Mafia Island: whale sharks, diving and how to get there (2026)
Mafia is an island in the south of the Zanzibar archipelago, off mainland Tanzania, known for its whale sharks, reefs and marine park. Whale shark season runs from October to March according to one source (peaking in November and December), October to February according to another. You get there by plane from Dar es Salaam (about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the source); agencies also sell day trips by plane from Zanzibar, at a much higher price. The prices below come from travel sites read in October 2026: no recent official source was found, so confirm before booking.
Highlights
The whale shark
The world's largest fish feeds on plankton near the surface. You watch it snorkelling, without diving, with a guide and a boat. Keep your distance and do not touch it.
The harbour and coast
A quiet, lightly built island with small fishing harbours. Accommodation is limited and services are basic.
Mafia Marine Park
A marine park protects the island's reefs. One operator lists 23.60 dollars per adult per day for park entry (a figure not confirmed by an official source); diving and snorkelling are often paid separately.
Chole and the ruins
Stays often include a trip to the neighbouring island of Chole, with its ruins and baobabs.
Practical info
Tips
- Mafia is expensive and has few facilities: cash machines are rare and cards unreliable, so bring cash. Plane seats from Dar es Salaam are limited, so book early. To see whale sharks, come between October and March and plan at least two outings, since an encounter is never guaranteed. A one-day trip by plane from Zanzibar is listed at about 208 dollars on one platform, and other offers go to 600 dollars or more; compare what is included (flight, park entry, boat, lunch). For a closer island, see Pemba, and for diving closer to Stone Town, diving in Zanzibar.
How to get there
By plane from Dar es Salaam (regular flights, 30 to 45 minutes depending on the source, timetable to confirm with the airline); a slow ferry exists from the mainland, much longer. From Zanzibar you must go via Dar es Salaam or book a plane excursion with an agency.
Opening hours
Nearby
See on the map →
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