Pemba Island – Best Things To Do and See

Pemba Island is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, located off the coast of East Africa and is one of the best island in Tanzania. The island is famous for its lively marine life and unspoiled beaches. It is also known as the green island for its lush landscapes. The island provides a mix of relaxation and adventure for visitors. Here is a  guide about where Pemba Island is located and some of the best things you can see and do there.

Explore the Pristine Beaches

Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania have remote beaches with fine dry sand and crystal clear water. Some of the prominent Pemba Beach Zanzibar are:

Vumawimbi Beach: A peaceful spot which is ideal for chilling out and swimming. The unspoiled beauty and clear water make it a perfect place for photography and sunbathing.

Misali Island Beach: Misali Beach can be easily reached by boat, the place is a perfect destination for snorkelling and diving lovers with lively coral reefs and a variety of marine species.

Dive into the Underwater World

Pemba Island gives you ample opportunities for diving and snorkelling with its rich coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.

Misali Island Marine Park: The marine park is home to  almost  350 species of fish and 40 types of coral making it a heaven for underwater exploration.

Visit Ngezi Forest Reserve

The Ngezi Forest Reserve is a tropical rainforest which is situated at the northern tip of Pemba. It’s a sanctuary which is known for : 

• Rare bird species such as the Pemba Sunbird and Pemba Scops Owl.
• Many Indigenous flora and fauna, with the likes of ancient trees and unique primates.
•  Scenic walking trials.

Discover Historical Ruins

The Pemba island has a rich history which can be seen in its ancient ruins : 

Chwaka Ruins: The place was formerly a Swahili settlement, these ruins give you a glimpse into the medieval past of the Pemba 

Mkama Ndume Ruins: These ruins are situated in Ras Mkumbuu, this site reveals tales of the  Pemba’s link to the Shirazi settlers and its key role in the spice trade.

Indulge in the Spice Farms

Pemba Island is famous for its spice production, especially cloves. A tour of the spice farm provides you : 

• Understanding of the cultivation and harvesting processes.
• Gives you a chance to sample and purchase species such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Interact with the local farmers and communities.

Sail on a Traditional Dhow

The sailing experience on a dhow is a must while travelling to the pemba island. This activity is also a highlighting point in Pemba Island tourism. These boats provide you with :

• Boat trip with splendid views of the Indian Ocean.
• Opportunity to fish with the local techniques.
• An easy way to check out the coastline of the island.

Engage in Cultural Experiences

The people of Pemba have a rich cultural heritage. Some of the activities to do to indulge in their culture : 

Village Tours: You can visit the local villages in Pemba to experience the traditional Swahili life, cuisine, and crafts.

Festivals: If you’re lucky, you might see local events like the Mwaka Kogwa festival, a special celebration of the new year.

Relax at Luxury Resorts

Pemba Island provides you with some of the most high-end and eco-friendly accommodations in Tanzania. Some of them include: 

The Manta Resort: The resort is known for its underwater room, which provides you with a unique experience.

Fundu Lagoon: It is a high-end resort which provides you with a mix of luxury with nature,  which makes it perfect for honeymoons and romantic getaways.

Taste Pemba’s Local Cuisine

 Pemba cuisine is a combination of Swahili, Arabic, and Indian influences. Some of the must-try dishes are: 

Biryani and Pilau: Spiced rice dishes with meat or seafood.

Seafood Delicacies: Freshly caught fish, prawns, and octopus.

Cassava and Coconut: Main ingredients used in many dishes.

Birdwatching Adventures

Pemba is a haven for bird lovers Some of the well-known bird species found here include: 

• The Pemba White-eye
• The Pemba Green Pigeon
• The Pemba Sunbird

Many guided birdwatching tours are available, which help you easily see these beautiful creatures.

Some Practical Tips

Where is Pemba Island

Pemba Island is an island of Tanzania situated in the Indian Ocean, about 50 kilometres north of Unguja and 80 kilometres east of mainland Tanzania. 

How to get to Pemba Island : 

By Air: The easiest way to get to the Pemba island is by air. Many domestic flights operate. To Pemba Island regularly 

By Ferry: There are a few ferries available from  Zanzibar to Pemba but they are quite small in number and take several hours to reach [ usually 4 to 6 hours ].

By Private Boat or Charter: You can also arrange dhow or private charters from  Zanzibar or mainland Tanzania.

Best Time to Visit:

Pemba Island weather is best from June to October with a minimal amount of rainfall

Conclusion 

Pemba Island is a gem full of natural beauty, rich history and all kinds of cultural experiences. The island gives you an experience different from others. Its untouched charm blended with the warm hospitality making it a perfect gateway for both adventurers and peace-seekers.