zaro

How do I get to Pemba Island?

Published in Pemba Island Travel 3 mins read

Pemba Island is most commonly reached by taking a short flight from major Tanzanian hubs like Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, or alternatively, by ferry from Zanzibar.

Traveling to Pemba Island

Pemba Island, a serene and largely untouched destination within the Zanzibar archipelago, offers two primary modes of transport for visitors: by air and by sea. Your choice will largely depend on your priorities regarding speed, comfort, and budget.

By Air: The Quickest and Most Comfortable Option

The most popular and generally recommended way to reach Pemba Island is by air. This method offers significant time savings and a more comfortable journey, making it ideal for those looking to maximize their time on the island.

  • Departure Points:
    • Dar es Salaam (DAR): Short flights are readily available from Julius Nyerere International Airport.
    • Zanzibar (ZNZ): Many travelers combine a visit to Unguja (Zanzibar's main island) with Pemba, making flights from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport a very convenient option.
  • Arrival Airport: All flights land at Pemba Airport (PMA), also known as Karume Airport, which is conveniently located near the island's capital, Chake Chake.
  • Benefits of Flying:
    • Speed: Flights drastically reduce travel time, often taking less than an hour from either Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar.
    • Comfort: Air travel is generally smoother and less prone to issues like seasickness, offering a relaxing start to your island adventure.
    • Convenience: Multiple daily flights are typically available, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

By Sea: An Alternative from Zanzibar

While less common for international tourists due to longer travel times and potentially less comfort, ferries provide an alternative means of transport to Pemba Island, primarily from Zanzibar (Unguja).

  • Departure Point: Ferries primarily depart from Zanzibar's main port in Stone Town.
  • Arrival Ports: Ferries typically arrive at the main ports in Wete or Mkoani on Pemba Island.
  • Considerations for Ferry Travel:
    • Duration: Ferry journeys are considerably longer than flights, often taking several hours, depending on the vessel and prevailing sea conditions.
    • Comfort: Sea conditions can vary, and journeys might be less comfortable for those prone to motion sickness.
    • Schedule: Ferry schedules can be less frequent and are sometimes subject to changes or delays.

Choosing Your Travel Method: Flight vs. Ferry

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide the best way to get to Pemba Island:

Feature Flight to Pemba Ferry to Pemba
Origin Dar es Salaam (DAR), Zanzibar (ZNZ) Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Destination Pemba Airport (PMA) Wete or Mkoani Port
Travel Time Less than 1 hour Several hours (e.g., 3-5+ hours)
Comfort Generally high, smooth journey Varies, potentially less comfortable
Convenience Frequent, generally reliable schedules Less frequent, schedules can be less reliable
Cost Generally higher Generally lower
Recommendation For speed, comfort, and reliability For budget travel or a different experience

For most travelers seeking an efficient and comfortable journey to Pemba Island, flying is the preferred and highly recommended option.