About Us | Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge Mafia Island
Eco-Infrastructure: Wastewater Phytodepuration & Sustainability
Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge operates a closed-loop wastewater management system inside the Mafia Island Marine Park, utilizing an on-site semi-dry Phytodepuration plant to safely purify 98% of our wastewater back into the 13-acre botanical ecosystem.
“The trees, plants, animals, insects, air and water quality are at the mercy of our sensitivity. They do not speak the language of real estate, finance, or legal contracts. However, their voices are nonetheless valuable.“
— Francesca & Marco, Founders of Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge
Sustainable Development Since 2009
A Lodge Born From Love for Mafia Island
Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge was established with the commitment that tourism and conservation must actively support one another. Constructed entirely from local regional materials using local craftsmanship, the lodge has operated continuously since December 2009.
As the first certified eco-lodge located inside the Mafia Island Marine Park, our operational infrastructure is designed to protect the immediate environment. This includes sourcing food locally for our kitchen and managing a closed-loop system for the water used across the property.
“Have you ever heard someone tell a story about a hidden paradise? They usually talk about a place they traveled to 20 years ago before it was crowded. Well, folks, here it is. Shamba Kilole is a true gem and you will love it, hands down.”
“From the moment you are greeted with a cold coconut juice to the time you leave, everything is pure magic. In fact, the service, food, accommodations, and diving deserve 5 stars in every single way.”
“They go the extra mile to ensure their environmental footprint is minimized. At the same time, they still provide a comfortable and relaxing experience. Marco and Francesca are truly the most gracious and welcoming hosts.”
Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate — Registration No. EC/EIS/107, Republic of Tanzania, May 2009
Certified Since May 2009
Certified Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Obtaining an official environmental certification in Tanzania requires submitting a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment through a registered company. This requires a rigorous, multi-stage compliance process that most properties do not complete.
We chose to finalize this legal and ecological framework before opening our doors to travelers. Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge holds official Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate Registration No. EC/EIS/107, issued by the United Republic of Tanzania under the Environmental Management Act No. 20 of 2004. This status was secured in May 2009, prior to welcoming our first guests.
Our Commitment
An Eco Lodge Is a Choice for Life
Every decision at Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge is guided by one core question. Specifically, does this action protect Mafia Island and its community for generations to come?
Garden & Community
From Garden to Table
Our kitchen draws from three honest sources. First, we harvest from our own garden of Moringa, basil, rosemary, and parsley. In addition, we source fresh tropical fruits and vegetables from local Mafia Island smallholders. Finally, we bring in premium produce from Masifio Estates in Iringa when the island cannot provide.
No compromise on quality. We offer maximum support for Tanzanian farmers.
No compromise on quality. Maximum support for Tanzanian farmers.
Water Treatment
Phytodepuration
All wastewater is treated through our natural Phytodepuration plant using Phragmites australis. This plant is completely endemic to Mafia Island. As a result, we achieve $98\%$ purification with zero harsh chemicals.
Drinking Water
Pure Water. No Plastic. No Waste.
Our drinking water comes from natural wells fed by Mafia Island rainfall. We carefully boil and chill it before serving. Consequently, this eliminates all biological contaminants without the need for energy-hungry filtration, waste water, or plastic bottles.
Pool Care
Natural Pool Sanitation
Our swimming pool is sanitized through salt water chlorination. This clean process produces sodium chloride naturally. Therefore, we maintain safe water with minimal chemical use and zero harsh additives.
Artisan Kitchen
Food Made With Intention
Here, authentic Italian passion perfectly meets vibrant African abundance. Enjoy our unique menu served by candlelight on the top terrace of Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge.
From Our Kitchen
Handmade. Fresh. Every Day.
At Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge, our kitchen work begins long before sunrise. We completely avoid processed food, leftovers, or shortcuts. Instead, everything you eat is crafted entirely by hand that same day. We use only fresh ingredients that our team knows and trusts.
Sourdough Bread
Every morning starts with our naturally fermented sourdough. Indeed, we bake it fresh daily without using any chemical yeast. This simple ritual sets the perfect tone for everything that follows.
Fresh Pasta Daily
Tagliatelle, Ravioli, Gnocchi, Lasagna, and Cannelloni are all made entirely by hand every morning. In addition, our Ravioli and Cannelloni are filled with local Mchicha or Moringa. We blend these ingredients with fresh Ricotta made right in our own kitchen.
Local Ingredients, Italian Technique
We offer everything from our signature coconut ring cake to fresh tropical fruit desserts. Specifically, every sweet finish to your meal celebrates the natural, rich abundance of Mafia Island.
Our Promise
Real Food. Real Values. Real Mafia Island.
Every meal at Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge is a true act of respect. This philosophy guides us from the sourdough we bake before sunrise to the candlelight dinners on our top terrace. Ultimately, we honor our guests, celebrate our island, and support the amazing people who grow our food.