DISCOVER PEMBA
WITH THE NAUTILUS
Pemba is the gateway to the spectacular Quirimbas Archipelago, inviting travellers to discover a world of beachside bars,
vibrant marine life, and enchanting sunsets.
Amidst its natural splendor, Pemba thrives as a bustling hub of business activity,
thanks to the presence of thriving oil & gas companies and its strategic port, adding an aura of dynamic energy to its picturesque landscapes.
About
Pemba
PEMBA, MOZAMBIQUE
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Pemba is a port city in northern Mozambique. It is the capital of Cabo Delgado province and lies on a peninsula in Pemba Bay with a population of over 108,000 people. The town of Pemba has an authentic local market and there are banks, patisseries, supermarkets and restaurants. Built over rolling hills, many of the local population live in traditionally built houses made from ‘pau-pique’ and bamboo nestled amongst the majestic baobab, cashew and mango trees. The old part of town, known as the ‘baixa’ boasts the old colonial buildings, some of which are in a state of disrepair although the charm of bygone years is still evident.
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Pemba is also home to one of Mozambique's most stunning natural attractions: the Quirimbas Archipelago, where visitors can witness gorgeous turquoise waters, pristine coral reefs, pure white sands, and rich sea life for themselves. Nearby coral reefs offer excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities, and sailing and deep sea fishing charters are popular. Between June and October, you’ll find hump back whales, and you can often even see these majestic creatures from the beach.
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Spend leisurely days in Pemba, renowned for its deep natural bay and charming beach lodges nestled amidst Baobab tree-lined shores. Wimbe and Farol beaches are favorites among visitors, while Dhow safaris promise unique adventures through the bay. Enjoy the vibrant local market, offering Makonde arts and crafts, showcasing the heart of Mozambique's culture. Pemba, often dubbed 'papaya paradise,' provides modern amenities, including airports, shops, banks, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
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The climate is tropical humid and average annual temperatures range from 22 °C to 32 °C. The hot and rainy season usually runs from December to April. Rain can be heavy and be accompanied by strong monsoon winds. The dry season is from May to November, with average temperatures of around 28 °C during the day. The temperature of the sea water ranges from 25 °C to 30 °C. Wimbi beach, home to the Nautilus Hotel is the main draw of this sunny seaside town.
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3km from Pemba Airport
8km from Pemba Industrial Park
www.pembaindustrialpark.com
FACILITIES NEARBY
The Most Convenient Location in Pemba
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Pemba Shopping Centre
The Nautilus is conveniently located
directly across the road and within walking distance from the largest shopping centre in Pemba. Here you will find a variety of shops including:
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Shoprite Supermarket
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Pharmacy
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Bakery
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Liquor Store
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Clothing Stores
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Local Crafts
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Local Craft Market
Venture into the heart of Pemba's vibrant local culture by exploring the renowned 2km long craft market, a bustling haven where you can find an astonishing array of goods ranging from radios and cell phones to beds, clothes, fresh fruits, vegetables, and much more! This lively market is a treasure trove of local craftsmanship and a true reflection of Mozambique's diverse offerings. Immerse yourself in the colorful stalls, engaging with friendly vendors and discovering unique handmade souvenirs, textiles, and trinkets that capture the essence of the region. The market's bustling atmosphere and the variety of items available make it an exciting destination, inviting you to experience the lively spirit of Pemba's local commerce while staying at The Nautilus Hotel.
PEMBA TRAVEL FAQS
Frequently asked questions and travel tips
Getting There
Discover seamless travel options to Pemba from South Africa, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, or Nairobi in Kenya, with convenient daily flights.
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When travelling to Mozambique from the Americas or Europe most flights are routed via Johannesburg.
These well-connected routes open doors to unforgettable Kruger or East African safaris combined with beach getaways. Pemba, the Gateway to the Quirimbas Archipelago, offers smooth boat and helicopter transfers to the enchanting islands.
Passport & Visa Requirements
When travelling to Mozambique you need passport which is valid for at least six months. All visitors to Mozambique need to obtain a visa to enter the country except visitors from Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
However, citizens from other countries need to obtain a visa when traveling to Mozambique.
To secure a visa, please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. You can obtain the visa either in South Africa before your departure to Mozambique or upon arrival at the border or airport. Additionally, make sure your passport has a minimum of 3 blank pages.
Health & Vaccinations
Malaria is prevalent in various regions of Mozambique; hence, taking anti-malarial medication is recommended.
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The Nautilus Hotel does also offer Mosquito Nets & Mosquito Spray in our rooms to help ensure your safety. The Hotel is conveniently located across the road from a pharmacy and supermarket should you need any medication during your stay.
Travellers originating from yellow fever-affected areas must possess a valid yellow fever certificate upon arrival. Taking these precautions ensures a safe and healthy journey during your visit to Mozambique.
Self-Drive in Mozambique
If you would like to drive through Mozambique it is often recommended to have a 4x4 vehicle. We always suggest you travel within Mozambique in a 4x4 because you won't be limited to where you can travel and will avoid getting stuck. Try to avoid travelling during the rainy season, as the roads can become, muddy, rugged and difficult to negotiate. If you can avoid going in the middle of summer from November to April as this is when it is uncomfortably hot. This is also the time of year when it can rain daily and is cyclone season.
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The Nautilus offers an in-house driver and minibus and we can also arrange an affordable Taxi service as required by our guests.
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If you’d like more information about Pemba travel, get in touch today.
PEMBA WEATHER GUIDE
Pemba, Mozambique, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The city experiences a hot and humid period from October to April, which constitutes the wet season. During this time, heavy rainfall is common, and temperatures often soar, creating a humid atmosphere. The wet season is also marked by occasional tropical storms. From May to September, Pemba enters the dry season. This period sees cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels, making it a more comfortable time to visit. Clear skies and sunshine dominate the days, providing an ideal climate for outdoor activities and beach outings.