Pemba Island
You may have heard of the beautiful island of Zanzibar and its popularity with tourists. However, there’s a common misconception we would like to address.
While the pristine beaches and incredibly blue waters are accurately depicted, the error lies in calling Zanzibar an island.
Zanzibar is an Archipelago
Zanzibar is actually an archipelago composed of about two dozen islands, with Unguja and Pemba being the largest. Together, they form Zanzibar. Unguja, the more popular destination, is often mistakenly referred to as Zanzibar, leading to the incorrect belief that Zanzibar is a singular island.
Unguja is the place for swimming with dolphins, windsurfing, and all-night beach parties. Pemba, on the other hand, offers seclusion, absolute privacy, and untouched nature.
Pemba’s Unique Charm
While Unguja has over 150 hotels, Pemba has only three. Despite the modern amenities provided by these hotels, the rest of Pemba feels like a place frozen in time. The island boasts pure, sandy beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs, pristine turquoise waters free of litter, and traditional boats still used by local fishermen.
Pemba is a vibrant, green island and the world’s top producer of cloves, Zanzibar’s largest export. Venturing into its rural areas, you’ll be greeted by the soft, romantic aroma of cloves from the plantations. This island offers a unique and serene experience, contrasting the bustling atmosphere of Unguja.
Pemba’s capital, Chake Chake, is home to the majority of the local population. Many residents are descendants of ancient Omani immigrants (the indigenous Swahili people), while others identify as “Shirazi,” believed to be descendants of Persian royalty according to legend.
The people of Pemba adhere to traditional customs in dress, speak formal Swahili, and hold their religious beliefs dearly. Pemba has a history of traditional medicine and mysterious practices, and some say this knowledge can still be found in local villages. Local guides can share fascinating legends and inspiring histories.
If you’re seeking a romantic, secluded, or intriguing getaway, visit Pemba. This untouched island offers a unique experience compared to major tourist attractions, yet it still provides all the luxurious comforts, fresh seafood, and incredible hospitality you’d expect from a great island vacation.
Where is Pemba?
Pemba is situated just 50 km east of Tanzania’s mainland, nestled in the Indian Ocean. Despite its modest size, this small island spans only 67 km (42 miles) in length and a mere 22 km (14 miles) in width, yet it exudes abundant charm surrounded by the captivating ocean waters.
The Zanzibar Archipelago comprises two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, along with Mafia Island, a part of the Mafia Archipelago. Together, they form Tanzania’s trio of ‘Spice Islands’, globally renowned for their export of exotic, tropical spices.
How to get to Pemba?
There are two main ways to access Pemba: by water or air.
Water: Travelers with ample time and a penchant for maritime adventures can opt for a ferry from Zanzibar to Pemba. This ferry service operates twice a week, with a journey duration of approximately 5 hours, culminating at the port in Chake Chake town.
Air: For those seeking efficiency and convenience, flying into Pemba is an excellent choice. At a comparable cost to a ferry ticket, guests can enjoy a swift flight from any major airport in Tanzania to Pemba, with travel times as short as 15 minutes. Most flights include a stopover at Stonetown’s airport, often referred to as ‘Zanzibar’ (ZNZ) in flight itineraries.
Given the potential confusion with the port town named Pemba in Mozambique, it’s advisable to enlist the assistance of a local operator to arrange your flight to Pemba. Due to its short flight duration and availability via small, local airlines, booking online or securing payment outside of Tanzania may prove challenging.
Contact Mirable Safaris to arrange your seamless flight to the captivating island of Pemba and immerse yourself in dreams of pristine, clove-scented beaches without delay!
Pemba Ambience
Pemba epitomizes tropical allure without any hint of ostentation. It exudes charm and romance, bathed in sunshine and embraced by saltwater. Given its diminutive size, the beach is always within reach, local plantations abound, and hospitality reigns supreme. The island’s ambiance is warm and inviting, devoid of any touristy feel.
Dubbed the “Green Island” due to its verdant plantations and unspoiled beauty, Pemba yields an abundance of fruits, such as mangos, bananas, and jackfruits, many of which grace the breakfast buffets at its three hotels, grown locally on the island itself.
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Island Relates
Zanzibar, an archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, is known for its historical Stone Town, spice plantations, and pristine beaches. Mafia Island, also off Tanzania, offers rich marine life, protected by a marine park, and is famous for whale shark sightings, diving, and its tranquil, unspoiled nature.
