Pemba Island, Tanzania: Beaches, Diving, Forest and How to Visit the Green Island

Pemba lies to the north of Zanzibar's main island, separated by a deep channel. It is greener and hillier than Unguja, with winding roads through clove, coconut and mango trees. Tourism is small, so the island feels unhurried, and the diving is among the best in the region.

This page explains what to see and do, how to get there and when to go.

This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

What to Do on Pemba

Diving at Pemba and Misali

The channel drops steeply, giving walls, strong currents and large fish, and Misali Island offers calmer reefs. Most diving is for experienced divers, with courses available. See Mnemba Island for reef trips on Zanzibar.

How to Get There

Domestic flights connect Pemba with Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, and ferries run between Pemba, Unguja and the mainland. Schedules change, so check before travelling. See Zanzibar and Stone Town.

Where to Stay and When to Go

Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to dive lodges and a few high-end resorts. The dry seasons, June to October and December to February, have the calmest seas; the long rains, March to May, bring heavy showers and some closures. See best time to visit Tanzania.

Getting There and Staying

Pemba is reached by short flights from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam, or by ferry from Zanzibar. Accommodation includes small beach resorts and dive lodges. The island is hilly, green and known for cloves. Roads are rural, and visitors often hire a driver to explore.

Diving and Culture

Pemba's reefs and walls suit experienced divers, with strong currents in places. On land, visit clove plantations, the ruins at Ras Mkumbuu and local markets. Respect conservative dress norms in villages. See Mnemba Island.

When to Go

Dry seasons from June to October and December to February are most comfortable and best for diving. The long rains in April and May bring heavy showers and some closures. Check specific resort opening dates, and book in advance for peak periods.

Combining With a Safari

Many travellers add Pemba after a northern circuit safari for a quieter beach than Zanzibar. See bush and beach safari and Uganda safari and Zanzibar.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team