Welcome To Pemba Island
Pemba Island is the second-largest island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, situated about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of the main island of Zanzibar. It covers an area of approximately 980 square kilometers (380 square miles) and is known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Pemba Island offers a quieter and more secluded alternative to the bustling tourist destinations on Zanzibar Island.
Location: Pemba Island is located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. It is situated at a latitude of about 5 degrees south and a longitude of approximately 39 degrees east. The island is surrounded by turquoise waters and is renowned for its coral reefs, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Landscape: Pemba Island boasts a lush and hilly terrain, with fertile valleys and dense forests covering much of its land. The island is renowned for its spice production, particularly cloves, which thrive in its fertile soil. The coastline is dotted with idyllic sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and picturesque fishing villages. Inland, you'll find rolling hills, plantations, and traditional Swahili villages.
Visitor Activities:
Diving and Snorkeling: Pemba Island is known for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The surrounding waters are home to colorful coral reefs, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear visibility, making it a paradise for underwater exploration.
Beach Relaxation: The island offers serene and unspoiled beaches where visitors can unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Popular beaches include Fundu Lagoon, Vumawimbi Beach, and Manta Resort Beach.
Spice Tours: Pemba Island is famous for its spice production. Visitors can embark on spice tours to explore the island's spice plantations, learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices, and sample the aromatic flavors of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and more.
Cultural Immersion: Pemba Island provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local Swahili culture. You can visit traditional villages, interact with the friendly locals, witness traditional ceremonies, and even participate in traditional dances and music performances.
Accessibility: To reach Pemba Island, most visitors fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Zanzibar Island. From there, you can take a domestic flight or a ferry to Pemba Island. Domestic flights from Zanzibar to Pemba are relatively short, taking approximately 20 minutes. The ferry ride from Zanzibar to Pemba takes around 2-3 hours.
Once on Pemba Island, transportation options include taxis, private transfers, and local dhow boats. It's recommended to arrange transportation in advance or through your accommodation provider to ensure a smooth and convenient journey on the island.