1-Day Whale Shark Snorkelling Tour to Mafia Island from Zanzibar

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Swim alongside whale sharks during a rare and unforgettable ocean encounter
• 02 Explore East Africa's largest marine park, rich in coral reefs and marine biodiversity
• 03 Learn about whale shark behaviour and conservation from expert guides
• 04 Enjoy a guided snorkelling experience suitable for beginners and confident swimmers

Discover the untouched marine beauty of Mafia Island on a one-day whale shark snorkelling adventure from Zanzibar. Swim beside the world's largest fish in warm, crystal-clear waters within East Africa's largest marine park. Explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse tropical marine life, and gain insight into whale shark conservation. Guided by experts, this eco-friendly experience blends wildlife encounters, education, and adventure, making it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and responsible travellers visiting Tanzania.

Swim beside the world's largest fish in warm, crystal-clear waters within East Africa's largest marine park.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Zanzibar, Mafia Island

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Whale Shark Snorkelling Adventure on Mafia Island

• Depart from your hotel in Zanzibar at 05h00 for your transfer to Zanzibar Airport.
• Board a private charter flight departing Zanzibar for Mafia Island at 07h00.
• Arrive at Mafia Island airstrip at 07h50 and transfer to Kilindoni.
• Meet your professional guide and attend a detailed briefing before the snorkelling activities.
• Begin snorkelling with whale sharks in warm, crystal-clear waters at 08h00.
• Observe vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life within the protected marine park.
• Enjoy lunch and leisure time in Kilindoni at 12h30.
• Transfer back to Mafia Island airstrip at 13h30.
• Board the return flight to Zanzibar, departing at 15h00.
• Arrive back in Zanzibar at 15h50 and transfer to your hotel.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Private charter flights from Zanzibar to Mafia Island and العودة
• Meet-and-greet service at Zanzibar Airport
• Private return transfers in Zanzibar from hotel to airport
• Private return transfers on Mafia Island
• Snorkelling equipment
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Lunch and refreshments
• All taxes and permits

What's Not Included

• International flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
• Visa fees
• Travel and medical insurance
• All personal expenses (e.g. telephone, premium drinks, laundry, optional activities, souvenirs, etc.)

What to bring

• Sunglasses and sunscreen (recommended)
• Comfortable shoes or sandals
• Swimwear and towel
• Light clothing and a hat for sun protection
• Passport copy (required)
• Waterproof camera provided on request (guests may also bring their own)

Know before you go

• Whale sharks are most commonly found around Mafia Island from October to March, with peak sightings during this period.
• In some years, the season may start earlier depending on ocean conditions.
• Checking in advance is recommended for the latest sightings information and expert advice.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Zanzibar Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Tour start

Zanzibar Island, Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.