Pemba Island Holidays
Pemba Island Holidays: Tranquil Beaches, Pristine Diving & Hidden Gems
Discover the serene beauty of Pemba Island, the northern jewel of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Often called the “Clove Island” of the Indian Ocean, Pemba is a lush, hilly paradise that offers travelers a peaceful alternative to Zanzibar’s bustling beaches. With its unspoiled landscapes, friendly local communities, and secluded villages nestled among spice plantations and tropical forests, Pemba promises an authentic, off-the-beaten-path island experience.
Unwind on Pemba’s Pristine Beaches
Pemba is home to some of Tanzania’s most secluded beaches, where soft white sands meet the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The island’s tranquility makes it perfect for honeymooners, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a serene escape. Beyond the shore, explore offshore islands, hidden coves, and tropical forests that remain largely untouched by tourism.
Dive into the Pemba Channel Conservation Area
For diving enthusiasts, Pemba is a dream destination. The Pemba Channel Conservation Area spans the island’s west coast and offers a rich marine ecosystem with rare dugongs, dolphins, humpback whales, and five species of sea turtles. The area includes top dive sites like Misali Island, Kigomasha Peninsula, Fundu Gap, and Njao Gap, widely regarded as some of the best diving spots in East Africa. Several beaches here also serve as important breeding grounds for green and hawksbill turtles.
Explore Pemba’s Natural Wonders
Nature lovers will enjoy Ngezi Forest, a protected northern rainforest home to the endemic Pemba flying fox, a bat species that dazzles visitors at dusk. Misali Island, with its vibrant coral reefs and pristine beaches, is a must-visit for snorkeling and photography enthusiasts.
Step Back in Time: Pemba’s Historical Sites
History buffs can explore the Mkama Ndume Ruins, remnants of a 15th-century Swahili town near Pujini village, southeast of Chake Chake. The Ras Mkumbuu Ruins, located west of Chake Chake near Ndagoni village, feature ancient tombs and a mosque, offering a glimpse into Pemba’s rich cultural heritage. Spice tours are also available, allowing visitors to trace the fascinating history of cloves and other spices that thrive on the island.
Combine Your Beach Escape with Adventure
Pemba Island is only 60 km off mainland Tanzania, making it easy to combine your beach holiday with an exciting safari or Mount Kilimanjaro climb. Ask us about our safari and beach packages or Kilimanjaro and beach packages for the ultimate Tanzanian adventure.
Getting to Pemba
While ferries from Zanzibar are available, they can be unpredictable. Most travelers find it easiest to fly directly to Pemba Airport from Arusha, Dar Es Salaam, or Zanzibar. Once on the island, immerse yourself in the scent of clove trees, some over a century old, and explore the lush landscapes that make Pemba a hidden gem in East Africa.
Experience Pemba Island – a sanctuary of tranquility, adventure, and natural beauty where every moment invites you to relax and reconnect with nature.