When people think of a Tanzanian island escape, Zanzibar almost always takes the spotlight. Its spice-scented markets, iconic dhows and white-sand beaches have made it one of Africa’s most famous destinations.
Zanzibar, Tanzania/Humphrey M/Unsplash
From remote marine reserves to forest-covered islets, these islands encourage you to slow down and explore a quieter kind of paradise, still filled with beauty and charm.
Pemba Island: The green jewel
Vumawimbi Beach, Pemba Island/Marcel Oosterwijk from Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Wikimedia Commons
Often called Zanzibar’s wild sister, Pemba is everything Unguja (Zanzibar’s main island) isn’t: rugged, forested and blissfully untamed. It’s famous for its hilly landscape, ancient ruins and spice plantations. The island’s coral reefs are some of the healthiest in East Africa, making it a diver’s dream.
Life here moves at a slow rhythm. Fishermen paddle out in wooden boats at sunrise, and villages still follow traditional Swahili customs. For those who love authenticity and nature over nightlife, Pemba offers the perfect island retreat.
Highlights:
- Dive in the crystal-clear Pemba Channel
- Visit the Pujini Ruins and Ngezi Forest Reserve
- Stay at a small eco-lodge and wake up to the sound of the surf
Mafia Island: The ocean’s secret
Mafia Island/Nina R from Africa/Wikimedia Commons
A short flight from Dar es Salaam, Mafia Island remains one of the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets. It forms part of the Mafia Archipelago, a cluster of islands surrounded by protected marine reserves. The reefs here are rich in coral and marine life, and from October to March, you can swim alongside gentle whale sharks.
With just a handful of lodges and a few cars, Mafia has kept its low-key charm. Days are spent snorkelling, kayaking through mangroves and enjoying seafood barbecues on sandbanks that disappear at high tide.
Highlights:
- Snorkel with whale sharks
- Explore the Mafia Marine Park reefs
- Visit nearby islands like Chole and Juani by dhow
Misali Island: A diver’s dream off Pemba
Misali Island and coral reef from above — atoll near Pemba Island/Jojona/Wikimedia Commons
Just off the west coast of Pemba lies Misali Island, a marine conservation area known for its vibrant coral walls and sea turtles. Misali is uninhabited, and visitors come here for a pure nature experience: picnic on white sand, dive among tropical fish and listen to nothing but the sound of waves and wind.
It’s easy to arrange a day trip from Pemba, and the area’s strict conservation rules mean the marine ecosystem remains pristine.
Highlights:
- Incredible wall diving and snorkelling
- Eco-focused marine protection initiatives
- Peaceful, untouched beaches
Sinda Island: A day escape near the mainland
Shore on Sinda Island/Mangapwani/Wikimedia Commons
Closer to Dar es Salaam, Sinda Island offers a taste of tropical seclusion without the long journey. This small island is perfect for a day trip, with calm turquoise waters, coral gardens and picnic spots shaded by palms.
It’s a popular weekend escape for locals who want a dose of island life without leaving the mainland behind.
Highlights:
- Easy access by boat from Dar es Salaam
- Great snorkelling and kayaking
- Perfect picnic island for a half-day getaway
Fundo Island: Rustic and remote
For those seeking total isolation, Fundo Island near Pemba is a quiet gem. The island is ringed by a coral reef and dotted with small fishing communities. There are no large hotels here, just simple guesthouses and nature all around.
Fundo gives a glimpse into traditional island life — where the pace is slow, the seafood fresh, and sunsets paint the sky gold and crimson.
Highlights:
- Unspoiled beaches
- Authentic community experiences
- Ideal for off-grid relaxation
Chapwani and Bawe: Zanzibar’s hidden neighbours
If you’re based in Stone Town but want a quick escape from the bustle, hop over to Chapwani or Bawe. These tiny islands are only a short boat ride away, yet they feel worlds apart. Both offer quiet beaches and small boutique lodges where you can unwind between cultural excursions in Zanzibar.
Highlights:
- Easy access from Stone Town
- Intimate, peaceful atmosphere
- Great snorkelling right off the beach
When to go
The best time to visit Tanzania’s islands is during the dry season from June to October, when skies are clear and seas are calm. For divers, the months between November and March offer superb visibility and a chance to spot whale sharks near Mafia Island.
Getting there
Most of these islands are reachable by short domestic flights or boat transfers from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Air Tanzania, Coastal Aviation and Auric Air operate regular routes. Always check weather conditions, especially during the rainy seasons (April to May and November).
Why choose these islands
These lesser-known islands offer something Zanzibar can’t always guarantee anymore: quiet beaches, warm hospitality and space to breathe. Whether you’re diving with whale sharks off Mafia, hiking through Pemba’s forests or picnicking on Sinda, you’ll find that Tanzania’s hidden islands are every bit as magical sans the crowds.
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