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Mafia Island

Mafia Island, an untouched paradise, features pristine beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs teeming with marine life, including whale sharks, making it a serene escape and a diver’s dream destination.

Mafia Island - Image 12

A Hidden Gem of Tranquility and Natural Beauty

Mafia Island, part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, is an unspoiled paradise, offering pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect escape for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Mafia Island - Image 2

A Diver’s Dream and Rich Marine Life

Mafia Island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including whale sharks and diverse fish species. With world-class diving and snorkeling spots, it’s a haven for underwater enthusiasts.

Mafia Island Overview

1000 Year-Old Ruins

The island has ancient ruins from the 10th century.

50+

Substantial dive sites makes Mafia Island a top diving destination.

60,000 Residents

Off-the-beaten-path destination with a small local population.

822 km²

Largest Marine Protected Area in East Africa.

Main Attractions

Whale Shark Diving

Mafia Island is one of the best places in the world to dive with whale sharks, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience to swim alongside these majestic creatures during their seasonal visits.

Kilindoni Town

The main town on Mafia Island, Kilindoni offers a glimpse into local island life with its markets, small shops, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal spot to experience the island’s authentic atmosphere.

Chole Island

A small, historic island with ancient ruins, Chole Island offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing the island’s rich Swahili heritage, along with stunning views and serene beaches.

Mafia Island Travel Tips

01
When is the best time to visit?
  • The best time to visit Mafia Island, Zanzibar, is between October and March, with warm weather and excellent diving conditions. Whale shark season runs from October to February.

  • The dry season (June–October) also offers pleasant weather.

02
How do I get to Mafia Island?
  • By sea or air, but flying is the most convenient. Daily flights (about 30–45 minutes) are available from Dar Es Salaam. Some airlines offer flights from Zanzibar.

03
What activities can I do on Mafia Island?
  • Top activities include swimming with whale sharks, diving, snorkeling, dhow cruises, visiting historical ruins, and exploring local villages.

04
Are there ATMs or banks on Mafia Island?
  • No, there are no ATMs for international cards. Bring enough cash (Tanzanian Shillings or USD) for your stay.

Our Packages

Immerse yourself in the ultimate adventure with our expertly curated tour packages. These multi-day tours take you through Tanzania and Zanzibar's most iconic landscapes.

United Republic of Tanzania

Tanzanian Full Circle Northern Circuit

The Ultimate Northern Circuit Safari Experience


11 Days / 10 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

The Highlights of the Northern Circuit

Discover the highlights of the Northern Circuit during this 4-day fly-in safari adventure!


4 Days / 3 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Cats, Calves and Crater

Embark on a Wildlife Odyssey in Tanzania: Cats, Calves, and Crater


5 Days / 4 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Tanzania Northern Circuit Adventure

Embark on a 10-day safari adventure, exploring iconic national parks and encountering wildlife wonders


10 Days / 9 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Migration Roundtrip November to April

A Migration Safari in South Serengeti offers an incredible opportunity to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration during


9 Days / 8 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Serengeti Safari Adventure

Serengeti Safari Adventure


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Serengeti and Ngorongoro Adventures

Explore the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater during your holiday in Zanzibar!


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Serengeti Wildlife and Balloon Expedition

A 3-day Serengeti journey!


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

3 Day Safari Serengeti National Park

Serengeti Expedition: A Skyward Safari Encounter


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

2 Day Safari Selous

Enjoy two full-day game drives in Africa’s biggest Game Reserve, Selous


2 Days / 1 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

3 Day Safari Selous

3 day Selous Safari Escape from Zanzibar


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

4 Day Luxury Safari to Selous Game Reserve

Enjoy an unforgettable Safari to Selous Game Reserve from Zanzibar


4 Days / 3 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Selous Boat and Bush Adventure

Enjoy an unforgettable Safari to Selous Game Reserve from Zanzibar


2 Days / 1 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Day Trip to Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park Day Safari Adventure


1 Days / 0 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Zanzibar and the Best of the Northern Circuit

The Beach, and a safari adventure in the Northern Circuit


5 Days / 4 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Zanzibar and Selous Safari Getaway

Zanzibar and a safari adventure in Selous


3 Days / 2 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Zanzibar and Selous Adventure

Zanzibar Charm and Selous Safari Expedition


5 Days / 4 Nights
United Republic of Tanzania

Zanzibar and Serengeti Adventures

Zanzibar and the wonders of the Serengeti


5 Days / 4 Nights

Our Serengeti Experiences

Night Game Drive

Experience the thrill of a night game drive, spotting elusive nocturnal wildlife like bushbabies, civets, genet cats, and the rare aardvark under the starlit sky.

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Walking Safari and Serengeti Sundowner

Embark on a thrilling walking safari with a ranger, tracking wildlife on foot, then unwind with a sundowner atop Robanda Hill, overlooking the Serengeti.

Explore more

Visit the Matiti Plains

The Matiti Plains, overlooked by the Serengeti Twin Hills, is where pregnant wildebeest gather to calve from January to March.

Explore more

Night Game Drive

Experience the thrill of a night game drive, spotting elusive nocturnal wildlife like bushbabies, civets, genet cats, and the rare aardvark under the starlit sky.

Explore more

Walking Safari and Serengeti Sundowner

Embark on a thrilling walking safari with a ranger, tracking wildlife on foot, then unwind with a sundowner atop Robanda Hill, overlooking the Serengeti.

Explore more

Visit the Matiti Plains

The Matiti Plains, overlooked by the Serengeti Twin Hills, is where pregnant wildebeest gather to calve from January to March.

Explore more

Night Game Drive

Experience the thrill of a night game drive, spotting elusive nocturnal wildlife like bushbabies, civets, genet cats, and the rare aardvark under the starlit sky.

Explore more

Walking Safari and Serengeti Sundowner

Embark on a thrilling walking safari with a ranger, tracking wildlife on foot, then unwind with a sundowner atop Robanda Hill, overlooking the Serengeti.

Explore more

Visit the Matiti Plains

The Matiti Plains, overlooked by the Serengeti Twin Hills, is where pregnant wildebeest gather to calve from January to March.

Explore more

Our Serengeti Lodges

Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma

A comfortable safari stay within the Serengeti Ecosystem, just 300m from the park boundary, offering an immersive wilderness experience in a prime wildlife area.

Africa Safari Masaai Boma

Located close to Pololeti Game Reserve and Serengeti National Park, with Kenya’s Maasai Mara in the background. The accommodation is inspired by a traditional Maasai boma. Look around and you will understand why; you are in their midst.

Africa Safari Karatu

A comfortable safari lodge with amazing views of the Ngorongoro Highlands and Lake Eyasi. Due to the ideal location of Africa Safari Karatu, Lake Manyara National Park and the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater are easily accessible.

Why travel with Beach Safari?

We are proud to be a trusted name in African tourism. Our accolades reflect our commitment to delivering the best in adventure and hospitality.

Beach Safari made our dream trip to Africa a reality! The website was so easy to use, and the detailed descriptions of each package helped us choose the perfect honeymoon getaway. From the moment we booked, everything was seamless—from the romantic beachfront villa in Zanzibar to the thrilling safari in Tanzania. It was truly the adventure of a lifetime, and we can’t wait to book our next trip!

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African Adventure?

Speak to one of our consultants to plan your dream trip.