From Zanzibar Mafia Island Whale Shark Adventure with Flight

Magharibi, Tanzania



Fly from Zanzibar to Mafia Island for a full-day whale shark tour. Swim alongside these gentle giants, enjoy a beach picnic, and explore the island’s marine life and takes the Lunch.

Highlights

  • Feel the thrill of swimming alongside majestic whale sharks
  • Swim close to these large, harmless sharks
  • Snorkel in the warm waters with all necessary equipment provided
  • Savor a freshly prepared seafood lunch on a peaceful beach or sandbank

Description

Your day begins with an early morning hotel pick-up from your hotel in Zanzibar between 4:00 am and 5:00 am. Our professional driver will meet you at the reception and transfer you comfortably to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your morning flight to Mafia Island. You will enjoy a short scenic flight of about 45–50 minutes over the beautiful Indian Ocean. After landing at Mafia Island Airport, our friendly local team will welcome you and transfer you to Afro Beach, the whale shark base. Before going to the ocean, you will receive a clear safety briefing and simple instructions about how to swim respectfully with whale sharks. You will be given snorkeling equipment and a life jacket. Then, you will board a traditional local boat and head out to search for whale sharks in their natural home. The searching and swimming experience usually takes about 3–4 hours, depending on sightings. When the whale sharks are spotted, you will have the chance to safely swim beside these gentle giants. It is a rare and emotional experience, and one of the most special marine adventures in Tanzania. After the ocean adventure, you will return to the base for a freshly prepared local lunch in a relaxed island setting. Later, you will visit an area to see the famous flying foxes (large fruit bats unique to Mafia Island). If time allows, you will also pass through Kilindoni to see local island life. In the afternoon, you will be transferred back to Mafia Island Airport for your return flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting for you and will transfer you safely back to your hotel, ending your unforgettable whale shark adventure. #Zanturtle Explore Tours and Safaris

Includes

Hotel pickup and drop-off Return flight from Zanzibar Mafia return airport transfers Whale shark adventure Snorkeling in coral gardens BBQ lunch, snacks with soft drinks Traditional wooden boat ride Snorkeling gear Conservation fees All taxes / VAT

Excludes

Tips Personal expenses Mandatory travel insurance fees required for all tourists in Zanzibar from the government

Important Information

  • The activity is not suitable for non-swimmers or people prone to seasickness
  • Bring swimwear and a waterproof camera for underwater photos
  • Wear comfortable clothing and flip-flops for transfers and walking on the island
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
  • Guests must book at least 3 days before the tour date

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again