Mafia Island

Mafia Island is situated ~130 km south of Zanzibar and ~25 km off the Tanzanian mainland, Mafia Island spans roughly 49 × 17 km, with its highest point just 53 m above sea level

Comprises several islands—Mafia, Juani, Chole, Jibondo

Marine biodiversity: Enveloped by Mafia Island Marine Park (822 km²), one of Tanzania’s first marine reserves, protecting coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and key breeding grounds for turtles and whale sharks

Whale sharks & marine giants: From October to March, there’s around a 90% chance of encountering whale sharks; humpback whales are often seen August–October . Snorkelers might also meet dolphins and sea turtles.

Terrestrial wildlife: Inland mangrove forests and freshwater lakes shelter hippos, bushbabies, vervet monkeys, and genets. A notable birdlife includes over 120 species

Diving & Snorkeling Highlights

Mafia Marine Park: Celebrated as East Africa’s premier dive site—home to abundant coral gardens, drop-offs, and marine megafauna like sharks, rays, napoleon wrasse, giant groupers, and potato cod

Top sites: Kinasi Pass in Chole Bay is a standout, with pinnacles, caves, and prolific fish life. Other renowned spots include Tutia Reef (sport-fishing), Forbes Bay, and Dindini North Wall

All skill levels: Diving and snorkeling are available year-round. Chole Bay’s calmer currents are ideal for newbies .

Beaches & Islands

Utende Beach: Southeast hub, lined with palms, close to dive sites, and home to premium lodges.

Bweni Beach: Northwest quiet retreat—rustic, peaceful, with fewer facilities.

Butiama Beach: Near Kilindoni airport, popular for budget stays

Culture & History

Ancient ruins: Explore Chole Mjini (19th‑century town with Omani mansions and flying fox colony), Kua ruins (12th‑century medieval Swahili settlement), and Ras Mkumbi Lighthouse (built in 1894)

Village life: In Kilindoni and villages like Utende, locals engage in fishing, dhow-building, basket weaving, agriculture, and seaweed farming—offering travelers a glimpse into authentic Swahili‑Arab culture .

Getting There & Around

By air: Frequent 30–45 min flights from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar via Coastal Aviation or Auric Air to Mafia Airport

By ferry: One local ferry from mainland (takes ~4 hr); often crowded and less reliable

On the island: Transport includes shared taxis (dala-dalas), tuk-tuks, bicycles; resorts often offer boat transfers to nearby islets

Best Time to Visit

Optimal periods:

October–March: Ideal for whale shark encounters and calm seas.

June–October: Dry season with pleasant dive conditions.

Avoid heavy rains in March–May and November–December for best visibility