Pemba, Zanzibar: where to stay, what to do and how to get there
Pemba is one of the coastal areas we book on Zanzibar every week. Below are the hotels, lodges and guest houses we hold exclusive rates for in Pemba, the day trips that run from there, and the fixed transfer price from the airport.
Best for
- Beach days
- Snorkelling and dhow trips
- Quiet nights
The beach and the tide
Soft white sand with a working village nearby, best swum around high tide.
Getting there
Private car from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) on tarmac the whole way. Give us your flight number and the driver tracks it.
See transfer pricesWhere to stay in Pemba
Pemba questions
Is Pemba good for a first trip to Zanzibar?
Yes. Pemba works well for a first visit: hotels of every budget, easy road access from the airport, and most Zanzibar day trips will collect you from your hotel there.
How do I get from Zanzibar airport to Pemba?
A private vehicle for up to 5 passengers with luggage, at a fixed price per car, one way. Add it to your trip cart with your stay and we confirm both together.
Planning reading
The best time to visit Zanzibar, month by month
June to October is the most reliable window: dry, warm days around 28C, calm sea and low humidity. December to February is hotter and just as dry but costs the most. April and May bring the long rains and the lowest rates of the year.
Where to stay in Zanzibar: every beach compared
Nungwi and Kendwa for swimming at any tide and nightlife, Paje and Jambiani for kitesurfing and a young budget crowd, Matemwe and Pongwe for quiet high end beach, Michamvi for sunsets, Stone Town for history and your first or last night.
Zanzibar airport transfers: what it costs and how long it takes
A private transfer from Zanzibar airport costs from about 15 USD to Stone Town and 60 to 80 USD to the far north or east coast, for the whole car rather than per person. Drive times run from 20 minutes to 1 hour 40.