Zanzibar: 2-Day 1 Night Mafia Island Whale Shark by Flight
Dar-es-Salaam Region, Tanzania
Activity
Official tickets via GetYourGuide
Enjoy a 2-day Mafia Island adventure from Zanzibar. Swim with whale sharks, visit Kilindoni Town and the Flying Foxes, with flights, transfers, hotel, and snorkeling equipment included.
Highlights
- Swim safely with gentle whale sharks in their natural habitat.
- See flying foxes, unique to Mafia Island
- Enjoy a 1-night stay on Mafia Island
- Overnight stay for a relaxed, immersive adventure.
- Return flights, transfers, and snorkeling equipment included
Description
Escape Zanzibar and journey to Mafia Island for an unforgettable two-day experience combining the thrill of a whale shark encounter with authentic island culture, tropical scenery, and local discoveries. Day 1 : Escape Zanzibar and discover Mafia Island on a 2-day, 1-night adventure combining flights, a whale shark experience, snorkeling, local culture, and island exploration. Day 1 – Flights, Whale Shark Adventure & Island Experience 07:00 AM – Flight from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam Begin your journey with a morning flight from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam. 09:00 AM – Flight from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island Connect to your onward flight to Mafia Island. 09:40 AM – Arrival at Mafia Island Meet our local team at Mafia Island Airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in and a short break. 11:00 AM – Whale Shark Adventure Head to the coast and begin your whale shark search with an experienced local guide. If whale sharks are located and sea conditions are suitable, enjoy the opportunity to snorkel and swim alongside them in their natural environment. 02:00 PM – Local Tanzanian Lunch Enjoy a freshly prepared local lunch featuring authentic Tanzanian flavors. 03:00 PM – Flying Foxes Experience Visit the famous Flying Foxes colony and discover Mafia Island’s unique fruit bats in their natural environment. 05:00 PM – Return to Hotel Return to your hotel, relax, and enjoy some free time. 07:00 PM – Dinner & Overnight Stay Enjoy dinner at the hotel and relax overnight on Mafia Island. DAY 02 – Whale Shark Search or Snorkeling, Town Tour & Return to Zanzibar 07:00 AM – Breakfast Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before beginning your Day 2 activities. Your experience will depend on whether whale sharks were successfully encountered on Day 1. 08:00 AM – Option 1: Second Whale Shark Search If whale sharks were not spotted on Day 1, return to the ocean with your experienced local guides for another search. If whale sharks are located and sea conditions are suitable, you will have another opportunity to snorkel and swim alongside them. 08:00 AM – Option 2: Snorkeling Experience If whale sharks were successfully encountered on Day 1, enjoy a snorkeling experience in Mafia Island’s beautiful waters instead. 11:00 AM – Kilindoni Town & Cultural Experience Explore Kilindoni, Mafia Island’s main town, visit the local area, and experience the authentic atmosphere of everyday island life. 01:00 PM – Local Lunch Enjoy a delicious local Tanzanian lunch before preparing for your departure. 02:00 PM – Hotel Check-Out & Airport Transfer Return to the hotel, complete check-out, and transfer to Mafia Island Airport. 03:00 PM – Flight from Mafia Island to Dar es Salaam Depart Mafia Island by flight to Dar es Salaam and connect with your onward flight to Zanzibar. Arrival in Zanzibar – Hotel Transfer Upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport, our driver will meet you and transfer you safely back to your hotel.Includes
Round-trip flight ( (available only with the hotel transfer option) Hotel pickup and drop-off in Zanzibar (available only with the hotel transfer option) Mafia Island airport transfers 1-night hotel accommodation in Mafia Island Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 and Day 2 Dinner Soft drinks with lunch Kilindoni town and local market visit Flying Foxes excursion Guided Whale Shark Adventure Professional local whale shark guide Snorkelling equipment Whale shark conservation and marine park fees All airport and local transfers as described in the itinerary All taxes and VATExcludes
Personal expenses such as travel insurance, visa fees, souvenirs, and other private items Optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary Tips / gratuities(optional)Important Information
- Pick-up Zanzibar: 4:00–5:00 AM Flight to Mafia Island: ≈50 minutes, luggage max 15 kg (soft bags) Whale shark sightings not guaranteed Activities may change due to weather or sea conditions Bring swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and personal medication Inform us in advance about any allergies, dietary restrictions, or vegetarian preference
