Pemba Island Guide 2026
Pemba Island, known as 'Al Jazeera al Khadra' (The Green Island), is Zanzibar's quieter, wilder sister island. Famous for world-class wall diving, clove plantations that perfume the entire island, and a deeply traditional Swahili culture largely untouched by mass tourism.
Why Visit Pemba
- Wall Diving: Pemba's dramatic underwater walls drop to 50m+ with coral-encrusted ledges, big pelagic fish, and pristine visibility. Considered among the top 10 dive destinations in the world.
- Misali Island: Protected marine conservation area with exceptional snorkelling. Crystal-clear waters, healthy reefs, and sea turtles. Day trip: $50-80.
- Clove Plantations: Pemba produces 70% of Zanzibar's cloves. Tour the plantations and learn about the spice that shaped the island's history.
- Ngezi Forest: Ancient tropical forest with endemic Pemba flying foxes (fruit bats), Pemba scops owl, and lush vegetation.
- Traditional Culture: More traditional than Zanzibar. Dhow building, fishing villages, and Swahili heritage largely untouched by tourism.
- The Underwater Room: At The Manta Resort - an underwater hotel room floating in the ocean with glass walls below the waterline.
Getting There
- By Air: Flights from Dar es Salaam (1 hour) and Zanzibar (20 minutes) with Auric Air and Coastal Aviation.
- By Ferry: Azam Marine fast ferry from Zanzibar (2.5 hours). Also from Dar (5-6 hours direct). Schedule varies.