Pemba, the second-largest island in Zanzibar, covers a land area of 988 square kilometers (381 sq mi). Positioned approximately 50 kilometers (31 mi) to the north of Unguja, the largest island in the archipelago.

The island is very fertile and known for its production of Cloves and other small spices. It is dominated by small-scale farming for the crops like Rice, Banana, Cassava, and many tropical fruits, but Cloves are farmed on the large scale basis.

Pemba may be less known, but it is a hidden paradise for snorkelers and divers. The island boasts pristine coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, offering a unique and untouched underwater experience. If you have a love for nature and plan to visit Zanzibar, we highly recommend exploring Pemba before it becomes a popular destination among the tourists.

The key towns in Pemba include Chake-Chake, Mkoani, and Wete, with Wete being the largest city on the island. Similar to the main island of Zanzibar, Unguja, Pemba is encircled by numerous small islets. Some of these islets are inhabited by locals, while others serve as habitats solely for animals.

Popular islets of Pemba 

• Kojani
• Njao
• Makoongwe
• Misali
• Panza
• Matumbini
• Shamiani

Weather of Pemba Island

The weather of Pemba island is nearly the same as Zanzibar as a whole, but it is slightly different. In Chake Chake, the average temperature is 25.5 °C (78 °F), and the annual rainfall averages at 1,364 mm. Monthly temperatures typically range between 24 and 27.4 °C (75 °F and 81 °F). 

Pemba, as Zanzibar as whole, experiences two distinct rainy seasons, with the majority of rainfall occurring between April and May during the spring season. Another one is the lighter rainy season which is between November and mid-December.

The drier months, ideal for visitors, are January and February, as well as a more extended dry season from June to October. Overall, these drier periods make these months generally considered a good time to visit Zanzibar.

Pemba Island attractions

While Pemba Island itself is more than a tourist attraction. Here are some of the best activities & attractions you must see when traveling to Pemba Island.

• Ngezi Forest
• Misali Island
• Village Experience
• Njau Island
• Snorkeling & Diving

How to get to Pemba Island?

Pemba Island can also be accessed with direct local flights with several charter airlines that operate smaller aircrafts. The most frequent and easiest route is to fly from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) to Pemba Airport. Pemba Airport is still a locally serviced Airport, so you will need local flights to arrive. The most prominent ones are Flightlink, Coastal Air, Auric Air and Air Tanzania.

Another way to get to Pemba is by booking your ferry from Unguja (Zanzibar Port Terminal) to Pemba Island. This is cheapest, but we waste a lot of time to arrive and it is not friendly if you are on your Holiday. 

If you wish to visit Pemba,  please start planning your trip with us. We help you with everything to simplify your trip.

Best Places to Stay in Pemba

• Manta Resort – Underwater room
• Aiyana Beach Resort
• Fundu Lagoon