Though Pemba is a secluded destination off the beaten track, there are several ways to reach this idyllic island.

The most popular option is taking a chartered flight with Coastal Air or Auric Air. Most travelers fly from Unguja, with the journey taking a swift 30 minutes. Flights are also available from Dar es Salaam for those traveling from the mainland.

Another option is traveling from Zanzibar to Pemba by ferry. However, the crossing is known to be rough and potentially unsafe. If you choose this route, Zazm Marine is considered the most reliable ferry service.

Upon arrival at Pemba’s airport or ferry port, your resort will typically arrange a pick-up for you. This service may either be included in your booking or added to your bill, so it’s worth confirming with your accommodation beforehand.

Pemba has one main tarred road running through the middle of the island, making it difficult to access many sights. As a result, bicycles are one of the most popular modes of transport. Bikes can be rented from your hotel for approximately $10 per day, providing an efficient way to explore the island at a leisurely pace.

For travellers who prefer not to cycle, buses and dala dalas (shared minibuses) are available. These simple buses operate on an informal basis, departing only when full, and lack designated timetables. While they cover the main routes between towns and villages, they have limited space for luggage.

Car rental is uncommon in Pemba due to the island’s small size. Most travellers opt to hire a driver from a taxi rank or arrange a tour through their hotel. A car and driver for the day typically costs around $50-$70, and tours are often guided by taxi drivers who take guests to their chosen destinations.

For motorbike enthusiasts, Coral Tours in Chake Chake offers rental services. Additionally, most activities and excursions on Pemba are organized through your hotel, ensuring that all transport is taken care of. A variety of cultural and environmental experiences are spread across the island, offering enriching opportunities to explore Pemba’s unique landscapes and traditions.

The heavy rain season on Pemba Island occurs from April to May, during which many resorts close temporarily. These monsoons contribute to the lush mangrove forests and serene swamps that define the island’s landscape.

A smaller rainy season falls between November and December, bringing occasional showers and lower visibility for diving. However, this period also sees a decrease in malaria-carrying mosquitoes, making it a safer time for outdoor activities.

Due to its equatorial location, Pemba enjoys a consistent and pleasant climate year-round, with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F). This mild warmth provides a comfortable atmosphere for both exploration and relaxation.

Archeological Sites

There are several captivating archaeological sites that history enthusiasts should not miss.

These include Ras Mkumbuu, featuring a mosque, ancient tombs, and 14th-century houses, as well as Chakawa, which houses the ruins of a town from the 11th to 15th century.

The Mkama Nduma ruins stand out as one of the most significant sites. This 15th-century palace is the only known fortification on the Swahili coast, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s historical past.

To deepen your understanding of local heritage, a visit to the Pemba Museum in Chake Chake is highly recommended. Here, you can learn about the island’s rich history. Additionally, Chake Chake itself features the ruins of an ancient fort, adding to the area’s historical intrigue.

Spice Farms

Pemba is known as the ‘Clove Island’ due to its status as the world’s leading exporter of cloves. Visitors can explore a spice farm to see clove trees in their natural environment and learn how cloves are transformed into essential oils at the ZSTC Clove Oil distillery.

The Zanzibar Archipelago, of which Pemba is a part, is often referred to as the ‘Spice Islands’ because of the abundance of spice farms throughout the region. Pemba’s spice farms also produce cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, lemongrass, vanilla, and nutmeg.

Guests can take part in cookery lessons or enjoy guided farm tours to witness firsthand how these spices are cultivated. Additionally, visitors will gain insight into the rich history of the spice trade in the region and have the opportunity to purchase the freshest, most authentic spices available anywhere in the world.

Scuba diving

Pemba is renowned as one of Africa’s top scuba diving destinations. The island boasts stunning underwater walls and exceptional topography, offering a thriving habitat for a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, and various big game fish.

The best diving sites are located along the island’s west coast, featuring locations like Misali Island, the Kigomasha Peninsula, the Fundu Gap, and the Njao Gap—all part of the Pemba Channel Conservation Area.

While most divers are experienced, several companies offer courses and day trips for beginners, ensuring that everyone can explore the island’s underwater wonders. Visibility remains excellent for much of the year, though it is advisable to avoid the rainy seasons from April to May and November to December.

Pemba has a limited selection of hotels, so choosing the right accommodation is essential.

While many hotels offer scuba diving and deep-sea fishing tours, it’s important to verify their activities before booking. Ensuring that the hotel offers experiences aligned with your interests is key for a memorable stay.

Additionally, the facilities and activities provided by each hotel play a significant role in shaping your overall experience. Most accommodations are secluded, nestled along the coast, providing a tranquil and immersive environment.