Zanzibar vs. Pemba Island: Which is best for a vacation in Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of the best destinations in the world for beach vacations. Most tourists who plan a trip to Tanzania have a common dilemma: Should you visit Zanzibar Or Pemba? Which of these two wonderful Islands is best for your vacation?
Zanzibar is more famous and bustling, while Pemba Island Tanzania offers a quieter, more natural escape.
If you’re struggling to decide between Zanzibar and Pemba Island? We've got you covered! In this guide, we'll compare these two fantastic destinations to help you pick the perfect spot for your dream East African vacation.
Read on to find your perfect African retreat.
Zanzibar vs. Pemba: A Comprehensive Comparison
Pemba Island, the lesser-known sister of Zanzibar, offers an untouched paradise that many travelers are now discovering. I’ve come up with a straightforward comparison based on 8 criteria, to help you make the right choice for your African adventure.
1. Commercialization and Authenticity
Zanzibar has become highly commercialized over the years, bustling with tourists and businesses. Zanzibar, with its renowned Stone Town and exquisite resorts, has undeniably carved its niche in the travel world.
But, with fame comes crowds. Expect bustling streets, tourist-packed markets, and a buzzing nightlife.
Now, let's talk Pemba. If Zanzibar is the star of Islands off the coast of East Africa, Pemba is the hidden gem. Pemba Island retains its local charm and untouched beauty, making it a haven for those seeking authenticity.
Pemba, overshadowed by its famous sister, Zanzibar, has retained its local authenticity. You won't find the aggressive sales tactics here; instead, you'll be greeted with genuine curiosity and warm smiles.
2. Natural Beauty
Pemba Island is mostly forested, offering a refreshing ambiance with the scent of nature in the air. The Island is often dubbed the "Green Island" for a reason. Its lush, forested interior will envelop you in a symphony of green. The air carries the scent of fresh foliage, and the landscape is a canvas painted with pristine beauty.
Zanzibar's beauty is no less enchanting. Its beaches are legendary, with powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. However, commercialization has inevitably left its mark on some of the once-hidden treasures.
3. Local Interaction
Pemba's charm extends to its people. The locals are friendly, unassuming, genuinely curious, and not pushy about selling, creating a warm atmosphere. You'll feel more like a guest than a tourist as they engage with so much warmth.
Visit the community, have fun with the people, and try the best of East African dishes.
In Zanzibar, you’ll always meet folks who want you to buy things, which can be a bit much, especially in the popular tourist areas. While this can be part of the experience, you may prefer the more laid-back atmosphere of Pemba.
The local interaction in Zanzibar is not always bad. It’s one of the unique places in the world with some of the largest spice farms. A Zanzibar spice tour is one of the best things you can do in Tanzania for a vacation. Take a spice farm tour and you’ll learn so much about Africa’s spice trade history.
4. Accessibility
Getting to Pemba might require an extra step, but it's well worth it. You can take a short flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to reach the island. These small flights are convenient and provide breathtaking aerial views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Could cost you up to $150 to and from Pemba Island
Zanzibar is easily accessible via international flights or ferries from the mainland. It's a well-established tourist destination with numerous transport options.
5. Scenic Attractions
Pemba offers a unique set of attractions, including the mesmerizing sight of flying foxes gliding through the evening skies and the tranquil Ngezi Forest. These experiences showcase the island's pristine, unexplored nature.
Zanzibar boasts its own list of attractions, such as the historic Stone Town, the Jozani Forest with its red colobus monkeys, and the vibrant spice markets. These experiences reflect the island's rich cultural heritage.
6. Pristine Beaches
Pemba's coastline is a hidden treasure trove. Here, you won't find rows of resorts lining the shores. Pemba's beaches are peaceful and unspoiled, without many resorts. Instead, you can explore secluded and unspoiled beaches, where the only footprints in the sand will likely be your own.
Zanzibar's beaches are stunning but can be crowded at times. These beaches are legendary, and for good reason. They are postcard-perfect, with soft sands and inviting waters. However, some areas can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.
If you’re looking for a quieter beach with much less crowds and resorts for family or personal beach time, then Pemba is perfect for you. But if you’re in for the community and fun beach activities, you’ll have a great time in Zanzibar.
Here are my 7 top tips for planning a perfect dive or beach trip to Africa.
7. Safari Experiences
Both Zanzibar and Pemba islands offer unique safari experiences, where you can see wildlife in a more intimate setting than on the mainland. You can explore nearby Tanzanian National Parks and witness the wonders of East African wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes.
On a Zanzibar or Pemba Island safari, you can expect to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including:
Red colobus monkeys
Pemba flying foxes
Sykes' monkeys
Miniature antelopes
Crocodiles
Hippos
Snakes
Lizards
Birds
The best time to visit Tanzania for safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to October.
Pemba is less developed than Zanzibar, which means that you'll have a more authentic safari experience. Pemba is less developed than Zanzibar, which means that you'll have a more authentic safari experience.
8. Scuba Diving Experiences
With over 4 decades of dive experience around the world, I can attest to the exceptional scuba diving experiences on Pemba Island. Pemba's underwater world is a hidden treasure of colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. The untouched nature of these dive sites provides a unique and unforgettable adventure for divers.
Zanzibar also offers scuba diving opportunities with vibrant marine life and beautiful underwater landscapes. However, the underwater world in Pemba is often considered superior by diving enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Tanzania for scuba diving is during the warm season, which runs from November to April
Why should you visit Pemba or Zanzibar?
There are several reasons to consider a safari on Zanzibar or Pemba Island:
Unique wildlife: The Zanzibar Archipelago is home to a number of endemic species, meaning that you won't find them anywhere else in the world. This includes the Pemba flying fox, the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, and the Pemba white-eye bird.
Crystal clear waters: If you’re a scuba diving enthusiast, Pemba Island Tanzania, and Zanzibar are exciting sites to go for underwater adventures. You will not find clearer, cleaner waters anywhere else.
The marine diversity is one thing that leaves every diver in complete awe. For 4 decades I’ve explored these waters, and I’ve never gotten bored for a second.
Intimate setting: Zanzibar and Pemba Island are much smaller than the mainland, which means that you'll have a more intimate safari experience. You're more likely to get up close to the animals, and you'll have the opportunity to learn more about them from your guide.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Zanzibar and Pemba, for an unforgettable vacation.
Sample safari itinerary in Zanzibar and Pemba
Here is a sample itinerary for a 3-day safari on Pemba Island:
Day 1: Arrive on Pemba Island and check into your lodge. Go on a guided afternoon walk in the Ngezi Forest Reserve, where you can see Pemba flying foxes, red colobus monkeys, and other wildlife.
Day 2: Go on a full-day boat trip to explore the island's coral reefs. Go snorkeling or scuba diving to see the diverse marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and dolphins.
Day 3: Visit a local village to learn about the Pemban culture and way of life. Go on a guided nature walk to learn about the island's flora and fauna. Depart from Pemba Island.
Get expert advice on planning your trip or book your trip to Zanzibar or Pemba today.
FAQ Section
Is Pemba Island better than Zanzibar?
It really depends on your preferences. Pemba Island is a haven for travelers seeking an authentic, unspoiled paradise away from the crowds. If this aligns with your preferences, it might just be the perfect destination for you.
Is Pemba Island worth it?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of scuba diving or snorkeling or a lover of beach vacations, there’s no place better than Pemba. I may be a little biased since I live here, but I’ve had the opportunity to explore other beaches around the world. I couldn’t be happier settling in this unique, small heaven.
Pemba Island's natural beauty, warm hospitality, and exceptional scuba diving make it a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
What are Pemba and Zanzibar famous for?
Pemba is renowned for its pristine nature and outstanding scuba diving. The water is so clean and clear, you can see lots of underwater organisms right from the surface. Some of the world’s renowned scuba divers have great scuba diving experiences here.
Zanzibar is also famous for scuba diving, with hundreds of dives a year. The Island is also famous for it’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.
Why do people like to visit Pemba Island?
Visitors flock to Pemba Island to escape the commercialized tourism scene and immerse themselves in authentic, untouched beauty while enjoying exceptional scuba diving. Scuba divers, snorkelers, bird watchers, and beach lovers visit the Island for unforgettable experiences.
What is the most visited island in Zanzibar?
The most visited island within the Zanzibar Archipelago is Zanzibar Island itself, primarily due to its historical significance and diverse attractions.
Conclusion
In the end, the choice between Zanzibar and Pemba Island boils down to your preferences. Both islands offer unique and memorable experiences. If you seek the unspoiled charm of a hidden paradise with exceptional scuba diving, Pemba Island is the clear winner.
Feel free to reach out now for personalized advice and bookings to make your journey to East Africa truly remarkable.
The Best Dive Location in Africa.
"We scheduled 6 dives over 3 days. The diving was so good we stayed and dove an extra day. I am a divemaster, and my friends with me dove their 100th dive here. We have been diving in many parts of the world. Diving Pemba was superb. The dive company was excellent. I recommend it highly. Really pleased we chose to dive at Pemba, and especially pleased we dove with Swahili Divers."
Suzan, Kandy District, Sri Lanka
