IslandPemba Island
A remote island of coral reefs, clove plantations, and exclusive lodges far from Zanzibar’s crowds.
Pemba Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, is a quieter, more remote alternative to its well-known neighbour. Travellers often ask about Pemba Island vs Zanzibar — while Zanzibar draws the crowds, Pemba is all about seclusion, traditional Swahili culture, and untouched beauty. The island is famous for its deep history of clove plantations, but today it’s best known as one of the top spots for diving in Pemba Island, Tanzania. Its waters are home to pristine reefs, steep coral walls, and incredible marine life, making it a favourite for scuba diving and snorkelling. Nearby Misali Island is a highlight, surrounded by reefs rich with fish, turtles, and sometimes even dolphins. Unlike other beach destinations in East Africa, Pemba still feels wild and intimate. The island’s coastline is dotted with quiet beaches, mangroves, and lagoons, while inland villages retain a strong Swahili identity. Accommodation is limited but special, from intimate luxury lodges to The Manta Resort, known worldwide for its floating underwater room. For honeymoons or anyone seeking a truly exclusive escape, Pemba is unmatched. Getting here is straightforward: short flights to Pemba Island connect from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam, arriving at Pemba Airport. Once there, the reward is a remote island atmosphere combined with world-class diving and the charm of a destination far from the crowds.
Find Pemba Island on the map
Best time to go to Pemba Island
The best time to visit Pemba Island is from July to October and December to March, when the weather is dry, the seas are calm, and visibility for diving and snorkelling is at its best. These months are also ideal for enjoying the island’s quiet beaches and exploring its pristine reefs. The rainy seasons (April–May and November) bring heavier showers and rougher seas, which can reduce underwater visibility, though the island remains beautifully green. For honeymooners or travellers adding Pemba to a Tanzania safari itinerary, the dry months are ideal for combining game drives with a relaxed island retreat.
- Best
- Good
- Acceptable
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Where to stay in Pemba Island
Recent postcards
What our travellers are saying
Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller