MAFIA ISLAND • ECO • TOURISM •
Mafia Island
MAFIA ISLANDEco Tourism

Marine Park Fee

All activities and accommodation within the Mafia Island Marine Park area require a daily marine park fee of $23.60/day/person, payable by card at the marine park gate.

Marine Adventures

Ocean Encounters

Whale Shark Tours
Premium

Whale Shark Tours

Swim with the gentle giants of Mafia Island — the world's largest fish, reaching up to 12.8m. Early morning departure maximizes sighting chances (80% success rate). If no sighting, return at reduced rate.

Humpback Whale Watching
Seasonal

Humpback Whale Watching

Witness the spectacular seasonal migration of humpback whales as they travel through the Mafia Channel. These magnificent giants — reaching up to 16m and 36,000 kg — migrate up to 25,000 km annually between warm Indian Ocean breeding grounds and Antarctic feeding waters. Watch in awe as they breach, throwing their massive bodies completely out of the water. Previously endangered by commercial whaling, their population is now recovering, and mothers with calves are frequently sighted. Dolphins join year-round.

Marine Park Diving
Premium

Marine Park Diving

Discover healthy corals and abundant marine life in the protected Marine Park.

Turtle Hatching Experience
Seasonal

Turtle Hatching Experience

Discover one of nature's most magical moments inside the protected marine park of Juani Island. Watch baby sea turtles hatch and make their first journey to the ocean — an unforgettable and emotional wildlife experience. Timing is strictly seasonal and subject to conservation guidance.

Chole Bay Snorkeling
Marine

Chole Bay Snorkeling

Discover the colorful underwater world of Chole Bay inside Mafia Island Marine Park. Famous for healthy coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, octopus, and calm turquoise waters. Great for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Full Day Whale Shark Experience
Seasonal

Full Day Whale Shark Experience

A complete ocean adventure combining whale sharks, snorkeling, relaxation, and a sandbank BBQ lunch. A fuller Mafia Island marine day for guests who want more time on the water and a relaxed pace around the experience.

Full Day Whale Watching
Seasonal

Full Day Whale Watching

Experience the ultimate whale watching adventure with a full day at sea. Spend more time searching for majestic whales and relax with a delicious BBQ lunch by the ocean.

Full Day Snorkeling Adventure
Marine

Full Day Snorkeling Adventure

Start your journey with a scenic boat ride across the turquoise waters of Mafia Island. Visit Chole Bay for rich coral reefs and marine life, continue to the magical Blue Lagoon for calm crystal-clear swimming, and enjoy a sandbank BBQ lunch.

Local Fishing Experience
Marine

Local Fishing Experience

A practical, hands-on sea outing shaped by local fishing rhythm and real conditions. Join local fishermen using traditional methods — a more authentic, less staged ocean trip for guests curious about Mafia's fishing culture.

Island Exploration

Hidden Gems

Chole Island Cultural & Heritage Tour
Cultural

Chole Island Cultural & Heritage Tour

Explore the rich Swahili heritage and ancient history of Mafia Island on Chole Island. Walk through traditional village life, discover ruins, see traditional dhow building, and visit the resident flying fox bats — the world's largest bats.

Jibondo Island Cultural Tour
Cultural

Jibondo Island Cultural Tour

The most traditional island in the Mafia Archipelago, Jibondo is renowned for its boat-building heritage, ancient Swahili mosque ruins, and pristine beaches with striking rock formations. Home to around 2,000 inhabitants who sustain traditional fishing, octopus-baiting, and seaweed farming.

Juani Island & Ancient Ruins Tour
Historical

Juani Island & Ancient Ruins Tour

Step into the forgotten history of Mafia Island. Explore the mysterious ancient ruins of Juani Island and discover the lost history of early Swahili civilization. A discovery-focused outing for guests who want old sites, island texture, and meaningful local perspective.

Blue Lagoon Swim
Nature

Blue Lagoon Swim

A tidal natural infinity pool at the southern tip of Juani Island.

Sunset Dhow Cruise
Leisure

Sunset Dhow Cruise

Relax with a drink while watching one of the best African sunsets.

Kisimani Beach Experience
Nature

Kisimani Beach Experience

A peaceful and relaxing beach experience at Kisimani Beach, a beautiful quiet coastal spot inside Mafia's protected marine waters. Perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a fresh BBQ lunch in a serene setting.

Lighthouse & Kanga Beach Land Safari
Historical

Lighthouse & Kanga Beach Land Safari

Explore the scenic northern side of Mafia Island by road. Combines a historic WWI lighthouse visit with stunning Kanga Beach, wildlife spotting, and a relaxing BBQ seafood lunch in a coconut grove setting.

Mangrove Excursion
Nature

Mangrove Excursion

Discover the rich mangrove ecosystems of Mafia Island by boat or kayak. Explore narrow waterways, observe birdlife, and learn about the important role mangroves play in protecting marine life and coastal environments.

Bird Watching
Nature

Bird Watching

Mafia Island is home to a variety of tropical birds found in mangroves, forests, and coastal areas. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers who want peaceful wildlife experiences.

Secret Beaches & Seafood BBQ Lunch
Leisure

Secret Beaches & Seafood BBQ Lunch

Explore hidden beaches and peaceful coastal areas away from the crowds. Enjoy swimming, relaxation, photography, and a delicious seafood barbecue lunch served on the beach with fresh local seafood and tropical fruits.

Half-Day Bicycle Tour with Refreshments
Adventure

Half-Day Bicycle Tour with Refreshments

Cycle through local villages, coastal paths, and hidden natural spots. Stops along the way let you explore scenery, culture, and island lifestyle.

Bwejuu Island
Sandbank

Bwejuu Island

Most beautiful island in the archipelago, known for sandbanks and clear water.

Mange Sandbank Experience
Sandbank

Mange Sandbank Experience

A full-day tropical escape to the stunning Mange Sandbank inside Mafia's protected marine waters. Combines relaxation, snorkeling, and a delicious BBQ lunch in one of the most beautiful and peaceful sandbanks around.

Cultural Experiences

Local Heritage

Village Life Experience
Cultural

Village Life Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Mafia Island village life. Visit local homes, learn about daily traditions from cooking to crafts, meet friendly villagers, and experience the warm hospitality that defines island culture.

Kilindoni Market Tour
Cultural

Kilindoni Market Tour

Wander Mafia's capital market, sample local food, fabrics, and crafts.

Island Hippo Viewing
Nature

Island Hippo Viewing

Surprising hippos on Mafia – best viewed before sunset near Kilindoni.

Coconut Beer Tasting
Cultural

Coconut Beer Tasting

Try the local palm sap brew – a strong acquired taste!

Tour Packages

Day Packages – Tailored Experiences for Every Traveler

Package

Half-Day

Chole Island + Sandbank lunch
Snorkeling + Sandbank lunch
Blue Lagoon + Lunch
Build My Package

Package

Full-Day

Snorkeling + Sandbank + Lagoon
Snorkeling + Sandbank + Chole Island
Build My Package

Tour Packages

3 Days / 2 Nights – Mafia Island Adventure

from Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam

3 Days / 2 Nights1 – 25 people

Enjoy whale shark encounters, vibrant coral reefs, island exploration, and cultural immersion. Includes two whale shark excursions, full-day snorkeling, accommodation, and flights from Dar es Salaam. (Half Board – Breakfast & Dinner)

Included

Return flights: Dar es Salaam ↔ Mafia Island
2 nights accommodation (Half-board)
All transfers in Mafia Island
Full-day snorkeling excursion
1 Whale Shark Experience (Day 1)
Dongo Village Cultural Tour
Picnic lunch on Day 2

Not Included

Marine Park fees (USD 23.60 per person/day – pay at gate)
Lunch on Day 1 & Day 3
Personal expenses (tips, drinks, etc.)
Book Now

from Zanzibar

Zanzibar

3 Days / 2 Nights1 – 25 people

Enjoy whale shark encounters, vibrant coral reefs, island exploration, and cultural immersion. Includes two whale shark excursions, full-day snorkeling, accommodation, and flights from Zanzibar. (Half Board – Breakfast & Dinner)

Included

Return flights: Zanzibar → Mafia Island → Zanzibar
2 nights accommodation (Half-board)
All transfers in Mafia Island
Full-day snorkeling excursion (Chole Island, Blue Lagoon, Coral Garden, Marimbani Sandbank)
1 Whale Shark Experience (Day 1)
Dongo Village Cultural Tour on Day 3
Picnic lunch on Day 2

Not Included

Marine Park fees (USD 23.60 per person/day – pay at gate)
Lunch on Day 1 & Day 3
Personal expenses (tips, drinks, etc.)
Book Now

from Zanzibar

Zanzibar Day Trip

Full day1+

A premium island-to-island experience from Zanzibar to Mafia Island. Ideal for guests based in Zanzibar who want a well-planned day on Mafia Island without overnighting. Includes flights, transfers, whale shark experience, and lunch.

Included

Return flights: Zanzibar ↔ Mafia Island
All transfers in Mafia Island
Whale shark experience
Seafood lunch
English-speaking guide

Not Included

Marine Park fees (USD 23.60 per person – pay at gate)
Personal expenses (tips, drinks, etc.)
Book Now
Need help planning? Chat with us.