The Ultimate Guide To Pemba Island: Tanzania's Hidden Paradise

Concealed beneath the Zanzibar Archipelago's prominent silhouette lies Pemba Island, whose Arabic name fittingly translates to "The Green Island." While it shares its geographical vicinity with the neighboring flat, sandy islands, Pemba stands apart as a unique haven. Unlike the typical palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters of most islands, Pemba presents a coastal retreat framed by a verdant, undulating terrain teeming with biodiversity. Despite its densely forested hills and the presence of a thriving farming community, Pemba remains largely uncharted by the masses of tourists.

Ultimate guide to Pemba Island: If you’re looking for an authentic island experience, Pemba offers not only a green wonderland begging to be explored but also an underwater world that makes for some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling.

Getting to know Pemba Island

Pemba remains relatively unexplored by tourists, and this adds to the island's charm, making it a significant point in Pemba Island tourism. Often regarded by seasoned travelers as the best island in Tanzania for those seeking unspoiled nature, Pemba is hillier and greener than its larger neighbor, Unguja, yet often remains in the shadows. It is a hidden gem adorned with lush forests, secretive beaches, mangrove swamps, tranquil lagoons, and shifting tidal sandbanks. Scattered across the island are the remnants of mosques and tombs, reminders of the Arab rule during the 17th century.

The pristine beauty of Pemba has been remarkably preserved due to its relative obscurity. With only a few towns and hotels, it's a destination for adventurous travelers. Known as the 'clove island' for being the world's primary cloves exporter (accounting for 70% of global production), Pemba is also renowned for its juju traditions in medicine, earning it a reputation as the 'magic' island of the world.

The calm waters make Zanzibar Beach summers a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts 

How to get to Pemba Island

The most popular way to get to the island is aboard a chartered aircraft, which is frequently provided by Coastal Air or Auric Air. Many tourists choose to fly in only 30 minutes from Unguja. However, Dar es Salaam is also a possibility. As an alternative, you may go from Zanzibar to Pemba by ferry, but be warned that the trip can be dangerous and rather choppy. How to get to Pemba Island? As far as dependability goes, Zazm Marine is the best ferry company. Your resort should organize transportation for you to and from the airport or ferry terminal upon your arrival; this may be part of your package or charged separately.

Pemba Island weather quick facts

• Resorts close in heavy April - May rains.
• Monsoons create mangrove forests and marshes.
• Shorter rainy season: November - December.
• Fewer malaria mosquitoes but poorer diving visibility.
• Equatorial location keeps a pleasant 26°C average temperature.

Is Pemba Island safe?

Pemba Island, like many travel destinations, has its safety considerations. It's generally a safe place for tourists, and many visitors have enjoyable, trouble-free experiences. 

Top things to do in Pemba Island for visitors

Pemba Island offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture, with activities ranging from diving and snorkeling to exploring local villages.

Treat your taste buds with a visit to the ZSTC clove oil distillery

Pemba is well-known for its clove industry, and this distillery is where the clove stems can be turned into essential oil. The distillery is operated by the Zanzibar State Trading Corporation (ZSTC) 

The distillery can be found in the suburb of Machomane, about 1km north of the town centre and east of the main road. You can make the trip by taking a dalla-dalla to the junction then walk or arrange a tour to get you there. 

Snorkeling

Pemba Island snorkeling is one of the top diving and snorkeling locations off the coast of Tanzania, with the entire island surrounded by coral reefs.  Between the island and mainland Tanzania, the Pemba Channel shelves off to depths of more than 2,000m, and Pemba is famous for seriously large sea fish, which include barracuda, tuna, shark, and even whales.  This is a glorious playground for experienced divers. Visibility is generally very good and there are some spectacular pinnacles. Currents are strong at Pemba, so it’s not ideal for first-time divers.

Pemba Island is one of the top diving and snorkeling locations off the coast of Tanzania 

Ngezi forest reserve

If you make your way to the far North Eastern side of Pemba, you'll be greeted by the dense and wonderfully lush Ngezi, which is one of the last remaining areas of indigenous forest that once covered much of the island and is as close to the rainforest that you'll get anywhere in the area. This sanctuary is protected by a 1476-hectare reserve; the forest is complete with vines providing swings for raucous vervet monkeys. 

Feel free to explore the two nature trails tunnel through the forest with off-trail walks allowed but be advised all visits must be done with a naturalist guide.While bird enthusiasts are in for a treat, by taking on an easier route on the specific birdwatching and bat-watching walks, plus night walks to see bushbabies and for keen birdwatchers to spot the endemic Pemba scops-owl.

Dive into thehistory of the Island at the Pemba Museum

Take a few hours to explore the history of Pemba Island by hitting up the Pemba Museum. Among the top things to do in Pemba Island, this small museum has well-organized displays of island history. The museum fills up an 18th-century Omani fort, which could have been built on the remains of a 16th-century Portuguese garrison. It is recommended that you check out the museum if you plan on visiting the ruins at places like Ras Mkumbuu just to have a better understanding and context of the area.

Let's dive into the history of the island at the Pemba Museum

Prison Island

Prison Island may not sound like the most attractive place in the world, but this tropical paradise is the perfect place to escape from the hustle of the main Zanzibar and relax in the sun. Taking its name from the fact that it is a former prison for slaves, this field of natural beauty holds all kinds of pleasures, including many giant tortoises that roam freely around the island. The island can be reached from Zanzibar in about 30 minutes by boat, and once there, you will not be able to stop yourself from jumping in the water. This is one thing to do on Pemba Island.

If you enjoy discovering remote island destinations, exploring Mafia Island tourism offers another unforgettable experience with pristine beaches, marine parks, and exceptional diving opportunities.

Let’s explore some ultimate guide to Pemba Island

Useful tips for visiting Pemba Island: Plan ahead to enjoy a smooth, safe, and memorable trip to this tropical paradise.

• Check visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
• Visit during the dry season (June–October) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
• Book accommodation early to secure your preferred resort, hotel, or eco-lodge.
• Purchase travel insurance and take necessary health precautions, including malaria prevention.
• Carry some Tanzanian Shillings for small purchases, as card payments may be limited.
• Arrange transportation through taxis, rental vehicles, scooters, bicycles, or local dala-dalas to explore the island easily.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October

Pack your bags and prepare to be mesmerized. Pemba Island awaits, ready to bestow its beauty and wonder upon all who venture to its shores. Without going to the embassy or consulate, you may apply for a Tanzania eVisa more quickly and conveniently through Tanzania e-Visa systems. No paperwork is involved in visa processing, which can take up to 3 working days.