Mafia Island

Discover the hidden gem of Mafia Island, an exquisite archipelago comprising one large and several smaller islands. Contrary to popular belief, this tropical paradise is not part of the Zanzibar archipelago. It is located in the southern Mafia district and is a less-visited tropical paradise with long white beaches, swaying palm trees, and abundant marine life.

Mafia Island is the best option for nature enthusiasts who prefer to take the road less travelled. Unlike the famous Zanzibar archipelago, tourism and development haven’t significantly impacted the Mafia archipelago. This means you can find yourself on stunning beaches all by yourself. And for divers and snorkellers, you will discover some of the best corals and marine life in East Africa.

Located 20km from mainland Tanzania and 130km south of Zanzibar, getting to Mafia Island is easier than you think. You can take a small plane from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar and be transported there in no time. While there is a ferry from the mainland, its schedule is irregular, and the crossing can be rough and unsafe.

If you book a safari and beach package or a Mount Kilimanjaro climb and beach package with us, one of our travel experts will book flights, accommodation and island transport. This leaves you to enjoy a smooth, stress-free transition from Tanzania mainland to Mafia Island.

On the island, you will experience first-rate hospitality and excellent beachside accommodation nestled in palm groves. If you’re looking for a romantic yet secluded beach getaway to celebrate a honeymoon, Mafia Island is the perfect choice.

Soak up the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Ras Kisimani, Utende, and Kanga. Explore unique sights such as the elusive hippos at Ndagoni, the northern lighthouse of Ras Mkumba, or the giant fig and baobab trees on Chole Island. While there, you can also discover the Chole Island Ruins, which include a 14th-century mosque and an 18th-century two-storey building.

The ocean to the south has been a reserve since 1995, resulting in abundant marine life and a diverse range of corals. This makes it one of the best dive sites in East Africa, with plenty of options for both beginners and experienced divers. If you’re interested in snorkelling, don’t miss the beautiful reefs of Chole Island and the Blue Lagoon on Juani Island.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with Whale Sharks also exists here. Beautifully patterned, they are known for their almost magical presence, similar to a dugong, dolphin or whale.

If you plan to swim with the Whale Sharks, the best period is from October to February. We recommend choosing a company that provides a thorough briefing on how to swim respectfully around Whale Sharks and that maintains slow boat speeds to avoid disturbing or harming the Whale Sharks with their propellers. Another highlight is from August to September, when Humpback whales can be seen during a whale tour.