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Imagine miles of soft white sand and stunning turquoise waters – a place where you can relax under the sun and dive into the ocean to see incredible marine life. This is Mafia Island. The marine park that surrounds the island has helped ensure that the coral reefs remain pristine and encouraged marine diversity. As such, Mafia Island is one of the best places in East Africa for diving and snorkelling. If you’re looking for an African island vacation without the crowds of tourists, Mafia Island offers a tranquil and less-commercialised alternative to Zanzibar for you to enjoy a more secluded island experience.
Top Destinations on Mafia Island
While you can’t miss the watersports here, there are also fascinating ruins to explore while on Mafia Island:
Chole Island: A Prime Diving Location
Part of the Mafia Archipelago, Chole is a small island with fascinating ruins from the Swahili and Arab trading periods. You can also visit the local village to gain an insight into the warm culture here.
In the water, Chole Island is revered as a top diving spot for a Tanzania beach holiday. You can also go paddleboarding, snorkelling, and on boat trips.
Juani Island and Kua Ruins: Insight into the Medieval Era
On Juani Island lie the Kua ruins, all that remains of mediaeval Swahili town dating back to the 12th century. This site offers travellers a look into life and trade on an island. Islamic and Chinese ceramics dating to the 13th and 14th centuries have been found here, as well as currency from mainland Tanzania.
Surviving structures at Kua include the ruins of residences, mosques, and what could’ve been a palace.
Kilindoni Bay: Swim With Whale Sharks
Do you want to see and swim with whale sharks? Then you should definitely put Kilindoni Bay on your list! While whale sharks can be found year-round here, during October to March they come closer to the surface and shore and are therefore easier to swim with.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Mafia Island?
October to March is the ideal time of the year for whale shark viewing and swimming, as well as diving and snorkelling in calm, clear waters.
July to October is considered the dry season, when the weather is dry and sunny. This is the only time of year that is pretty much guaranteed not to rain, making it perfect for days spent on the beach.
Animals Found on Mafia Island
In the water surrounding Mafia Island, you’ll find whale sharks (especially from October to March), dolphins, and sea turtles, as well as an array of tropical fish in the coral reefs.
From August to September, you can see humpback whales during their migration near the south side of the island. Inland, you’ll find small species like fruit bats and monkeys.
How to Get to Mafia Island
By Air
There are daily flights that take about 40 minutes from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island with small airlines like Coastal Aviation or Auric Air.
By Boat
There are also boats from the mainland, but flights are the most convenient and reliable way to reach the island.
