While Zanzibar’s main island (Unguja) attracts the majority of visitors with its lively beaches and historic Stone Town, Pemba Island offers something completely different: a quieter, greener, and more authentic side of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
Often called the “Green Island” because of its lush clove plantations, dense forests, and fertile hills, Pemba is ideal for travellers seeking seclusion, pristine nature, world-class diving, and a genuine local experience. With far fewer tourists than Unguja, Pemba feels like a well-kept secret — untouched, peaceful, and deeply rewarding.
Where is Pemba Island?
Pemba lies in the Indian Ocean, about 50 km (31 miles) north of Unguja (Zanzibar Island) and roughly 50 km east of mainland Tanzania. Measuring 67 km long and 22 km wide, it is smaller than Unguja but incredibly rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Together with Unguja and several smaller islands, Pemba forms the Zanzibar Archipelago, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania.
Why Visit Pemba Island?
Pemba is perfect for those who want to escape crowded resorts and experience a more traditional, relaxed side of Zanzibar. Highlights include:
Lush clove plantations that fill the air with a sweet, spicy aroma
Pristine beaches with very few visitors
World-class diving and snorkeling in the Pemba Channel
Traditional Swahili villages and friendly local communities
Ancient ruins and historic sites
Excellent birdwatching (home to several endemic species)
Pemba offers a slower pace of life where nature and culture still take centre stage.
How to Get to Pemba Island
By Air (Recommended)
The fastest and most comfortable way is to fly. Flights from:
Dar es Salaam: ~30–45 minutes
Zanzibar (Unguja): ~15–20 minutes
Arusha or Serengeti (via small charter planes)
Small local airlines operate regular flights. Kilisherpas Travel can arrange seamless connections, especially if you are combining a mainland safari with a Pemba beach extension.
By Ferry
Ferries run twice a week from Stone Town (Unguja) to Mkoani or Chake Chake on Pemba. The journey takes about 4–5 hours. While scenic, flying is generally more convenient and reliable.
What to Expect on Pemba Island
Pemba feels refreshingly untouched. With only a handful of hotels on the entire island, you will often have beaches almost to yourself. The interior is covered in rolling hills, dense forests, and vast clove plantations. The air carries the sweet scent of cloves — Zanzibar’s most famous export.
The local population is predominantly Swahili with strong Omani and Shirazi influences. People are friendly, traditional, and deeply connected to their Islamic faith and fishing/farming lifestyle.
Top Things to Do on Pemba Island
1. World-Class Diving & Snorkeling
Pemba is widely regarded as one of the best diving destinations in East Africa. The Pemba Channel offers dramatic drop-offs, strong currents, and incredibly rich marine life, including:
Colorful coral reefs
Schools of tropical fish
Hammerhead sharks (in deeper waters)
Turtles, dolphins, and occasional whale sharks
Popular dive sites include Misali Island and the Pemba Channel walls. Even snorkelers will be amazed by the clarity and abundance of marine life.
2. Relax on Pristine Beaches
Pemba’s beaches are quiet and unspoiled. You can enjoy long walks on soft white sand, swim in warm turquoise waters, or simply relax under palm trees with almost no other tourists in sight.
3. Explore Clove Plantations
Take a guided tour through the fragrant clove plantations. Learn how cloves are harvested and why Pemba was once the world’s leading producer. The scent is intoxicating, and the experience is both educational and sensory.
4. Visit Ancient Ruins
Discover the remnants of early Swahili settlements and Omani-era structures, especially on the western side of the island. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Pemba’s long history as a trading hub.
5. Birdwatching
Pemba is a paradise for bird lovers. It is home to several endemic species, including the Pemba Scops Owl, Pemba Green Pigeon, and Pemba Sunbird. BirdLife International has designated parts of the island as Important Bird Areas.
6. Experience Local Life
Visit traditional fishing villages, watch dhow boats being built, or join locals for fresh seafood. The island’s slow pace and warm hospitality make it easy to connect with the authentic Swahili way of life.
Best Places to Stay on Pemba
Pemba has only a small number of hotels, all of which emphasise privacy, nature, and comfort:
Aiyana Resort & Spa — Beautiful beachfront villas, excellent dining, and warm hospitality. Highly recommended for a romantic or luxury stay.
Manta Resort — Eco-friendly bungalows with a strong focus on nature and sustainability. Famous for its unique underwater room.
Fundu Lagoon — Luxury tented camp with a relaxed, barefoot-luxury vibe (currently closed for renovation).
Practical Tips for Visiting Pemba
Best time to visit: June to October (dry season) for diving and pleasant weather. Whale sharks may appear October–March.
What to bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel gear, insect repellent, light clothing, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Getting around: Taxis or arranged transfers are the most convenient option. The island is small, so distances are manageable.
Pemba offers a rare chance to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the Zanzibar Archipelago. With its lush green landscapes, world-class diving, pristine beaches, and genuine local culture, it provides a refreshing contrast to the busier shores of Unguja.
Plan Your Pemba Island Adventure with Kilisherpas Travel
Whether you want a peaceful beach retreat, outstanding diving experiences, or a cultural immersion, Kilisherpas Travel can create the perfect Pemba itinerary for you. We also specialise in seamless mainland safari + Pemba Island combinations for travellers who want the best of both worlds.
Ready to discover Tanzania’s Green Island?
Contact Kilisherpas Travel today to plan your 2026–2027 Pemba Island escape. Let us handle the logistics while you enjoy the untouched beauty and warm hospitality of this special place.
The Green Island awaits.
