FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for detailed information on specific aspects, our FAQ cover everything from travel tips and activities to safety advice and interesting facts about Pemba Island. Dive in to discover more about this enchanting destination!

Travel information

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.

Sustainability

Sustainable fishing practices on Pemba Island are supported through regulations that limit overfishing, the establishment of marine protected areas, and community education programs that teach sustainable fishing methods to local fishermen.

Waste management on Pemba Island includes initiatives like recycling programs, community clean-up efforts, and awareness campaigns to reduce plastic use. There are also projects focused on composting organic waste to create natural fertilizers.

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are increasingly being utilized on Pemba Island to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decrease carbon emissions, and promote sustainable development. Several community projects aim to expand access to clean energy.

Snorkeling

While snorkeling on Pemba Island, you can expect to see a diverse range of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and various coral species. The island’s healthy reefs are home to a wide variety of marine creatures, offering an exciting underwater experience.

Yes, snorkeling on Pemba Island is generally safe. Always follow the guidance of your snorkeling guide, use the provided safety equipment, and be mindful of the marine environment. It’s important to stay within designated snorkeling areas and be aware of ocean conditions.

No prior experience is needed to snorkel on Pemba Island. Snorkeling is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Our instructors ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Safety and Practical Tips

Yes, Pemba Island is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is recommended to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, safeguarding personal belongings, and respecting local customs and traditions.

Pemba Island

Pemba Island has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. It was a key trading hub in the Indian Ocean, attracting Arab, Persian, and Indian merchants. The island became part of the Sultanate of Zanzibar in the 19th century and played a significant role in the global spice trade, particularly in the production of cloves. Ancient ruins, such as those at Ras Mkumbuu and Ndagoni, reflect its long-standing cultural and commercial importance.

The island’s fertile soil and ideal climate make it perfect for clove cultivation, which has been a cornerstone of its economy for centuries. Walking through Pemba, you’ll often catch the sweet and spicy aroma of drying cloves in the air, a distinctive scent that has become synonymous with this lush, tropical paradise.

Pemba Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, is famous for its pristine coral reefs, making it a top destination for diving and snorkeling. Known as the “Green Island,” it produces a variety of spices, including cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Pemba also has a rich history of traditional medicine, with local healers using the island’s diverse flora for medicinal purposes. Additionally, the island features historical sites, ancient ruins, and Swahili settlements, reflecting its cultural heritage. Its untouched landscapes, including mangroves, forests, and secluded beaches, make it a prime spot for ecotourism.

Diving

Yes, divers are expected to follow standard diving regulations, including respecting marine protected areas, avoiding touching or damaging corals, and maintaining proper buoyancy control.

The water temperature around Pemba Island typically ranges from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F) year-round. This warm water makes for comfortable diving conditions, though a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit is recommended for extended dives.

While sightings of whale sharks and dolphins are not guaranteed, they are occasionally spotted in the waters around Pemba Island. For a higher chance of encountering these majestic creatures, consider visiting during their migration seasons and joining specialized excursions.

Yes, diving on Pemba Island is generally safe, especially when you dive with reputable dive centers that follow strict safety protocols. It’s important to listen to your dive guides, adhere to safety briefings, and ensure your equipment is in good condition.

Divers exploring Pemba Island’s coral reefs can expect to encounter a stunning array of underwater features and marine life. The island’s reefs are known for their dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and vibrant coral gardens. Marine life is abundant and diverse, with regular sightings of colorful reef fish, octopuses, and various species of rays. Additionally, lucky divers might spot larger marine creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and even reef sharks. One particularly fascinating feature is the Mesali Island Marine Reserve, which offers some of the best diving spots with well-preserved coral and a high density of marine biodiversity.

Booking

The Resort has a 3 night minimum stay policy.

Please note that our resort is FULLY inclusive. Simply put, you will not receive a bill when you leave, except for any additional excursions or diving activities you may have taken part in.

Attractions and Activities

Some of the top attractions include the coral reefs and diving spots, the ancient ruins of Ras Mkumbuu and Ndagoni, the pristine Vumawimbi Beach, and the lush Ngezi Forest Reserve. Don’t miss the chance to visit local spice farms and learn about clove production.

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Honeymoon unlike any other

The Manta Resort offers numerous romantic activities for newlyweds and honeymooners alike.

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  • Please note that our resort is fully inclusive. 
  • The Resort has a 3 night minimum stay policy.
Snorkeling
Sandbank Excursion
Fishing
Pemba Inland Excursion
Ngalawa Sunset Cruise
Diving
Oceanview Villas
The Standard Garden Rooms
The Superior Garden Rooms
The Seafront Villas
The Seafront Family Villa
The Underwater Room
Diving
Diving
Ngalawa Sunset Cruise
Ngalawa Sunset Cruise
Pemba Inland Excursion
Pemba Inland Excursion
Fishing
Fishing
Sandbank Excursion
Sandbank Excursion
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Oceanview Villas
Oceanview Villas
The Standard Garden Rooms
The Standard Garden Rooms
The Superior Garden Rooms
The Superior Garden Rooms
The Seafront Villas
The Seafront Villas
The Seafront Family Villa
The Seafront Family Villa
The Underwater Room
The Underwater Room