Mafia Whale Shark Hotline / WhatsApp +255777478558

Swim with the majestic Mafia Whale Sharks in the crystal-clear waters off Tanzania’s Mafia Island – one of the best places in the world for whale shark encounters. This seasonal experience allows you to snorkel safely alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat, just a few hundred meters off the coast of Kilindoni.

Discover Mafia Whale Sharks in the Indian Ocean

Mafia Island is part of the protected Mafia Island Marine Park, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania. This pristine area is home to vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, dolphins, and the largest fish on Earth — the Mafia Whale Sharks.

 

Between October and March, large numbers of whale sharks migrate to the waters near Kilindoni, creating the perfect opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure. These spotted giants can grow over 8 meters long and are entirely harmless to humans.

 

What to Expect on Your Mafia Whale Shark Tour

• Short boat ride from Kilindoni Harbor to the whale shark feeding grounds
• Snorkel alongside up to 20+ whale sharks at once — males, females, and juveniles
• Observe them gliding peacefully, often near the surface
• Friendly, knowledgeable local guides and safety briefing
• All gear provided: snorkeling mask, fins, life jacket (if needed)

 

Why Mafia Whale Sharks Are Unique

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Mafia Island is one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel with whale sharks so close to shore. Unlike other locations, here the whale sharks remain in a well-defined area, which increases your chance of an encounter without crowds.

• These sharks pose no danger to humans — they eat only plankton
• A respectful, eco-friendly approach is encouraged
• Whale shark tours directly support local marine conservation

What's Included in the Tour

• Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, and life vest)
• Professional local guide and boat crew
• Entry & conservation fees
• Refreshments on board
• Transfers to/from Kilindoni dock (optional)

The boat is able to move among Mafia Whale Shark quietly and visitors can swim and snorkle to get a closer underwater view of these rare species,wonderful wild animals,Mafia Whale Sharks

 

Custom packages available with overnight stays at Mafia Lodge, Pole Pole, Kinasi Lodge, and more.

Add-On Marine Adventures in Mafia Island

Enhance your Mafia experience with other eco-tours and sea excursions:

• Turtle Watching (seasonal): Juani Island guided boat trip
• Kitutia or Mange Reef: Full-day snorkeling safari with beach picnic
• Ras Kisimani Sunken Town: Snorkeling and island history tour
• Miewe & Darusi Reefs: Half-day trips with picnic lunch
• Sunset Dhow Cruise (min. 4 pax)
• Chole Bay Boat Hire (7 hours – dhow with sail and engine)
• Fishing Trips: Half-day (4 hrs) or full-day (7 hrs) options

All boats are equipped with safety gear, life jackets, and first-aid kits.

 

TURTLE WATCHING (IN SEASON)

Cultural Experiences

Explore the culture and heritage of Mafia Island with our guided community tours:

• Visit Swahili villages: Chole, Jibondo, and Juani Island
• Discover Kua Ruins & Channel (historic guided trip)
• Enjoy a walking tour of Utende Village and its surroundings
• Birdwatching trips available with guidebooks and binoculars

Need Accommodation?

We can arrange your stay at one of Mafia Island’s best lodges:

• Mafia Lodge
• Pole Pole Lodge
• Kinasi Lodge
• Mafia Beach Lodge
• Or any resort of your choice

Whether you're on a flying day trip or planning to stay overnight, we’ve got you covered.

Book Your Mafia Whale Sharks Tour Now

Don’t miss the chance to swim with Mafia Whale Sharks in one of Africa’s most breathtaking marine environments.

📲 WhatsApp / Call: +255 777 478 558
📧 Email: info@mondatours.com

Let Monda Africa Tours & Safaris guide you through this unforgettable sea adventure in Tanzania.

Company Info

Monda Africa Tours & Safaris Ltd.
P.O. Box 2008, Vuga Area, Old Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tel/Fax: +255 24 2235434
WhatsApp/Hotline: +255 777 478 558

Boat trip to Juani Island, guide,

 

SPECIAL BOAT EXCURSIONS

Kitutia Reef or Mange Reef

(full day boat safari including snorkeling and picnic lunch on the sandbank non-alcoholic drinks and water.Diving an extra charge)

 

Ras Kisimani (Sunken town)

(full day,including snorkeling and picnic lunch on the beach, non-alcoholic drinks and water)

 

Miewe Island and Darusi Reef

(Half-day including guide, snorkeling, picnic lunch on the island, non-alcoholic drinks and water)

 

Boat excursions:

Sunset cruise (min 4pax)

 

Exclusive boat hire for Chole Bay  (7 hrs; dhow with crew, engine and sail)

 

(Subject to availability of boats,tides and weather conditions)

Half-day (4 hrs fishing)

Full-day (7 hrs fishing)

 

(Please note that a boat will normally take a maximum of 8guests comfortably and safely. All boats are equipped with life jackets, water with other drinks and first aid kits.)

 

 

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES…..be inquisitive and learn about our Swahili  Culture,island & people!

Accompanied by our trained and experienced personal guides- Including binoculars, water and guide books available from our library.These are also excellent bird-watching trips:

Chole Island and village - min, two persons (BY FERRY)

Jibondo Island and village - min. two persons

Juani Island – min. two persons

Kua Ruins and Kua Channel historic guided excusrsion

Utende Village and environs (walking with guide)