Experience one of Tanzania’s most unforgettable marine adventures with a day trip to Mafia Island, famous for seasonal encounters with wild whale sharks. Swim and snorkel alongside these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, enjoy a fresh local lunch, and discover more of Mafia Island before returning to Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam.

Important Booking Information:
Tours are available from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and Mafia Island. Please check the tour title carefully before booking.
“Tour with Meeting Point” means flights and hotel transfers are not included.

OPTION FROM ZANZIBAR :
Your Adventure Start with an early morning hotel pickup in Zanzibar between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM, depending on your location. Travel to the airport for a scenic 45–50-minute flight to Mafia Island.

Upon arrival, meet our local team and receive a safety briefing before heading to sea. Snorkelling equipment and life jackets are provided. Board a traditional boat and search for wild whale sharks. During the appropriate season, you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel near them while following responsible wildlife guidelines.

After the marine adventure, return to shore for a freshly prepared local lunch. Visit Mafia’s famous Flying Foxes and, time permitting, explore Kilindoni town.
In the afternoon, fly back to Zanzibar, where your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Important Flight Information:
Direct flights from Zanzibar to Mafia Island are subject to availability. If the direct flight is fully booked on your selected date, you can choose either an indirect flight or a 2-day, 1-night option.
No extra payment is required for either option. We will contact you after booking to confirm your preferred alternative and arrange your trip accordingly.

OPTION FROM DAR ES SALAAM.
Make your way to Nyerere International Airport for your scheduled morning flight to Mafia Island. Hotel-to-airport transfer is not included but can be arranged for a small fee.

Upon arrival, our local team will welcome you and take you to the boat departure point. After a safety briefing, sail out in search of wild whale sharks and enjoy swimming and snorkelling alongside them with experienced local guides.

After the adventure, enjoy a fresh local lunch, visit the famous Flying Foxes, and, if time allows, explore Kilindoni town.
In the afternoon, return to Mafia Island Airport for your flight back to Dar es Salaam.

OPTION FROM MAFIA HOTELS:
Meet your guide at Afro Beach Hotel and sail to the whale shark area for swimming and snorkelling with wild whale sharks during the season.
Snorkelling equipment, life jackets, and local lunch are included. Visit the Flying Foxes before returning to Afro Beach Hotel.

Please note: Hotel transfers are not included but can be arranged for a small fee.