Mafia Island Day Trips
Mafia Island – Tanzania’s Untouched Marine Paradise
Mafia Island is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets, offering an unspoiled blend of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, rich marine life, and authentic Swahili culture. Located south of Zanzibar along the Indian Ocean coast, Mafia Island is ideal for travellers seeking nature, adventure, and tranquillity away from mass tourism.
The island lies at the heart of the Mafia Island Marine Park, one of the most biodiverse marine protected areas in East Africa. Coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and lagoons provide a sanctuary for whale sharks, turtles, dolphins, reef fish, and migrating humpback whales. This makes Mafia Island one of the best destinations in Africa for snorkelling, diving, and marine wildlife encounters.
Unlike busier island destinations, Mafia Island remains refreshingly authentic. Small fishing villages, traditional wooden dhows, historic ruins, and lush vegetation create a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to connect with both nature and local life. Whether you are snorkelling in Chole Bay, swimming with whale sharks, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a sunset dhow cruise, every experience on Mafia Island feels personal and unhurried.
With its year-round tropical climate and strong focus on conservation and responsible tourism, Mafia Island is perfect for eco-travellers, honeymooners, families, and adventure seekers alike. Afrimine Tours offers carefully curated excursions and day trips that showcase the very best of Mafia Island- always with respect for nature, wildlife, and local communities.
Discover Mafia Island’s most unforgettable
Day Tours & Excursions
Whale Shark Snorkelling (Top Highlight)
One of the most iconic experiences on Mafia Island is swimming alongside the gentle whale shark – the largest fish in the world, reaching up to 20 metres in length.
During the season, whale sharks are often spotted feeding close to the surface. Once located, guests calmly enter the water and snorkel nearby. Whale sharks are shy animals: looking is allowed, touching is strictly prohibited.
Mafia Island follows the international Code of Conduct for whale shark encounters, and your guide will provide a full safety briefing before entering the water.
The excursion departs early to the west coast, travelling by Chachungi speedboat through the channel between Mafia Island and the mainland.
Best time to go: November – March
Duration: Half day (timing depends on sightings)
Includes: Land transport, boat trip, guide, snorkelling equipment, water
Note: Weather-dependent, seasonal activity
Turtle Hatching Experience
Witness one of nature’s most emotional moments as baby green sea turtles emerge from their nests and crawl toward the ocean for the first time.
After a short boat ride to Juani Island, enjoy a guided walk through the village and lush coastal scenery before reaching the nesting beach. Along the way, you may spot monkeys and a variety of bird species.
This conservation experience is supported by Sea Sense, a charity dedicated to protecting marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Best time to go: June – August
Duration: Half day
Includes: Boat transfers, guide, water
Excludes: USD 25 conservation fee (paid directly to the charity)
Note: Seasonal and conservation-led activity
Whale Watching
Join a boat excursion to observe migrating humpback whales as they travel between the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and the colder feeding grounds of the Southern Ocean.
Humpback whales can grow up to 16 metres long and are famous for their spectacular breaches and tail slaps. With some luck, you’ll witness these magnificent displays up close from the boat.
Best time to go: July – September
Duration: Half day (subject to sightings)
Includes: Boat trip, guide, water
Note: Weather-dependent | Price based on a minimum of 4 guests
Chole Bay Snorkelling
Discover the vibrant underwater world of Chole Bay, perfect for beginners and experienced snorkellers alike. Travel by traditional dhow to carefully selected snorkelling spots rich in coral reefs and tropical fish.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Includes: Boat trip, snorkelling equipment, guide, water
Note: Locations and timing depend on tides
Kua Lagoon & Ruins
Explore the mysterious 10th-century ruins of Kua, once a major trading hub linking Africa and Asia. Afterward, cruise through shallow channels to the stunning Kua Lagoon, famous for its crystal-blue waters and upside-down jellyfish.
Duration: Approx. 4 hours
Includes: Boat transfers, guide, snorkelling equipment
Note: Tide-dependent excursion
Chole Island Tour
Step back in time on Chole Island, once the historic capital of Mafia. Walk through village paths, explore ruins reclaimed by nature, and observe traditional dhow-building techniques. The island is also home to large colonies of fruit bats (flying foxes).
Duration: 2–3 hours
Includes: Boat transfer, guide, water
Excludes: USD 5 community contribution
Important: Women must cover shoulders and knees
Mange Sandbank (Full-Day Escape)
A true highlight of Mafia Island: a remote white-sand sandbank surrounded by turquoise waters. Enjoy snorkelling on nearby reefs, followed by a freshly prepared picnic lunch on the sandbank.
Duration: Full day (approx. 10 hours)
Includes: Boat trip, snorkelling equipment, guide, lunch, tea, coffee, water
Excludes: Soft drinks & beers
Note: Tide and weather-dependent | Minimum 4 guests
Kayaking
Enjoy kayaking. Paddle through tranquil inlets and mangrove channels, exploring Mafia’s untouched coastal landscapes at your own pace.
Sunset Dhow Cruise
End your day with a romantic sunset cruise aboard a traditional wooden dhow. Sail gently along the coast, enjoy sparkling wine and snacks, and watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean.
Perfect for: Couples & honeymooners
Experience Mafia Island with Afrimine Tours
From swimming with gentle whale sharks to exploring pristine sandbanks, witnessing turtle hatchlings, or enjoying a tranquil sunset dhow cruise, Mafia Island offers unforgettable adventures for every traveller. At Afrimine Tours, we curate each excursion with care, combining expert local guides, sustainable practices, and authentic island experiences to make your visit truly special.
Whether you are seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful escape in nature, let Afrimine Tours guide you through the hidden gems of Mafia Island – creating memories that will last a lifetime.