Pemba Island

Pemba Island, known historically as "The Green Island," is a pristine, hilly landmass forming part of the Zanzibar Archipelago within the Indian Ocean. Unlike its flatter, more developed neighbor to the south, Pemba's eco-landscape is characterized by deep valleys, dense native forests like the Ngezi Rainforest, and an expansive network of protected mangrove channels. The island remains largely untouched by mass tourism, retaining a distinct, slow-paced atmosphere rooted heavily in traditional clove farming and maritime Swahili culture.

The waters surrounding the island are highly celebrated for their vibrant marine life, fed continuously by the deep channels separating the island from the East African mainland. The coral reef systems here drop off dramatically into underwater walls, creating ideal marine ecosystems filled with green sea turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and multi-colored schools of pelagic fish. On land, the native forest canopies shelter unique endemic wildlife species, including the rare Pemba flying fox, a giant fruit bat found nowhere else on earth.

Travel activities are anchored around world-class scuba diving, traditional dhow sailing excursions, and deep-sea fishing along the sheer drops of the Pemba Channel. Logistics require a short domestic flight from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha into Chake Chake Airport, or a ferry transit for adventurous travelers. Accommodations are exclusive, featuring a limited selection of high-end eco-lodges, hidden boutique resorts, and unique underwater rooms tailored for honeymooners and divers.

Highlights

• World-class diving Steep walls and healthy reefs draw divers from around the world.
• Untouched islands Sandbanks and lagoons with almost no crowds.
• Clove plantations Explore the fragrant estates that scent the whole island.