Known as 'Al Jazeera al Khadra' (The Green Island), Pemba is cloaked in clove plantations, mangrove channels, and ancient ruins. Its underwater world is the real draw: vertical coral walls dropping into deep channels, pelagic fish, and some of the best diving in the western Indian Ocean. Only a handful of lodges operate here, making Pemba a true hideaway for divers, honeymooners, and explorers seeking Zanzibar before the crowds found it.
Pemba Island is Zanzibar's secret sister — wilder, greener, and almost entirely untouched by mass tourism.
Discover the wild heart of Pemba Island
Explore Tours →Best Time to Visit
June to October for the best diving visibility (30+ metres) and driest weather. November to February is warmer but rainier. March to May is the heavy rainy season — some lodges close. Whale sharks appear October to February.
What You'll See
Pemba's underwater world is exceptional: pristine hard and soft coral walls, Napoleon wrasse, giant groupers, barracuda schools, eagle rays, green turtles, and occasional whale sharks. On land, the Pemba flying fox (endemic fruit bat) roosts in forest remnants. The Ngezi Forest Reserve protects endemic birds and butterflies.
Getting There
30-minute flight from Zanzibar Airport to Pemba Airport (Chake Chake), or 3-hour fast ferry from Stone Town. Auric Air and Coastal Aviation operate scheduled flights. Lodge transfers from Pemba Airport are typically included.
Find Pemba Island
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Where to Go in Pemba Island
Misali Island
Marine conservation area — pristine reefs & nesting turtles
A tiny, uninhabited coral island off Pemba's west coast with some of the best snorkeling and diving in East Africa. The surrounding marine conservation area protects over 40 species of coral and 350 fish species.
Chake Chake
Pemba's main town — historic ruins & local markets
Pemba's largest town and administrative centre. Visit the ruins of Mkama Ndume palace, browse the local market, and experience authentic Pemba island life far from tourist zones.
Pemba Island Tours & Excursions
Luxury Dhow Sunset Cruise
1 Days / 0 Nights
$150 per person
Premium Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
1 Days / 0 Nights
$120 per person
Private Stone Town Heritage Walk
1 Days / 0 Nights
$80 per person
Gourmet Spice Tour & Cooking Class
1 Days / 0 Nights
$95 per person
Serengeti Migration Safari
6 Days / 5 Nights
$3,500 per person
Ngorongoro Crater Expedition
3 Days / 2 Nights
$1,800 per person
Other Tanzania Destinations
Stone Town
UNESCO World Heritage Site — Swahili architecture, spice markets & rooftop dining
Read Guide →Nungwi
Zanzibar's sunset coast — tide-free swimming, dhow builders & vibrant nightlife
Read Guide →Kendwa
Luxury beachfront resorts, tide-free swimming & legendary full moon parties
Read Guide →Paje
East Africa's kitesurfing capital — trade winds, tidal flats & bohemian beach life
Read Guide →Where to Stay Near Pemba Island
Pongwe, Tanzania
Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
Secluded boutique resort on Pongwe's untouched bay with thatched villas, tropical gardens, and one of Zanzibar's most serene stretches of sand.
From USD 350 / night
Pemba Island, Tanzania
Aiyana Resort & Spa Pemba
Exclusive island sanctuary on Pemba's untouched west coast with ocean-facing villas, a world-class dive centre, and holistic spa overlooking the channel.
From USD 800 / night
Kiwengwa, Tanzania
Melia Zanzibar
All-inclusive beachfront elegance on Kiwengwa's turquoise shore with lush tropical gardens, two pools, and a world-class spa.
From USD 400 / night
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