MAFIA ISLAND
Our selection of epic underwater experiences.
Mafia Island stands as one of the world’s premier diving destinations, with breathtaking coral reefs teeming with life. Dive into the waters of the Mafia Island Marine Park, where the majestic whale shark can be seen gracefully frolicking. Not into diving? Embark on an authentic Mafia Island adventure, exploring the island’s many activities, or unwind on our private beach with our cosy Beach Bar and campfire.
FOR EXPERIENCED DIVERS AND LESS EXPERIENCED OCEAN ENTHUSIASTS AND SNORKELLERS
Below the surface
Discover the underwater beauty of Mafia Island with our dedicated Mafia Island Dive Club. Most of the diving here takes place at depths of less than 30 meters, making it a sport diver’s paradise.
The reefs of the archipelago offer an awe-inspiring display of marine biodiversity, from exposed fringing reefs to rock walls and soft coral habitats. The high diversity and excellent condition of these reefs led to the creation of the Mafia Island Marine Park, the first of its kind in Tanzania and one of the best diving spots in Tanzania.
The Mafia Island Marine Park protects an extraordinary variety of species, with 48 genera of coral and over 400 species of fish. All dives are tide-dependent, which makes every trip unique. We use traditional dhows for our dive trips, and when the wind allows, we hoist the sail for a leisurely and authentic journey back.
Fill your bucket list experiences!
MUST DO
Whale shark excursions
USD 70 p/p
One of the most unique experiences you can have on Mafia Island is swimming with whale sharks. This rare opportunity allows you to see these gentle giants in their natural environment. Watching them from a boat is breathtaking, but swimming and snorkelling alongside them takes the adventure to another level.
For those with a passion for discovery, we offer exploration diving trips. This adventure is ideal for experienced divers looking to explore new reefs and species in the Mafia Island Marine Park. While sightings are not guaranteed, the thrill of the unknown makes this experience unforgettable. Open to Advanced Open Water divers with proof of at least 80 dives.
SNORKELLING
Snorkelling in Chole Bay
USD 25 p/p
Snorkelling in Chole Bay offers a vibrant experience with diverse fish, coral reefs, and high marine diversity, including over 400 fish species, five turtle species, and 48 coral families.
The main trip around Big Rock is led by an experienced guide and lasts a couple of hours or up to four hours for enthusiasts. When the weather permits, we sail back to shore. All ages are welcome; children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent.
FISHING
Deep sea fishing
HALF DAY: USD 400 p/p
FULL DAY: USD 650 p/p
Embark on a deep-sea fishing adventure to experience the thrill of the open ocean. Mafia Island’s waters are abundant in marine life, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. Our deep-sea trips give you the chance to catch local fish species, with guidance from experienced local fishers. It’s an exhilarating addition to your Tanzania island tour, perfect for those seeking a genuine taste of island life.
MUST DO
Sandbanks at Marimbani
USD 30 p/p
Explore pristine sandbanks on a full-day diving excursion. These adventures depart around 7 am and return by 6 pm, offering a true marine conservation diving experience. Weather and tides dictate availability, and surcharges apply due to the location’s remoteness.
The sandbank reefs are suitable for both divers and snorkelers and can be paired with whale watching during migration season. Dolphins frequently accompany us, and with certain species, we may even swim alongside them. Depending on tides and guest preferences, these trips include single or double dives. Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch on the sandbanks—a true Robinson Crusoe experience with a touch of Mafian luxury.
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SNORKELLING
Juani Blue Lagoon & Jellyfish Pool
USD 30 p/p
The blue lagoon is a long channel connecting the large inland bay with the open sea, bisecting the southern tip of Juani. At the end of the channel lies a vast natural swimming pool whose water level varies with the tides and is inhabited by a remarkable number of upside-down jellyfish. After a short walk, you can enjoy its clear waters by swimming in your own private, natural pool. The area can only be accessed by boat during high tide for a few hours each day.
More adventurous visitors might trek from Kua to the Blue Lagoon through lush green forests, home to monkeys and tropical birds. Doing this at low tide reveals a rare natural spectacle: the entire channel drains, offering an extraordinary view of the ocean waves crashing against the reef in the background. It presents a fantastic opportunity for nature photography at its finest.
PARTICIPATE
Interested?
All our curated experiences can be booked by us (some well in advance). One of our experienced guides will always accompany you.
DISCOVER THE UNDERWORLD BIG-5
Discover our diving packages
Different 4- to 7-night diving arrangements and PADI certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mafia Island enjoys warm year-round temperatures, ranging from 25 to 30°C, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Considered one of Tanzania’s safer regions, it does have some connotations regarding climate throughout the year:
Key Seasonal Highlights
Best Overall Weather (Dry Season): June to October is ideal, offering sunny, breezy, and dry conditions, perfect for beach relaxation.
Whale Shark Season: October to March is the best time to see and swim with whale sharks, with peak sightings in October/November and February.
Diving & Snorkelling: Best visibility occurs from October to February, though June to October offers great conditions with less wind.
Humpback Whales: Best seen breaching offshore from August to September.
Turtle Hatching: Occurs between December and March.
Times to better avoid (long rains): April and May are notorious for heavy, consistent, and frequent rainfall, with many lodges closing for maintenance.
In summary, for the best balance of weather and marine life, October is considered a top month, as it marks the beginning of the whale shark season while still offering dry, sunny weather.
The Basecamp Dive Club is located inside our resort. See the map below. From our resort, it’s a ten-minute boat ride to the reefs.
BASECAMP DIVE CLUB
Discover the underwater beauty of Mafia Island with Basecamp Mafia Dive Club.
Most of the diving here takes place at depths of less than 30 meters, making it a sport diver’s paradise. The reefs of the archipelago offer an awe-inspiring display of marine biodiversity, from exposed fringing reefs to rock walls and soft coral habitats. The high diversity and excellent condition of these reefs led to the creation of the Mafia Island Marine Park, the first of its kind in Tanzania and one of the best diving spots in Tanzania.
