Pemba Island

Still classed as part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, 40km north of the main island of Zanzibar (Unguja), Pemba Island is slightly smaller and much more rural than the more popular Zanzibar holidays on the main island. While Zanzibar is relatively flat, Pemba’s hills and escarpments are green and picturesque; coloured by the rich greens of ten types of mangoes and many hundreds of clove trees that have traditionally supported the fortunes of this island of spice. 

Pemba Island is one of the top diving and snorkelling locations off the coast of Tanzania with the entire island surrounded by coral reef, which act as world class dive sites, the marine life you could discover is phenomenal. Between the island and mainland Tanzania the Pemba Channel shelves off to depths of more than 2,000m, and Pemba is famous for seriously large sea fish, which include barracuda, tuna, shark, and even whales. This is a glorious African playground for experienced divers. This is a glorious playground for experienced divers. Visibility is generally very good and there are some spectacular pinnacles. Currents are strong at Pemba so it’s not ideal for first time divers. If you don’t fancy spending all your time underwater, sunset cruises aboard dhow boats are available and are extremely popular.