Plizio Visual Lab

Port of Pemba

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

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The Port of Pemba, situated in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, has evolved into a strategic logistical hub for the country's burgeoning natural gas industry. Located within one of the world's largest natural bays, it gives exceptional protection from open-sea conditions. Originally a regional port for fishing and agriculture, it underwent significant upgrades to meet the complex logistical demands of offshore gas exploration in the Rovuma Basin. The infrastructure now includes specialized quays for offshore supply vessels and extensive storage yards for heavy equipment and subsea piping. Despite the development of new dedicated industrial ports nearby, Pemba remains a vital operational base for supporting energy projects in the region. Additionally, the port serves as an important exit point for mineral exports, including graphite and marble mined in the northern provinces. This surge in port activity has significantly boosted the local economy, fostering growth in services and urban development.

Location: Mozambique
Top sights: Baía de Pemba · Cinema Pemba · Farol da Ponta Mepira
Nearby: Quirimba Island (47 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	26	25	24	25	25	26	28	28
Rain mm	297	236	192	147	27	32	21	19	13	17	34	139

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Port of Pemba is a prominent natural harbour in northern Mozambique, essential for the emerging offshore natural gas industry. It serves as a logistical base for exploration and extraction operations off the coast.

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Visiting

The port is functional and partially open to the public, particularly the fishing harbour and docks. Visitors can view the supply vessels and maritime infrastructure up close.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is the hill at the southern end of Pemba Bay, overlooking the entire port area. The waterfront promenade along Baía de Pemba also provides a good view of harbour activities.

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Local products

Pemba's fish market is famous for its abundant catch of tuna, barracuda, and prawns. Regional specialities include grilled seafood with matapa (a dish of cassava leaves and coconut milk) and coconut milk.

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Active season

Fishing and shipping are active year-round, but natural gas activities have increased strongly in recent years. The exploration phase mainly takes place during the dry season to ensure optimal conditions.

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Nearby

A visit to the Port of Pemba can be combined with the beaches of the Pemba Peninsula and the old town of the city. Day trips to the Quirimbas Archipelago or the offshore islands are also very popular.

Geography

Coordinates

-12.97390, 40.49000

Facts

The port is located in Pemba Bay, the third largest natural bay in the world.
It features a 183-meter long main quay for handling general cargo and supplies.
The natural water depth in the bay allows for the safe passage of deep-draft vessels.
Pemba acts as the primary logistics base for offshore gas projects by Eni and TotalEnergies.
Graphite from the Balama mine is shipped through this port to international markets.
The port is managed by the state-owned company Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pemba beach play1 km · NWExplore →

Pemba3 km · NExplore →

Pemba Bay6 km · EExplore →

Quirimba Island47 km · EExplore →

Forte de Santo António55 km · EExplore →

Ibo55 km · EExplore →

Quirimbas Archipelago62 km · EExplore →

Matemo Island65 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Port of Pemba (3)

Baía de Pemba📍 landmark

One of the world's largest natural harbors, featuring deep turquoise waters surrounded by coastal vegetation.

Cinema Pemba🎭 culture

A classic local movie theater and cultural venue serving the coastal city of Pemba.

Farol da Ponta Mepira📍 landmark

A navigational beacon positioned at the entrance of Pemba Bay to guide ships safely to port.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What role does the Port of Pemba play?

It is a central supply point for the northern natural gas projects.

Is Pemba attractive to tourists?

Yes, the city is known for its diving areas and beaches.

Can you visit the industrial port?

No, the area is not accessible to tourists for security reasons.

What is near Pemba?

The Pemba Peninsula and beautiful coral reefs in the surroundings.

When is the best time for a trip to Pemba?

The period from May to November is convenient for divers and sun-seekers.

Port of Pemba: where is it located?

Port of Pemba is located in Mozambique.

Port of Pemba: what is there to see?

Highlights include Baía de Pemba, Cinema Pemba, Farol da Ponta Mepira.

Port of Pemba: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Port of Pemba: why is it worth visiting?

The Port of Pemba, situated in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, has evolved into a strategic logistical hub for the country's burgeoning natural gas industry.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →