Pemba lies about 50 km north of Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja. It is part of the Zanzibar archipelago but feels very different: hilly, green and covered in clove trees and mangroves, with few visitors and only a handful of lodges.
Diving and snorkelling
Pemba is surrounded by deep water. The Pemba Channel drops steeply off the west coast, creating dramatic wall dives with strong currents, healthy coral, turtles, reef sharks and large schools of fish. It suits experienced divers. Misali Island, a marine conservation area off the west coast, has excellent snorkelling and dive sites for all levels. Read about the best diving in Tanzania.
On land
- Cloves: Pemba grows most of Zanzibar’s cloves. In harvest season, the scent of drying cloves fills the villages.
- Ngezi Forest: a reserve of indigenous forest in the north, home to the Pemba flying fox, a large fruit bat found only here.
- Ruins: Ras Mkumbuu and Chwaka have remains of old Swahili towns and mosques.
- Villages and markets in Chake Chake, Wete and Mkoani.
Beaches
Pemba’s beaches are smaller and fewer than Zanzibar’s, often small coves and sandbanks. Many lodges are on the north and west coasts.
When to go
October to March for calmer seas and the best diving visibility. Avoid the long rains of April and May.
Getting there
Light aircraft fly from Zanzibar in about 30 minutes, and from Dar es Salaam and Tanga. Ferries run from Zanzibar but take several hours.
Who it suits
Divers, and travellers who want quiet and nature more than nightlife. Read which Tanzanian island to choose.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, for diving and a quiet, green island with few visitors. It has fewer beaches and hotels than Zanzibar.
By light aircraft from Zanzibar, about 30 minutes, or from Dar es Salaam.
A large fruit bat found only on Pemba, protected in Ngezi Forest and other areas.
