Mafia Island

Mafia Island

Mafia Island

Mafia is salvaged by misunderstanding. Once the droll references to Sicily are finished and the misguided references to Hemingway are corrected, Mafia Island is then dismissed as the Zanzibar for those trying to be different.

Tanzania’s first Marine Park, gazetted in 1995, Pristine, unspoilt and overall un-crowded beaches for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, deep-sea fishing etc. Deeper channels around the island are renowned for world class deep sea fishing. Unspoilt coral reefs gives makes it one of the best dive sites in the world. Un-crowded beaches remain a popular breeding grounds for giant and green turtles. Very clear waters giving very good under water visibility for diving and snorkeling activities. Historical architecture-mosques, buildings dating back to the eighth century. Historically was a hub for ancient trade between the Far East and East Africa. Over 120 different species of birds.

 

Best time to visit:

  • The climate is Coastal with temperatures ranging from 20C to 34C.
  • 2 Main rainy seasons; short rains in November-December and longer rains from March-May
  • Best time is from June to October as these are the coolest months.

 

Activities:

  • World class scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Deep sea fishing, kayaking, kite surfing, wind surfing.
  • Boat excursions and picnics on sand bars, kayak to mangrove forests and visit lagoons.
  • Sail with local fisherman in their traditional dhows and experience traditional “Swahili” cuisine and lifestyle.
  • See traditional boat(dhows) building activities.
  • Tour the island on bicycles.
  • Birding and guided walks through traditional villages.
  • Visit historical ruins dating back to 15thand 8th

 

Properties:

Mafia's hotels are all located in one bay on the eastern side of the island, close to Chole island and the Marine Park, but as they are only three and all are very friendly, their proximity has never really mattered.

  • Big Blue
  • Mafia Island Lodge
  • Pole Pole Lodge
  • Chole Mjini
  • Butiama Beach
  • Shamba Kilole
  • Kinasi
  • Ras Mbisi
  • Mafia Kivulini Lodge
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