Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Pemba sprawls across a peninsula jutting into the enormous and magnificent Pemba Bay,
one of the world's largest natural harbours. It was established in 1904, as administrative
headquarters for the Niassa Company, and for much of its early life was known as Porto
Amelia. Today it's the capital of Cabo Delgado province, the main town in Mozambique's
far north, and gateway to the Quirimbas Archipelago and an endless string of white-sand
beaches. Although lacking the charm to be a destination in itself, the town makes for a re-
laxing and enjoyable stop, with almost perpetual sunshine and blue skies, a long beach
nearby and a lazy, languid ambience.
Pemba's baixa area is home to the low-lying port and old town, with a row of small
shops and traders lining the main street. Steeply uphill from here, the busier and less at-
mospheric town centre is the place to get things done, with banks and offices, a few res-
taurants and hotels, and the main bus stand. About 5km east of the town centre is Wimbi
(also spelled Wimbe) Beach, the main hub of tourist activity and the favoured destination
of most visitors.
Pemba
