[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The second biggest island of the Zanzibar archipelago, Pemba Island is one of the most stunning locations in East Africa. The remote island offers breathtaking views, wonderful food, vivid greenery, and a serene and peaceful break from one daily life. Home to many different animals such as the Pemba flying fox (fruit bat), green pigeon, malachite kingfisher, palm nut vulture, colorful corals, African goshawk, crowned hornbill, Pemba Vervet monkeys, deep sea turtles, manta rays, Red Colobus monkeys, miniature antelopes, violet breasted sunbirds, and owls, this lush isle is perfect for a vacation. Here are seven day trips that can not be missed in Pemba Island!
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Ngezi Forest Reserve
The lush green Ngezi Forest Reserve is one of the best spots in Pemba, as it has several biomes, including tropical forest, riverine forest, and maquis shrubland. Here, tourists can enjoy the vegetation and greenery. This reserve is tranquil and peaceful, and visitors are not disturbed by crowds. It covers an area of 3600 acres, and includes several biomes, including tropical forest, riverine forest, and maquis shrubland. It is home to many animals, such as owls, monkeys (notably the Pemba Vervet Monkey and the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey), and the Pemba flying fox. Bird species include the African goshawk, palm-nut vulture, green pigeon, malachite kingfisher, crowned hornbill, Pemba white-eye, and many others.
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Ras Mkumbuu Ruins
These ruins date from the 13th and 14th centuries, and are a great spot for a day trip in Pemba Island, especially for tourists who wish to learn about the heritage of Tanzania and like visiting historical locations. The ruins include an 11th century mosque which is one of the largest ancient mosques in sub Saharan Africa. Tourists can explore the area in peace and tranquility as the site is rarely crowded. They can also visit an old house that belonged to the chief, or spot several elaborate graves. To make the experience more special and enriching, tourists are advised to get information from a learned local, or hire a guide!
- Kigomasha Peninsula
One of the top rated tourist spots in Pemba Island, Kigomasha Peninsula is perfect for a day trip as tourists can enjoy swimming and diving in the cool water. The cast iron Ras Kigomasha lighthouse, built in 1904, is still operational and can be seen by visitors. Tourists can try the local cuisine of Pemba with delicious foods such as octopus curry, biryani, spiced potatoes, grilled kebabs, shellfish, calamari, date nut bread, prawns, and soup! Away from the beach, the Makangale are traditional villages where tourists can go for cultural visits and meet locals!
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Vumawimbi Beach
The heavenly Vumawimbi beach is an untouched stretch of white sand where visitors can escape the crowds and relax on the private and peaceful beach. The serene location has white sands, crystalline waters, swaying palm trees, and sweet smelling air, making it a beautiful and ideal spot for a nice, relaxing day trip. The tranquil and secluded region can be reached via a fun dhow trip, and is perfect for picnicking and swimming!
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Spice Farm
Visiting a spice farm is always a great idea as guests get to taste, smell, observe, and learn about many different herbs and plants, such as pepper, cinnamon cloves, cardamom, vanilla, nutmeg, lemongrass, fennel, ginger, and garlic! A spice farm tour in Pemba Island can be a good idea for a relaxing and tranquil day trip during the vacation!
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Chake Chake
Chake Chake bay is a deep indentation that stretches 5 km from north to south. The town is located on a hill which shows a scenic view of the crystalline water and the dhows that are found in it. As it has most of PembaS government offices, the town is the unofficial capital of the island. Visitors can go to the fish market where they can buy fresh seafood, or to the Chake town market which opened in 1904! The walled city and Old Fort also have a unique atmosphere and are interesting sites to visit on the day trip!
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Misali Island
Surrounded by crystal waters and stunning coral reefs, Misali is one of the most beautiful beaches at Pemba, and offers some of the best diving in East Africa. Snorkelling is spectacular and easily reached from the beach. Visitors can spot nesting turtles, and explore the sandy Baobab Beach. The island is used by local fishermen, but it has no permanent residents, making it serene and relaxing for visitors. Inland, tourists can see the caves which are believed to be inhabited by the spirits of ancestors.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]