Mafia Island | Tanzania. The island of Mafia and the archipelago that surrounds it, which includes Jibondo, Juani, and Chole, have a lot to offer as an alternative to other Indian Ocean spots around Zanzibar and along the coast. These islands are largely pristine and receive a low number of visitors. Mafia, on the other hand, has beaches that are not as good as Zanzibar even if it offers superior diving than Pemba.

There is just one island off the coast of Tanzania that truly encourages tourists to explore its offshore islands and beach bars, and that island is Mafia. It is located just thirty minutes by plane south of Zanzibar. The fact that there are so few hotels in this area only serves to increase the allure of Mafia as a beach destination for those who are looking for an exciting place to visit.

The majority of Mafia’s lodging options may be found on the central main island; however, the smaller islands are as enjoyable to visit. These islands feature decaying medieval ruins that are now inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, wild pigs, fruit bats, and bush babies.

In particular, the Mafia is well-known for its marine glory, which is the Marine Park, which was established in order to safeguard its reefs. Although it is important to note that the beaches on the main island are not quite as good as those on Zanzibar, the diving, fishing, and snorkeling opportunities that can be found here are among the best in the entire region.

They are also infinitely better than those that can be found on Zanzibar. Mafia boasts plenty to challenge and reward the experienced diver, as well as numerous sheltered bays and coves that are perfect for novice to intermediate divers. When Zanzibar vacations do not provide advanced diving, Mafia is a great alternative. Moreover, snorkeling is an amazing activity.

The spirit of adventure permeates each and every one of the islands, and visitors spend their days fishing or exploring beach bars and reefs that have not been explored before. Possibly the greatest option for individuals who are extremely enthusiastic about making diving the primary emphasis of their vacation in Tanzania.

It is possible to reach Mafia Island.

From Dar es Salaam, Mafia Island may be reached in a straightforward thirty-minute flight leaving from your international flight in Dar es Salaam. The journey to Mafia Island is not very challenging. Considering that it is home to some of the best diving in the world, it is not a bad place to visit.

Getting a place to stay on Mafia Island

The laid-back Kinasi Lodge is one of the oldest lodges on the island and one of the only ones with a swimming pool. It is also known for its excellent food and service, tastefully decorated interiors (although they may be a little antiquated), and one of the most experienced diving instructors on the island. Stone was used in the construction of all fifteen of its rooms.

Pole Pole, which literally translates to “slowly, slowly,” is literally located next door to Kinasi. Pole Pole is even more laid back than Kinasi, with charming bungalows and a wonderful vibe. Due to the fact that there are just seven rooms, this is an excellent location to entirely escape the masses.

Chole Mjini is a tiny tree-house eco-lodge on Chole Island that has an emphasis on sustainability and eco-credentials. It is located across the bay from Kinasi and Pole Pole. The character and one-of-a-kind allure of this lodge cannot be denied, despite the fact that you will need to be prepared for the long drop compost toilets that are located here.

Despite the fact that the Mafia Island Lodge and Ras Mbisi are the last two lodges to be mentioned, we would choose to stay at any of the other three lodges available to us whenever it is feasible.

Extra islands that are part of the Mafia Archipelago There are two enchanting islands, one of which is Thanda Island Lodge, which is a site that is only available for private hiring and is without a doubt one of the most beautiful locations in the entire Indian Ocean. For those who do not have an unlimited amount of cash, the flight from Dar to Mafia continues to Songa Songa, which is around fifteen minutes away. Songa Songa is the nearest point to Fanjove island, which is once again a paradisiacal island and does not require exclusive contracting.

Mafia Island: Additional Reading Materials

If you would want some additional background material, check out the Cadogan Guide to Tanzania and Zanzibar – Mafia Chapter, which was written by one of our directors, Annabel. While we are working hard to ensure that our website is as factual as possible, if you would like to learn more about the Mafia, you can read it. Take a look at our blog as well, where we discuss having the opportunity to swim with whale sharks on Mafia, which is an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and single travelers alike.