volcanic soil can occasionally give way, and descending down to the water level itself is generally considered unsafe.

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Time needed

A visit typically lasts around thirty minutes to an hour, offering just enough time to climb up to the viewpoint, take spectacular photos, and enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes.