Discover Mafia Island
An untouched paradise.
Mafia Island is a tranquil, wild jewel far off the beaten track. Sheltering Tanzania's first Marine Park, the archipelago combines crystal-clear turquoise waters, thriving coral reefs, dense mangrove forests, and traditional dhow-building coastal communities. From gentle whale sharks roaming the channel to secluded sandbanks and 12th-century ruins, Mafia offers an intimate and authentic encounter with nature - both on land and beneath the waves.
A catamaran provides the ultimate way to explore the secluded bays and remote islets of the Mafia archipelago in privacy and serenity.
PLACES TO DISCOVER
CHOLE BAY
The crowned heart of the Mafia Island Marine Park.
A vast, protected natural harbor where tranquil turquoise waters meet vibrant coral gardens. Chole Bay is renowned as one of the premier diving and snorkeling destinations along the entire East African coast.
Sheltered from rough seas, it provides calm anchorages, stunning tidal mangroves, and easy access to pristine reefs bustling with tropical fish.
CHOLE ISLAND
A peaceful, vehicle-free islet steeped in history and nature.
Wander among nineteenth-century Arab and German stone ruins interwoven with giant fig trees, visit traditional dhow-building yards, and observe the sanctuary dedicated to giant fruit bats (flying foxes).
KILINDONI & WHALE SHARKS
An unforgettable encounter with the ocean's gentle giants.
The nutrient-rich waters just west of Mafia's main hub, Kilindoni, offer one of the most reliable spots in the world to swim alongside magnificent whale sharks in their natural habitat between October and March.
MARIMBANI SANDBANK
Marimbani appears only at low tide — a ribbon of dazzling white coral sand surrounded by glowing azure sea. It is the perfect location for an idyllic picnic lunch, swimming in warm waters, or relaxing in total isolation.
YOUR MAFIA. YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Tell us what you want to experience and we'll work with you and our local charter partners to create an individual itinerary around your interests and the time you have.
