Chole Bay – Snorkeling

Explore the underwater world of Chole Bay within the Marine Park Reserve and enjoy the underwater sea life. You will travel in a traditional dhow to one of the many snorkeling sites. After a short introduction into your snorkeling equipment, you will then jump right into the azure blue water to discover the many different species. You will be amazed by the vast array of color, shapes and sizes!

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: depend on tides (morning or afternoon)
• Snorkeling Site: depend on tides
• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Physical Rating: moderate
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)

Chole Island – Exploration Tour

Chole Island is one of the oldest inhabited islands in the Mafia archipelago. It has long history which dates back to the 12th century. Explore the ruins with Arabic and German influences that today have been overgrown by nature. Your guide will take you through the small villages of the island and also show you where the traditional Swahili dhows are built by skilled craftsmen using hand tools.

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: morning or afternoon
• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Physical Rating: easy
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Camera
• Important Notes: women shoulder cover their shoulders and knees to respect the local communities; always ask for permission before taking pictures

Diving – Mafia Island Marine Park

Within the sheltered waters of Chole Bay, the heart of the marine park, diving is possible all year round and the shallow reefs are perfect for snorkelers and diving beginners. The diving sites outside the bay are ideal for advanced divers.

The diverse snorkeling and diving opportunities offered by Mafia Island are much better than those found on Zanzibar. Please note that any water sport activity within the Mafia Island Marine Park is subject to an entrance fee of currently USD$ 23.60 per person / per day that needs to be paid in advance.

Diving Packages:

• Diving Packages are available for all diving levels

Important Facts:

• Diving Site: depend on tides & diving level
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim

Kayaking

Almost all the properties in Mafia Island offer the use of kayaks (either free or for a small fee). A short paddle ride is a great way to explore the beautiful natural areas, uninhabited inlets, and sandbanks.

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: throughout the day
• Duration: depend on your fitness level
• Physical Rating: moderate
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera

Kua Lagoon

Explore the ruins of the old city of Kua, located on the western side of Juani Island. The overgrown ruins date back to the early 10th century and were once an important trading center linking Africa and Asia. Afterwards head up the shallow channel to Kua Lagoon – a fierce blue lagoon. As the tide changes, the lagoon is a natural pool filled with upside-down jellyfishes.

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: depend on tides (morning or afternoon)
• Duration: 4 hours
• Physical Rating: easy
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)

Mange Sandbank

A must-do activity for anyone visiting Mafia Island. This remote sandbank offers a stunning scene of white sand and turquoise blue waters. Start with a leisurely trip in a traditional dhow to the sandbank situated south of Mafia Island. Enjoy snorkeling on the nearby reefs with colorful corals and a variety of fish species. For lunch enjoy a picnic on the sandbank with fire-cooked fish, salad, and pasta. After a siesta take another swim in the clear calm water or snorkel to the nearby reef.

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: depend on tides
• Duration: full day
• Physical Rating: moderate
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)

Sunset Cruise

A popular choice for your romantic getaway… Head out on one of the traditional wooden dhows to experience the stunning sunset views from the sea. Your crew will raise the sail (wind permitting!) and you will have chance to sail leisurely around the area, taking in the views, whilst sipping some sparkling wine with small bites and watching the sun go down.

Important Facts:

• Departure Time: late afternoons
• Duration: 1 to 2 hours
• Physical Rating: easy
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)

Whale Shark Excursion

The main attraction for many visitors to Mafia is an unbeatable excursion to witness these gentle giants. Just watching a whale shark swim next to the boat is an impressive sight but actually be in the water with them will take your breath away. Despite their size, the whale sharks will not bump into you. If they feel threatened, they will simply swim away. It’s a great privilege to be able to get so close to them.

Important Facts:

• Seasonal: September to March
• Departure Time: early morning
• Duration: half day
• Physical Rating: moderate
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)

Whale Watching – Humpback Whales

Catch the seasonal migration of Humpback Whales when they pass Mafia Island between August and September. Humpback whales are one of the larges rorqual species and can grow up to 16 meters in length with a weight of 36,000 kg. These magnificent creatures have surprising acrobatic moves. An incredible sight and unique opportunity for any nature lover!

Important Facts:

• Seasonal: August to September
• Departure Time: early morning
• Duration: half day
• Physical Rating: moderate
• Health Restrictions: travelers must be fit and know how to swim
• Not to forget: Sunhat & Sunlotion; Underwater-Camera; Warm Cloths (can be quite windy on the boat)