Mafia Island
Whale Sharks & Pristine Reefs
About Mafia Island
Mafia Island is Tanzania's best-kept coastal secret — a marine paradise that offers everything Zanzibar does, but without the crowds and at lower prices. The Mafia Island Marine Park protects some of the finest coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, and between October and March, whale sharks gather in the warm waters of Kilindoni Bay for one of Africa's most thrilling wildlife encounters. Budget travellers can find simple but comfortable guesthouses from $25/night, hire local dhow boats for snorkelling trips, and swim alongside the gentle 9-metre whale sharks for a fraction of what similar experiences cost in Mozambique or the Maldives. Mafia is also a critical nesting site for green turtles, and between June and September, hatchlings scramble down the beach to the sea — a magical sight that costs nothing to witness.
Key Wildlife
Areas & Highlights
Mafia Island Marine Park
Tanzania's first marine park — world-class snorkelling and diving at budget-friendly prices.
Chole Bay
Sheltered bay with pristine reefs, dhow trips, and the ruins of historic Chole Mjini.
Juani Island
Turtle nesting beach and ancient ruins accessible by local boat for just a few dollars.
Jibondo
Traditional boat-building village with cultural tours and access to remote dive sites.
Budget Safari Deals
3-Day Group Joining Safari
3 Days / 2 Nights
$320 per person
3-Day Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro Safari
3 Days / 2 Nights
$350 per person
3-Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari
3 Days / 2 Nights
$380 per person
3-Day Budget Serengeti Safari
3 Days / 2 Nights
$450 per person
4-Day Mikumi National Park Safari
4 Days / 3 Nights
$480 per person
4-Day Camping & Cultural Safari
4 Days / 3 Nights
$500 per person