Location A small paradise just to the south of Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean. A population of 40,000 only, mainly fishermen and small scale farmers growing coconut, pawpaw, rice and cassava. Since it is close to the equator, sea and air temperature remains warm all year around. However, the hottest months are from October to March, rainy season follows from April to June and the coolest from July to September. The influence of sea and river Rufiji, together have created a rich and exceptional biodiversity and landscape. About 400 species of fish and the rare dugong and Comoros flying fox have been thought to have survived in this land
History Also known as Mahali Pa Afya in swahili meaning “A healthy dwelling place� whose history can be traced over two thousand years ago when It was mainly a trading post for Arabs influence between the 12th and 15th centuries AD, hence occupied a key location in East Africa trading route between Kilwa and Zanzibar and the ruins from these times can still be seen. During World War I, British forces used the small islands of Pemba namely Chole and Juani as their base for assembling their forces. Today is known for is beautiful Indian Ocean tropical resort and famous for its deep sea fishing and scuba diving because of its abundant aquatic life and coral gardens.
How To Get there About 25km off the coast of Tanzania and 130km from Dar Es Salaam, Mafia Island is reachable by light aircraft taking about 45min from Dar Es Salaam and 60min from Zanzibar or Selous Game Reserve with stopover in Dar Es Salaam.
OPTION 2: Mafia Island Lodge
A C C O M M O D A T I O N
Situated in Chole Bay on a sandy beach and in the heart of the marine park on the south coast of the Island near to the Utende Village and normally takes about a 20min drive from airport. The hotel offers continental cuisine with emphasis on seafood. Dining, bar and lounge terrace face the garden and ocean for relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.
OPTION 1: Kinasi Lodge A lovely resort situated south of the island in an old cashew and coconut plantation with magnificent natural surroundings. Every guest is offered a personalized service of African hospitality with a unique touch of the Island. All cottages are designed with traditional elements of Indian, Arab and African culture with modern facilities from Thai Spa and pool to wifi and PADI dive and pool table.
OPTION 4: Butiama Beach It has pristine sandbank beach surrounded by tropical palms. The bungalows located close to the beach and decorated beautifully with hand crafted furniture. Friendly staff provide you with good selection of cocktails and buffet breakfast . Beach bar offers variety of drinks and sea food widely available. A perfect gateway for honeymoon.
OPTION 3: Didimiza Beach Guest House Located on the beautiful marine national park at the South East of the island and provides a combination of affordable accommodation and great service. Every room has its own verandas to enjoy the breeze of the ocean and sunset. The chef prepares international dishes and combines local ingredients in making rich three course dinner.
MAFIA EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES
Mafia Marine National Park Diving and snorkeling around this marine park is just fantastic. You are very much likely to see hump back whales, dolphins, flying fish, whale shark and many other marine species. The coral reef around the park provides life to many other small marine spices and also a hike towards the forest can be wonderful with sighting of various butterflies
Afro Whale Shark Safari Close to Kilindoni in the South of the island, a short boat ride lays a perfect spot for Whale Shark and Manta Rays. This bay provides feeding area for such species making it unforgettable for adventurous divers. The professional diver will be with you all the way, ensuring you safely experience the marine life of Mafia. The trip takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Chole Island Tour Off the shores, this land is filled with ancient ruins of the Germans preserved. The inhabitant is famous for shark fishing and hand made coconut coir ropes. The guide will also take you on walk around to see the local people practicing their daily lives. The tour also takes you to Kua ruins that has mosque dating back to the 14th century and the 18th century grand old house the prominent feature in Juani Island.
General Information It is advisable to dress modestly and decent when around the island. Respect the local culture Topless sun tanning is not permitted, swimwear is acceptable on tourist beaches.
Wear shoes suitable for walking and trekking, useful for exploring. During hot seasons (November to February) short sleeves and light clothes is preferable and cold seasons (June to September) a light jumper is recommended for evenings. Yellow fever vaccine is no longer compulsory for Tanzanians. It is advisable to protect from Malaria though the risk is not high. For most nationalities, a tourist visa can be obtained at point of entry upon arrival, it is advisable to contact your travel agent before travelling.
Credit card facilities of Visa and Mastercard are available in most known lodges, please confirm before booking. Bank transfers are accepted but traveler's cheque is not recommended. Power voltage of 220v – 240v and 3 pin rectangle plugs. Some lodges provides socket adaptors Currency Conversion - Tanzanian Shillings 1,600 for 1 United States Dollar
For More Information Contact any of •
Offices below:
Dar Es Salaam (Head Office) - Tanzania Plot No 1006, Buzwagi Road, Msasani, Peninsula P.O.Box 1889, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Tel:+255-22-2602 303/304/305/610/612/613 Fax: +255-22-2601 555 Email: res1@rickshawtz.com Web: www.rickshawtravels.com
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Serena Dar Es Salaam Ohio Street, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Tel: (+255-22) 2137275, 2139273 Fax: (+255-22) 2137275, 2113227 Email: tours2@rickshawtz.com
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Arusha - Tanzania Engira Road, House No.184, Behind Kibo Palace Hotel P. O. Box 13959, Arusha, Tanzania Tel No: +255 27 254 5955, +255 27 254 5956 Fax: (+255-27) 2506655 Email: deepak@rickshawtz.com
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Zanzibar – Tanzania Office No 17, Muzammil Centre, Mezzanine Floor Tel: +255.24.2238392 Fax:+255.24.2238393 Email: res10@rickshawtz.com
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Kigali - Rwanda 3rd floor , Centenary House Kigali , Rwanda Tel : + 250 252 577677 Mobile : + 250 722 122223 ( 24/7 ) Mobile : + 250 785 475652 ( 24/7 ) Email: aparna@rickshawtravels.com
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Nairobi - Kenya Ukay Centre, 3rd Floor Mwanzi Road, Westlands P.O. Box 46536-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (+254-20) 3750007, 3750069, 3750079 Fax: (+254-20) 3750032 Email: admin@rickshawtravels.com