Whale sharks
Swim With Whale Sharks
From about October to March, swim beside the world's largest fish in small, respectful groups.
07°55′S 39°47′E Chole Bay · 07:40
The Indian Ocean, Slowed Down
Mafia Island & Whale Sharks in Tanzania.
Whale shark season Oct–Mar Swim with gentle giants
Plan My Mafia Escape5-Star Rated · Guiding Since 2004 · Away From the Crowds
Where is Mafia Island?
Mafia Island is a small, quiet island in the Indian Ocean off Tanzania's southern coast, south of Zanzibar and a short flight from Dar es Salaam. Much of its coast is protected by Mafia Island Marine Park, with coral reefs, turtles and clear water, and from about October to March whale sharks feed close to shore. There are only a few small lodges, so the island stays calm and uncrowded. Yera Journeys plans private Mafia Island holidays, on their own or after a safari in Nyerere, Ruaha or the north.
Why Mafia Island
The Indian Ocean, Slowed Down.
A shadow moves below the boat, then a whale shark the length of a bus glides past you, spotted and slow, while you float beside it. On Mafia, this happens in calm, warm water close to shore, with small groups and no rush.
The rest of the day belongs to the ocean. Snorkel coral gardens in Chole Bay, sail by dhow to a sandbank, dive a reef wall, or watch baby turtles reach the sea in season. Back on land, there are no big resorts and no crowds, just a few barefoot lodges under the palms.
Mafia is what Zanzibar was before it became busy: Swahili villages, old ruins on Chole Island and a pace set by the tides. It is the quieter Tanzania beach escape, made easy by us.
Mafia Island
Whale sharks in the morning. A reef at noon. A beach to yourself at sunset.
What you get
Six Benefits of a Mafia Island Holiday With Yera
Reefs
A Protected Marine Park
Healthy coral, reef fish and turtles in Mafia Island Marine Park, one of the best in East Africa.
Quiet
Away From the Crowds
Only a few small lodges on the whole island. No big resorts, no busy beaches.
Diving
Diving and Snorkelling
Easy snorkelling in Chole Bay and exciting dives for every level, from beginners to experts.
Culture
Real Island Life
Swahili villages, dhow builders and old ruins on Chole Island, still part of daily life.
Safari
Easy After a Safari
A short flight from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Nyerere or Ruaha straight to the island.
Mafia ocean calendar
What You Can See on Mafia Island, Month by Month
| Experience | Best months | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Whale sharks | About October to March | Snorkel only, small groups, no touching |
| Diving | October to March | Calmest seas and the clearest water |
| Snorkelling in Chole Bay | All year, except the long rains | Sheltered and good for beginners |
| Turtle nesting and hatching | Varies through the year | Hatchings depend on nature; we check the season |
| Dhow and sandbank trips | All year, except the long rains | Timed with the tides |
| Beach and rest | June to March | Most lodges close for the long rains in April and May |
Marine life is wild, so sightings are likely in season but never guaranteed. We plan your days around the best tides and conditions.
Things to do
Things to Do on Mafia Island
In the sea
- Whale shark swims, in season
- Snorkelling in Chole Bay
- Scuba diving and courses
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
On the water
- Dhow trips to sandbanks
- Sunset dhow cruises
- Mangrove boat trips
- Fishing, where lodges offer it
Culture and nature
- Chole Island ruins and village
- Fruit bats at dusk on Chole
- Turtle hatchings, in season
- Juani Island lagoons
Rest
- Barefoot beach days
- Spa and massage
- Seafood dinners under the stars
Where to stay
Mafia Island Lodges
Chole Bay Lodges
Small beach lodges inside the marine park, close to the best snorkelling.
Chole Island Stays
Characterful rooms among ruins and baobabs on a tiny island.
Dive Lodges
Relaxed lodges with their own dive centres and boats.
Private Island Retreats
Exclusive stays for couples and families who want total privacy.
Available in Classic, Signature or Bespoke styles. Facilities vary by lodge; we confirm everything in writing.
When to go
Best Time to Visit Mafia Island
October to March
Whale shark season, calm seas and the best diving. Hot and sunny, with short rains around November.
June to September
Cool, dry and breezy. Great for beach days and after a safari; some dive sites are rougher.
April and May
Long rains. Most lodges close, so we plan around what is open.
At a glance
Mafia Island Facts
| Location | Indian Ocean, off Tanzania's southern coast, south of Zanzibar |
|---|---|
| Famous for | Whale sharks, coral reefs, quiet beaches |
| Protected area | Mafia Island Marine Park |
| Marine life | Whale sharks, turtles, reef fish, dolphins |
| Getting there | Short flights from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar; light aircraft from Nyerere and other safari parks |
| Ideal stay | 4 to 6 nights |
| Best time | October to March for whale sharks and diving |
| Lodges | Only a few small lodges; most close in April and May |
Mafia Island holidays
Mafia Island Holiday Ideas
Our promise
Plan With Confidence
No cost to start
Your Mafia Island proposal is free, with no obligation.
Revise until it's right
Change lodges, flights and days before you confirm.
Clear price in writing
Every inclusion and exclusion stated before you pay.
Questions travellers ask
Mafia Island FAQs
When can you swim with whale sharks on Mafia Island?
From about October to March, when whale sharks feed close to shore near Kilindoni. Swims are by snorkel in small groups, with no touching.
How do you get to Mafia Island?
By short scheduled or charter flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, or by light aircraft from Nyerere and other safari parks. We arrange every flight and transfer.
Is Mafia Island better than Zanzibar?
It is different. Zanzibar has more choice, culture and nightlife. Mafia is quieter, with fewer lodges, better reefs and whale sharks in season. Many guests visit both.
Is Mafia Island good for diving and snorkelling?
Yes. Mafia Island Marine Park protects healthy coral and reef fish. Chole Bay is easy for snorkellers, and there are dives for every level.
When is the best time to visit Mafia Island?
October to March for whale sharks and diving, and June to September for cooler beach days. Most lodges close in April and May for the long rains.
How many days do you need on Mafia Island?
Four to six nights gives time for whale sharks, snorkelling, a dhow trip, Chole Island and slow beach days.
Can you combine Mafia Island with a safari?
Yes. Nyerere and Ruaha in the south are the easiest, with short flights. You can also fly from the Serengeti or Zanzibar.
Begin your journey
Let's Plan Your Mafia Island Escape
Tell us your dates and dreams. A private proposal reaches you within 24 hours.