Pemba Island | Tanzania. Pemba Island, which is still considered to be a part of the Zanzibar Archipelago and is located forty kilometers to the north of the main island of Zanzibar (Unguja), is substantially more rural and significantly smaller than the more popular Zanzibar vacations that take place on the main island. Pemba’s hills and escarpments are green and scenic, in contrast to Zanzibar, which is relatively flat. Pemba’s hills and escarpments are colored by the lush greens of ten different species of mangoes and many hundreds of clove trees, which have traditionally supported the fortunes of this island of spice.

Pemba is surrounded by a beautiful coral reef and pure oceans; yet, its coasts are also flanked by impenetrable mangrove woods, and the nicest beaches need some searching and a little of effort to find and reach. In general, however, the beaches in this area are not even close to being as good as those in Zanzibar. The island of Pemba is primarily visited by people who come to dive and snorkel its coral reefs and channels. Pemba has remained almost unknown to the hordes of beach-bound tourists, and there are just a number of luxury lodges on the island.

The opinions of those working in this office have always been somewhat divided over what we truly think of Pemba. It is true that Pemba’s off-shore islands offer wonderful beaches, and the diving and snorkeling opportunities are without a doubt exceptional; nevertheless, Pemba’s beaches are not quite as nice as those in Zanzibar; so, the question arises as to whether or not the lodges in this area are truly worth the money when you do not have a good beach right outside your door? If you want to make your Tanzania safari vacation an underwater one, then you should consider doing so. This is our opinion, on the whole. Aside from that, no!

Air travel to the island of Pemba

The process could not be simpler. One flight departs from Zanzibar at eight in the morning, while the other departs at three in the afternoon. Both flights take thirty minutes. Because Pemba is located just off the coast to the north of Zanzibar, it is quite easy to get to (island is only an hour away from Dar es Salaam), and it is straightforward to spend a few nights there. Before making the trip to Pemba, it is a good idea to spend a couple of nights at Stone Town on Zanzibar so that you can get a feel for the unique blend of Arab, African, and European cultures that can be found there.

Pemba Island: Things to Do and See

The entire island of Pemba is surrounded by coral reefs, which serve as world-class dive sites. The marine life that you could find on Pemba Island is incredible, making it one of the best places to go snorkeling and diving off the coast of Tanzania. Pemba is renowned for its exceptionally big marine life, which includes barracuda, tuna, shark, and even whales. The Pemba Channel, which is located between the island and the mainland of Tanzania, extends to depths of more than 2,000 meters.

Those who have experience diving will find this to be a magnificent African playground. Divers with prior experience will find this to be a magnificent playground. Generally speaking, visibility is very good, and there are some pinnacles that are very breathtaking. Because the currents at Pemba are so powerful, it is not a good place for first-time divers to go. In the event that you do not feel comfortable spending the entirety of your time underwater, sunset cruises on dhow boats are an option that is available and are very popular.

When to visit Pemba Island and why

Pemba is most enjoyable to visit during the dry season, which begins in July and lasts until the end of October. This makes it an ideal addition to go along with the conclusion of a safari in East Africa. Even though there are a few showers throughout the month of November, Pemba is still a wonderful place to visit all the way through March. The months of April and May should be avoided because this is the time of year when the lodges are generally closed due to the severe rains.

If you would like some further background information, you can read the Cadogan Guide to Tanzania and Zanzibar – Pemba Chapter, which was prepared by one of our directors, Annabel. While we are working hard to make our website as comprehensive as possible, if you would like some additional information, you can read it.

It is possible that some of the information may be slightly out of date because the most recent version was released in 2005; but, in general, it is as comprehensive as they come. Check out our blog post on the well-known underwater bedroom for a glimpse of one of the genuinely one-of-a-kind experiences that Pemba has to offer here…

WHERE CAN ONE STAY ON THE ISLAND OF PEMBA?

Resort Manta, located on Pemba Island in Zanzibar

One of the three lodges that we offer for sale on Pemba is called The Manta, and it is located in the northern part of the island. It is a reasonably priced and simple hotel that provides access to some excellent diving opportunities. Although the lodge is a lot of fun, it is located in a very secluded area and has some rough spots. The beach, on the other hand, is most likely the greatest one on the island.

Hotel located underwater on Pemba Island

The Manta Resort features a one-of-a-kind underwater room that is located just off the coast. This room gives visitors the opportunity to spend the night underneath with the fish or to gaze at the stars from the upper deck. Those who are not prone to sea sickness and don’t mind being in cramped quarters are likely to find it to be an appealing option for their honeymoon. Those interested in gaining a glimpse of the genuinely one-of-a-kind experience that Pemba has to offer can read our blog post about the well-known underwater bedroom…

Lodge at the Funduu Lagoon on Pemba Island

The other choice, which is located at the opposite end of the price spectrum, is Fundu Lagoon. Tented cabins are scattered around a hillside on a beach, and although this beach is not the nicest beach on the island, you can take a boat ride to Misali island, where there is a beautiful beach with excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

To the island of Constance Aiyanna Pemba

One of the most recent additions to Pemba Island is Aiyanna, which is part of the Constance family of luxury brands. It has a very sparkling and new appearance, and it provides all the conveniences (extremely powerful air conditioning!) and mod-cons that you could possibly want for an Indian Ocean vacation that is of world-class quality and off the main path. Located just next to the Manta, this place offers a pleasant beach and a wide variety of activities that may be experienced. Additionally, the meal is very tasty.

Tanzania is not the only country that we are familiar with!

The most effective way to acquire additional information about Tanzania is to give us a call and have an objective conversation with us. Although we have a strong affinity for Tanzania, we also have a strong affinity for the rest of Africa and have specialists in all of the major safari countries. We would appreciate it if you could send us an email or give us a call if you are still unsure about where you would like to go.