From Airport
30 Mins
Size
988 km²
Hidden Gems
Discover Offbeat places
Photo Spots
Best for photo locations
Accommodation
lodges and camps nearby
Overview
Pemba Island is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, located about 80 km northeast of Unguja (Zanzibar’s main island) and known for its untouched nature, deep green hills, clove plantations, and incredible coral reefs. Often called “The Green Island”, Pemba is less developed than Zanzibar but offers raw beauty, world-class diving, and a quiet escape from mass tourism. It’s a paradise for divers, nature lovers, cultural travelers, and anyone seeking peace, authenticity, and unspoiled island charm.
Tourist Attractions
- Coral Reefs and Diving
- Pemba offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in Africa, especially around the Pemba Channel. Expect crystal-clear waters, steep coral walls, vibrant fish, turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Diving here is less crowded and more pristine than on Zanzibar or Mafia.
- Ngezi Forest Reserve
- Located at the northern tip of the island, this is a beautiful tropical forest home to rare species like the Pemba flying fox (a giant fruit bat), monkeys, and exotic birds. You can explore the forest on foot with a local guide.
- Clove Plantations
- Pemba is one of the world’s major producers of cloves. Tour a working clove farm, learn about spice harvesting, and smell the sweet aroma that once made the island famous in global trade.
- Misali Island
- A small uninhabited island off the west coast of Pemba, perfect for snorkeling, picnicking, dolphin watching, and exploring nature. Misali is part of a protected marine conservation area.
- Chake Chake Town
- The island’s main town, offering a glimpse into authentic Swahili life. Visit local markets, colonial-era ruins, and learn about Pemba’s unique culture and history.
- Mkame Ndume Ruins
- Near Ras Mkumbuu, these ruins reflect Islamic and Swahili settlements from the 13th century. The old mosques and coral-stone buildings tell stories of Pemba’s rich past.
Fun Facts and Why It Differs from Other Places
- Zanzibar’s Quiet Twin
- While Zanzibar (Unguja) is lively and touristy, Pemba remains calm, green, and wild. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude and natural immersion.
- Pemba Flying Fox
- These huge fruit bats, with wingspans up to 1.5 meters, are harmless and endangered — and only found here.
- Intact Culture and Traditions
- Pemba’s Swahili-Muslim culture is deeply rooted and relatively untouched. You’ll find traditional fishing villages, authentic cuisine, and genuine island hospitality.
- Steep Coral Drop-Offs
- Unlike many islands, Pemba is surrounded by dramatic underwater cliffs and drop-offs, making it a magnet for advanced divers and underwater explorers.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June to October):
- Best weather for outdoor adventures, diving, and exploring the island. Comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
- Whale Watching Season (August–October):
- You may spot humpback whales migrating past the island’s coast.
- Short Dry Season (December to February):
- Also good for travel. Warm and mostly dry — great for diving, forest walks, and island hopping.
- Rainy Season (March to May):
- Heavy rain can affect transport and outdoor activities, though the island becomes beautifully green and quiet.
Best Accommodations Found at This Place
- Fundu Lagoon
- Remote, luxurious beachfront lodge only accessible by boat. Offers high-end diving, private beaches, and spa services — ideal for honeymoons or secluded retreats.
- The Aiyana Resort & Spa (Makangale Beach)
- A luxury eco-resort with white-sand beachfront, wellness facilities, and organic dining. A peaceful haven with elegant Swahili-inspired design.
- Emerald Bay Resort
- Mid-range beachfront property with cozy rooms, local food, and easy access to dive centers and boat tours.
- Budget Guesthouses in Chake Chake & Wete
- Simple, clean, and local-run guesthouses available for backpackers and budget travelers who want to stay near towns or ports.
FAQs
You can fly from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba Airport (Karume Airport) in Chake Chake. Boat services are also available, but they are longer and weather-dependent.
Yes. Pemba is safe, quiet, and very welcoming. Just dress modestly and respect local customs, as it's a traditional Muslim island.
Yes! While diving is a highlight, forest walks, beach relaxation, island tours, spice farm visits, and cultural experiences are all available.
Yes. Many travelers explore the Zanzibar-Mafia-Pemba triangle, flying or boating between islands for the full coastal adventure.
Pemba Island is one of East Africa’s last truly untouched tropical paradises. With its lush green hills, vibrant marine life, warm local culture, and sense of peace, it offers a side of Zanzibar few ever see. Whether you’re diving coral cliffs, sailing past mangroves, or walking through spice-scented villages, Pemba promises an unforgettable journey for those willing to go a little further for something rare.
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