Basecamp Mafia Island is an eco-resort on Chole Bay’s south coast, part of the Basecamp Eco-resorts group — an established operator in the sustainable tourism space across East Africa. The resort stands amidst tall coconut palms on a sandy beach, offering direct access to Mafia Island’s world-class diving, snorkelling, and whale shark encounters in the island’s protected marine park, which encompasses some of the richest coral reef systems and marine diversity in the entire western Indian Ocean.
The property is designed as an eco-conscious retreat that balances comfort with minimal environmental impact. Guest accommodation is in comfortable bungalows and rooms along the beachfront, equipped with ceiling fans, en-suite facilities, and private outdoor sitting areas. The main lodge area houses a restaurant, bar, and communal spaces. Activities focus entirely on the ocean and island: scuba diving and snorkelling in the marine park, whale shark swimming (seasonal), dhow boat excursions, village walks, and birdwatching in Mafia’s diverse habitats are all available from the lodge. Basecamp’s affiliation with the global eco-resort brand brings structured environmental practices and community partnerships to a property that benefits from Mafia’s extraordinary natural remoteness.
Mafia Island Airport (MFA) serves the island with scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam (approximately 35 minutes) and charter connections from Zanzibar (approximately 45 minutes) and Nyerere National Park. The lodge arranges road transfers from the airport. There are no direct flights from Nairobi; connecting via Dar es Salaam is the standard route.
Note: Mafia Island Marine Park fees (approximately $24 per person per day) are charged locally on arrival and payable by credit card.
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