Introduction

Mafia Island lies off the mouth of the Rufiji River in Southern Tanzania. The island is accessed by small aircraft from Dar es Salaam, or by sailing boat from Kisiju (the nearest point on the continent). Mafia has limited infrastructure, mostly in its capital and in Utende, the main tourist area. At the same time, the island is becoming renowned for its diving sites, which are now protected in the Mafia Island Marine Park.

Travel facts

Diving type

Destination

easily accessible

bargain destination

Diving level & type

for beginners

for advanced divers

shore diving

liveaboard

Diving Characteristics

pelagics

lots of fish

lots of corals

interesting underwater scenery

Other activities

attractive natural spots

gastronomy

night life

beach

snorkeling