Mafia Island travel guides

Everything you need to plan your trip, written by locals.

Best time to visit Mafia Island

A month-by-month calendar of whale sharks, whales, diving and weather.

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Chole Island, Mafia: Ruins, Fruit Bats and Village Life

A guide to Chole Island in Mafia's Chole Bay — history, what to see, and how to visit from Utende.

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Kilindoni: Mafia Island's Main Town

A guide to Kilindoni, the main town on Mafia Island — the airstrip, port, market, whale shark trips and places to stay.

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Mafia Island Marine Park Guide

What to know about Mafia Island Marine Park: reefs, snorkelling and diving sites, fees and the best time to visit.

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Mafia Island Travel Guide

Everything you need to know before visiting Mafia Island, Tanzania: where it is, what to do, where to stay and how to get around.

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Whale Shark Season on Mafia Island

When and where to swim with whale sharks on Mafia Island, what to expect, and how to choose a responsible trip.

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How to Get to Mafia Island

All the ways to reach Mafia Island — flights from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, or the road-and-boat route via Nyamisati.

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Dar es Salaam to Mafia by Road and Boat (Nyamisati Route)

A step-by-step guide to the budget route from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island via Nyamisati port.

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Zanzibar to Mafia Island

How to combine Zanzibar and Mafia Island in one trip, and why it's worth it.

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Getting Around Mafia Island

Taxis, bajaji, boda, car hire and boats — how to move around Mafia Island.

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Mafia Island vs Zanzibar: Which Should You Visit?

Comparing Mafia Island and Zanzibar to help you choose — or decide to visit both.

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What to Pack for Mafia Island

A simple packing list for a Mafia Island holiday.

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