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, and airport transfers can be arranged for an additional charge.

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.

04 Oct 2026

Mafia Island Itinerary: How to Spend 3, 4 or 5 Days

How long do you need on Mafia Island? Day-by-day plans for 3, 4 and 5 days, with whale sharks, diving, snorkeling and a sandbank trip, and what each one costs.

04 Oct 2026

Kilindoni or Utende: Where to Stay on Mafia Island

Mafia Island has two places to base yourself: Kilindoni on the west coast and Utende on the east. How they differ on price, whale sharks, diving, park fees and getting around.

04 Oct 2026

Mafia Island on a Budget: What a Trip Really Costs

Mafia Island does not have to be expensive. Real prices for getting there, a room, whale sharks, diving and the marine park fee, plus two sample budgets for a 3-night stay.

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.

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

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 from Dar es Salaam

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: Best Dive Sites, Marine Life and Costs

Mafia Island Marine Park protects some of East Africa's healthiest coral reefs. The best dive sites, the marine life you can expect, how it compares with Zanzibar, and what diving costs.

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: Season, Cost and What to Expect

Mafia Island is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. When the season runs, what happens on the boat, the rules in the water, and what it costs.