Pemba island: the undiscovered gem
Escape to Pemba Island, where pristine nature and authentic cultural experiences await. Eco-tours and Safari invites you to explore a side of Zanzibar that few ever see, an island rich in history, vibrant marine life, and lush landscapes. Discover your next adventure with us.
Pemba Island
Pemba, the lesser-known sister island of Unguja, is often described as a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Known as "The Green Island" due to its lush, verdant landscape, Pemba boasts rolling hills, fertile valleys, and dense forests. The island's tranquility and unspoiled beauty provide a stark contrast to the busier Unguja, making it a perfect destination for those seeking serenity and a deeper connection with nature.
Pemba is renowned for its world-class diving sites, with pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life. The waters around Pemba are teeming with vibrant corals, tropical fish, and larger marine species such as turtles, dolphins, and reef sharks. Popular diving spots include Mesali Island Marine Reserve and the underwater cliffs of Fundo Gap, which offer breathtaking underwater vistas and exceptional biodiversity.
The island's agriculture is dominated by clove production, and visitors can explore the clove plantations that have been a significant part of Pemba's economy for centuries. The island's rural villages and traditional Swahili culture provide an immersive experience into the local way of life, with opportunities to interact with friendly residents and participate in cultural activities.
Misali Island
Located off the west coast of Pemba Island, Misali Island is one of Zanzibar’s most breath-taking marine sanctuaries a true gem within the Pemba Channel Conservation Area. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, untouched coral reefs, and vibrant marine biodiversity, Misali is often described as a “diver’s dream” and a “snorkeler’s paradise.” What makes Misali truly unique is its ecological richness and spiritual importance to local communities it’s said to be the spot where Prophet Khidr prayed, giving it deep cultural reverence. The island also serves as a nesting site for endangered green and hawksbill turtles, surrounded by over 40 species of hard and soft corals and more than 300 species of tropical fish.
Overview: Misali Island Snorkeling & Dolphin Experience
Morning: Departure & Dolphin Watching
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Pemba, followed by a scenic drive to the western coast. Upon arrival, you’ll board a traditional dhow or speed boat heading toward Misali Island. As you sail through the calm blue waters, keep an eye out for bottlenose and spinner dolphins often seen playfully following boats along the Pemba Channel a magical start to your day.
Mid-Morning: Snorkelling around Misali Marine Park
Upon arrival at Misali, your guide will brief you on the island’s marine life and conservation efforts. You’ll then dive into one of East Africa’s most spectacular underwater worlds. The coral reefs here are exceptionally well-preserved, with visibility often reaching up to 30 meters. While snorkelling, you’ll encounter schools of colourful reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and a dazzling range of coral gardens. Both beginners and experienced snorkelers will find this an unforgettable experience.
Afternoon: Island Picnic & Beach Relaxation
After your snorkelling session, enjoy a picnic lunch with seafoods on the pristine white-sand beach, shaded by palm trees and surrounded by the sound of gentle waves. You can take a short nature walk along the island’s small trails, discovering hermit crabs, seabirds, and coastal vegetation. The island’s serenity and lack of crowds make it the perfect escape for relaxation and reflection.
Late Afternoon: Return Journey
In the late afternoon, you’ll sail back toward Pemba’s mainland, enjoying the tranquil views of the Indian Ocean. Depending on timing and weather, your crew may pause for a brief sunset view from the boat, capturing the final golden moments of your day at sea before returning to your hotel.
Shamiani Island Day Trip
Nestled off the southern tip of Pemba Island, Shamiani Island is a serene paradise surrounded by turquoise waters, lush mangroves, and untouched coral reefs. Located near Mkoani ferry, the island is part of the Pemba Channel Conservation Area and is celebrated for its emerald sandbank, crystal-clear lagoons, and authentic Swahili fishing village charm. Unlike other islands, Shamiani remains largely undiscovered, offering travellers a sense of exclusivity and connection with nature that defines the true beauty of Pemba.
Full-Day Shamiani Island Itinerary
Morning: Transfer & Snorkeling Adventure
Your day begins with a scenic boat transfer from Mkoani or nearby coastal lodges to Shamiani Island. Upon arrival, the crystal waters invite you to an unforgettable snorkeling experience. The coral reefs around Shamiani are teeming with marine life colorful reef fish, starfish, and vibrant coral gardens flourish in these protected waters. With calm conditions and excellent visibility, this area is ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Midday: Emerald Sandbank Experience
After snorkeling, the boat anchors near the Emerald Sandbank, a breath-taking natural formation that appears during low tide. Here, you’ll enjoy time to relax on the powdery white sand, swim in shallow turquoise lagoons, and take stunning photos surrounded by nothing but the Indian Ocean’s shimmering blue hues. A beach picnic lunch can be served here fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies under a shaded setup creating a truly idyllic island escape.
Afternoon: Shamiani Village & Cultural Tour
Later, continue your journey to Shamiani Village, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by locals. Walk through the small fishing community to learn about traditional lifestyles, coconut farming, and seaweed harvesting. Engage with villagers and discover Pemba’s rich Swahili culture, evident in their architecture, daily routines, and hospitality. This visit provides a rare opportunity to experience genuine island life, untouched by mass tourism.
Evening: Return to Main Island
As the afternoon ends, board your boat for a relaxing cruise back to Pemba’s main island, enjoying scenic coastal views and possibly a golden sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Tucked away at the northern tip of Pemba Island, the Ngezi Forest Reserve is the island’s last remaining stretch of indigenous tropical rainforest and one of Zanzibar’s most treasured natural sanctuaries. Covering nearly 1,400 hectares, this ancient forest is a living museum of biodiversity a tranquil refuge where towering mahogany trees, giant fig trees, and thick mangroves create a lush, emerald canopy alive with the sounds of nature.
A guided walk through Ngezi Forest is an unforgettable eco-adventure, offering visitors the chance to experience the untouched beauty of Pemba’s wilderness. Your journey takes you along shaded trails lined with ferns and orchids, where the air is filled with birdsong and the earthy scent of the forest floor. It’s home to rare and endemic species such as the Pemba Flying Fox (a large fruit bat found only on the island), the Pemba Sunbird, Pemba Scoops Owl, and playful monkeys that often peek curiously from the treetops.
As you explore deeper, your local nature guide will share fascinating insights about the unique ecosystem, medicinal plants, and the cultural importance of the forest to nearby communities. Many of the trees and herbs here have been used for generations in traditional healing and rituals, reflecting the deep bond between the people and their natural surroundings.
Ngezi also connects to the Vumawimbi Beach coastline, where the dense green forest suddenly opens to reveal powdery white sands and turquoise waters a breath-taking contrast of jungle and sea. The forest’s serenity, combined with its ecological richness, makes it an ideal destination for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking an authentic and peaceful experience.
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