Mafia Island.
Mafia Island is the largest of a small archipelago of islands and atolls and is truly a paradise in the Indian Ocean. It is the southern most of three islands (Pemba & Zanzibar) located off the coast of Tanzania. 25kms from the mainland and 130kms from Dar es Salaam, it is reachable by light aircraft in 35 minutes or 45 minutes from Zanzibar and the Selous Game Reserve.
Today Mafia is known as a beautiful Indian Ocean tropical resort that is famous for deep sea fishing and scuba diving. Aquatic life is abundant and the coral gardens are pristine due to the protection of the Mafia Island Marine Park. The park is located between the Rufiji River delta to the west and the open Indian Ocean to the east. The dual influences of the river and the sea have combined to create a rich and exceptional biodiversity with unique landscapes under the sea and on dry land. It is a unique and perfect destination as part of a safari package or simply a place to unwind and get away from the daily, modern and busy world.
Activities
The warm, colourful waters of the Indian Ocean surrounding Mafia Island provide an ideal location for many sea activities.
Enjoy some of the best diving and snorkeling there is off the East African coast exploring the many coral reefs that are teaming with tropical marine life.
There are over 400 species of fish inhabiting the reefs around Mafia.
The fully equipped dive centre for beginners & experienced divers offers PADI certifications.
The best months for scuba diving are September to March & snorkelling can be done all year round in the sheltered, calm waters of Chole Bay.
Many islets and natural, unspoilt sandbars surround Mafia Island.
One can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of these locations after sailing there on a traditional dhow.
There are also the options of sport fishing, walking or biking on the nature trails, and other beach activities that can be enjoyed.
Chole island is home to a large colony of Comoros Flying Foxes or fruit bats found only in Mafia and the Comoro Islands and there are also some ancient ruins remaining on a few of the islets.
The ruins date back to the 15th century from the first Arab settlers and are interesting to visit.
One can also experience the friendly culture of the Swahili people with tours through the local villages. There is a day trip to the Northern part of Mafia where you will get the to experience of the full diversity of the fauna and flora on the island, as well as see some of Mafia’s most pristine and beautiful beaches.
3days/2 nights in Mafia
Day 1 Depart Daily by Coastal light aircraft Zanazibar /Dar es salaam to Mafia, flight depart Zanzibar at 09:30hrs, and depart from Dar es salaam at 10:30hrs.
You will be met by Mafia representative and taken to lodge for Lunch. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Mafia Island Lodge.
Day 2 Breakfast and full day at Leisure Dinner and overnight at Mafia Island Lodge
Last Day Breakfast and day at Leisure. Lunch and Depart by Coastal light aircraft at 15:45 (arrive,Dar es salaam at 16:40hrs Zanzibar at 17:05hrs)
Total cost per person sharing:
Two Nights USD 500
Single Supplement USD 80
Extra Night USD 95
Price includes:-
- Round trip flight from Dar /Zanzibar and back.
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary above.
- FB accommodation at Mafia Island Lodge.
