Mafia Island, situated just 25 kilometers off the coast of Tanzania and 160 kilometers south of Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean, is a hidden gem that’s equally fascinating but less touristy compared to its neighbors. A significant portion of the coral reef around the island is protected by a marine park established by the Tanzanian government. This marine park is home to over 50 varieties of coral, as well as turtles and dugongs. On the island itself, you’ll find lush vegetation including mangrove forests, palm trees, baobabs, and rainforests where various species of monkeys, flying foxes, and bushbabies reside.
As for the island’s name, there’s some debate. One theory is that it’s a tribute to “our thing,” but it more likely comes from the Arabic term “morfi’a,” meaning “archipelago,” since Mafia is the main island in a cluster of nine islands. Another possibility is that the name comes from the Ma’afir of Merku, the first merchant family from Yemen to settle there. There’s also a chance it comes from the ancient Persian word for “water,” referencing the island’s plentiful springs. The least likely explanation is that it derives from the Arabic word “mafi,” meaning “junk,” which doesn’t fit considering the island’s beauty.
The best time for diving is between September and March. It’s easy to arrange excursions and activities both on the beach and inland. The island is accessible by air from Dar es Salaam, with a flight taking about 35 minutes. There are various accommodation options, such as Mafia Lodge and Butiama Beach, which offers sea view bungalows, or Pole Pole, highlighted by Travel + Leisure as one of the 25 best ecolodges in the world.