Mafia Island: Tanzania’s Best-Kept Secret
The harmonious blend of nature and people—stunning beaches, unique experiences, and historical richness, Mafia a paradise waiting to bloom.
Mafia Island “The Forgotten Jewel”, situated in the Indian Ocean, off Tanzania’s southern coast. Despite its charm and potential, Mafia remains underdeveloped and under-recognized—yet it holds the key to economic transformation through tourism, conservation, and investment.
While trips to Zanzibar have become increasingly accessible and appealing—even for the average Tanzanian citizen—thanks to a well-developed marine and air transportation network, Mafia Island tells a very different story.
Zanzibar boasts a range of travel options tailored to all budgets, from affordable ferries like Azam Marine and Zan Fast Ferries to regular, reliable flights offered by airlines like Precision Air and Coastal Aviation. This ease of movement has allowed Zanzibar to position itself not just as a tourist hotspot, but as an economically thriving island connected to both local and international markets.
In contrast, Mafia Island suffers from transportation challenges that continue to isolate it from the rest of the country and the world.
For most travelers, especially those starting from Dar es Salaam, the journey to Mafia Island is not only long and complicated, but also inconsistent, expensive, and often unsafe.
Reaching Nyamisati Port, travelers must first make their way to Vikindu bus station to catch a local bus to Nyamisati, the nearest port offering marine transport to Mafia. The cost of the bus is approximately 8,000 TZS, but the journey is riddled with delays as buses wait to fill up before departure. The ride from Vikindu to Nyamisati takes 3–4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Private Travel Option; Those seeking convenience or traveling in groups may hire a private vehicle, but this comes at a steep cost of 150,000–250,000 TZS (approx. $60–100), pricing out the average citizen. Nyamisati to Mafia marine travel from Nyamisati is equally unreliable, with irregular ferry schedules that operates once per day 4pm with a cost of 16,000 TZS per person, with a private local small boat operator that accommodates 18 – 20 people with a cost of 30,000 TZS per person or no boats at all.
Despite the travel challenges, the journey to Mafia Island comes with its own pockets of joy—starting right at Nyamisati. A few meters from the port, near the bus station, travelers are greeted with a variety of local delicacies that add a flavorful twist to the wait. One of the standout treats is Nyamisati’s famous shrimp—a local specialty not found anywhere else. For just 500 TZS, you can enjoy a handful of freshly cooked, succulent shrimp, often served with a choice of spicy chili dips and other flavorful sauces. If you’re lucky, you might land a fat, juicy jumbo shrimp that makes the whole trip worth it.
Other snacks that keep travelers satisfied while waiting for their boat include fried cassava, assorted fish, and traditional coastal treats, offering an authentic taste of Swahili coastal life. These simple pleasures transform the waiting time into a sensory experience, giving visitors a warm and flavorful welcome before they even set foot on Mafia Island.
The journey from Nyamisati to Mafia Island takes about five hours by ferry or a quicker two hours via local fiber boats, depending on your choice of transport. But once you set foot on the island, all the travel hassles quickly melt away. You’re welcomed by breathtaking ocean views, powdery white beaches, and sunsets so surreal they feel like a painting come to life. Mafia Island offers a wide range of outdoor and ocean adventures, making it a dream destination for eco-travelers and thrill-seekers alike.
Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens, traditional fishing excursions, and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming alongside whale sharks, especially during the peak season between September to January. The island is also a renowned diving haven, with opportunities for deep diving within the protected Mafia Marine Park, one of the most pristine marine ecosystems in East Africa.
Beyond the main town of Kilindoni, lies even more promise. Areas like Utembe Beach and other hidden beaches scattered around the island offer untapped potential for tourism, conservation, and high-end eco-resorts. With secluded islands within the island, Mafia isn’t just a destination—it’s a gold mine waiting to be carefully explored and sustainably developed.
Mafia Island stands at the intersection of natural beauty and economic potential. Locals struggle to get goods in and out, it remains relatively underdeveloped compared to its island sibling Zanzibar, this very fact presents an open canvas for smart, sustainable investment. With improved transport infrastructure and strategic partnerships, Mafia can grow into a thriving hub for eco-tourism, marine conservation, and coastal innovation—benefiting not only investors but also the local communities and the nation at large.
Within these challenges lies a golden opportunity for marine transport companies, private investors, and the Tanzanian government.
This trip to Mafia Island was sponsored by Zanzi Travels, a premier travel agency and excursion supplier located in Zanzibar. Bringing you personal experiences wherever you wish to fulfill your dreams. Instagram: @zanzitravels | Facebook: Zanzitravels