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.
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.
Suggested Itinerary
Day1: Depart the UK
Day2: Arrive Tanzania
Due to flight schedules you require an overnight stay in Dar es Salaam.
Day3: 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.
Days4-8: 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.
Day9: 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.
Day10: Depart Tanzania
Transfer to the airport for your flights back to the UK, landing the next day.
Day11: Arrive UK
Please note: Seasonal excursions to snorkel with the whale sharks can be arranged locally.
Key info
Our trip ideas are offered to inspire you and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 11 daysfrom £2,295 pp
A sleepy backwater and remnant of the old Swahili coast, Mafia Island is reminiscent of the Zanzibar of thirty years ago. Chole Bay’s clear waters offer wonderful snorkelling, sailing and swimming, while outside the bay are some of the richest reefs in the world.
Find Out More about {acc:title}
Located on the south coast of Mafia Island, in Chole Bay, this lodge stands amidst tall coconut palms on a sandy beach. It offers 30 air-conditioned rooms, each with verandah overlooking the gardens and bay.
Find Out More about Mafia Island Lodge
Based in the Southeast of Mafia Island Marine Park, Mafia Kivulini Lodge features only four rooms and is an excellent choice for divers looking for accommodation away from the crowds.
Find Out More about Mafia Kivulini Lodge
