Things To Do
in Chake Chake
Chake Chake is a town located on the eastern coast of Pemba Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago in Tanzania. The town serves as the capital of North Pemba region and is a bustling commercial center. Chake Chake is known for its vibrant markets, traditional Swahili architecture, and beautiful coastal scenery.
Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Old Fort and the Pemba Museum, while also enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Nzuri sana" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience vibrant colors and fresh produce. Engage with friendly vendors and sample local snacks.
After lunch, take a short boat ride to a nearby island for some relaxation and breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon snorkeling or simply enjoying the tranquility of the waters.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery and enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner. Meet locals and soak in the lively evening atmosphere.
Begin with a leisurely walk along the coastline, taking in the fresh sea breeze and stunning views. Stop by small fishing villages to learn about the local culture.
Visit the nearby coral reefs for some snorkeling and discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Enjoy a packed lunch on the beach.
Return to Chake Chake and indulge in a seafood feast at a popular local restaurant. Enjoy some live music to end your day on a high note.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including coastline and beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
- Less touristy compared to other parts of Zanzibar, providing a more authentic experience.
- Access to fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to more developed tourist areas.
- Potential language barriers with locals who may not speak English.
- Healthcare facilities may be basic and require travel for more serious issues.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it hard to explore surrounding areas.
- Possible challenges with access to reliable internet and mobile services.
Best Activities in Chake Chake
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life at Misali Island, just a short boat ride from Chake Chake. Enjoy crystal-clear waters and abundant fish species.
Take a hike through the lush Ngezi Forest, home to unique bird species and magnificent flora. The trails offer stunning views and a chance to immerse in nature.
Experience a traditional dhow sailing trip along the coast of Chake Chake, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and a glimpse into the local maritime culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chake Chake with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chake Chake
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the forest and surrounding landscape, perfect for nature photography.
Provides picturesque views of the ocean and traditional dhows, ideal for capturing coastal scenes.
A scenic park with beautiful flora and fauna, great for capturing natural landscapes and wildlife.
Food in Chake Chake
Chake Chake Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with aromatic spices, meat, and sometimes seafood, reflecting the fusion of Swahili and Indian culinary traditions. Must-try at the Chake Chake coastal restaurants.
Must-Try!
Tender octopus cooked in a flavorful curry sauce, typically served with rice or coconut-flavored ugali. Look for this dish at waterfront eateries along the coastline.
A delicious and indulgent snack, featuring a thin pastry filled with various sweet or savory ingredients such as cheese, meat, or bananas. Visit local street vendors for the authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chake Chake better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the bustling Chake Chake Food Market, filled with stalls offering fresh produce, spices, and local specialties like grilled seafood and samosas. It's a great place to sample authentic street food.
Indulge in an array of street food delights at the Mizingani Night Market, where you can savor an assortment of grilled meats, seafood skewers, and traditional Swahili snacks under the starlit sky.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chake Chake, it is customary to greet others with a handshake and possibly a gentle bow. It is important to show respect to elders and individuals of authority by greeting them first.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close to others, especially when first meeting someone. Respect for personal boundaries is highly valued.
In Chake Chake, traditional attire is highly respected. It is advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or community spaces, to demonstrate respect for local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chake Chake with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chake Chake
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chake Chake, Tanzania, tipping is not an established custom, but it is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers if you are satisfied with the service provided. The amount of the tip is usually discretionary and can vary depending on the quality of service.
In Chake Chake, Tanzania, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. However, in larger businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, credit cards may also be accepted. It's important to have some cash on hand as not all places may accept cards. Currency exchange services are available, but it's advisable to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange bureaus to ensure fair rates.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Chake Chake is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and wildlife is easily spotted. Expect clear skies and cooler temperatures.
During the rainy season, expect lush greenery and abundant birdlife. However, some roads may be impassable, and outdoor activities may be limited due to frequent rainfall.
Chake Chake at Night
Hiking in Chake Chake
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forest reserve known for its scenic trails and diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
A local hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. A short but rewarding hike that is popular among locals.
Various trails across Pemba Island offer a mix of coastal and inland hikes, providing a chance to explore the island's natural beauty.
Known for its lush landscapes and wildlife, Uzi Island has several hiking trails where visitors can immerse themselves in nature.
A picturesque waterfall located a hike away from nearby rural areas, offering a refreshing destination for hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Chake Chake by plane.
Located in Zanzibar, approximately 104 km from Chake Chake, this is the main airport serving Zanzibar and offers both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Dar es Salaam, about 138 km from Chake Chake, it is the largest airport in Tanzania, facilitating significant international air traffic.
Located in Kilwa Masoko, around 100 km south of Chake Chake, this airport mainly serves regional flights but may offer some international connections.
Approximately 60 km from Chake Chake, this airport serves Pemba Island, with both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Chake Chake, encompassing local customs, language, and culture.
A smaller group with historical ties to trade and commerce in the region.
Groups engaged in traditional fishing practices, contributing to the local economy and culture.
Includes expats and immigrants engaged in various sectors such as tourism and business.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Chake Chake, with many local teams and leagues actively participating in matches, reflecting the strong passion for the game in the community.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Chake Chake, with several courts available for play and local tournaments being organized.
Volleyball is a commonly played sport, especially among women in Chake Chake, with various community events and competitions held throughout the year.
Athletics, particularly running, is popular in Chake Chake, with local athletes often participating in regional competitions and events.
Traditional sports and games are also valued in Chake Chake, showcasing the cultural heritage and encouraging community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chake Chake.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prevalent in Chake Chake's cuisine, many restaurants and cafes also provide delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes such as coconut-based curries, vegetable pilau, and fresh fruit platters.
Those with gluten sensitivities can opt for dishes like grilled fish, fruit salads, and rice-based meals, with several establishments accommodating gluten-free dietary needs upon request.