Explore the vibrant reefs of Chole Bay and catch the annual whale shark aggregation, where small males can be seen feeding in the channel.
Spend your week at Mafia Kivulini Lodge, a small resort with a relaxed atmosphere. The lodge sits amidst palm trees on a beachfront location, along the shores of Chole Bay in the heart of a marine park. Other resorts are available in Mafia Island, please see the accommodation tab for full options.
This sleepy backwater on the Swahili coast offers great value and is an ideal winter escape. The waters of Chole Bay are home to vibrant and varied marine life. Expect turtles and possibly whale shark encounters at this time of year. It's also great for snorkellers. Diving on the outside of the bay there are plenty of vibrant walls and reefs to explore.
Client Debra Woolley explains why she keeps returning to Mafia Island in her blog.
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart the UK
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Day 2:
Arrive Tanzania
Due to flight schedules you require an overnight stay in Dar es Salaam.
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Day 3:
Transfer to Mafia Island
This morning, make your way back to the airport for a short flight to Mafia Island, where you will be transferred to your resort for a week long stay. Rest of day at leisure.
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Days 4-8
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Dive Mafia Island
Your diving package begins this morning. Enjoy a mix of dives in Chole Bay and the outer reefs. Expect a vibrant marine life, plenty of critters, drift dives at Kinasi Pass and wall diving for more advanced divers on the outside of the bay.
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Day 9:
Day at leisure
Relax at the resort or head out on an excursion on your last day. Between December and March, we recommend to book a whale shark snorkelling excursion.
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Day 10:
Depart Tanzania
Transfer to the airport for your flights back to the UK, landing the next day.
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Day 11:
Arrive UK
Please note: Seasonal excursions to snorkel with the whale sharks can be arranged locally.
