Zanzibar
Zanzibar, of course, is the most well-known island off the coast of Tanzania. It has an independent status in Tanzania. Zanzibar is very popular among tourists; a safari on the mainland is often concluded with a relaxing beach trip. The snow-white beaches of Zanzibar are beautiful, but the culture (a mix of Indian, Arabic and African cultures) also has a lot to offer. A visit to the capital Stone Town is definitely worth your time. Scuba diving and snorkelling are also popular activities on the island.
Pemba
Pemba is one of the other larger islands off the coast of Tanzania. Pemba is somewhat smaller and is located north of Zanzibar. This island has a beautiful hilly landscape and is surrounded by other small islands and coral reefs. That is why snorkelling and scuba diving are popular activities here. Pemba also has beautiful beaches which are often a lot less crowded than Zanzibar’s.
Mafia Island
Mafia Island is the smallest, least known and least visited one of the three big islands off the coast of Tanzania. This is remarkable because it is a beautiful island that has a lot to offer! It is located a little further south, so it is a little less accessible by boat. The island is located in a protected nature reserve and the sea around it is rich in coral reefs. This is why it is known as one of the best dive sites in the world. In addition, you can find mangrove forests, many types of tropical birds, and palm trees on the island, as well as baobab trees and snow-white beaches. Here you can also spot whales and whale sharks.
The smaller islands
Among the smaller islands of Tanzania, some are interesting for tourists. Chumbe Island, for example, is a small island just off the coast of Zanzibar. It is a private nature reserve with ecotourism. Then there is Fanjove Island, which is located south of Mafia Island and which offers coral reefs and private beaches.