Overview
Mafia Island is barefoot and unhurried. Its marine park protects coral gardens and turtle nesting beaches, and whale sharks visit the bay in season.
Mafia Island lies south of Zanzibar off the Rufiji delta. Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania’s first marine park, protects its coral reefs, mangroves and turtle nesting beaches.
Whale sharks gather off the island from about October to March, and the ruins on nearby Chole Island make a lovely boat excursion.
Highlights
- Swimming with whale sharks
- Protected marine park
- Turtle nesting beaches
- Easy combination with Nyerere
Things to do here
Wildlife to look for
- Whale shark
- Green turtle
- Dolphin
- Reef fish
Good to know
Best time to visit
October – March
Getting there
A flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar.
Where to stay
Small lodges in Chole Bay.
How long to stay
3–4 nights
Key facts
- Marine park
- Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania’s first
- Known for
- Whale sharks, diving, turtle nesting
- Combine with
- Nyerere National Park
Seasons
Whale sharks
About October – March
Practical tips
- Mafia is quiet and simple: ideal after a safari, not for nightlife.
Questions about Mafia Island
October – March.
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