How do I get to Mafia Island?

Fly from Dar es Salaam with Coastal Aviation or Auric Air (30-45 min). Mafia Dream Hotel is 5 minutes from Kilindoni Airport with free transfers.

Can I swim with whale sharks at Mafia Island?

Yes! October to March is whale shark season. Mafia Dream Hotel offers excursions for $100 per person including marine park fees, boat, snorkeling equipment and guide.

What is the best time to visit Mafia Island?

October to March for whale sharks, July to September for humpback whales, June to September for turtle watching. Mafia Island is worth visiting year-round.

Is breakfast included at Mafia Dream Hotel?

Yes, free breakfast is included in all room rates.

How do I pay for my stay?

Payment is made at the property upon arrival in cash (USD or TZS) or bank transfer. No online payment required to book.

Blog

Stories and tips from Mafia Dream Hotel and Mafia Island.

08 Jul 2026

Whale Shark Season Mafia Island 2026: When to Go

Planning to swim with whale sharks on Mafia Island? Here is exactly when whale sharks visit Mafia Island and the best months to book your trip.

08 Jul 2026

Mafia Island Hotel Review: Why Mafia Dream Hotel is the Best

Looking for the best hotel on Mafia Island Tanzania? Read our complete guide to Mafia Dream Hotel — rooms, activities, food, and why guests love it.

08 Jul 2026

Scuba Diving Mafia Island: Complete Guide for 2026

Mafia Island has some of the best scuba diving in East Africa. Discover the best dive sites, marine life, costs and how to book your diving adventure.

05 Jul 2026

Best Time to Visit Mafia Island for Whale Sharks

Planning a trip to swim with whale sharks on Mafia Island? Here is everything you need to know about the best season, water conditions, and what to expect.

05 Jul 2026

How to Get to Mafia Island from Dar es Salaam

Getting to Mafia Island is easier than you think. Here is a complete guide to flights, ferries, and transfers from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island, Tanzania.

05 Jul 2026

Top 10 Things to Do on Mafia Island Tanzania

From swimming with whale sharks to exploring ancient ruins, Mafia Island offers extraordinary experiences for every type of traveller. Here are the top 10 things to do.

05 Jul 2026

Mafia Island vs Zanzibar: Which Should You Visit?

Both are stunning Tanzanian islands but they offer very different experiences. Here is an honest comparison to help you decide between Mafia Island and Zanzibar.

05 Jul 2026

A Complete Guide to Mafia Island Marine Park Tanzania

Mafia Island Marine Park is one of East Africa most important marine conservation areas. Here is everything you need to know about visiting, activities, fees, and what you will see.

25 Jun 2026

5 Reasons to Stay in Kilindoni: Mafia Island's Main Town

Kilindoni is Mafia Island's centre, and staying here puts you close to the airport, the marine park, whale shark departures, and local life. Here's what makes it the right base.

20 Jun 2026

Mafia Island vs Zanzibar: Which Should You Choose?

Both are Tanzanian islands in the Indian Ocean, but they offer very different experiences. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide — or argue for visiting both.

15 Jun 2026

Getting to Mafia Island: Flights, Ferry, and Everything In Between

Mafia Island is more accessible than most people think. Here's how to get there by air and sea, including flight options from Dar es Salaam and connections from Zanzibar.

10 Jun 2026

Diving Mafia Island: Coral Reefs, Fish Life, and the Best Dive Sites

Mafia Island Marine Park protects some of East Africa's healthiest coral reefs. Here's what divers will find: top dive sites, marine life, and what makes Mafia different from Zanzibar.

05 Jun 2026

Best Time to Visit Mafia Island: A Month-by-Month Guide

Mafia Island has distinct seasons that affect diving, whale sharks, fishing, and beach conditions. This guide breaks down what to expect every month of the year.

01 Jun 2026

Swimming with Whale Sharks on Mafia Island: Everything You Need to Know

Mafia Island is one of the world's best places to swim with whale sharks. Here's exactly when to go, what to expect in the water, and how to book the experience responsibly.