Pemba Island – The Green Island

Pemba Island, known as “The Green Island”, is a tranquil and unspoiled gem in Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago. Rolling hills, spice farms, mangrove forests, and coral lagoons create a paradise for nature lovers, divers, and honeymooners. Quieter and less crowded than Unguja, Pemba invites you to connect with authentic Swahili culture and pristine natural beauty.

Quick Facts

• 🗺️ Location: ~50 km north of Zanzibar (Unguja)
• 🌤️ Best Season: June–October (dry & cool), December–February (sunny & warm)
• ✈️ Access: 30–45 min flight from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam
• ⭐ Top Highlights: Misali Island Marine Reserve, Vumawimbi Beach, Ngezi Forest Reserve, clove plantations

When to Visit & Climate

• 🐠 Best for Diving: July–October & March–April (clear seas and great visibility)
• ☀️ Dry Season: June–October (cool & sunny) and December–February (warm & dry)
• 🌧️ Long Rains: April–May (heavy rainfall reduces visibility and rough seas)
• 🌿 Quiet Period: November–early December (lush scenery, fewer visitors)

How to Get There

• ✈️ By Air: Daily flights from Zanzibar (ZNZ) or Dar es Salaam (DAR) to Pemba (PMA) in 30–45 minutes.
• 🚐 Transfers: Private airport or harbor pick‑ups arranged by your lodge or Saila Holidays.
• 🚢 By Sea: Charter boats and ferries from Zanzibar or mainland ports (check tides & schedules).

Highlights & Experiences

• 🐠 Diving & Snorkeling: Explore the Pemba Channel and Misali’s coral reef, home to turtles, rays, and barracudas.
• 🏝️ Misali Island: Protected marine park with powder‑white sand and a crystal lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.
• 🌳 Ngezi Forest Reserve: Tropical rainforest sheltering rare birds and the endemic Pemba flying fox.
• 🌿 Clove Plantations: Discover Pemba’s spice heritage on fragrant tours and tasting sessions.
• 🏘️ Cultural Encounters: Visit traditional villages, lively markets, and ancient ruins for a true taste of Swahili life.
• 🛶 Kayaking & Cruises: Paddle through mangrove creeks and enjoy a sunset dhow cruise on calm seas.

Where to Stay

• 🏡 Eco-Luxury: Fundu Lagoon, The Aiyana Resort & Spa
• 🌿 Boutique: Pemba Eco‑Lodge, Emerald Bay
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family‑Friendly: Beachfront bungalows near Vumawimbi & Wete (ask us for current picks)

Suggested Itineraries

Choose from our most loved experiences, designed for every traveler—from romantic getaways to cultural explorations.

Travel Tips

• 💳 Carry some cash (TZS) for small markets; credit cards accepted in most lodges.
• 🦺 Respect marine life; choose eco‑friendly tours and reefs with mooring buoys.
• 🧴 Use reef‑safe sunscreen, wear hats and light cover‑ups, and bring water shoes.
• 🕌 Dress modestly in villages and learn simple Swahili greetings like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you).
• 🦟 Pack insect repellent and a dry bag for island excursions and rainy season visits.

FAQs

• Is Pemba good for beginners in diving? Yes—Misali offers gentle sites; we’ll match sites to your level.
• Can I combine Pemba with Zanzibar/Mafia? Absolutely—short flights make it easy; ask us for combos.
• Is Wi-Fi available? Most lodges offer Wi-Fi; speeds vary in remote areas.

📍 View Pemba on Google Maps