Pemba is predominantly Muslim and culturally conservative. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully in villages, towns, markets, and public spaces.
Recommended Clothing For Women
● Loose dresses or skirts below the knee
● Long trousers
● Tops with sleeves
● Light scarf or shawl For Men
● Shirts or t-shirts
● Long shorts or trousers
Avoid overly revealing clothing away from beaches and resorts.
Best Time to Visit Pemba enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. Dry Season — Best Overall Travel Period June to October & December to February Ideal for:
● Diving and snorkeling
● Beach holidays
● Cultural tours
● Outdoor adventures
● Photography
Expect:
● Sunny weather
● Calm seas
● Comfortable temperatures
● Lower humidity
Green Season — Quiet & Beautiful March to May & November Perfect for:
● Nature lovers
● Slow travel
● Wellness escapes
● Meaningful travel experiences
● Budget-friendly trips
Expect:
● Occasional tropical rain
● Lush green landscapes
● Fewer crowds
● Dramatic scenery
Pemba is famously known as “The Clove Island.” Best Period: September to November Visitors can experience:
● Traditional clove harvesting
● Spice plantations
● Village life
● Local agriculture
● Authentic cultural experiences
The island becomes beautifully aromatic during harvest season.
Currency The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
US Dollars are accepted at many:
● Hotels
● Resorts
● Dive centers
● Tourism businesses
Travel Tip Bring newer, clean USD notes for easier acceptance. ATM Availability ATMs are mainly available in:
● Chake Chake
● Wete
● Mkoani
Cash is still essential, especially in rural areas and villages.
Credit Cards Visa and Mastercard are accepted at some hotels and resorts, though internet interruptions can occasionally affect transactions.
Season Pemba is internationally known for world-class diving and healthy coral reefs.
Best Diving Conditions
● June to October
● February to March
Visitors can enjoy:
● Excellent visibility
● Rich marine life
● Coral reefs
● Drift diving
● Calm ocean conditions
Please choose environmentally responsible operators that support marine conservation. Drinking Water Bottled drinking water is widely available across the island.
Visitors are advised to drink bottled or filtered water.
Drones Drone use may require official permission in Tanzania and Zanzibar. Visitors planning professional filming should confirm regulations before arrival.
The standard voltage is 220–240V with UK-style three-pin plugs commonly used.
A universal adapter is recommended for international travelers.
Police: 112 Ambulance: 114 Fire: 115 Visitors should also keep their hotel and tour operator contacts available during excursions.
Friday is an important prayer day in Islamic culture.
Some local businesses and shops may temporarily close during Friday prayers around midday
Greetings are highly valued in Swahili culture.
Common greetings include:
● Jambo
● Habari
● Karibu
● As-salaam alaikum
Respectful greetings often create warm and meaningful interactions. Some local women and men may avoid shaking hands with the opposite gender out of religious respect.
Basic healthcare facilities are available in:
● Chake Chake
● Wete
● Mkoani
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Visitors should carry personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
Cards Mobile connectivity continues improving across Pemba.
Main Providers
● Yas (Zantel)
● Vodacom
● Airtel
● Halotel
Yas (Zantel) generally provides the strongest coverage across Zanzibar and Pemba.
SIM cards are affordable and available at:
● Airports
● Towns
● Mobile shops
Passport registration is required by Tanzanian law. Most accommodations provide Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary in remote areas.
Major Islamic celebrations include:
● Eid al-Fitr
● Eid al-Adha
● Maulid
These periods offer beautiful cultural experiences, local celebrations, and traditional food.
Swahili is the main language spoken on Pemba Island.
English is commonly spoken in:
● Hotels
● Tourism businesses
● Guided tours
Learning a few Swahili words is always appreciated.
Pemba’s marine ecosystems are fragile and valuable.
Please:
● Use reef-safe sunscreen
● Avoid touching coral reefs
● Never collect shells or coral
● Avoid feeding marine life
● Respect marine protected areas
Responsible tourism helps preserve the island’s underwater biodiversity.
Recommended Essentials
● Lightweight cotton clothing
● Swimwear & beach cover-ups
● Hat & sunglasses
● Reef-safe sunscreen
● Water shoes
● Reusable water bottle
● Dry bag
● Insect repellent
● Basic medication
● Waterproof phone protection
Always ask permission before photographing:
● Local people
● Children
● Religious activities
● Homes or villages
Respectful interaction creates better and more authentic experiences.
Excessive public displays of affection are generally discouraged in villages and public places.
During Ramadan, visitors are encouraged to respect local customs by avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking openly in public during daylight hours.
Hotels and tourism services continue operating normally for visitors.
Islam plays an important role in daily life on Pemba Island. Visitors will hear the call to prayer throughout the day and are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs.
Pemba Island is generally peaceful, safe, and welcoming.
Visitors are encouraged to:
● Take normal travel precautions
● Avoid isolated areas late at night
● Keep valuables secure
● Travel with licensed operators and guides
Travel Pemba remains one of East Africa’s least-developed island destinations.
Visitors are encouraged to:
● Support local businesses
● Buy locally made products
● Reduce plastic waste
● Respect local traditions
● Protect forests and coral reefs
● Travel slowly and consciously
Responsible tourism helps preserve:
● Cultural identity
● Traditional lifestyles
● Marine ecosystems
● Forest biodiversity
● Community well-being
Tipping is appreciated in tourism and hospitality services.
Small tips for:
● Guides
● Drivers
● Boat crew
● Hotel staff are warmly welcomed.
Pemba Island follows East Africa Time (GMT +3).
Road conditions in some rural areas may be rough, especially during rainy seasons.
Travel times may be longer than expected, but journeys often offer beautiful scenery, village life, and authentic experiences.
Pemba has warm tropical weather year-round.
Average Temperatures 23°C - 33°C
Long Rains March - May Short Rains November - December
Dry months are generally ideal for marine activities and outdoor exploration.
Pemba rewards respectful and conscious travelers with something increasingly rare in today’s world: authenticity, tranquility, meaningful human connection, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Travel slowly.
Respect the culture.
Protect nature.
Support local communities.
And allow the island to reveal its true spirit. Karibu Pemba - Welcome to the Green Island.