Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge is a small, family-owned eco-lodge on the coast of Mafia Island’s eastern settlement of Utende, set over five hectares of lush farmland teeming with birds, fruit trees, and the sounds of the Indian Ocean. The name ‘shamba’ means farm in Swahili, and the lodge genuinely operates as a small sustainable farm: the Italian owners Francesca and Marco raise three cows, a donkey, dogs, and cats, grow organic vegetables and fruit that appear on every plate, and run phyto-purification water treatment systems as part of a deeply held commitment to low-impact living. The lodge has received Tanzania’s Best Eco Certification, and the owners are active advocates for marine conservation and animal welfare on the island through their foundation Animalia Mafia Island.
Six bungalows (three Rooms named after local Mafia trades — Mmakonde, Mvuvi, Cherehani — at 38sqm each, and three Suites — Harusi, Bahati, Raha — slightly larger at 48sqm with better sea views) are set in the wooded grounds with en-suite shower rooms, huge comfortable beds, and garden or sea-facing terraces. Marco is one of Mafia’s most experienced divers, having opened up many of the island’s current dive sites over decades, and leads the diving operations personally using the lodge’s own motorised sailing dhow. Whale shark encounters, snorkelling excursions, and cultural village visits complete the activity offer.
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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