Pemba is the least visited of Tanzania’s three main islands, and getting there takes more planning than reaching Zanzibar. There are two real options: a ferry via Zanzibar or a small-aircraft flight. This guide compares them. For what to do once you arrive, see the Pemba island guide and our Pemba diving and snorkelling guide.
Option 1: Ferry via Zanzibar
The usual overland-and-sea route is Dar es Salaam to Stone Town, then Stone Town to Pemba. For the first leg, read our Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry guide.
Zanzibar to Mkoani (Pemba): Fast ferries run from Malindi port in Stone Town to Mkoani port on Pemba’s south coast. The crossing takes approximately 2 hours. Aggregators report that Zan Fast Ferries sails on four to six days a week, with early-morning departures (around 06:15 to 09:30) rather than a daily all-day schedule, and Azam Marine lists services between Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Pemba and Tanga on its official site. Timetables disagree between sources, so confirm the sailing day and time before you book.
Fares: Expect approximately USD 25-40 one way for Economy for non-residents as of 2026. Higher classes cost more. The same resident-versus-non-resident rule that applies on the Dar route applies here: foreigners pay the dollar fare, so do not accept a “local price” ticket from touts.
Tanga to Pemba: An occasional sea link runs from Tanga on the mainland. Services are irregular and the crossing is longer, so only use it if you are already in the north of the country, and confirm in the week of travel.
From Mkoani, Chake Chake (the main town) is about 30-40 minutes by taxi or shared minibus. Our Pemba where to stay guide lists where to base yourself.
Option 2: Fly
Flying is faster and avoids Pemba’s rough-weather cancellations.
- Dar es Salaam to Pemba (PMA, Chake Chake): approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Auric Air and Coastal Aviation both appear on this route, with other small carriers. Aggregator fares range widely, from around USD 100 to well over USD 300 one way depending on carrier, date and how far ahead you book.
- Zanzibar to Pemba: about 25 minutes. Auric Air is listed on this route. Useful if you have already reached Zanzibar and missed the morning ferry.
Small aircraft have strict baggage limits, usually 15-20 kg in soft bags. Dive equipment can exceed this, so ask the carrier first. Our flights to Tanzania guide covers international arrivals.
Ferry or Flight?
| Ferry via Zanzibar | Flight | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (approx., 2026) | USD 25-40 (+ Dar to Zanzibar leg) | USD 100-300+ |
| Time from Zanzibar | approx. 2 hours | approx. 25 minutes |
| Reliability | Limited days, weather cancellations | Better, but small planes can be rescheduled |
| Baggage | Generous | 15-20 kg |
Take the ferry on a budget and with flexible dates. Take the flight if time is tight or you carry diving gear.
Practical Tips
- Carry your passport. It is checked at departure and arrival.
- Allow a spare night in Zanzibar either side of a ferry in case it is cancelled.
- Pemba has few ATMs. Bring enough shillings and US dollars for your stay.
- Pre-book an airport or port pickup, because taxis at Mkoani are limited at off-peak times. You can arrange a private transfer in Tanzania in advance.
- If you only have time for one island, our Zanzibar vs Pemba comparison helps you decide.