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.
Mafia Island Marine Park protects the coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves and islands of southern Mafia, including Chole Bay, Chole Island, Juani and Jibondo. People still live and fish inside the park, which is managed together with local communities.
Why visit
The reefs here are among the healthiest on the East African coast. You can see hard and soft corals, hundreds of kinds of reef fish, turtles and, with luck, dolphins and rays.
Best snorkelling and diving
- Chole Bay — sheltered and shallow, ideal for beginners and families
- Kinasi Pass — drift dives where the bay meets the open ocean
- Reefs outside the bay — for experienced divers in calm conditions
Entry fees
Visitors to the park pay a marine park fee. The amount is set by the park authority and can change, so ask us for the current fee when you book. Keep your receipt during your stay.
When to go
The water is usually calmest and clearest from October to March. Some trips pause during the long rains around April and May.
Responsible visiting
- Never touch or stand on coral
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Keep your distance from turtles and other marine life
- Take all rubbish back with you
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mafia Island Marine Park?
It covers the southern part of Mafia Island, including Chole Bay, Utende and the islands of Chole, Juani and Jibondo.
Do I need to pay to enter the marine park?
Yes, visitors pay a marine park fee set by the park authority. Ask us for the current amount.
Can beginners snorkel in the marine park?
Yes. Chole Bay is calm and shallow, and our guides stay with you in the water.
Last updated 21 October 2026 by Hamiduink Traveller, a local tour operator on Mafia Island.