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Swim with whale sharks and snorkel in vibrant coral gardens on a day trip from Zanzibar to Mafia Island. Enjoy a scenic flight, a seafood lunch, and a peaceful beach escape.

Highlights

• Feel the thrill of swimming alongside gentle whale sharks in their natural habitat
• Explore Mafia Island's vibrant coral gardens and tropical marine life
• Enjoy a scenic flight over turquoise waters and colorful reefs
• Savor a freshly prepared seafood lunch on a peaceful beach or sandbank
• Relax on the serene and untouched Mafia Island, far from the busy crowds

Description

Begin your day with a smooth pickup from your hotel in Zanzibar and transfer to the airport. From here, enjoy a scenic flight over turquoise waters, colorful reefs, tiny islands, and the beautiful coastline before landing on the serene and untouched Mafia Island. As soon as you arrive, your professional guide will welcome you warmly, provide a safety briefing, and prepare you for the day’s marine adventure. Board a traditional wooden boat and head out into the calm waters off Kilindoni, one of the most famous whale shark hotspots in the world. These gentle giants gather here to feed, making sightings highly reliable. As your crew scans the ocean surface, feel the excitement build. Once a whale shark is found, the boat will approach slowly and respectfully, allowing you to enter the water and swim alongside these incredible creatures. Despite their massive size, whale sharks are completely harmless, peaceful, and slow-moving—making the experience both safe and breathtaking. Have several opportunities to observe, swim with, and take photos of different whale sharks depending on the day’s conditions. Your guide will ensure responsible interaction, protecting the wellbeing of the animals while allowing you to enjoy one of the world’s most magical wildlife encounters. After the whale shark session, the adventure continues with snorkeling in Mafia’s warm, crystal-clear waters. The island is part of a protected marine ecosystem filled with vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, starfish, rays, sea turtles, and some of the healthiest reefs in Tanzania. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, the underwater scenery will leave you amazed. Later, head to a peaceful beach or sandbank where you will enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch. This delicious meal typically includes grilled fish, coconut rice, vegetables, and seasonal fruits. Take time to relax, swim, sunbathe, take photos, or simply enjoy the calm island atmosphere far from the busy crowds of Zanzibar. In the afternoon, return to the airport for your flight back to Zanzibar. Upon landing, a driver will be waiting to take you comfortably back to your hotel, ending your day with beautiful memories and a deep appreciation for Tanzania’s marine beauty. Guests must book at least 3 days before the tour date.

Includes

Hotel pickup and drop-off Round-trip flights from Zanzibar to Mafia Island Professional guide Traditional wooden boat ride Whale shark swimming experience Snorkeling in coral gardens Seafood lunch Safety briefing

Important Information

• Whale shark sightings are highly reliable but not guaranteed Bring swimwear and a waterproof camera for underwater photos The activity is not suitable for non-swimmers and people prone to seasickness Guests must book at least 3 days before the tour date.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund