Located off the north-east coast of Tanzania, the island of Pemba is a true natural gem, often overshadowed by its better-known big sister, Zanzibar. It is part of the Zanzibar archipelago, but retains a distinct identity with its unspoilt charm and natural beauty. Less frequented by tourists, Pemba offers a unique experience for travellers seeking authenticity, tranquillity and wilderness adventure.
Pemba is located around 50 kilometres north of Zanzibar and around 80 kilometres from the mainland coast of Tanzania. The island covers an area of 988 km², and its terrain is much more hilly and verdant than that of Zanzibar, earning it the nickname ‘the green island’.
Pemba enjoys a tropical climate with relatively constant temperatures throughout the year, varying between 25°C and 30°C. The main rainy season extends from April to May, with a second lighter period in November. The ideal time to visit Pemba is between June and October, when the weather is dry and pleasant.
Pemba has a rich history dating back many centuries. Like Zanzibar, the island was an important centre of the spice trade, attracting Arabs, Persians and later Europeans. From the 10th century onwards, the island was influenced by Omani and Persian traders, resulting in a predominantly Muslim population.
Today, around 98% of Pemba's inhabitants are Muslim. The local culture is a fascinating blend of Swahili, Arab and Bantu influences, reflected in the languages spoken, customs and festivities. Pemba's traditional villages are steeped in a simple, peaceful way of life, with a heavy reliance on agriculture, principally the cultivation of cloves, which is one of the island's main products.
1. Beaches and scuba diving
Pemba is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the archipelago, with crystal-clear waters and white sands. But what really sets Pemba apart are its world-renowned diving spots. The coral reefs around the island offer exceptional marine biodiversity, with coral walls, underwater gardens and a variety of aquatic fauna. Diving enthusiasts will be able to spot sea turtles, rays and a wide variety of tropical fish.
2. Islands and mangroves
The island is surrounded by numerous small islets that add to its natural charm. Some of the best excursions include visits to uninhabited islands and unspoilt mangroves. These rich ecosystems are essential to the local biodiversity and offer picturesque landscapes to explore by boat or kayak.
3. Forests and wildlife
Pemba is also covered in lush rainforests, such as the Ngezi Forest, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife including red colobus monkeys, Pemba bats, and many rare bird species. For hiking enthusiasts, these forests offer great opportunities to explore while observing the local biodiversity.
4. The Mjini Ole Valley
Located in the south-west of the island, the Mjini Ole Valley is a magnificent place to explore. It is a marshy area surrounded by hills and is home to a wide variety of birds and plants. The valley is also known for its freshwater springs and clove plantations.
1. Chwaka Ruins
The Chwaka Ruins are one of the most important historical remains on the island of Pemba. They bear witness to the Persian and Omani influence through ancient Islamic architecture. Located just a few kilometres from Wete, these ruins offer a fascinating insight into Pemba's history.
2. Visit to the Clove Plantations
Pemba is famous for its clove production, and a tour of the plantations allows visitors to discover the whole process of growing and processing this prized spice. Clove plantations cover a large part of the island, and these tours offer a unique insight into the local economy.
3. Local festivals
Pemba hosts a number of cultural festivals, particularly during Islamic holidays. Religious celebrations such as Eid and Ramadan are key times when villages come alive with prayers, feasting, and traditional music and dance performances.
Pemba offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to smaller, more modest boutique hotels. Eco-lodges are particularly popular on the island, as they offer total immersion in nature while minimising environmental impact.
Among the notable accommodation options, The Manta Resort is famous for its underwater chamber, a unique experience that allows visitors to spend the night in the middle of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by tropical fish. For those looking for a more authentic and cost-effective experience, there are a number of hotels and guesthouses in the main town of Chake Chake.
Access to Pemba is relatively easy from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam. There are several daily flights to Pemba Airport at Chake Chake, operated by local airlines such as Coastal Aviation and Auric Air. It is also possible to take a ferry from Zanzibar, although the journey can be long and sometimes bumpy.
Pemba is an ideal destination for travellers looking to get off the beaten track and discover an island that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Whether you want to enjoy heavenly beaches, explore lush nature or discover a rich and authentic culture, Pemba offers a unique experience in Tanzania. Its tranquillity, unspoilt environment and peaceful atmosphere make it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in search of new discoveries.
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