9-Day Zanzibar Archipelago Island Hopping | Pemba, Zanzibar & Mafia
Pemba • Zanzibar • Mafia • Island Hopping • Diving Paradise
Trip Summary
- •Three unique islands in one journey
- •Pemba Island diving paradise
- •Stone Town UNESCO heritage site
- •Mafia Island whale shark encounters
- •Luxury boutique resorts
- •Authentic island experiences
Day-by-Day Overview
Pricing
From approx. USD $3,400
Safari Overview
Embark on an extraordinary island hopping adventure through the Zanzibar Archipelago, discovering three distinctly different paradise islands. From Pemba's world-class diving and secluded beaches to Zanzibar's rich cultural heritage and vibrant Stone Town, then concluding at Mafia Island's pristine marine park with seasonal whale shark encounters - this journey showcases the best of East Africa's Indian Ocean islands.
Each island offers its own unique character and charm. Pemba Island, the northernmost gem, remains beautifully untouched with some of Africa's finest diving sites. Zanzibar, the legendary Spice Island, blends beach paradise with fascinating history and culture. Mafia Island, the southernmost sanctuary, offers intimate whale shark encounters and unspoiled coral reefs within its protected marine park.
Experience authentic island life, luxury boutique accommodations, exceptional marine adventures, and the warm hospitality that makes the Zanzibar Archipelago so special. This carefully crafted island hopping itinerary delivers diverse experiences while maintaining the relaxed, barefoot luxury atmosphere that defines these magical islands.
Safari Highlights
Three Unique Islands
Experience the distinct character of Pemba, Zanzibar, and Mafia - each offering different landscapes, culture, and marine life.
Pemba Diving Paradise
Explore Pemba's pristine coral reefs and dramatic underwater walls, considered some of East Africa's best diving sites.
Stone Town Cultural Heritage
Discover Zanzibar's UNESCO World Heritage Stone Town with its fascinating Swahili architecture and rich history.
Mafia Whale Shark Encounters
Swim with gentle whale sharks in Mafia Island Marine Park (October-March season), an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Boutique Island Resorts
Stay at carefully selected intimate lodges and boutique resorts that capture the authentic character of each island.
Authentic Island Life
Experience genuine island hospitality, local culture, and the relaxed barefoot luxury that defines the archipelago.
Accommodation Options
MidLuxury Category (4★)
Kinasi Lodge
Intimate beach lodge with exceptional diving and authentic island experience
Luxury Category (5★)
Fundu Lagoon Zanzibar
Exclusive beach resort with pristine diving and luxury amenities
Manta Resort Pemba Island
Unique luxury resort famous for its underwater room and pristine diving
Zuri Zanzibar
Luxurious beachfront resort with exceptional service and amenities
Baraza Resort & Spa
Ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort with Arabian-inspired design and world-class spa
The Palms Zanzibar
Ultra-luxury boutique resort with exclusive villas and personalized service
Zawadi Hotel Zanzibar
Intimate boutique luxury hotel with stunning ocean views and personalized service
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Pemba Island – The Green Island Welcome
Welcome to Pemba Island, the greenest and most untouched of the Zanzibar Archipelago! Fly from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Pemba's Chake Chake Airport, where you'll be greeted and transferred to your beachfront resort. Pemba is renowned for its pristine diving sites, lush clove plantations, and authentic island atmosphere. Spend your afternoon settling in, exploring the resort's beautiful grounds, and taking your first swim in Pemba's crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.
Day 2: Pemba Diving & Snorkeling Adventure
Today you'll discover why Pemba is considered one of East Africa's premier diving destinations. Join a diving or snorkeling excursion to explore Pemba's spectacular coral reefs, dramatic underwater walls, and abundant marine life. The Pemba Channel offers pristine sites with incredible visibility, colorful soft corals, and encounters with turtles, rays, and diverse reef fish. Non-divers can enjoy world-class snorkeling in shallow coral gardens. Return to your resort in the afternoon for relaxation, spa treatments, or kayaking along the pristine coastline.
Day 3: Pemba Island Exploration & Beach Relaxation
Spend your final day on Pemba at leisure. Consider a dhow sailing trip to nearby sandbanks, a visit to traditional clove plantations, or a cultural tour of local fishing villages. Alternatively, simply relax on your resort's private beach, enjoy spa treatments, or try additional water sports. For the ultimate Pemba experience at Manta Resort, consider booking the iconic Underwater Room for this night (supplement applies). In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner on Pemba before preparing for tomorrow's island hop to Zanzibar.
Day 4: Island Hop to Zanzibar – Stone Town & Beach Arrival
After breakfast, transfer to Pemba Airport for your short flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, journey to Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a fascinating walking tour through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways lined with intricately carved wooden doors. Visit the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Sultan's Palace Museum, and the former slave market. Your guide will share captivating stories of Zanzibar's history as a spice trade center. After lunch, transfer to your beach resort on Zanzibar's stunning coastline for check-in and relaxation.
Day 5: Spice Plantation Tour & Zanzibar Beach
Discover why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island on this aromatic morning tour. Visit a traditional spice plantation where you'll see, smell, and taste exotic spices including cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Learn about the cultivation process and the island's pivotal role in the historic spice trade. Many tours include a traditional Swahili cooking demonstration. Return to your resort by early afternoon for beach relaxation, swimming, spa treatments, or water sports. Enjoy sunset cocktails followed by a gourmet dinner at your resort.
Day 6: Zanzibar Beach Day & Sunset Dhow Cruise
Enjoy a full day at your Zanzibar resort, taking advantage of the exceptional facilities and pristine beaches. Lounge on the powder-white sand, swim in the turquoise Indian Ocean, try water sports, or indulge in spa treatments. In the late afternoon, embark on one of Zanzibar's most romantic experiences - a traditional dhow sunset cruise. Board a beautifully crafted wooden sailing vessel and glide across calm waters while enjoying refreshing drinks and canapés. Watch the sun paint the sky in spectacular colors before returning to shore for dinner.
Day 7: Island Hop to Mafia Island – Marine Paradise Arrival
After breakfast, transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your flight to Mafia Island, the southernmost jewel of the archipelago. Mafia is home to the Mafia Island Marine Park, one of Tanzania's best-kept secrets with pristine coral reefs and incredible marine biodiversity. Upon arrival, transfer to your intimate beachfront lodge. Spend the afternoon exploring the lodge grounds, relaxing on the uncrowded beach, or taking an introductory snorkel in the house reef. Mafia's laid-back atmosphere and authentic island vibe provide the perfect finale to your island hopping adventure.
Day 8: Mafia Marine Park – Whale Shark Encounter & Diving
Today is dedicated to exploring Mafia Island Marine Park's spectacular underwater world. If visiting during whale shark season (October-March), embark on an unforgettable excursion to swim with these gentle giants - one of nature's most awe-inspiring experiences. The marine park also offers exceptional diving and snorkeling with pristine coral gardens, abundant tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. For non-divers, snorkeling in the shallow reefs is equally rewarding. Alternatively, enjoy a sandbank picnic, island excursions, or deep-sea fishing. Return to your lodge for a final evening in paradise.
Day 9: Departure – Farewell to the Islands
Enjoy your final breakfast with ocean views before checking out of your Mafia Island lodge. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for one last swim or beach walk. Transfer to Mafia Airport for your flight back to Dar es Salaam, carrying with you unforgettable memories of three distinct island paradises - Pemba's pristine diving, Zanzibar's rich culture and beaches, and Mafia's incredible marine life. Your island hopping adventure through the Zanzibar Archipelago comes to a perfect close.
Trip Summary
- •Three unique islands in one journey
- •Pemba Island diving paradise
- •Stone Town UNESCO heritage site
- •Mafia Island whale shark encounters
- •Luxury boutique resorts
- •Authentic island experiences
Day-by-Day Overview
Pricing
From approx. USD $3,400