Search Mafia Island hotels

Top reasons to visit Mafia Island

• Pristine Beaches: Mafia Island boasts stunning beaches with soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
• Exceptional Diving and Snorkelling: The island offers vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, ideal for snorkelling and diving adventures.
• Unique Island Excursions: Explore the secluded Mafia Archipelago and nearby Pemba Island for a private getaway.
• Charming Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience traditional island life.
• Diverse Accommodation: From beachside retreats to cosy lodges, find the perfect place to unwind after your adventures.

Find great hotels in and around Mafia Island

Mafia Island offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to inviting hotels and lodges. Whether you're seeking a beachside retreat, a pet-friendly stay, or an adventure-filled getaway, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and explore this stunning destination. With various Mafia Island hotels and lodges to choose from, your dream holiday awaits in this beautiful corner of Tanzania.

• Mafia Island Lodge: A charming 3-star hotel perfect for those seeking a quintessential beach getaway. Located directly on the sands of Mafia Island, this lodge offers stunning views and easy access to the beach. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms designed for relaxation, with the ocean waves as your backdrop. The inviting atmosphere and friendly staff make it an ideal choice for families and couples alike. Experience the beauty of the island and indulge in leisurely beach days, creating memories that last a lifetime.
• Kinasi Lodge: This 3.5-star lodge is tailored for adventure enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Nestled in the heart of Mafia Island, it boasts direct beach access and a plethora of thrilling activities. Guests can enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and hiking, or unwind at the full-service spa offering aromatherapy and massage treatments. The combination of adventure and relaxation creates a unique experience, ensuring that every moment of your stay is filled with excitement and serenity.
• Chole Mjini: An exquisite 4-star retreat located 14.5km from Mafia Island, Chole Mjini is the perfect destination for a romantic escape. With its idyllic beach access and exclusive romance packages, this hotel offers an intimate setting for couples. Indulge in luxurious spa treatments and enjoy private dining experiences that elevate your stay. The tranquil surroundings, combined with the attentive service, make it an unforgettable choice for those looking to celebrate love and relaxation on the beautiful shores of Tanzania.

Where to stay in and around Mafia Island

Mafia Island, a stunning gem off the coast of Tanzania, offers an idyllic island getaway perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. With pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, it’s an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving. Explore the charming local culture, indulge in fresh seafood, and unwind in the serene surroundings. Whether you're lounging on the soft sands or embarking on outdoor adventures, Mafia Island promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Baleni: Nestled on Mafia Island, Baleni is a quaint village that captivates visitors with its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. The village experiences seasonal traveller arrivals, peaking from December to February, making it a perfect getaway during the warmer months. Visitors flock to Baleni for its stunning beachfront and the unique experience of a nudist beach, offering a liberating escape from everyday life. The local charm and natural beauty make it an idyllic spot for relaxation and exploration.
• Chole Island: Located a mere 14.5km from Mafia Island, Chole Island is a serene destination that boasts lush landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Like Baleni, Chole Island sees a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly during the December to February peak. The island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, including a nudist beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. With its stunning scenery and peaceful environment, Chole Island is an ideal place for those seeking adventure or simply wanting to unwind amidst nature.

Things to do in Mafia Island

Mafia Island is a fantastic beach destination perfect for your outdoor and adventure vacation. Dive into thrilling activities like snorkelling at stunning spots, exploring vibrant marine life through marine excursions, and enjoying water sports. Be sure to visit a local diving centre, and take advantage of complimentary sea kayaks to explore the pristine waters. Your time on Mafia Island promises unforgettable experiences amidst its natural beauty.

Shopping

Mafia Island offers quaint local markets like Kilindoni Market, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Dar es Salaam’s Mlimani City, over 32.2km away, boasting a variety of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Recreation

Mafia Island Lodge offers a tranquil escape with beachfront bungalows, yoga sessions, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Explore the island's pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, or indulge in local cuisine at the lodge's restaurant, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

Adventure

Explore the pristine beaches of Mafia Island for some sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Snorkelling at Chole Bay reveals vibrant coral reefs and marine life, while a boat trip to Mafia Island Marine Park offers incredible diving spots and the chance to see whale sharks.

Nightlife

Mafia Island's nightlife offers a laid-back vibe with beachside bars like the charming Tofu Beach Bar for cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, check out the bustling Jambo's Restaurant and Bar, where you can enjoy local music and dance under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mafia Island

For a budget-friendly trip to Mafia Island, consider visiting in June or October when hotel rates are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays for the best prices. Look for eco-certified options for sustainable stays and use Expedia’s package deals to combine flights and activities for extra savings. Also, take advantage of public transport options to explore the island affordably and seek out free activities like beach lounging and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters.

• 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences based on your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Mafia Island hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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 (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
May	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low
June	76.3°F (24.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
July	75.6°F (24.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High
August	76.1°F (24.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
November	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Mafia Island

Accessing Mafia Island is convenient through Kilindoni Airport (MFA), situated 16.1km away. Nearby accommodation options include the 4-star Chole Mjini, located 12.9km from the airport, offering airport shuttle services that are available upon request, 24 hours a day, with fees applicable. Kinasi Lodge, a 3.5-star lodge, is 11.3km from Kilindoni and provides easy access to the airport. Also, Mafia Island Lodge, rated 3 stars and 11.3km away, offers shuttle services and airport transportation, including on-request options. These hotels ensure a comfortable stay while facilitating smooth airport transfers for travellers.