Misali Island
Misali Island is protected marine reserve 8 km west Pemba (45 min boat Chake Chake) being paradise snorkeling/diving: 42 types of corals, 300+ fish species, visibility 25-30 metersvirgin reefs, sea turtles 80% sighting. Day tours: 80-120 USD includes boat, entrance fee 10 USD, guide, snorkel equipment, lunch, 6-7 hours. AdvantagesExceptional reefs less crowded vs. Mnemba, deserted beaches. DisadvantagesAccess only from Pemba (not main Zanzibar). Best season: Jun-Oct optimal visibility.
Basic information Misali Island
Location: 8 km west Pemba, 45 min boat Chake Chake.
Size0.9 km² walkable 2-3 hours.
Famous for42 types of corals, 300+ fish species, visibility 25-30 meters.
StatusMarine Protected Reserve since 1998.
Information: Zanzibar Tourism.
Location: Google Maps Misali Island.
What to see in Misali Island
42 types of coralsExtraordinary diversity of hard/soft corals, pristine reefs, exceptional health.
300+ fish speciesParrotfish, angel fish, butterfly fish, moray eels, clown fish, barracudas.
Sea turtles: 80% green turtle sighting hawksbill snorkeling.
Green monkeys: Population 50+ specimens inside the island, guided walks.
Unspoiled beaches: White sand deserted, camping permits allowed.
Visibility25-30 meters crystal clear turquoise water Jun-Oct.
Activities in Misali
Snorkel: Reefs 2-10 meters from the beach, equipment included.
DivingDives 15-30 meters certification PADI +40-60 USD.
WalksTrails: Forest green monkey trails 1-2 hours.
Kayak: Coastal mangrove exploration.
CampingOvernight permits +30-50 USD basic.
Misali Island Price Tours
Full day80-120 USD per person per group.
IncludesBoat round trip 45 min, entrance fee 10 USD, guide, snorkel, lunch, 6-7 hours.
Private200-350 USD for groups of 2-6 people.
ReservationPemba operators 2-3 days or Viator, GetYourGuide.
How to get to Misali Island
From PembaChake Chake port 45 min by boat (only access).
To PembaFlight Zanzibar-Pemba 100-150 USD 30 min or ferry 40-60 USD 2-3 hours.
Best optionTour operator includes everything.
Frequently asked questions Misali Island
What is Misali Island?
Misali Island is protected marine reserve 8 km west Pemba (45 min boat) with 42 types of corals, 300+ fish species, visibility 25-30 meters Jun-Oct, virgin reefs, turtles 80% sighting, deserted beaches. Snorkel offshore reefs 2-10 meters, dive 15-30 meters (15-30 meters).PADI), indoor green monkeys. According to Lonely Planetis a "hidden gem snorkeling exceptional alternative quiet Mnemba". Visit Zanzibar Tourism.
How much does it cost to visit Misali Island?
80-120 USD person full day from Pemba includes boat round trip 45 min, entrance fee 10 USD, guide, snorkel, lunch, 6-7 hours. OptionsDiving +40-60 USD, private 200-350 USD group, camping +30-50 USD. Access PembaFlight Zanzibar 100-150 USD or ferry 40-60 USD. Book operators Pemba 2-3 days or Viator. According to TripAdvisorexcellent value for money less expensive Mnemba".
When to visit Misali Island?
Jun-Oct BETTER: Calm sea, visibility 25-30 meters crystal clear water, minimal rainfall. Nov-Feb good 20-25 meters. Evita mar-may Rains rough sea visibility reduced 10-15 meters. Best day: Tuesday-Thursday less crowded. Consult Weather.com, Tide Times.