Mafia Island
Unspoiled diving paradise and whale shark capital. Remote island offering pristine coral reefs, marine park protection, and authentic fishing village culture. Perfect for divers and marine enthusiasts.
1995
Marine Park Established
Whale sharks, diving
Famous For
Kinasi Pass, Chole Wall
Best Diving Sites
Flight from Dar es Salaam
Access
Remote, unspoiled, authentic
Vibe
Mafia Island
Escape to Tanzania's best-kept secret - a diver's paradise with untouched coral gardens and gentle whale sharks. Mafia Island offers serenity and world-class marine experiences without the crowds, making it perfect for those seeking authentic island adventure.
What Makes It Special
Whale shark swimming
World-class diving (Chole Bay)
Marine Park snorkeling
Traditional fishing villages
Dhow sailing
Sea turtle watching
Chole Island ruins
Pristine beaches
Incredible Wildlife
Home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, Mafia Island offers unparalleled opportunities to witness nature's most spectacular animals in their natural habitat.
When to Visit
October-March
Whale shark season
Wildlife: Guaranteed whale shark encounters
June-October
Best diving conditions
Wildlife: Excellent visibility, marine life
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the magic of Mafia Island? Let us help you plan your perfect safari adventure.
Book This Destination
More Destinations
Discover Tanzania's other incredible locations
Serengeti National Park
Witness the world's greatest wildlife spectacle - the Great Migration of over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles across the endless Serengeti plains. Home to Africa's Big Five and exceptional predator sightings.
Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, a natural wonder teeming with 25,000 large animals including the Big Five. UNESCO World Heritage Site offering the densest wildlife concentration in Africa.
Tarangire National Park
Home to Tanzania's largest elephant herds and iconic ancient baobab trees. Experience spectacular dry season wildlife concentrations along the Tarangire River with over 550 bird species.
Lake Manyara National Park
Famous for tree-climbing lions and massive flocks of flamingos. Compact park offering diverse ecosystems from groundwater forest to soda lake, with exceptional bird watching (400+ species).