Pemba Island. Luxury Pemba Island Vacations, Resorts
Pemba Island. Luxury Pemba Island Vacations, Hotels, Resorts & Things to Do.
Zanzibar is characterised by its flat, sandy terrain, although the adjacent Pemba Island is renowned for its cloves, mangoes, and verdant hillocks abundant with fruit and spice trees. Traditional dhows are dispersed along the coastline, and fishing is a significant aspect of Pemba’s culture.
Pemba’s culture, akin to that of many islands in the archipelago, has been shaped by Arab traders from Oman and the indigenous populations that have resided on the island for millennia. Intact remains are located on Pemba, including Qanbalu, a Muslim village dating back to the eighth century, alongside vestiges of ancient voodoo rites done by the indigenous witchdoctors of the island.
Pemba is renowned as the ‘Green Island’ because to its lush soil, which yields products including coconut, bananas, and cassava. The island is encircled by warm, subtropical waters celebrated for exceptional diving and snorkelling due to its sheer drop-offs, pristine marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. Pemba Island provides a more genuine island experience, featuring a less developed tourism sector compared to Zanzibar, ideal for visitors seeking to explore the unspoiled beauty of the archipelago.
Pemba Island Things to Do
Pemba Island, a component of the Zanzibar Archipelago, presents a range of attractions and activities, including the exploration of its vivid coral reefs and the discovery of its verdant Ngezi Forest Reserve. Diving and snorkelling are favoured for their abundant marine life and pristine coral reefs, whereas trekking and nature trips offer opportunities to explore the island’s distinctive flora and fauna, including the Pemba flying fox. Cultural experiences include excursions to spice plantations and the capital of the island, Chake Chake.
The primary attractions comprise the coral reefs and diving locations, the historical remains of Ras Mkumbuu and Ndagoni, the unspoiled Vumawimbi Beach, and the verdant Ngezi Forest Reserve. Seize the opportunity to explore local spice farms and gain insights into clove production.
Pemba Island Highlights
- A more genuine experience of Zanzibar, distinct from the tourist-centric Stone Town.
- Optimal snorkelling opportunities in the Zanzibar Archipelago during the entire year
- The remnants of the earliest recognised Muslim settlement in Africa are meticulously preserved.
- Certain beaches on the island lack any hotels or resorts, resulting in a tranquil environment.
- The Ngezi woodland is ideal for both brief and extended walks.
- Accessible via direct flights from Zanzibar and certain charter flights from the mainland.
Pemba Island Hotels & Lodges
Our curated selection of opulent lodges and resorts on Pemba Island…
Pemba Island is situated approximately 80 km northeast of Zanzibar Island and is similarly distanced from the Tanzanian mainland. Measuring about 67 km in length, it features expansive, uninhabited beaches and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling. The most populous town is Chake Chake, the capital of Pemba.
Pemba draws a limited number of travellers, although those who visit this verdant island are rewarded with breathtaking, pristine natural beauty.
Aiyana Resort & Spa:
Prices are elevated here, positioning Aiyana in competition with the premier resorts on Zanzibar. However, for those seeking a secluded isolated property, The Aiyana Resort & Spa is ideal, though costly. Aiyana is among our premier selections for those desiring opulent lodging and several activities on Pemba. The Aiyana Resort & Spa has received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor and consistently garners outstanding reviews.
Fundu Lagoon:
This is one of Tanzania’s most renowned beach hotels, located adjacent to some of the world’s premier dive locations. Fundu Lagoon, a tented seaside resort, has established a stellar reputation as one of Tanzania’s premier adventurous beach destinations. The primary attractions of Fundu include its secluded position, varied activities, the lodge’s adventurous ambiance, and the breathtaking proximity of Misali Island.