Pemba - Discovering Tanzania

Travelling to Pemba

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pemba, a pretty good destination in Tanzania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pemba and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pemba, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Tanzania, here's everything to know about Pemba for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pemba

Pemba is an island located off the coast of Tanzania, in East Africa. It is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Pemba is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, with numerous dive sites offering colorful coral reefs, caves, and shipwrecks. The island is also famous for its spice plantations and historical attractions such as the ruins of a 15th-century mosque and the Mkame Ndume ruins. Pemba is accessible by air from mainland Tanzania and other nearby countries. The best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season.

What to visit in Pemba

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Pemba, Tanzania along with some information about them: 1. Misali Island - Misali Island is a protected marine conservation area that is known for its coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to explore the pristine coral gardens and see colorful fish and other sea creatures. The island itself is also a great place to relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
2. Pemba Channel Fishing - The Pemba Channel is famous for its deep-sea fishing opportunities. Big game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and tuna are commonly caught, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
3. Chake Chake - Chake Chake is the capital of Pemba Island and a bustling town with a rich history. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways that make up the town and check out traditional markets and historic buildings.
4. Ngezi Forest Reserve - Ngezi Forest Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, bushbabies, and birds such as the green pigeon and the Pemba sunbird. Visitors can take a guided nature walk through the forest to spot some of the wildlife and learn about the local flora and fauna.
5. Vumawimbi Beach - Vumawimbi Beach is a secluded spot with turquoise waters and white sands. It's a great place to swim, sunbathe and relax, away from the crowds.
6. Kigomasha Peninsula - The Kigomasha Peninsula is a narrow strip of land that offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. Visitors can explore the rocky coastline, enjoy a picnic or take a boat tour around the peninsula to see the abundance of marine life.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions found in Pemba, Tanzania.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Tanzania, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Pemba.

When to go on holiday to Pemba

The best time to go on holiday to Pemba, Tanzania is between June and October. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, and temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. However, it's also worth noting that October can be quite hot and humid. Avoiding the rainy season (March to May) is recommended, as there's likely to be heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pemba

There are a few ways to reach Pemba, Tanzania: 1. By Air: You can take a direct flight to Pemba's Karume International Airport. Several airlines such as Fastjet and Auric Air operate flights to Pemba from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and a few other African cities.
2. By Ferry: Alternatively, you can also take a ferry ride from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba. The ferry ride takes around 5 hours from Dar es Salaam and around 2 hours from Zanzibar.
3. By Private Charter: You can also opt to hire a private charter boat or helicopter to Pemba. This can be a bit expensive, but it offers a unique and luxurious travel experience.
I recommend checking different travel websites to compare options and prices, such as Skyscanner or Expedia. It's also important to check travel restrictions, visa requirements, and health regulations due to COVID-19 before planning any trips.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pemba, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pemba

Sure, here are some typical foods of Pemba (Tanzania) and their descriptions: 1. Wali wa nazi - This is a traditional Pemba rice dish cooked with coconut milk and spices.
2. Kachumbari - A tomato and onion salad, often served as a side dish.
3. Mahamri - A popular breakfast pastry made with coconut milk and cardamom, and often served with tea or coffee.
4. Biryani - A spiced rice dish with vegetables and/or meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb), often served during celebrations or special occasions.
5. Ugali - A staple food made from maize flour and water, usually served with a side dish of vegetables or meat.
6. Samaki wa kupaka - A coconut fish curry made with locally caught fish and coconut milk.
7. Kaimati - Sweet dumplings made from flour, yeast, sugar, and coconut milk. They are usually served as a dessert or at tea time.
8. Kuku wa kupaka - Chicken cooked in a rich coconut sauce with spices and herbs.
I hope this helps, let me know if you need any more information!
You can find general info about typical foods in Tanzania here.

Is Pemba an expensive destination for tourists?

Pemba, Tanzania can be quite an expensive destination for tourists because of its location and limited infrastructure. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be expensive compared to other destinations in Tanzania. However, it is possible to find more budget-friendly options if you do your research and plan ahead. It is also worth noting that the cost of travel to Pemba may vary depending on the season and availability of flights and accommodation.

Where to find accomodation in Pemba

There are several areas you can find accommodation when visiting Pemba, Tanzania. Some popular areas for tourists include: 1. Chake Chake: This is the capital city of Pemba and it is a popular choice for those who want to experience the local culture. There are several lodgings and hotels in this area that offer affordable rates.
2. Wete: This historic town is located along the coast of Pemba, Tanzania, and is known for its beautiful beaches and great restaurants. It is also a great place to find accommodation when visiting Pemba.
3. Mkoani: If you are interested in exploring the ruins of ancient Swahili cities, then Mkoani is a good choice. This small town is located on the northeast coast of Pemba, and it is home to several lodges and hotels.
4. Michamvi Peninsula: Located on the eastern coast of Pemba, the Michamvi Peninsula offers some of the best beach experiences in the region. There are several luxury resorts and lodges in this area, so it is the perfect choice for those who want to splurge during their trip.
You can check hotel prices at Pemba here:
Booking.com

Is Pemba a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pemba Island in Tanzania is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is still advised to take basic safety precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping your valuables safe, being aware of your surroundings, and following the advice of your tour guide or local authorities. It's also recommended to stay up to date on any travel advisories issued by your government. Overall, as long as you exercise caution and common sense, your trip to Pemba should be enjoyable and safe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Tanzania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pemba.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pemba the most?

Pemba Island in Tanzania is a destination that caters to a variety of travelers. It is a great place for couples seeking a romantic getaway as it offers privacy and secluded beaches. The island is also ideal for young people looking for adventure and fun activities as there are plenty of water sports and outdoor adventures to be enjoyed.
Families can also enjoy Pemba Island, especially those who enjoy wildlife and nature. Pemba Island is home to diverse wildlife, including several rare and endangered species such as the Pemba Flying Fox and the Aders's Duiker.
Overall, anyone who loves spending time in a tropical paradise with plenty of outdoor activities and natural beauty is sure to enjoy a trip to Pemba Island.

How to get around Pemba

The most common way to move around Pemba is by hiring a taxi or a private car. There are also public buses and motorbike taxis (known as boda-boda) available, but they may not be the safest option for travelers who are not familiar with the area. Walking is also a possibility if you are staying in the central area. It is important to note that roads in Pemba may not be well-maintained and some areas may not have street lights, so it's important to take safety precautions while traveling.

What to see around Pemba

Of course! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Pemba, Tanzania: 1. Ngezi Forest Reserve: Take a walking tour of this beautiful, lush forest reserve and see a variety of flora and fauna, including red colobus monkeys.
2. Misali Island: Take a boat ride to this stunning island, where you can snorkel, swim, and sunbathe on the pristine beaches.
3. Chake Chake: Explore Pemba's largest town, Chake Chake, and discover local markets, historical landmarks, and traditional Swahili architecture.
4. Manta Resort: Take a short boat ride to this luxurious resort, where you can relax on a private beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and dine on delicious seafood.
5. Vumawimbi Beach: Visit this remote beach, which is accessible only by boat, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the white-sand beach, and the turquoise waters.
6. Kigomasha Peninsula: Take a scenic drive to this beautiful peninsula, where you can visit the historic trading town of Tumbe and see traditional Makonde carvings.
For every travel information about Tanzania you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.