Experiences in Pemba Island

What to do in Pemba Island

A speck of land off Tanzania’s coast, Pemba is pure paradise. Its waters are alive with fish of every colour as well as larger marine life including pods of dolphins. Snorkelling is fabulous and the Pemba Channel is a scuba diver’s dream, which is among the best in the world. Deep sea fishing is also available, or simply take in the views from a dhow or kayak.

Sail a dhow at sunset

Pemba’s lush, undulating interior is beautiful and wild, but nothing compared to the tropical waters that surround it. Here, fisherman craft handmade traditional sailing boats called dhows using mango wood and invite you to experience sailing their way. They can take you on a day trip to a secretive sandbank to enjoy a picnic lunch on powder sand, watch the sunset from the open ocean or jump right in and snorkel the colourful reefs that surround this quiet, castaway island.

Sleep in an underwater room in Pemba Island

Pemba island was quickly made famous when The Manta Resort installed a unique floating room with an underwater bedroom. And you can believe all the hype because floating out above the coral reef on your own “private island” is exciting enough, but sleeping four metres under water surrounded by colourful marine life really brings this ocean holiday to a new level. Share your morning coffee with vibrant and energetic reef fish, breakfast on the top deck followed by a dip in the warm Indian ocean. What a way to start the day!