Mafia Island Lodge, a little tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is nestled amongst tall palms on a sandy beach in Chole Bay. It has a welcoming, relaxed and laid-back atmosphere and is located just 16 miles off the coast of Tanzania - reachable by light aircraft in 35 minutes.

The 34 rooms at Mafia Island Resort are all simple but comfortable, airy and spacious. Each of the rooms is set amongst coconut palms and boasts a garden and sea view from its veranda. As well as the 18 Standard and 14 Superior Rooms there are also two Family Suites, each made up of two connecting rooms (which can sleep up to five), a shared bathroom and two verandas.

Dining is a relaxed and leisurely experience at Mafia Island Lodge. The Beach Bar & Restaurant sits directly on the beach and serves local specialities, seafood and pizza from a varied menu. Throughout the day the restaurant is open for light lunches and snacks, but when dusk falls the atmosphere transforms as guests sip cocktails while watching the sun set, and enjoy romantic candlelit dinners.

The warm, colourful waters of the Indian Ocean surrounding Mafia Island Lodge provide an ideal location for many sea activities such as deep-sea fishing, scuba diving or snorkelling with whale sharks. You are guaranteed to see an abundance of aquatic life here since there are over 400 species of fish inhabiting the reefs in Mafia Island Marine Park. Diving activities are a particular highlight at Mafia Island Lodge; guests will be taken out on a traditional dhow to a range of dive spots that can suit all levels - from very beginners learning the ropes on the shore, to advanced open water divers outside of the bay. Depending on which dive style you opt for, expect to spot dolphins, giant reef rays, octopus, seahorse, crocodile fish and many more. Alternatively, guests can of course enjoy simply relaxing on the sandy shores with a good book and the sound of the palms gently waving in the breeze.

Why We Love It
Image of Jacqui Brooks

Being so close to Tanzania's mainland makes this a great destination to add onto a safari holiday for that ultimate game drive and dive combo.

Jacqui, Original Diver

Other Places to Stay in Mafia Island

Start creating your tailored trip today

Jacqui and Tom are our 'Mafia Island Lodge' experts and as seasoned travellers they have the inside track on the most memorable adventures.

Image of Tom Barber
Image of Jacqui Brooks
Call us on 1-800-652-1972