The coral island of Pemba, which is part of the Zanzibar archipelago (Tanzania), is known for its diverse tourist attractions. The African nature, maritime climate, and combination of tourist and resort opportunities make it a popular destination. While Pemba may not be as well-known in the tourism industry, it offers a peaceful and secluded experience away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. Here, visitors can explore the underwater world, admire the mountainous landscapes, and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation on the Indian Ocean coast. You can book a hotel and dive to Pemba through the operator Altezza Travel, whose office is located in Tanzania.
General information
Pemba Island in Tanzania is located 50 km north of Zanzibar Island. It is 65 km long and 18 km wide. Historically, it was known as the “Green Island” among Arab traders, as it was rich in spices, which were highly valued commodities.
The population here is less numerous (about 500 thousand people) than in Zanzibar, is distinguished by friendliness and great respect for local traditional beliefs. The basis of the inhabitants of this island of Tanzania is made up of Arabs, once migrated from Oman, the indigenous people of the Vasaukili and the Shirazi ethnic group. The main city of Pemba is Chake-Chake, the largest settlement is Vete.
Traditional medicine is widely practiced here, and agriculture is based on the cultivation of spices, rice, and legumes. The island is home to at least 3 million clove trees, and mangrove and coconut plantations are also cultivated.
Pemba has its own airport. Most of the hotels are located along the beaches, the most famous of which is Wumawimbi (2 km long). Since the sand on the island is of coral origin, it has a beautiful white color and is suitable for southern vacations, as it does not heat up in the sun.
What souvenirs to bring from Tanzania
Attractions and entertainment
The main advantage of the Tanzanian island is its geographical location. The proximity of the African continent, the dominance of the maritime climate, comfortable beaches, and its own history make the island an object with its own tourist value. What can you do during your vacation on the Tanzanian island of Pemba?
Diving and snorkeling
Pemba is a popular destination for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts alike. The coastal waters are characterized by a variety of animals for contemplation and colorful photos. Tanzania is located almost at the equator, so the underwater world is densely populated. Diving is especially developed on the east coast, where there are coral reefs (Izumrudny, Samaki), and the water is clear and allows you to observe in detail barracudas, stingrays, octopuses, large crustaceans, moray eels, and schools of fish.
One of the unique features is that a Greek ship sank near the island in 1969. Its wreck has become overgrown with algae and shells, and it has become a habitat for marine life. Divers enjoy visiting this new site to admire the vibrant colors and observe the active marine life.
In July and August, the Pemba Island is a migration route for humpback whales. The ocean around the island is an excellent fishing ground. The best time for fishing is from September to March, and the best location is the Pemba Strait, which separates the island from mainland Tanzania.
Tropical forests
The island’s pristine nature has preserved the local tropical forest in all its diversity. The dense thickets of baobab trees, as well as the exotic fauna and flora of the forested tropics, are a source of pride for the island. Visitors can expect to encounter blue monkeys, flying foxes, duiker antelopes, and more. The vibrant birds with their colorful plumage, fragrant flowering plants, and vines create a typical forest landscape.
What is worth seeing in Zanzibar
Architecture
The island’s distance from the mainland did not affect its economic and infrastructure development. It was not left out of the maritime caravan routes, and various cultures left their mark on its history. Among its architectural landmarks, visitors can explore ancient ruins such as:
- the ruins of an 18th-century coastal military fortification, an Arab fort;
- remnants of the first settlements of the indigenous Swahili people of Africa, as well as burial sites studied by scientists with well-defined signs of authenticity;
- the mosque and fortress, which date back to the 14th century, are even older.
- The world-famous ruins of another fortification, Pugini (a 15th-century fortress with an underground tomb), are located nearby.
At the extreme northern point of the island, there is a steel lighthouse (dating back to 1900), which is unofficially open to the public. In general, the architecture of Pemba Island features elements brought by various conquerors over time, as well as interesting ancient patterns.
A vacation in Pemba: what to expect and what to prepare for
The tourist infrastructure is well-developed, allowing for a comfortable stay of any duration. Walking around the island, exploring its mountainous areas, forests, and historical sites, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes, broaden your horizons, and breathe in the fresh sea air. However, the beach and sea activities are the main attractions of the resort.
There are also budget-friendly hotels located near the beaches, and guests can choose to stay in bungalows on the beachfront, eliminating the need to walk to the ocean every day. However, the hotel offers a range of additional services, including restaurants, swimming pools, spas, diving and boat trips.
For example, the Manta Resort hotel is known for its popular tourist attraction: an underwater room. The first level of the hotel room, with all its windows facing the sea, extends 4 meters into the water.
There are also local restaurants on Pemba Island, all of which are located near hotels. Exotic fruits are inexpensive at the market, and those that grow on tropical trees are free.
Zanzibar Beaches – Where is the Best Place to Swim?
How to get to Pemba and how to get around the island
Pemba Island can be reached from other parts of Tanzania by sea or via the air port. In the first case, there are options to sail by boat from neighboring Zanzibar (for $50-60) or by ferry from mainland Tanzania across the strait. It is considered that the best way is by plane, as ferry services are irregular, and for boat crossing, you need to hire a privateer. Air routes are served by local airlines Coastal Aviation and ZanAir (about $130).
Those who have plenty of time can take the ferry from Zanzibar to Pemba. This ferry runs twice a week and takes about 5 hours. The ferry arrives at the port of Chake Chake.
In Pemba, there is only one main paved road that runs through the center of the island. As a result, one of the most popular modes of transportation is cycling, which can be rented from hotels for around \$10-12 per day. For travelers who cannot ride a bicycle, there are also buses and dala-dala (simple busses that only depart when they are full and do not have a fixed schedule).
Lots of sun, coral reefs, pristine rainforests and white beaches make this a true African paradise. Pemba Island itself is a jewel of the archipelago and a promising resort that awaits its admirers all year round.
