Info-now.online

The Indian Ocean surrounds Pemba Island, which is far from 80 km northeast of Zanzibar Island. Pemba offers breathtaking panoramic views and is well known for its lush green hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Compared to its counterpart, Zanzibar, Pemba remains untouched by mass tourism.I visited many places in Tanzania for work with pleasure.This time I decided to go to Pemba island

My visit to Pemba Island from Zanzibar was not just for leisure. It was a professional business trip as a part of my pharmaceutical sales manager role. Nonetheless, I anticipated it as a routine business visit. Instead, it turned into an extraordinary journey filled with discovery. The trip was challenging and an unforgettable experience.

How to go to Pemba island from Zanzibar?

There are two ways to reach Pemba Island from Zanzibar. Your choice depends on your budget, time constraints, and desired level of comfort and adventure. The most common and safe way is to take a short flight from Zanzibar airport to Pemba airport. The journey will take 30 minutes only. Auric Air, Flight Link and Coastal Airlines are scheduling frequent flights on this route. Please check their timetable, fare, and availability from their websites.

Another adventurous and cheapest way to pick up a ferry. The journey from Zanzibar port to Mkoani port takes at least 4 to 5 hours. Traveling from Zanzibar port to Wete port will take 6 to 7 hours. There are two ports, Mkoani and Wete. So, confirm your ferry schedule before booking. Azam Marine & Kilimanajaro and Zan fast ferries are regularly conducting ferry services between Zanzibar and Pemba.

How was my tense experience carrying a bike on a ferry?

My visit to Pemba island from Zanzibar was a part of my marketing job. I decided to carry my bike along with me for convenience inside Pemba town. Thus, I booked my VIP ticket for the Kilimanjaro ferry. I paid only TZS. 30000 (12 $)due to my local residence permit. Ferry time was at 7 o’clock.

Carrying a vehicle in a ferry is a little bit headache process. You have to clear the police clearance certificate in advance. You have to arrive early at the port to avoid terrific chaos. Then, you must pay VAT or some tax fare. This requires standing in a long queue at the bank counter at Zanzibar port. Again you have to pay VAT and some tax while landing at pemba port.You have to follow through the same tedious and costly procedure at Pemba port. I am surprised why charging twice for the same region journey.

Thanks to my sales assistant cum guide Mr.Combo(nickname “ndogo”). He completed all these formalities before entering in ferry. Apart from this hurdle, bike riding was a pleasant experience in Pemba hilly area.

What was my first impressions of Pemba island?

After a breathtaking journey of 5 hours, I stepped out of the ferry at Mkoani port. I was instantly struck by the island’s tranquil beauty. I was welcomed by a little drizzling of rain and the air was crisp with salty ocean breeze. The view was dominated by lush,green hills. I arranged my box of physician samples, medicine literature, and a gift box for my customer. I secured them on the back side of the bike. Then, I started a journey to Chake chake, the capital town of Pemba island.

I enjoyed and noticed the relaxed pace of life. People moved calmly, gathering at the local kahava (coffee) center, and enjoying the tangawizi (ginger juice in boiled water ). We also participated in local kahava and tangawizi party and refreshed our mood. The Swahili people are eager to know about me and my country. After some fun with them, we again continue to our destination. It took nearly 40 minutes to bike from Mkoani to Chake.In between we found a big Abdulla Mzee district hospital in Mkoani.So, I visited their doctors and pharmacists for my marketing purposes. Yes, work with pleasure. It was a wonderful experience.

what type of accommodation options available in pemba island?

Pemba Island has plenty of accommodation options according to your budget and convenience. You will find good luxury 5-star resorts to budget-friendly hotels in Chake town. We selected Pemba Sea View Hotel, Gomabi area, with recommendations of my local Pemba pharmacist friend. Here, I’d like to explain my brief experience with this hotel to you. This 4-story hotel is centrally located in a market. It features a terrace dining area with a beautiful view. The hotel offers twenty-four-hour hot water, AC, and free WiFi. Additionally, they offer free breakfast.

how was my working experience?

My primary purpose for visiting Pemba Island was pharmaceutical sales. This role provided me the opportunity to visit hospitals, private clinics, pharmacies, and many retailers. The health care in Pemba was modest but functional. People of Pemba are heavily relied on Dar es Salaam for specialized treatment. Samll private clinics (called “zahanati ) and government-run hospitals play an important role in taking care of Pemba people’s health. I found Amal Hospital has comparitively good infrastructure located in Chake. I visited a foreign-based gynecologist and othopedic doctor.Abdulla Mzee government hospital, Chuke district hospital, and Wete government hospitals are major hospitals in Pemba Island.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was logistics. Transportation was not as effective as in urban mainland areas like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Dodoma… Many of the pharmacies I had visited have limited stock, and they fully depend upon mainland Tanzania and Mombasa. I found Pemba pharmacy has good range compared to others. I met several healthcare professionals and had good interactions with them. They were dedicated to providing quality medical care despite the limited resources. Their dedication and resilience inspired me. They gave me a deeper understanding of the healthcare challenges faced by Pemba’s residents, particularly in accessing specialized medicines.

Despite some challenges, working in Pemba had its good perk also. I noticed people of Pemba are calm and welcoming, always eager to share their stories. It was a reminder that business isn’t just about transactions,It’s about building long-term relationships .

Exploring the culture and lifestyles of Pemba island

Beyond my pharmaceutical work, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Pemba’s rich Muslim-dominant culture. The island is home to Swahili people who have preserved their traditions for generations. The streets of Chake chake were lined with small shops. They sold home-made crafts, fresh produce, vegetables, fruits, and freshly caught seafood. The aroma of Zanzibar spices (especially clove) filled the air with their fragrance. Here, I saw a bunch of cloves dying under the sun in front of their home. Don’t forget to buy cloves from here. Cloves, bananas, and coconuts are major crops here.

Trying “wali wa nazi” (coconut rice) was one of the most memorable culinary experiences. I enjoyed both grilled and fried changu fish with coconut-based gravy. I liked the taste of roasted as well as frying ndizi(long banana)with tomato and chili sauce.A half hand sized long banana is peculiarity here. fresh seafood should not be missed here.The food here had a richer , more authentic taste because the everything was freshly sourced from island.

the lifestyle in Pemba was quiet relaxing. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Dar es salam, Pemba’s people took their time to enjoy their life. My favorite place to visit in the evening was Pemba Masali sunset Beach Resort. I enjoyed watching the sunset with a nice coffee and sandwich. If you have time, you can hire a boat and visit a nearby pristine island.

How was my return journey from Pemba to Zanzibar?

After an unforgettable time spend in chake,wete,Msali ,Gombani. I began my return journey from Mkoani. I stayed at cosy Hotel Mkoani. It was a nice and pleasant experience with this hotel. I stayed here because I had to catch a ferry to Zanzibar early the next morning at six o’clock. The early morning ferry from Mkoani to Zanzibar adventurous and peaceful ride. I enjoyed the panoramic sea wave views. The cool sea breeze and nice black coffee made my trip a perfect way to think about my incredible experience.

final thoughts:

When I look back on my time in Pemba, I realize this trip was so much more than just business. At first, I arrived on the island thinking only about sales meetings and closing deals. As the days passed, I felt a deep connection to the culture. I bonded with the people. I was in awe of the breathtaking natural beauty around me. More than anything, this journey taught me valuable lessons—about resilience, patience, and the true importance of human relationships.

So,would i visit Pemba again?

without a doubt,Pemba has its own untouched charm that leave long lasting impression.For anyone seeking a place that blends adventure,culture,tranquility,Pemba island is worth to explore.

My advice to professionals traveling to Pemba for work is to fully embrace the local way of life. Unlike in fast-paced business environments, things here move at a different rhythm, and relationships matter far more than just transactions. Do not rush through meetings. Take the time to interact with people. Listen to their challenges. Truly understand their way of life. Moreover, don’t just focus on work—appreciate the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you. Pemba Island is not just a location on a map. It is a rich life experience waiting to be embraced. It offers unforgettable moments.

FAQs:

(1)What is Pemba island?where it is located?

Pemba island is a part of Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago.It’s known for its lush ,green hills and clove plantations,surrounds by Indian ocean.

(2)What makes Pemba island different from Zanzibar?

Pemba island is more relaxed and peaceful than Zanzibar.It has a unique mix of natural beauty, history and culture which makes it special. You will not find here a group of foreign tourists and nightlife.

(3)How can I get to Pemba island from Zanzibar?

You can rich Pemba island from Zanzibar by flights or ferry.Flight are quick way but ferry ride offers scenic beauty.

(4)What are transport options available on Pemba Island?

Pemba Island is easy to get around with taxis. You can use auto rickshaws (called “Bajaji” here) or motorbikes. Daladala public transport offers a chance to experience local travel culture.

(5)what are the must visit destinations on Pemba Island?

Misali island,Ngezi forest,chake chake city tour,pemba cultural village tour,Pemba spice tour,Kigomasha peninsula,the ruins at Ras ?Mikumbu,and Mant water resort(Pemba’s underwater resort)

(6) what about cultural etiquette and guidance?

When visiting Pemba Island, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions. First, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Additionally, make sure to cover your head when entering mosques. Additionally, avoid public displays of affection, as they are considered inappropriate. Furthermore, always ask for permission before photographing locals to show respect for their privacy.

Moreover, be mindful of certain restrictions, such as avoiding alcohol consumption in public places. For your safety, it is also best to avoid traveling alone on beaches at night. Lastly, don’t forget to carry mosquito repellent cream, coils, or spray, which are easily available here. Taking these small precautions will help ensure a smooth and respectful experience on the island.

(7)what currencies should I bring?

Tanzanian shillings are accepted everywhere.U.S dollar is also widely accepted but you will not find here more currency exchange here except banks.

(8)What type of food experience should I get?

you must try freshly caught seafood,coconut rice,Ugali (boiled corn floor)grilled or fry fish,supu ya pweza,fry or roasted banana

Kindly share your thoughts about this journey and don’t forget to visit my other blog here. Please visit this beautiful video for Pemba view reference source https://youtu.be/RYferukrVg4 thanks to UGATV