A beach at night with a bright moon, palm trees, and a small illuminated structure.

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Our top choices for Mafia Island hotels

1. Basecamp Mafía Island

Basecamp Mafía Island
5.0 star property
Mafia Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (7 reviews)
"The location is stunning, in front of the resort there is the best beach of the bay. Super welcoming staff. Very good breakfast and dinner. Very recomanded."
United Kingdom
paola
The price is AU$173
includes taxes & fees
27 July - 28 July
Basecamp Mafía Island

2. Kileleni

Kileleni
3.5 star property
Mafia Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (7 reviews)
"Great home made local food. The beach is not usable."
United Kingdom
Sue
The price is AU$332
includes taxes & fees
1 Aug - 2 Aug
Kileleni

3. Kitu Kiblu

Kitu Kiblu
2.5 star property
Mafia Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4 reviews)
"We were so excited to stay in a treehouse, and when we arrived the accommodations exceeded our expectations. The grounds were clean. The staff were exceptional, and there was a western flush toilet! The hot water shower technique was ingenious! The meals were great, and the wait staff was so professional!"
Canada
Sheri
The price is AU$127
includes taxes & fees
25 July - 26 July
Kitu Kiblu

4. Kanga Beach Paradise

Kanga Beach Paradise
2.5 star property
Mafia Island
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1 review)
"Vakkert sted, rolig og romantisk "
Norway
Sven
The price is AU$73
includes taxes & fees
27 July - 28 July
Kanga Beach Paradise

5. Signature Collection by Eight Continents, Mafia Island

Signature Collection by Eight Continents, Mafia Island
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
6.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"Ocean was visible, room was a bit musty, Zanzibar style was nice, easy walk to shops and restaurants. Not a luxury spot, but a well-worn, easy access, fancy backpacker joint."
United States
Pamela
The price is AU$141
includes taxes & fees
1 Aug - 2 Aug
Signature Collection by Eight Continents, Mafia Island

6. Kinasi Lodge

Kinasi Lodge
3.5 star property
Mafia Island
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (13 reviews)
"Amazing place"
United Kingdom
Nicholas
Kinasi Lodge

7. MEREMETA LODGE

MEREMETA LODGE
4.0 star property
Mafia Island
The price is AU$143
includes taxes & fees
27 July - 28 July
MEREMETA LODGE

8. Chole Mjini

Chole Mjini
4.0 star property
Chole Island
Chole Mjini

9. Meremeta Lodge

Meremeta Lodge
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
The price is AU$129
includes taxes & fees
26 July - 27 July
Meremeta Lodge

10. Chole Foxes lodge

Chole Foxes lodge
3.0 star property
Chole Island
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1 review)
"super Lage und so ziemlich alleine auf der Trauminsel mit freundlichen Menschen. Der Chef ist sehr hilfsbereit. Die Unterkünfte sind sehr einfach,aber ok. Der Geruch war eigentlich das größte Manko, darum haben wir so gut es ging im Freien geschlafen."
Germany
Anonymous traveller
Chole Foxes lodge

11. Eco Shamba Kilole

Eco Shamba Kilole
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
The price is AU$535
includes taxes & fees
25 July - 26 July
Eco Shamba Kilole

12. Kilindoni Sea View Bungalows

Kilindoni Sea View Bungalows
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
The price is AU$76
includes taxes & fees
25 July - 26 July
Kilindoni Sea View Bungalows

13. Mafia dream hotel

Mafia dream hotel
4.0 star property
Mafia Island
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4 reviews)
"Excellent stay. We were very comfortable the entire time. The pool is fabulous and it lights up at night. The rooms are comfortable and have AC and fans. The restaurant has a great menu and excellent quality food. The service is great. You can walk here from the airport (maybe 7 minutes). They arranged all our tours for us, and at good prices. We would definitely stay here again!"
United States
Kelly
Mafia dream hotel

14. Mafia KIvulini Lodge

Mafia KIvulini Lodge
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
6.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"Good food. Very basic accommodations. Great friendly staff. Nothing to do in area except dive. No good beaches or snorkeling. No shopping and very few restaurants."
United States
Richard
Mafia KIvulini Lodge

15. Viva Mafia

Viva Mafia
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
Viva Mafia

16. Nyumbani Rest House

Nyumbani Rest House
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
Nyumbani Rest House

17. MAISARA MAFIA BEACH LODGE

MAISARA MAFIA BEACH LODGE
3.0 star property
Mafia Island
The price is AU$142
includes taxes & fees
25 July - 26 July
MAISARA MAFIA BEACH LODGE
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Learn more about Mafia Island

Snorkel with whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs in the protected marine park surrounding this tranquil island. Traditional dhow boats take you to pristine beaches where local guides reveal hidden mangrove forests and sea turtle nesting sites.

A beach with two boats on the water and a clear sky.

Top Mafia Island Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Mafia Island

More cheap accommodation in Mafia Island

Find out more about Mafia Island

Top reasons to visit Mafia Island

  • Stunning Beaches: Mafia Island boasts pristine shores with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
  • Thrilling Water Sports: Engage in exhilarating activities such as diving, snorkelling, and the unique whale shark tour.
  • Rich Wildlife: Experience the island's natural beauty through safari tours and Afro beach safaris.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of delightful stays, including cosy bed & breakfasts and welcoming hotels.
  • Serene Environment: Enjoy tranquil moments amidst lush surroundings, ideal for both adventure and relaxation.

Find great hotels in Mafia Island

Explore a variety of accommodation options on Mafia Island, from charming bed & breakfasts to welcoming hotels. Whether you seek a romantic getaway or a pet-friendly retreat, the island offers delightful stays like the Mafia Dream Hotel and Maisara Mafia Beach Lodge. Enjoy the stunning beaches and unique experiences that this enchanting destination has to offer.

  • Mafia Island Lodge: Nestled on the pristine shores of Mafia Island, Mafia Island Lodge is ideal for those seeking a serene beach holiday. This hotel offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the shoreline. The lodge features a relaxed atmosphere, with well-appointed rooms designed to blend comfort with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Its proximity to the beach enhances the experience, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and tranquillity.
  • Kinasi Lodge: With an impressive guest rating of 9.6, Kinasi Lodge is a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Situated in Mafia Island, this lodge also offers direct access to the beach, while catering to those in search of both leisure and excitement. Guests can partake in various adventure sports, including kayaking, sailing, and hiking, ensuring an active holiday experience. The lodge's well-designed accommodations provide comfort after a day of exploration, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers.
  • Kitu Kiblu: Kitu Kiblu, boasting a guest rating of 9.0, offers a welcoming and comfortable environment for those after a beach getaway. Conveniently located in Mafia Island, the lodge features direct access to the beach, where guests can unwind and enjoy the stunning coastal views. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, perfect for families or couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Kitu Kiblu's focus on comfort and tranquillity makes it an appealing choice for beach enthusiasts.

Where to stay in Mafia Island

Mafia Island, nestled in the stunning Mafia Archipelago, is a tropical paradise perfect for beach relaxation and outdoor adventures. Visitors can hop over to this enchanting island, where pristine shores and vibrant marine life await exploration. Enjoy the serenity of the sandy beaches, partake in exhilarating water sports, or simply unwind amidst the lush natural surroundings. Whether you seek adventure or tranquillity, Mafia Island promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

  • Baleni: Nestled on Mafia Island, Baleni is a charming village that offers a unique travel experience. Its geographic affinity with the Indian Ocean provides stunning coastal views and opportunities for diving and snorkelling in vibrant coral reefs. The village sees a seasonal influx of tourists, especially from December to February, making it lively during these months. Highlights include local seafood delicacies and the warm hospitality of the residents, giving visitors an authentic taste of Tanzanian culture.

Things to do in Mafia Island

Mafia Island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for tourists, featuring stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating water sports, diving, and unique experiences such as the Mafia whale shark tour. Safari tours and Afro beach safaris provide opportunities to explore the island's rich wildlife and natural beauty. Whether seeking thrilling activities or tranquil moments by the sea, Mafia Island has something for everyone.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mafia Island

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Mafia Island is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Mafia Island are June and October, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to April, July and December, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Mafia Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Mafia Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Mafia Island is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation on Mafia Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Mafia Island

Mafia Island is a fantastic destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Popular attractions include the stunning Mafia Beach and the secluded Mafia Archipelago, perfect for relaxation and exploration. For a unique experience, consider visiting Pemba Island or enjoying the privacy of a remote island getaway. Whether you're sunbathing on a nudist beach or diving into vibrant coral reefs, Mafia Island promises unforgettable outdoor adventures in a picturesque setting.

  • Kilindoni Beach: This stunning nudist beach offers a unique experience for those seeking freedom and relaxation. Located 14.5km from Mafia Island, Kilindoni Beach boasts pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in a tranquil environment.
  • Utende Beach: Similar to Kilindoni, Utende Beach is a beautiful nudist beach located 14.5km away. With its picturesque surroundings and laid-back atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Tanzania's coastline.

Best time to go to Mafia Island

The best time to visit Mafia Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Mafia Island falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Mafia Island falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March82.0°F (27.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately High
May77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly Low
June76.3°F (24.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowModerately Low
July75.6°F (24.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighModerately High
August76.1°F (24.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September77.4°F (25.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowModerately Low
November80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Mafia Island

Flying into Mafia Island is convenient via two major airports. DAR es Salaam (DAR-Julius Nyerere Intl.) is approximately 126km away, with nearby hotels such as Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, both about 11km from the airport, offering various transportation services. The Kilindoni Airport (MFA-Mafia) is significantly closer, located merely 16km from Mafia Island. Excellent accommodation options include Chole Mjini, 13km from Kilindoni, and the Kilindoni Sea View Bungalows, just 805m away, providing free or on-request airport shuttle services, making access to the island seamless for travellers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Mafia Island?
The best area to stay in Mafia Island is around Chole Bay, particularly in the vicinity of Utende village, as it offers the most convenient access to the marine park and its attractions.

This area is located on the eastern side of the island and serves as the primary gateway to the Mafia Island Marine Park. Hotels and lodges here are often beachfront, providing direct access to the ocean. The main activities, such as diving and snorkelling, depart from this side of the island, making it highly convenient for those focused on marine adventures.

Couples seeking a tranquil and romantic getaway will find this area particularly appealing. The lodges here are generally smaller, offering a more personalised service and a peaceful setting. You can enjoy private beach access, participate in sunset dhow cruises, or simply relax by the water with stunning views of the bay.

For travellers interested in marine wildlife and water activities, staying near Utende is ideal. It puts you in prime position for organised excursions to see whale sharks (seasonal), coral reefs, and various fish species within the marine park.
What are the best hotels in Mafia Island that travellers recommend?
For a highly recommended hotel in Mafia Island, consider the Mafia dream hotel.

The 4-star Mafia Dream Hotel boasts a great 10.0 rating and is a superb choice for travellers. Guests consistently highlight the fabulous pool and comfortable rooms. The hotel offers excellent dining options, including an onsite winery, and provides complimentary full breakfast. It's conveniently located just 0.6 km from Kilindoni Beach.
What are the best family hotels in Mafia Island?
For family-friendly accommodation in Mafia Island, consider Mafia dream hotel or Kileleni.

The 4-star Mafia Dream Hotel, with an outstanding 10.0 rating, is an excellent choice for families. It offers supervised childcare for children, complimentary full breakfast, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, providing great convenience. Guests have also highlighted the comfortable rooms and a fabulous pool. It is located just 0.6 km from Kilindoni Beach.

Another highly-rated option is Kileleni, which has an 8.8 rating. This hotel provides onsite babysitting and childcare services, as well as complimentary cribs and rollaway extra beds, making it very accommodating for families. It is situated 2.5 km from Kilindoni Beach.
What are the best 5-star hotels in Mafia Island?
For a 5-star hotel in Mafia Island, consider Basecamp Mafía Island.

This 5-star hotel, with a rating of 7.6, offers a range of appealing amenities. Guests can enjoy a private beach, air conditioning, and a Turkish bath or hammam for relaxation. It also provides a champagne service, couples dining options, and evening entertainment, making it well-suited for a luxurious getaway.
What are the best spa hotels in Mafia Island?
For a relaxing spa experience in Mafia Island, consider Basecamp Mafia Island or Mafia dream hotel.

The 5-star Basecamp Mafia Island, with a 7.6 rating, offers an extensive range of treatments including body scrubs, aromatherapy treatments, hot stone massage, detoxification wraps, and hydrotherapy. Guests can also enjoy a Turkish bath or hammam and couples treatment rooms.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Mafia dream hotel, which boasts a great 10.0 rating. This hotel provides onsite spa services with deep tissue massage available, and guests particularly appreciate the comfortable rooms and fabulous pool. It also includes a complimentary full breakfast.
What hotels in Mafia Island offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Mafia Island that offer a complimentary breakfast, consider the Mafia dream hotel, Kileleni, and Basecamp Mafia Island.

The 4-star Mafia dream hotel, with a superb 10.0 rating, provides free full breakfast and also offers a 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests frequently mention the fabulous pool and comfortable rooms.

Another excellent option is Kileleni, a 3.5-star hotel rated 8.8. It includes complimentary breakfast and free self-parking.

Basecamp Mafia Island, a 5-star hotel with a 7.6 rating, also offers free buffet breakfast. This hotel is conveniently located just 0.6 km from Utende Beach and features an extensive on-site spa offering a wide range of treatments, including Swedish massage and aromatherapy.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Mafia Island?
For pet-friendly accommodation in Mafia Island, you should consider Basecamp Mafía Island.

This 5-star hotel, with a rating of 7.6, warmly welcomes pets, and they can even stay free of charge. Guests can enjoy a wide array of spa services on site, including aromatherapy treatments, deep tissue massage, and manicures and pedicures. The hotel is also conveniently located just 0.6 km from Utende Beach, making it easy to enjoy the coastline with your pet.
What are the most romantic hotels in Mafia Island for couples?
For a romantic escape in Mafia Island, consider the Mafia dream hotel or Kileleni.

The 4-star Mafia dream hotel, with an exceptional 10.0 rating, is highly regarded for couples. Guests have praised its comfortable rooms and fabulous pool, making it an ideal setting for a tranquil getaway. It is also conveniently located just 0.6 km from Kilindoni Beach, superb for romantic strolls.

Another wonderful option is Kileleni, a 3.5-star hotel with an 8.8 rating. This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast and free self-parking, adding to the convenience for couples. It is situated 2.5 km from Kilindoni Beach, providing a more secluded feel.
What are the best hotels in Mafia Island near Kilindoni Beach?
For hotels in Mafia Island near Kilindoni Beach, the Mafia dream hotel is an excellent option for families.

The 4-star Mafia Dream Hotel boasts a great 10.0 rating and is conveniently located just 0.6 kilometres from Kilindoni Beach. It offers complimentary full breakfast and free WiFi, and supervised childcare is available for children. Guests have praised the fabulous pool and comfortable rooms. Additionally, a 24-hour airport shuttle to Kilindoni (MFA-Mafia) Airport, which is also 0.6 kilometres away, adds to its convenience.

Another option is Kileleni, which has a rating of 8.8. This hotel is located 2.5 kilometres from Kilindoni Beach and offers amenities such as babysitting services, complimentary cots, and rollaway beds, making it suitable for families travelling with young children.
What hotels are near Kilindoni (MFA-Mafia)?
For a hotel near Kilindoni (MFA-Mafia), the Mafia dream hotel is an excellent choice.

The 4-star Mafia dream hotel, with a great 10.0 rating, is conveniently located just 0.6 kilometres from Kilindoni (MFA-Mafia) and also 0.6 kilometres from Kilindoni Beach. Guests consistently highlight the fabulous pool and comfortable rooms. The hotel offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, free self-parking, and complimentary full breakfast, which is very convenient for families. Free WiFi is also available.
When is the best time to go to Mafia Island?
The best time to visit Mafia Island is generally between October and March, as this period offers the most favourable weather conditions for enjoying the island's natural beauty and activities.

During these months, the weather is typically warm and dry, with plenty of sunshine. This makes it ideal for diving and snorkelling, as the clear waters offer excellent visibility for exploring the rich marine life of the Mafia Island Marine Park. It's also the peak season for spotting whale sharks, which are a major draw for visitors to the island.

Couples looking for a romantic and relaxing getaway will find this time particularly appealing. The calm seas and warm temperatures are great for boat trips to secluded beaches, enjoying sundowners by the ocean, or simply unwinding in a tranquil setting. The pleasant weather ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience without the disruptions of heavy rain.

For travellers interested in marine conservation and wildlife, this period offers the best chance to engage with organised tours focusing on whale shark encounters and coral reef exploration.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Mafia Island.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Mafia Island with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Mafia Island hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Mafia Island?
Prices for hotels in Mafia Island often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$39 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.