Before arrival
Switch off your noisy, electronic world and enter a magical place on earth.
Packing suggestions
What to pack
If you are like us and dread packing, have a read through to get ready for an adventure. We’ve put together this packing list so you don’t miss anything.
When travelling locally, most flights are in small aircrafts. It is important to note that there are strict luggage restrictions to adhere to when boarding these flights. It is always best to pack less and travel light, there is a 15-20 kg (33-44 lb) per person luggage restriction on flights to most safari lodges. Guests are also permitted to carry one standard piece of hand luggage (maximum 5 kg or 11 lb). Additional luggage is charged at $2 per kilogram. To avoid this frustration, please remember to pack less, and don’t forget that a laundry service is included free of charge at the resort.
- 50 USD per person in cash for the travel visa to be paid at the international airport.
- Shorts.
- Light t-shirts.
- Flip flops or thong sandals.
- Pashmina or throw as ladies are asked to cover shoulders and knees in the village.
- Sarong or kikoti.
- Sun hat.
- Bathing suit.
- Sunglasses.
- Camera, to capture all magical moments.
- Binoculars, for birding when in the forest.
- Suntan lotion.
- All toiletries and items of personal nature.
- For off peak season (April to June) pack a light cardigan for the evenings.
Getting to Pemba
Adventure begins before you arrive
Flying to Pemba Island
Many parts of Pemba Island are not easily accessed, as there is only one main tarred road through the middle of the island. The only sensible way to visit Pemba is with the scheduled charter flights.
Pemba Island is accessed via most airports in East Africa via Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam. Pemba Island can also be accessed with direct local flights with several charter airlines that operate smaller aircrafts. The most frequent route is Zanzibar – Pemba, and is serviced by these airlines: Coastal Air, Auric Air.
If you wish, we can assist you with more information as to how to book domestic flights or you can simply do the booking yourself online via Tripindigo.com.
Transfer to the resort​
The taxi transport from Pemba Airport (PMA) to the resort is handled by our trusted transfer partners. We will organize this service for you so that a vehicle will be waiting for you upon arrival. It is a 1.5 hour drive from the airport on a bumpy African road (we call it the Pemba massage) however that is part of the charm and adventure of getting to us on the very northern tip of Pemba. You will also get to see a lot of Pemba Island on your way to us so we do hope this is an interesting and fun experience for you.
Please note that this service will be added to your invoice at $45 per person, per way.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
You can reach Pemba Island by taking a short flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba Airport (PMA). Alternatively, ferries are available from Zanzibar, though flights are generally quicker and more comfortable.
The best time to visit Pemba Island is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
Manta Family welcomes you
Awaited Guest
We are here to help ensure your stay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have before your travel.