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.
Chole is a small island in Chole Bay, a short boat ride from Utende on Mafia Island. It sits inside Mafia Island Marine Park and is one of the most atmospheric places in the archipelago.
A little history
Chole was once the main trading centre of the Mafia islands. Today the old stone houses and mosques stand in ruins, wrapped in the roots of baobab and fig trees.
What to see
- The ruins, overgrown by giant trees
- Large fruit bats roosting in the trees
- The village, its school and local life
- Boat builders making traditional dhows
How to visit
Boats cross from Utende in about ten minutes. Visit with a local guide who can show you the ruins and introduce you to the village. Please dress modestly and ask before taking photos of people.
Combine your visit
Chole fits well with a morning of snorkelling in Chole Bay or a trip to Juani Island and the Kua ruins.
Last updated 21 October 2026 by Hamiduink Traveller, a local tour operator on Mafia Island.