3-Day Safaris

3-Day Mafia Island and Whale Sharks Tour

Escape to the tranquil shores of Mafia Island, a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, on this 3-day marine adventure. Based at the comfortable Utende Seacliff Resort, this tour blends relaxation with thrilling ocean experiences. The highlight is a seasonal snorkeling excursion to swim with the world's largest fish – the gentle whale shark – off the Kilindoni coast. Beyond this bucket-list encounter, you will explore the coastline on a traditional dhow cruise at sunset, visit the historic Mafia Lighthouse, and unwind on the pristine sands of Kanga Beach. It is the perfect short getaway for beach lovers and marine enthusiasts seeking a taste of paradise away from the crowds.

You can extend the tour days by contacting us.

Want to Extend the Days or Request a Custom Quote

Prices vary by season. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your travel dates.

Luxury Package
Starting from around
From $700 Per Person
Standard Package
Starting from around
From $627 Per Person
Budget Package
Starting from around
From $605 Per Person
Advertised by Mannibreeze African Art

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1 +

Day 1: Arrival to Mafia Island Airport | Transfer to Hotel | Dhow Cruise

Upon arrival at Mafia Island Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to Utende Seacliff Resort. After check-in, take a moment to settle into your sea-facing room and soak in the serenity. In the evening, embark on a traditional wooden dhow cruise. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy the golden hues of the Mafia coastline, with light refreshments and local fruits on board.


Accommodation Budget

Mafia Beach Bungalows- Simple, eco-friendly bungalows located right on the beach. Basic amenities but clean and comfortable.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard

Utende Seacliff - Resort & Hotel Comfortable mid-range resort with sea-facing rooms, restaurant, and easy access to marine activities. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Mafia Island Lodge - Serena Kivulini A Serena property offering upscale accommodation with stunning ocean views, excellent dining, and world-class service. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 2 +

Day 2: Whale Sharks Excursion | Lighthouse & Kanga Beach Picnic

After an early breakfast, head out for a half-day whale shark snorkeling excursion off the Kilindoni coast (seasonal, typically Oct–March). These gentle giants swim just beneath the surface, offering unforgettable close-up encounters. Return to the resort for a short rest before your afternoon journey continues by car to the remote Mafia Lighthouse, a historic coastal beacon with scenic views of the ocean and forest. Afterward, unwind at Kanga Beach, a quiet stretch of coast perfect for a swim and relaxation. A picnic lunch with fresh seafood or vegetarian options will be served under shaded palm trees. Return to the resort by late afternoon for leisure time and dinner.


Accommodation Budget

Mafia Beach Bungalows- Simple, eco-friendly bungalows located right on the beach. Basic amenities but clean and comfortable.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard

Utende Seacliff - Resort & Hotel Comfortable mid-range resort with sea-facing rooms, restaurant, and easy access to marine activities. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Mafia Island Lodge - Serena Kivulini A Serena property offering upscale accommodation with stunning ocean views, excellent dining, and world-class service. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 3 +

Day 3: Morning Walks | Transfer to the Airport

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the resort. Depending on your departure time, you may choose to take a short walk along the beach or sip a coffee with a view. You will check out, have lunch, then be transferred to Mafia Airport for your return flight.


Accommodation:

No Accommodation. End of the tour.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Best Time To Visit

January to February and June to October – Different areas are best at different times
January to February: moderate prices (calving season)
June to October: higher prices (dry season, excellent wildlife viewing)

Whale shark season

Prices are higher during peak whale shark months (December–March). Lower prices in October, November, April, and May.

Best Weather

June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Prices are higher – this is peak safari season

Safari Packages

Our History

Born from a deep Chagga tribal pride, our story is rooted in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro. Founder Paul Ngoty began his guiding career in 1978 and has since completed over 19,500 safaris, sharing his ancestral land with the world. His profound understanding of the terrain and wildlife, honed over 48 years, has earned him roles as an ambassador driver for Tanzania and a guide for dignitaries such as Bill Clinton's staff. Now, Paul and his daughter, Janeth, pour this passion into Simcha Safaris, ensuring every journey honors the land, the wildlife, and the generations of guides who came before.

Upgrade Your Adventure

Extra Excursions (Safari Add-Ons)

Hot Air Balloon Safari (Serengeti) – Float silently above the plains at dawn, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Available in Central & Western Serengeti.

Swahili Cooking Class (Zanzibar / Arusha) – Learn to prepare traditional dishes like pilau and chapati using local spices and fresh ingredients. A perfect cultural immersion.

Sunset Dhow Cruise (Mafia Island / Zanzibar) – Sail the Indian Ocean on a traditional wooden dhow, enjoy light snacks, and watch the sun melt into the sea.

These and many more, just ask for the..

Safari Experiences

Tanzania offers some of the most diverse wildlife adventures on earth. From the endless golden plains of the Serengeti, where the Great Migration thunders across the land, to the ancient volcanic walls of the Ngorongoro Crater, teeming with the Big Five. Explore the elephant-rich herds of Tarangire, the boat safaris and bush walks of Nyerere National Park, or conquer the majestic heights of Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you have just a few days or two weeks, we help you craft the perfect Tanzanian safari—wild, authentic, and unforgettable.

Important to Know

This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 14 people.

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.

This tour accepts children who are 5 years and older. Children under 12 receive a discount.