Pemba Island Guide — Zanzibar Luxury Holidays

Known as 'Al Jazeera al Khadra' (The Green Island), Pemba is cloaked in clove plantations, mangrove channels, and ancient ruins. Its underwater world is the real draw: vertical coral walls dropping into deep channels, pelagic fish, and some of the best diving in the western Indian Ocean. Only a handful of lodges operate here, making Pemba a true hideaway for divers, honeymooners, and explorers seeking Zanzibar before the crowds found it.

Pemba Island is Zanzibar's secret sister — wilder, greener, and almost entirely untouched by mass tourism.

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When to Visit

Best Time to Visit

June to October for the best diving visibility (30+ metres) and driest weather. November to February is warmer but rainier. March to May is the heavy rainy season — some lodges close. Whale sharks appear October to February.

Wildlife

What You'll See

Pemba's underwater world is exceptional: pristine hard and soft coral walls, Napoleon wrasse, giant groupers, barracuda schools, eagle rays, green turtles, and occasional whale sharks. On land, the Pemba flying fox (endemic fruit bat) roosts in forest remnants. The Ngezi Forest Reserve protects endemic birds and butterflies.

Travel

Getting There

30-minute flight from Zanzibar Airport to Pemba Airport (Chake Chake), or 3-hour fast ferry from Stone Town. Auric Air and Coastal Aviation operate scheduled flights. Lodge transfers from Pemba Airport are typically included.

Location

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Areas & Regions

Where to Go in Pemba Island

Misali Island

Marine conservation area — pristine reefs & nesting turtles

A tiny, uninhabited coral island off Pemba's west coast with some of the best snorkeling and diving in East Africa. The surrounding marine conservation area protects over 40 species of coral and 350 fish species.

Chake Chake

Pemba's main town — historic ruins & local markets

Pemba's largest town and administrative centre. Visit the ruins of Mkama Ndume palace, browse the local market, and experience authentic Pemba island life far from tourist zones.

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