10 Things To Do In And Around Pemba

Pemba is one of the best East Africa holiday and honeymoon destinations. This island is a perfect place for people who love to dive and snorkel its coral reefs and channels, It is one of the most picturesque places, natural beauty, and culture in Tanzania It is famous for its lush, green hills, and clove plantations.

In this article, I’m going to bring together the most favorite things you can do on Pemba Island. The best things to in Pemba are:

For the remaining part of this article, I am going to share detailed information on the above-highlighted activities. So, keep reading to find out more.

But I find it is more interesting to first share some basic tips about Pemba, the green Island itself. Pemba island is a part of the Zanzibar archipelago, commonly known for its lush, idyllic, and greenish. Pemba is quiet and almost untouched to make you feel like you have got the island to yourself.

Have you ever heard of Misali island? It is home to turquoise Fischer, a colorful, rare bird like it in Pemba. The island is surrounded by a fine coral reef and pristine seas perfect for water sports.

North Pemba Island or the exotic coastal island of Zanzibar symbolizes the lifestyle of the island. Pemba is a nice vacation spot for islanders because of its simplicity and heart in its simplicity.

Everyone who comes to Pemba finds something for him/her. So, spare time to explore this beautiful part of the Zanzibar Archipelago.

Now let us explore more on the top exciting things to do in Pemba the clove-scented breezes.

1. Pemba Museum

Pemba Museum is a museum located at Chake Chake in the central part of Pemba, In the museum, you will find the collection of the history and culture of Pemba. The location itself of the museum is interesting because it is located at the former Portuguese garrison which was built around the 16th century AD.

Pemba has a long history that dates to the 7th century AD. Before I take you to explore what you will see here, let me give a brief history of the museum building itself.

Later from the early 17th century, after the evacuation of the Portuguese in East Africa, the longest established Mazrui Arabs from Oman transformed the barrack into a fort. From the early 19th century, the old Mazrui Fort came into the hands of Busaidy Oman Arabs after he possessed Zanzibar. During this period, the fort housed the office of Liwali or the District Office of Pemba South.

After the abolition of the institution of slavery in 1897, the fort was changed into jail until the late colonial period. In 2005, the Zanzibar government transformed the Old Mazrui Fort into a museum.

A guided tour of the museum will take you to learn about the fall of ancient towns of the island such as the 8th century Chwaka and Mtambwe. Learn also about Qanbalu the ancient town that emerged during the 10th century AD. The guide will further tell you about Pijini, a great town during the 14th century AD.

Pemba had local rulers before colonial occupation. In the museum, you will have the chance to hear all the stories. Your visit here will give a nice understanding of some sights you will see in Pemba.

The sights include Ras Mkumbuu, the buildings like houses, tombs, and mosques at the main city of Chake Chake dating back to the 14th century. Among interesting histories, my friend enjoyed most of the history of Mkamandume and Ngwachani the diwanis who ruled a vast area of Pemba.

In the museum, you will also find exciting cultural aspects. Here you will see the welcoming structure of an ordinary Swahili house, in-house components, and services. Specifically, you can see Swahili-style living rooms, toilets, and kitchens.

Every section and item contains inherent meaning. Do not leave the museum without exploring the section of the day-to-day life of Pemba. You can learn about healing technology using herbs and spirits.

Near the end of this section, you will find sections on sports and games.

2. Misali Island Tour

Misali Island is a must-visit beach for any beachcomber. The island is surrounded by crystal waters and stunning coral reefs. If you love scuba diving and snorkelling, Misali island is a place for you. This place is the most famous diving and snorkelling place in East Africa.

One of the interesting parts of this island is that it is easily reached from the beach. Here you will find a small ranger canter.

If you have dived in the famous places in the world, diving in Misali is world-class. The anthropic impact is still limited, and the corals are many and colorful.

In the barrier, you will see a life full of fish ranging from small butterflyfish for angelfish to the big Napoleon fish. The island is home to about 42 types of corals, and over 300 fish species.

The beach is white and beautiful and you will even enjoy taking walks barefooted on the sand, also, if you are lucky, you can be the one to discover the awaited local treasure of the notorious Captain Kidd, On the beach, you will find nice places to chill and watch a stunning sunset overlooking the water.

My friends and I visited Misali in October 2018 for a holiday. We had an unforgettable experience at this well-protected island in Zanzibar.

We could see bigger fish even close to the beach. My friend Klas got excited to see vervet monkeys and a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles. We were prepared and took our swimming suits, towel, sunblock, and our snorkelling gear. We had a nice experience that was unforgettable.

Truly our visit to Misali island took us beyond our expectations in Pemba, the part of the Zanzibar archipelago. It took us less than an hour boat trip away from the coast near Chake Chake. We arranged guides at the visitor center at Mbuyuni beach northeast of Misali.

From there we walked for about 10 minutes to the south of the visitor center and found Bendera Cave. The cave is believed to be inhabited by the spirits of ancestors and used by some Pembans for traditional rituals.

To the west of Misali, you’ll find the larger Mpapaini Caverns. Here you have the chance to spot nesting turtles and breeding seabirds.

To see local fishers casting their tools for the catch is another exciting activity that is fun to see. Note that camping is not permitted for tourists at this Marine Conservation Area.

3. Visit Vumawimbi Beach

Are you looking for a place for calm and relaxation away from the stresses of the modern world? If yes, this place was made for you.

The beach is a quiet and almost unspoiled white sand beach in this part of the Zanzibar archipelago. You will find the beach along the east side of the Kigomasha Peninsula, and north of Ngezi Forest Reserve.

The beach is clean and the waters are calm and blue perfect for swimmers. Most beach lovers who come here share their exciting experiences about this safe and nice place.

Water temperature is almost stable all year round as the beach is located close to the equator.

To visit this place makes you almost feel like you have got the beach to yourself. The beach is located a few distances from the main town of Chake Chake.

My friend was lucky to visit the place in 2018 on the weekend and he shared the experience. He had a nice swim and met a lot of locals whom others became his good friends until now. If you go on a weekday, you can find you are only a tourist here. It is a nice place to come with friends or family to have fun. The sunshine is stunning here, and the waves are refreshing.

You will have all you have dreams for, You will be attracted by its smooth sand and bright blue waters. Taking plenty of bottled water and any foods are advised as there are very limited services of this kind.

You will have little to worry about where to stay as there are few lodges nearby the beach. A local guide is suitable to tell you about the best parts of the beach and tides.

4. Explore Ngezi Forest Reserve

Ngezi Forest Reserve is a must-visit place for any nature tourist while you are in Pemba.

The forest is the last remaining stand of untouched indigenous tropical rain forests that once covered much of the island. That is the reason for this forest to be a UNESCO classified primary forest.

The forest was announced as a forest reserve in 1950. This was after most of the territory had been stripped for cloves cultivation. To be here is like finding yourself in a real African Jungle in terms of greenery and trees.

Spending at least one hour touring the jungle is worthwhile. The forest is home to about 300 tree species and a true double canopy, and it covers an area of 14.4 square kilometers.

The forest is home to some endemic species. You will have a chance to see animals you wouldn’t think to see on the island. I can guarantee you will see hawks, red colobus monkeys, and Zanzibar vervet monkeys in the vines

Other animals you can see include Lazy-looking hyraxes, Pemba blue duikers, Feral pigs. If you are lucky, you can also spot Javan civet cats and the marsh mongoose.

See several bird species, some of which are endemic to Pemba. You’re guaranteed to watch African goshawk and palm-nut vulture. Also, green pigeons, scops ow, malachite kingfisher, and broad-billed roller are spotted here.

I cannot forget to mention the crowned hornbill, Pemba white-eye, and black-breasted glossy starling. These bird species have also been spotted here by many tourists during their tours.

Most hotels in Pemba recommend tourists to visit the forest because it is a worthwhile visit. A guided trekking tour in this forest will offer you an unforgettable experience. Just expect to pay an entrance fee (5 US Dollars).

The forest line containing closed vegetation on the north-eastern part of the forest continues up to Vumawimbi beach. So, from the forest, you can head to the beach and chill on relaxing waters or white sand.

5. Kidika Flying Fox Sanctuary

Kidike Flying Fox Sanctuary is the largest colony of Pemba flying foxes. The site is one of the largest fruit bats in the world with about 4000 bats.

The bats here are reported to be into 4 different species of the Old-World fruit bats. This large population of bats is due to the proximity of a local burial site to means the colony was not disturbed.

These endangered fruit bats are found at Kidike situated at Mjini Ole village. It’s about 10km northeast of the main city of Chake Chake. Kidike Flying Fox is the only bat species endemic to an African country. They are called so because of their fox-like faces.

They cannot use echolocation, but they navigate using vision and normal hearing. It is more exciting to watch them slowly waking up and taking them to the skies.

When it is not the peak season, make a call in advance to make sure someone is there.

Visiting the site gives tourists the chance to not only view the foxes but also to learn about Pemba itself. You will find an information centre here for you to learn more about Pemba’s unique biodiversity.

It is more interesting that the bats are easily spotted as they spend their days in trees rather than in caves. With good lenses or binoculars, you can even enjoy it more by watching them very closely. It is fun to see them hanging upside down in the perfect pleasure.

The locals are aware of how important bats are for the ecosystem. Support their protection initiatives by visiting the place.

The fee you pay to enter the place is invested in protection initiatives and community-based projects. Some of the projects are providing lighting at the local Mosque via paying electricity bills.

About a 2 hours guided tour here is enough to give you a unique experience.

6. Visit Tumbe Fish Market

Tumbe Fish Market is the largest fish market in Pemba. The market is located at Tumbe village.

Pemba is renowned for its seafood. So, if you love fish then this is a place for you to go while you are on the island. All the fish are bought and sold here on the beach. Also, you can enjoy watching the fishing boats coming into offload fish and auctioned in a real Pemba-style frenzy. The building hosting the market is impressive.

From here you can stop at the ancient Chwaka ruins which are near the market. It’s about 3km south of Tumbe. The ruins consist of two separate sites. which are the Haruni site and the Mazrui mausoleum dating back to the 17th century. Both sites are the original Pemba cities that existed between the 11th and 15th centuries.

You can still see Pemba’s light-hearted “bullfights”. These are said to date back to the days of Portuguese influence on the island. They are usually done after the rice harvest, at New Year, and sometimes for Tourism Day (27 September).

Here, you will learn a lot of exciting history. Once you’ve all and you still have time, you can decide to stroll and admire the stunning bay area.

Generally, this tour will never disappoint you!

7. Pemba Historical Tour

Pemba island is embarked with an exciting history that no traveler can miss out here. There are many historical places you must visit in Pemba. The island is said to have been inhabited since 600 AD as a trading, agricultural, and religious place on the coast of East Africa. Just get a guide and tour the island to learn about its stunning history.

You can start your tour on the northern end of Pemba Island. This site is said to be first inhabited in the 7th century at a site called Tumbe.

This was the main site on the island between the 7th century to the 11th century. It’s the first inhabitants to migrate here from the mainland.

There is enough evidence that Tumbe was a trading center in the Indian Ocean. Tumbe connected Pemba Island with civilizations all along the East African coast.

Among the early exports at the city of Tumbe were ceramics and shell beads. The beads were made in the households.

Your historical tour will further take you to hear about the rise of Chwaka city south of Tumbe. It is after the apparent abandonment of the city of Tumbe between the 11th century and 14th century.

The evidence suggests that the stone town of Chwaka started as a small village and grew into a city. It is a nice history to learn about the rural to urban movements of people in Pemba. As Chwaka was growing, the surrounding areas became less populated as people moved to the city.

Another historical town here is Mtambwe Mkuu in northwest Pemba. The site features many stone structures including a town wall, a mosque, and homes. It rose between the 11th century and 15th centuries. In the 19th century, the site was reoccupied again.

The evidence shows that Mtambwe Mkuu was doing trade through the money system. Thousands of gold and silver coins dating to the 10th and 11th centuries were found here.

The history tells that Pemba tied economically with Kilwa and cities throughout the Mediterranean, you will learn how Pemba made trading contacts with Europe, Asia, and America. and how Pemba traded with other African places during the slave, sugar, and clove trades.

Also, traders would trade with the island for ivory, tortoiseshell, rhinoceroses’ horn, palm oil, cinnamon, and frankincense. In return, the Pembans would get awls, glass, wheat, wine, daggers, and hatchets.

Also, you will learn about the fall of trade cities in Pemba after the abolition of the slave trade, Among the historical evidence, you will see Ras Mkumbuu, Chwaka, and Ndagoni ruins.

Do not forget to visit Mkame Ndume ruins!

8. Visit Nungwi Beach

Nungwi beach rightfully earns its place on every self–respecting list of the best world’s beaches. The beach is about 56km away from Stone Town, the beach is dotted with palm, mangroves, and casuarina trees.

You will enjoy diving, snorkel, or sunset dhow (sailing boat) cruising, and turtle aquarium here.

The beach is nice with bright white sands bordering the sparkling Indian Ocean. This beach is impressive as the waters are painted in a whole range of dazzling oranges, yellows, and reds because of sunsets.

You will enjoy taking some fabulous photos and selfies there.

The waters are calm and warm, perfect for swimming. So, if you do not like the tide effect, then Nungwi was made for you. The beach is perfect as even with low tide you still make it possible to swim.

Mnemba Atoll and the Haunted Wall are just two of the nearby underwater highlights. It is the only place in Tanzania to possess the Turtle Care Center.

This beach is fantastic to lounge upon and has a more relaxed and down-to-earth vibe. You will find some of the luxurious beach bars, plush beachfront guesthouses, and restaurants. So, do not get worried about where to have lunch and dinner or drinks.

The local village gives a touch of African authenticity. During the peak season, you will find a mixture of tourists from all over the globe.

The beach becomes busier during that period than any other time. If you love a calm place, you may opt not to visit during that period.

This beach is nice for travelers including culture seekers, party lovers, and beach bums.

You will find accommodation which suits your interests and budget. They range from backpacker B&Bs to 5 – star resorts like Essque Zalu Zanzibar. You may opt to hire a taxi or else take a daladala to reach that place and have it all you deserve.

9. Visit ZSTC Clove Oil Distillery

Pemba island is commonly known for its clove industry. The island is decorated with clove perfume because of the sweet fragrance of cloves that floats in the air well sensed wherever.

Clove is the biggest export on Pemba Island. The island is home to more than 3.5 million clove trees growing on the island’s spice farms.

ZSTC Clove Oil Distillery is where the clove stems are turned into essential oil. The factory is located at Machomane, about a kilometre from the city centre. Just take Daladala or arrange for a private taxi to come here.

Just arrange a guide before you go to make your tour meaningful. Just go first to the office and small shop selling finished products. From here, you can visit the clove farms to meet farmers and learn about clove production.

Pemba is famous for preparing tasty and delicious dishes in Tanzania. So, before your tour ends, you can combine with a village tour to learn and taste the local dishes including Urojo and seafood.

Other dishes to taste while you are here are spiced rice with chicken or fish, clove-flavored tamarind paste, and ginger. Also, do not leave Pemba without tasting halwa, a sweet Indian dish common in Zanzibar.

10. Visit Prison Island

Prison Island is also named Changuu (the name of a fish in Swahili). It is an island coated in trees in Stone Town with numerous uses throughout history.

The island was once used as a slave port until 1894 and a quarantine station for possible yellow – fever victims. So, the island was named Prison, but it has never actually hosted any prisoners.

The Prison Island beach is one of the perfect beaches in Tanzania for families, friends, and couples

I remember it was a nice moment the day my friend and I visited the island. We were excited to find the remains of the prison here and there.

It was awesome to also have the chance to learn the history there. Being surrounded by blue waters, the island is a popular day-trip destination.

We spent about 6 hours before we had taken a boat to Stone Town where we were accommodated. We were extremely happy to stroke and feed Aldabra giant turtles, some of which were well over 100 years old.

The beach itself was quiet but great for a relaxed walk or spotting wildlife. We felt we were alone in a lovely and relaxed paradise.

The boat trip there and back was entertaining as we skimmed across the waves to the island. I did not swim because I had to catch up with some table work as I had some deadlines. My friend did! I swear that next time I visit that beach I will not miss swimming here.

It was nice to have some sunset drinks here. We enjoyed having lunch in the island’s restaurants. We paid our money for food from our pockets as it wasn’t included in the price we paid for the tour.

I will never forget that moment on Prison Island beach. It was an unforgettable experience of my life.

Conclusion

You will find a lot of things to do on or around Pemba Island. It can be frustrating to prioritize which things you can do here. That is the reason I have just shared the most exciting and fun one with you.

Yes, 10 things can be many things to do during your vacation here. But you can combine some activities that suit your interest and the nature of your trip. Just do that to enjoy your stay in Pemba.