Discover the Magic of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Islands

The Ultimate Indian Ocean Escape with Macpace Tours and Safaris

After thrilling game drives in the Serengeti or a triumphant climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, nothing completes your East African journey quite like the islands off Tanzania’s coast. The trio of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia offers more than just postcard-perfect beaches; they offer tranquility, culture, marine adventure, and a chance to truly slow down and reconnect.

At Macpace Tours and Safaris, we create seamless, unforgettable island getaways, either as stand-alone beach holidays or as part of your safari or mountain combo package. Here’s a guide to the magic waiting on these tropical islands:

🏝️ Zanzibar Island – Spice, Soul, and Seaside Serenity

Zanzibar isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. From the cultural richness of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the soft, white beaches of Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje, this island offers something for everyone.

🌿 What to Do in Zanzibar:

• 🏛️ Explore Stone Town: Wind through narrow alleys, visit the old slave market, sip spiced tea, and shop for local crafts.

• 🐠 Snorkel or dive in Mnemba Atoll: One of the best marine reserves in East Africa.

• 🌴 Visit a spice farm: See, smell, and taste cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon in their rawest form.

• ⛵ Go on a dhow cruise: Enjoy sunset or full-day sailing on a traditional wooden boat.

• 👣 Relax on the beach: With tides that rhythmically reveal sandbars and coral, Zanzibar’s beaches are both calm and captivating.

“After our Serengeti safari, Macpace flew us to Zanzibar and gave us four perfect days of beach bliss and cultural charm. We needed it, and they delivered.” – Jenna & Andre, Netherlands.

🌿 Pemba Island – The Hidden Gem of the Spice Islands

If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path, Pemba Island is pure magic. Just north of Zanzibar, Pemba remains largely untouched, covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by some of the most pristine coral reefs in Africa.

🌊 What to Do in Pemba:

• 🤿 World-class diving and snorkeling – Coral gardens, wall dives, and clear visibility

• 🧘 Peaceful beach stays – Remote eco-resorts where nature and privacy meet

• 🌾 Cultural exploration – Visit rural villages, clove plantations, and ancient ruins

• 🦋 Nature walks – Explore the Ngezi Forest Reserve, home to rare birds and butterflies

Pemba is for travelers who crave peace, authenticity, and nature’s quiet rhythm. With fewer tourists, it’s a true escape.

“Pemba was the highlight of our honeymoon. Quiet, green, and full of wonder. Macpace arranged everything so we didn’t have to worry about a thing.” – Rafiq & Sanaa, UAE.

🐢 Mafia Island – Where Marine Life Thrives

Mafia Island is the southernmost and smallest of the three, but it boasts one of the best-preserved marine ecosystems in the Indian Ocean. This is the place for underwater lovers, marine biologists, divers, and eco-travelers.

🐬 What to Do in Mafia:

• 🐋 Swim with whale sharks (Oct–Mar): A life-changing, ethical encounter

• 🐚 Explore Mafia Island Marine Park: Coral reefs, seagrass beds, and lagoons filled with life

• 🐢 Turtle nesting and hatching (seasonal): A magical moment on the beach

• 🐟 Visit local fishing villages: Learn about traditional dhow-building and seafood trading

Mafia isn’t flashy. It’s soulful, eco-rich, and perfect for slow exploration. Many visitors come for three days and stay for a week.

“We swam with whale sharks, learned about coral conservation, and watched baby turtles crawl to sea. Every day on Mafia Island was meaningful.” – Kaleb, Canada.

✨ Why Add the Islands to Your Safari or Climb?

The mainland gives you adrenaline and awe. The islands give you time to reflect and recharge. Whether you’re:

• Ending a Kilimanjaro climb

• Taking a break after safari game drives

• Planning a romantic honeymoon

• Or looking for a pure beach holiday.

The Zanzibar archipelago is the perfect pairing to any Tanzanian adventure.

And Macpace makes it easy. We take care of flights, ferries, private transfers, accommodation, and activities, all tailored to your travel style.

🏨 Where You Can Stay: Options for Every Budget

We choose places based on cleanliness, service, location, and sustainability, with options that are family-friendly, couple-ready, and solo-safe.

❤️ Let Macpace Curate Your Indian Ocean Escape

Whether you're dancing to taarab music in Stone Town, watching whale sharks glide silently in Mafia, or walking hand-in-hand along Pemba’s remote beaches, these islands offer something that no city ever could: peace, beauty, and meaning.

Macpace Tours and Safaris doesn’t just show you the islands. We help you feel them, with curated experiences that blend relaxation, adventure, and cultural depth.

📩 Ready to add the islands to your African dream trip?
Let us plan your beach escape: www.macpacetours.com
📍 Zanzibar. Pemba. Mafia. One ocean. Endless memories.