Pemba Island – A Pristine Paradise

Pemba Island, located off the coast of Tanzania and separated from Zanzibar, has remained a pristine and unspoiled gem of natural beauty and fertility for centuries. This island, adorned with a mosaic of forests, mangroves, swamps, hidden beaches, and lagoons, is also home to ancient mosques and tombs that have been reclaimed by the forest over time. These remnants date back to the era of Arab domination when Pemba was captured by the Sultan of Muscat, adding a rich historical layer to its natural splendor.

Immerse in Local Culture on Pemba Island

Visitors to Pemba Island are immediately struck by the abundance of local agriculture and fishing villages that dot the landscape. During the harvest season, vast stretches of cloves dry in the sun, filling the air with a delightful aroma, while towering piles of mangoes await transportation to the mainland. The island's emerald fields are dotted with women in vibrant kangas tending to their crops, and the turquoise seas are gently populated by wooden pirogues and dhows. Pemba is a tranquil and serene island, offering a wealth of exciting discoveries for those who explore its unique culture and natural beauty.

Dive into the Underwater World of Pemba

One of the highlights of a visit to Pemba Island is the opportunity for scuba diving. The island's coral reefs are among the healthiest in the Indian Ocean, making Pemba one of the top diving destinations in the world. With water temperatures averaging 26ºC and visibility reaching 30-40 meters year-round, divers can experience the vibrant marine life that thrives in the deep Pemba Channel. Offshore, coral islands with sugar-white sands and nesting turtles further enhance the island's reputation as a diving paradise.

Savor the Flavors of Pemba Island

Pemba Island is a land of cloves and mangoes, with hillocks rich in fruit trees and lush vegetation. Traditional dhows are scattered along much of the coastline, reflecting the island's deep connection to fishing and agriculture. The island's culture has been influenced by Arab traders from Oman and the original inhabitants who have lived on Pemba for centuries. Well-preserved ruins, such as the Muslim settlement of Qanbalu dating back to the eighth century, can be found on the island, along with remnants of ancient voodoo rituals practiced by traditional witch doctors.

Experience the Untouched Beauty of Pemba

Known as the "Green Island" for its fertile soil that produces abundant crops like coconut, bananas, and cassava, Pemba is surrounded by warm, sub-tropical waters that are ideal for diving and snorkeling. The island offers a genuine island experience with a tourism industry that is less developed than Zanzibar's, making it perfect for those seeking to discover the untouched nature of the archipelago. Pemba's coral reefs, steep drop-offs, and vibrant marine life provide some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in the region, offering an extraordinary encounter with nature both above and below the sea.