Mafia is a large island lying off the southern coast of Tanzania, near to the Rufiji Delta. It is 30 miles from north to south, and up to ten miles in width. It is thus about half the size of Unguja (Zanzibar) Island to the north, and, like Zanzibar, is a raised portion of the continental shelf, not a coral island. The soil of Mafia is mostly sandy and the terrain very flat. There is a ridge forming a backbone to the northern end but at its highest point it does not exceed 200 feet above sea level. Along this ridge there is firm and fertile clay soil and cultivation of annual crops is possible. On the eastern shores there is some coral rock, making cultivation impossible.

Mafia Island is the site of Tanzania's first Marine Park, Mafia Island Marine Park (MIMP), which was established in 1995. MIMP covers the Southern half of the island and part of the Northeast. The area included within the boundaries of MIMP is one of the most important marine habitats in the world. It has mangroves, sea-grass beds, coral reefs, inter-tidal reef flats, lagoons and coastal forest. However, while its importance has increasingly been recognised, so too have its problems, particularly over-fishing, and destructive and unsustainable fishing methods.

The decision to set up a Marine Park was taken by the Government of Tanzania, and MIMP now falls under its Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (www.marineparktz.com). MIMP is supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and further information can be found on the WWF website (www.panda.org.)

WEATHER

Situated in the tropics, the climate is as such. Hot and humid. The sea water is just as warm with an average temperature of 20ºC and is very calm. Surrounding most of the island is a coral reef. At low tide you are able to walk out to the reef in certain places. Below is a summary of the seasons and best times to visit.

July to October
During this period, there is little rain, the average temperature is 25ºC and the humidity is low. Light breezes at night provide some relief from the hot days. Not as many tourists as in January, so for somebody who likes a bit of privacy, it is ideal.

November to March
Are good months although the short rains come at this time and it is very hot and humid. If you are planning to go to a resort, this is a fantastic time.

April to June
This is the quiet season. The long monsoon rains pour down. It does not rain the whole day every day, but you will have to remain indoors for some time when they come down. If you are on a budget trip, then this is the best time in terms of price unfortunately. Many resorts are closed though during this period, so you will have a smaller selection of places to stay.

How To Get There
There are scheduled flghts from Dar es Salaam are operated daily. You can also charter a private flight on short notice. Mafia island is also accessible by boat; however, few tourists take this option.

What To Do
Activities such as island hopping, swimming, scuba diving and snorking are available. The half-day spice tour is highly recommended

When To Go
Accessible year round. Dry season, June-August. Wet season November-March. December- February.

Accommodation
Stay at the Mafia Island Lodge, Mafia Kinasi Lodge or the Pole Pole bangalows.

Please contact us at info@amani-tours.com to make an inquiry and/or to place a subsequent booking for Mafia Island. Thank you!

More information on accomodation

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