At Pemba north of Zanzibar in East Africa, it is as if time has stood still for the past hundred years. The traditional clay huts are protected by bast roofs. And the fishing boats used by the population are more or less reminiscent of archeological finds that seem to belong somewhere in a dusty museum. Like Zanzibar, Pemba has a history in the spice and slave trade. Carnations are still grown a lot. On the island there are excursion destinations such as ruins, forts and mosques. The island is less well visited than Zanzibar, and there are opportunities for good snorkeling. However, Pemba is above all known for scuba diving. The diving on southeast Pemba is world class.
Misali Island
The island is world famous for its corals and nature. Here are some of the best coral reefs in East Africa. Depending on the season, there may be nesting turtles on the island. The excursion starts by boat from Chake Chake and Misali Island is less than an hour boat ride away. The island’s treasure is its rich ecosystem, which boasts 42 types of corals, over 300 fish species, a rare subspecies of vertebrate monkeys, rare coconut crabs and a nesting site for Green Sea and Shrimp Turtles. The snorkeling here is incredible! Even near the shore it is possible to see larger fish depending on the steep shoreline.
Mjini Ole and Kidike Environmental Club
During a full day trip, visit the village of Mjini Ole in the middle of Pemba Island. In the village there is the Kidike Environmental Club which works with environmental protection on the island. The villagers show their traditions, customs and everyday life. You can take part in a cooking lesson with traditional ingredients, see how crafts are performed or go out with local fishermen for fishing. Pemba’s flying foxes (the world’s largest flying dogs) are preserved and cared for here. Through hard work, the number in Mjini Ole has grown from 300 to 6000. On the island there is also a mangrove forest that can be seen on foot or by boat. The Kidike project involves planting more mangrove trees to prevent erosion.
Ngezi Forest Pemba’s largest national park
This is the largest tropical forest on Pemba located in its northwest corner. It is home to many endemic species and is a fantastic jungle experience. Here you get the opportunity to see monkeys, galagos (or ear macaws), flying dogs, birds, butterflies, flowers and wild herbs. If you are lucky, you can also see owls at night.
Geography
Pemba is located just off the coast of Tanzania northeast of Dar Es Salaam. South of the island is Zanzibar. These two islands together with the Mafia form what is called the Spice Islands.
Climate
The climate shifts from the tropical monsoon climate of the coast and islands to the dry and warm hinterland. In most places the rainy season falls between December and May, but in some areas there are two shorter rainy seasons, October to November and April to May.
Visa
Yes. Visas are required for Nordic citizens. Visas can be applied for at the border and cost about USD 50.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling TZS
100TZS = 0.39SEK
Language
Swahili (Kiswahili) and English are official languages. English is used in higher education and the judiciary, Arabic is spoken in Zanzibar and Pemba, in addition to a large number of local languages.
Vaccinations
Mandatory – The yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from certain countries in Africa or South America. Travelers to Pemba may be required to provide a certificate of vaccination.
Recommended – Malaria prophylaxis. Check with your vaccination center for personal needs.
Fundu Lagoon Resort
Fundu Lagoon Resort is a remote and peaceful getaway, accessible only by boat. The hotel is located on a beautiful beach in southwest Pemba and is run with love for the natural surroundings that surround it. Wooden walkways and sandy paths lead to eighteen Makuti thatched roof rooms and suites. The atmosphere is calm and our attentive hotel staff takes care of everything you need. Fundu is an idyllic place to unwind and enjoy total tranquility and relaxation, whether it is quiet by the pool or enjoying the spectacular sights of the Indian Ocean. On a beautiful beach lined with natural forest, the hotel offers complete privacy and the experience is both restful and restorative. It is an ideal place to visit if you are an independent traveler or looking for a honeymoon resort.
Manta Resort
Pemba is a remote island off the east coast of Africa, and probably as far from civilization as you can ever imagine finding yourself. Manta Resort offers something different than most tropical islands – it’s not about five star luxury. If tranquility, closeness to nature and a family are the staff you long for, The Manta Resort is the place for you. Turn off the noisy, polluted electronic world and step into a completely different one, not as a tourist, but as a guest with simple needs: sunshine, fresh air, natural food, a comfortable bed and a friendly environment. One of the world’s first and only underwater rooms where you can fall asleep to fish that swim around your bed and rock you to sleep with the waves.
