Pemba Museum (Nanzim Fort)
Makumbusho ya Pemba
A small museum inside an old fort that traces Pemba's Swahili towns, clove trade and seafaring history.
The Pemba Museum is housed in Ngome Kongwe in the old town of Chake Chake. The fort is said to have been first built by the Portuguese and was rebuilt during Omani rule in the 19th century. The museum does not have many exhibits, but the guided explanations are clear. It presents artefacts from ancient sites such as Ras Mkumbuu and Pujini, and covers dhow sailing, clove cultivation, traditional medicine and wedding customs. Admission is about US$5. It is generally open Monday to Friday, 8:00–16:00, though weekend hours vary. A visit takes about 45 minutes, and it is a good idea to come here before heading to the ruins to learn some background.
Opening hours
Approx. 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (weekend hours vary)
Nearby sights
- Chake Chake
- Pemba Clove Plantations
- Kidike Flying Fox Sanctuary
- Pujini Ruins
- Ras Mkumbuu Ruins
- Misali Island Marine Conservation Area
- Mkoani
- Mtambwe Mkuu