The country of Zanzibar comprises the islands of Unguja (Zanzibar) and Pemba with the number of islets adjecent thereto.

The island of Zanzibar is separated form the mainland of East Africa (Tanzania) by a channel which is at its narroest part 36 km (22 1/2 miles) across. It lies between latitudes 5° 40' and 6° 30' South; and longitude 39° East. It is about 85 km (53 miles) in lenght and 39 km (24 miles)in breadth at its broadest point. Its area is about 1 660 square km (640 square miles). It is the largest island on the east caost of Africa.

The island of Pemba lies about 40 km (25 miles) NNE of Zanzibar between latitude 4° 80' south and longitude 39° 35' and 39° 50' east. It is separated from the main continent by a channel some 56 km (35 miles) wide. It is smaller than Zanzibar, being 67 km (42 miles) long by 23 km (14 miles) wide (maximum) and having an area of 985 square km (380 square miles).