Pemba Island

Many people visit the island of Zanzibar and Pemba is often ignored. The island is a quite backwater with little transportation off the main road. The only way to get around is by Jeepney (jitney bus converted into a jeep).

There are several interesting sites on the island. The ruins of Ras Mkumbu are the oldest on the island. They lie on the peninsula, west of Chake Chake and are the remains of a Shirazi settlement that was founded in 1200 AD. To the east you'll find the remains of a palace. The Portuguese destroyed it in 1520.

There are marvelous beaches all around Pemba and most of them are protected by coral reefs. The reefs are excellent for snorkeling of scuba diving.

Pemba has air and boat connections with Zanzibar. Most boats arrive in the town of Mkoani on the southwestern end of Pemba Island.

There are hotels and restaurants in many towns all over the island.