The beaches are not quite as good as those of Zanzibar, so it is not a classic beach spot. Still, the diving is world-class and some stunning outlying islands provide powder-white beaches. There is enough here for the active. While boat journeys can be taken to see some of the nearby islands, Pemba is ideal for snorkelling, diving and fishing because to untainted coral and a profusion of aquatic life.

Although the island has very few lodges, two that we visit are the adventurous (and costly!) Fundu Lagoon and the typically opulent Constance Aiyana.