Frequently Asked Questions

The easiest way is by light aircraft from Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). Coastal Aviation and Auric Air operate daily flights taking 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, take a bus to Nyamisati and board the public ferry (about 5-6 hours total). We recommend flying for comfort and time.

We are just 5 minutes from Kilindoni Airport by road. We offer free airport transfers for all guests — simply let us know your flight details when booking.

Yes! We provide free airport transfers for all hotel guests. Just share your flight details when you book and we will be waiting for you at the airport.

Yes. Take a bus from Dar es Salaam to Nyamisati (3-4 hours), then board the public ferry to Kilindoni (2-3 hours). The ferry runs once daily. This option is cheaper but takes much longer than flying.

We have 21 rooms in four categories: Garden View Single ($65/night), Garden View Double ($80/night), Pool View Single ($75/night), and Pool View Double ($90/night). All rooms include air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, and free breakfast.

Yes, free breakfast is included in all room rates. We serve a full breakfast each morning at our restaurant.

Yes! We have a large swimming pool surrounded by a beautiful tropical garden. Pool access is free for all hotel guests.

Check-in is from 12:00 PM (noon) and check-out is by 10:00 AM. Early check-in and late check-out can be arranged subject to availability — please ask us in advance.

Yes, we have WiFi available throughout the hotel. Connection speeds may vary as Mafia Island has limited internet infrastructure.

You can book directly through our website, call us on +255 787 579 033, or send us a WhatsApp message. You can also find us on Booking.com and TripAdvisor. Payment is made at the property on arrival — no online payment required.

Yes! Mafia Island is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. The season runs from October to March when whale sharks gather to feed in the warm Indian Ocean waters around the island. Our excursion costs $100 per person including marine park fees, boat, snorkeling equipment and guide.

For whale sharks, visit October to March. For humpback whales, July to September. For turtle watching, June to September. The dry season (June to October) has calmer seas. Mafia Island is worth visiting year-round — each season offers something different.

We offer whale shark excursions ($100), scuba diving ($80), snorkeling ($45), sandbank BBQ trips ($20), big game fishing ($180), sunset dhow cruises ($25), dolphin watching ($40), night diving ($100), and more. All activities can be booked through the hotel.

Yes, all visitors to the Mafia Island Marine Park pay a fee of $23.60 per person per day. This fee is included in our activity prices — there are no hidden charges.

Yes, whale sharks are completely harmless to humans. They feed on plankton and small fish. Our experienced guides will brief you before the excursion and ensure everyone stays safe and respects the animals.

Chole Island ruins, Kua ruins on Juani Island, Kilindoni village walk, turtle nesting beaches, hippo watching, the lighthouse, and many pristine beaches are all within easy reach. We can arrange guided tours to all of these.

Payment is made at the property upon arrival. We accept cash (USD and TZS) and bank transfer. No online payment is required to book — simply reserve your dates and pay when you arrive.

We ask for at least 48 hours notice for cancellations. For peak season (October to March) bookings, 7 days notice is appreciated. Please contact us directly if you need to cancel or change your dates.

Absolutely! Mafia Island is a safe and family-friendly destination. Children under 12 stay free when sharing their parents room. We can arrange family-appropriate activities including snorkeling on shallow reefs, sandbank trips and village walks.

Yes, we have a full restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a bar with a wide selection of drinks. We serve fresh seafood, local Tanzanian dishes, and international cuisine. WhatsApp us to see the current menu.

We are located in Kilindoni, the main town of Mafia Island, Tanzania. Our address is Br. Ismailia, Kilindoni, Mafia Island. We are 5 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from the beach.

Phone/WhatsApp: +255 787 579 033 or +255 755 046 918. Email: office.mafiadream@gmail.com. You can also message us on Facebook and Instagram @mafiadreamhotel. We typically respond within a few hours.

Yes! We work with experienced local guides and boat operators to arrange all activities and tours. Just tell us what you want to do and we will organize everything for you.