Greener, hillier and quieter than Zanzibar, with some of the region’s best diving.
Pemba is the northern sister of Zanzibar, known as the Green Island for its hills and clove plantations. It is much less developed than Zanzibar, which is part of its appeal. Beaches here are a labelled extension to a safari; our dedicated beach and island programmes are run as Holidays by Ameera Africa Safaris.
Quick FactsNorth of Zanzibar; part of the Zanzibar archipelago.
Diving, cloves, forest reserve, quiet coast.
Short flights from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam.
June to October and December to March.
Dive and snorkel on reefs around Misali Island and the Pemba Channel. Walk in Ngezi Forest Reserve, home to a rare endemic bat, and visit clove farms. Crowds are minimal.
Pemba is quieter, with fewer hotels and an unhurried feel; see Zanzibar for more infrastructure and sights.
Fly to Chake Chake. Boats also run from Zanzibar. Check schedules.
Read Zanzibar weather and best time, then enquire about island extensions.
Frequently Asked QuestionsPemba is part of the Zanzibar archipelago but is a separate island.
Yes, it is a respected diving destination.
Short flights or boats from Zanzibar.
Much less than Zanzibar.
White-sand beaches and Stone Town’s history — the natural close to a Tanzania safari. Plan a Zanzibar stay with Ameera Africa Safaris.
Explore →Tides, sandbars and sunsets: how Zanzibar’s main beaches differ.
Explore →Hot and humid year-round, with a dry season from June to October and a drier spell in January and February.
Explore →A small coral island off the north-east coast of Zanzibar, ringed by a protected reef and best known for snorkelling, diving and sea turtles.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
