Conquering the five islands around the park is no small feat. Even the most daring travellers will find something extraordinary, with the forests swimming with bushbabies, genets, wild pigs, flying foxes, vervet monkeys and blue duikers. Some of the main attractions in and around the park include:

Chole Island

Chole Island is a perfect area for snorkelling, diving and making a dhow trips to some interesting spots on the island such as the sandbars. Encountering the whale sharks is one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences on the island. Chole Mjini Lodge comprises of tree houses on stilts in baobab trees, and it is an ideal place to experience the local lifestyle of the people.

Bwejuu Island

Bwejuu Island is tucked between the Rufiji Delta and Ras Kisimani, a palm covered and sand-fringed island enveloped by snorkelling reefs and sandbars.  Indulge in a boat excursion from the beautiful Kilindoni for a castaway experience. The island has plenty of water activities to enjoy. 

Ras Mkumbu Light House

The lighthouse gives you a glimpse of the protected Mlola Forest where the Sykes monkeys reside.  Baobabs are found in large number in Ras Mkumbu.

Jibondo 

Jibondo is a sleepy fishing village, where you can see octopus harvested by fishermen and often sight sharks. Seaweed farming is the people's major source of income.  The boat building is what you will love about the Jibondo people.

More About Popular Activities at Mafia Island Marine Park

Mafia Island Marine Park features a variety of fun activities for you to explore such as:

Dhow sailing:

You can sail with a local Dhow through Chloe Bay while exploring the crystal-clear waters of the marine park.

Bird Watching:

This underwater paradise features a wide range of bird species including shorebird and migratory birds such as Crab Plover. You’ll also see several birds between Kinasi and Kilindoni such as Lilac-breasted and bee-eaters, as well as a variety of sunbird in the Kinasi gardens. Although, Chole Bay features some bird species such as white or black Dimorphic Heron; the Kinasi Nature Trail is a perfect place to indulge in some bird-watching activities.

Day Trips to Nearby Islands:

Enjoy day trips to several islands and villages spread over Mafia Island and its surrounding islands. You can go by road or boat.

Water Activities:

Mafia Island boasts a wide range of exciting water activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, swimming, scuba diving, and sailing. If you like to learn how to dive, there are schools with experienced dive masters and instructors available with NAUI and PADI affiliations.