Mafia Island
Mafia Island is a relatively undiscovered exotic island 99.44miles south of Zanzibar Island, just off the coast of the Rufiji River Delta. It boasts truly splendid white sandy beaches and is one of the world’s best dive locations; scuba diving and snorkeling in Mafia Island is absolutely wonderful and you can be almost assured of a good dive experience with astonishing coral and abundant marine life. Deep Sea Fishing, Whale Watching or Swimming or just relaxing and watching the sun set slowly into the warm Indian Ocean are other popular activities that the Island offers.
Today Mafia is known as a beautiful Indian Ocean tropical resort that is famous for deep sea fishing and scuba diving. Aquatic life is abundant and the coral gardens are pristine due to the protection of the Mafia Island Marine Park. The park is located between the Rufiji River delta to the west and the open Indian Ocean to the east. The dual influences of the river and the sea have combined to create a rich and exceptional biodiversity with unique landscapes under the sea and on dry land. It is a unique and perfect destination as part of a safari package or simply a place to unwind and get away from the daily, modern and busy world.
Activities
The warm, colourful waters of the Indian Ocean surrounding Mafia Island provide an ideal location for many sea activities.
Enjoy some of the best diving and snorkeling there is off the East African coast exploring the many coral reefs that are teaming with tropical marine life.
There are over 400 species of fish inhabiting the reefs around Mafia.
The fully equipped dive centre for beginners & experienced divers offers PADI certifications.
The best months for scuba diving are September to March & snorkelling can be done all year round in the sheltered, calm waters of Chole Bay.
Many islets and natural, unspoilt sandbars surround Mafia Island.
One can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of these locations after sailing there on a traditional dhow.
There are also the options of sport fishing, walking or biking on the nature trails, and other beach activities that can be enjoyed.
Chole island is home to a large colony of Comoros Flying Foxes or fruit bats found only in Mafia and the Comoro Islands and there are also some ancient ruins remaining on a few of the islets.
The ruins date back to the 15th century from the first Arab settlers and are interesting to visit.
One can also experience the friendly culture of the Swahili people with tours through the local villages. There is a day trip to the Northern part of Mafia where you will get the to experience of the full diversity of the fauna and flora on the island, as well as see some of Mafia’s most pristine and beautiful beaches.
