Tanzania’s coast has three main island groups: Zanzibar (Unguja), Pemba and Mafia. All have warm water, coral reefs and white sand, but they suit different travellers. Most guests combine one with a safari, flying from the Serengeti or Arusha in a few hours.
The islands compared
| Zanzibar | Pemba | Mafia | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Variety, culture, first visits | Diving, quiet, green landscapes | Whale sharks, diving, total calm |
| Beaches | Many, from busy to secluded | Fewer, often small coves | Few, often with sandbanks |
| Hotels | Hundreds, every budget | A handful of lodges | A handful of lodges |
| Getting there | Direct international flights, ferries from Dar es Salaam | Light aircraft from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam | Light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar |
| Feel | Lively | Remote | Remote |
Zanzibar
Zanzibar has the most choice: historic Stone Town, spice farms, Jozani Forest and a long coast of beaches with very different characters. It is the easiest island to reach and has hotels for every budget. Read our guide to Zanzibar beaches and Stone Town.
Pemba
North of Zanzibar, Pemba is hillier, greener and much quieter. It is known for clove plantations and some of the best wall diving in East Africa, especially around Misali Island. It suits divers and travellers who want to be away from crowds.
Mafia
South of Zanzibar, Mafia is part of a marine park with healthy reefs and calm lagoons. From about October to March, whale sharks gather off Kilindoni. There are no big resorts, just a few small lodges. Read about Mafia Island whale sharks.
Private islands
Several tiny islands have a single lodge, such as Mnemba off Zanzibar and Thanda off Mafia. They are expensive but offer complete privacy and excellent snorkelling.
How to choose
- First time, or travelling with family: Zanzibar.
- Divers: Pemba or Mafia.
- Whale sharks: Mafia, October to March.
- Honeymoon: a quiet Zanzibar beach or a private island.
See Zanzibar beach week, Mafia whale sharks and safari and Zanzibar.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the trip. Zanzibar offers the most variety, Pemba the best diving, and Mafia whale sharks and quiet.
Pemba is quieter and better for diving, but has fewer beaches and hotels. Zanzibar is easier to reach and has more to do.
By light aircraft from Dar es Salaam, about 30 minutes, or from Zanzibar.
