Misali Island in Pemba: snorkelling, turtles, price and access (2026)
Misali is a small uninhabited, forested island off Pemba's west coast, in the Pemba Channel Conservation Area. It is Pemba's reference snorkelling trip: you go by boat from Mkoani, Chake Chake or Wete (about 1 hour across, depending on the operator). All swimmers and divers must pay an entry fee, whose amount was not confirmed. Prices seen in October 2026: an older guide mentioned about US$50 per person with meal and entry included; on booking sites, US$71 to US$140 depending on length (4 to 7 hours), group and meal. Confirm that the entry is included.
Highlights
The island from the air
A wooded island ringed by a reef of pale sand and coral, west of Pemba (aerial photo). The sea is shallow around the island: very good visibility in calm weather.
The snorkelling
Coral reefs, tropical fish; guides mention green turtles and forest trails on the island. Expect two snorkelling stops, a grilled lunch on the beach and some swimming time.
Choosing the departure
Mkoani (south) is the base most cited for Misali; Chake Chake and Wete are possible. For the island, see also Pemba.
Practical info
Tips
- Choose a small group with lunch and pickup (about 7 hours, US$71 to US$120); a short 4 to 5-hour trip costs US$136 to US$140, so it is pricier but quicker. The online catalogue sometimes mixes up locations: check that the departure really is in Pemba (Tanzania). From Zanzibar you must first reach Pemba by plane or ferry: see Pemba. For diving, see diving in Zanzibar.
How to get there
By boat from Pemba's west coast (Mkoani, Chake Chake, Wete), on the same day; the crossing takes about an hour (estimate, depending on the boat). Plan the transfer from your hotel, often included. Pemba is linked to Zanzibar by ferry or a short flight.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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