Mafia Island

Mafia Island is a low-key spot in the Indian Ocean, far from the tourist crowds of Zanzibar. The island is part of a small archipelago and gives a laid-back atmosphere that is convenient for nature lovers and adventurers. The Mafia Island Marine Park, the first of its kind in Tanzania, protects one of East Africa's most intact coral reef systems. The absolute highlight of the island is the opportunity to swim with whale sharks. These gentle giants regularly visit the waters off Mafia between October and February. Divers particularly appreciate Chole Bay, a protected deep-water basin with incredible biodiversity. Beyond the underwater world, the island has historical ruins on Chole Island and lush mangrove forests. Culinary-wise, Mafia treats its guests to fresh seafood and local specialties like coconut curries. The island is best reached by small aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. The best time to visit is from June to March, with divers preferring the months with the highest whale shark probability. It is a place of peace and untouched nature.

Nearby cities

Lindi

A quiet and historic coastal town on the Indian Ocean with a weaker economy.

Kilwa Masoko

The modern hub of the Kilwa region and stepping stone to the medieval ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani.

Kilwa Kivinje

An old Swahili trading center with decaying German colonial architecture on the coast.

Proença-a-Nova

Proença-a-Nova is a city in the Castelo Branco District.

Sertã

Sertã is a city in the Castelo Branco District.

Castelo Branco

Castelo Branco is a central city in eastern Portugal with a clear inland character.

Abrantes

Abrantes is perched on a hill overlooking the Tagus River.

Fundão

Fundão is a city in the Castelo Branco District.

Tomar

Tomar is a historic city in central Portugal closely linked to the Knights Templar.

Penela

Penela is a historical city in the Coimbra District.

History & landmarks

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Pousaflores Castle

This small castle ruin in the municipality of Ansião dates from the time of the Reconquista.

Castelo de Vide

Known as the 'Sintra of Alentejo' for its romantic atmosphere, thermal springs, and charming Jewish quarter.

Nature

Great Ruaha River

A major river in Tanzania.

Lake Malawi

A major lake in the south.

Lake Rukwa

A large, alkaline lake.

Tagus River

The Tagus is the longest river on the Iberian Peninsula, originating in the Albarracín mountains and passing through Toledo before reachi…

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Lagoa da Pampilhosa

This lake is located in the central mountain region of Portugal.

More places

Morogoro Community Garden

A garden for all.

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Pangani River Basin

An important river drainage basin between Kilimanjaro and the Indian Ocean.

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Mikumi Savanna

Open grasslands full of animals.

Mikumi Wildlife Reserve

Home to zebras and giraffes.

Pare Mountains

A part of the Eastern Arc Mountains in the north.

Isimila Stone Age Site

An impressive archaeological site with numerous stone age hand axes, surrounded by dramatic sandstone pillars.

Ruaha Wildlife Habitat

Large reserve for wildlife.

Kigoma Port

The main port on Lake Tanganyika, facilitating trade with neighboring Burundi, Rwanda, and DR Congo.