Mafia Island, south of Zanzibar and rarely visited by comparison, sits within a protected marine park where whale sharks gather seasonally, typically October through March, to feed on plankton blooms — among the most reliable places in the world to swim alongside them.
Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1
A flight to Mafia via Dar es Salaam, transferring to your beach lodge within the marine park.
Arrive Mafia Island
Accommodation Options
Mid-rangeKinasi Lodge
LuxuryPole Pole Bungalows
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 2
A morning boat excursion to swim alongside whale sharks in Mafia Island’s protected waters, seasonally reliable but never guaranteed, as with any wildlife encounter.
Whale Shark Swimming Excursion
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3
A further whale shark excursion, or a dive on Mafia’s coral reef system, part of one of East Africa’s largest marine protected areas.
Second Whale Shark Excursion or Diving
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4
A free morning on the beach, with an optional afternoon visit to a local fishing village.
Beach Day and Village Visit
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5
A further relaxed beach day, no schedule.
Second Beach Day at Leisure
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6
A flight to Dar es Salaam for your onward international connection.
Departure
Meals: Breakfast
Permits & Costs
| Mafia Island Marine Park fee | ~$20 per person per day |
| Whale shark swimming excursion | ~$70–$100 per person |
| Domestic flight to Mafia Island | Quoted separately |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Ocean-focused travellers whose primary goal is a genuine whale shark encounter, treating a busier Zanzibar beach stay as unnecessary for this trip.Tour Includes
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Marine park fees
- Airport/lodge transfers
Tour Excludes
- Domestic flight to Mafia Island
- International flights
- Whale shark & diving excursions
- Visas
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance