Pemba Island

Description: An island just North of Mainland Zanzibar, Pemba is far-removed from the relative hustle bustle of Zanzibar. It is also known as the green island because it is lush with plant life. There are often only a few dozen tourists on the entire island. Attractions include an ancient forest, archeological ruins from the earliest Swahili civilizations, a few nice beaches and incredible scuba diving.

Location: Just Northeast of Zanzibar’s mainland, reachable by short flight from Zanzibar

Things 2 Do: Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Boat Tours, Visiting Ruins, Visiting Forest, Fishing, Big Game Fishing, Kayaking, Sailing

Time: Spend at least 3 nights.

Animals: Pemba flying fox, marsh mongoose, a small variety of primates including the endemic Pemba vervet monkey, and interesting birdlife.

photo by Marna Herrity Congdon