Mafia Island Activities & Tours | Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge

Nature at Your Doorstep

At Eco Shamba Kilole, the safari begins before you even leave your veranda. Our lodge is a living sanctuary where over 30 species of birds, playful Blue Monkeys, and the elusive Galago thrive in the canopy above. We invite you to roam our grounds freely and discover the quiet rhythm of the island’s wild soul.”
This unique botanical environment has been carefully nurtured over decades to provide an undisturbed refuge for regional wildlife. As you walk our shaded pathways, look up to spot family troops of Blue Monkeys leaping through the old-growth trees, foraging for wild fruits, and communicating with their distinct, low calls. The property serves as an essential terrestrial buffer zone on Mafia Island, bridging the gap between the coastal forest and the marine ecosystem.
Avian enthusiasts will find themselves surrounded by a continuous symphony of songs. From resident birds of prey soaring over the palms to vibrant sunbirds darting through the tropical flowers, every hour of the day offers a new sighting for your checklist.
When night falls, the atmosphere shifts beautifully as the elusive Galago—or bushbabies—awaken. Their reflective eyes catch the moonlight as they navigate the upper branches, adding a sense of nocturnal magic to the estate. This is a space where nature isn’t just a day trip; it is an active, living neighbor that shares your stay from sunrise to sunset.

A Palm-nut Vulture raptor perched on a tree branch at Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge, showcasing the unique wildlife of Mafia Island

“A powerful presence in our ancient palms, the Palm-nut Vulture is the undisputed sovereign of our canopy. While it nesting high in the fronds above our suites, it is a formidable hunter of the grounds below. Watching this magnificent raptor patrol the sanctuary is a raw, authentic glimpse into the wild food chain of Mafia Island. It is a spectacular sight for those who appreciate the true, untamed nature of the African bush.”

Marine Park & Island Adventures

Beyond our gardens lies the heart of the Mafia Island Marine Park. Join us as we explore the turquoise depths and hidden treasures of the archipelago

Snorkelers enjoying an ethical whale shark encounter in the clear blue waters of the Mafia Island

Whale Shark Encounters

“Experience the quiet majesty of the ocean’s gentle giants. From October to February, we offer ethical, respectful encounters with Whale Sharks in the warm waters of the bay—a life-changing connection with nature.”

A scuba diver exploring a coral reef next to a massive Potato Grouper in the Mafia Island Marine Park.

Scuba Diving

Explore the ‘Coral Capital’ of East Africa through the eyes of experts. With over 30 years of diving legacy, we guide you to the most vibrant reefs and dramatic walls of the Mafia Island Marine Park. From macro wonders to soaring fans, discover a world untouched

Underwater shot of branching coral and striped Sergeant Major fish with a snorkeler swimming at the surface in clear turquoise water on Mafia Island.

Snorkeling Trips

The beauty of Chole Bay isn’t reserved just for divers. Our snorkeling excursions take you to shallow coral gardens where the water is crystal clear and the marine life is just inches away. A perfect, serene adventure for the whole family.

A PADI dive instructor teaching scuba training skills to students in a swimming pool at Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge on Mafia Island

PADI Courses

From your first breath underwater to advanced certifications, learn from a legacy of 30 years of diving expertise. We provide a calm, professional environment to help you master the skills of the deep at a pace that respects the ocean and the learner.

A humpback whale breaching the surface in the ocean during a seasonal whale watching safari in the Mafia Channel

Whale Watching

A tiny green sea turtle hatchling crawling across a sandy beach during an ethical turtle hatching excursion on Mafia Island

Turtle Hatching

Experience one of nature’s most moving journeys. We support local conservation efforts to ensure guests can ethically witness the moment when green sea turtle hatchlings make their first dash to the sea—a heart-touching highlight of the Mafia Island experience.

Professional Legacy.
Over 3 decades of scuba diving and instruction experience on Mafia Island
Resident Bird Species.
A thriving ecosystem within our grounds, from Bee-eaters to Palm-nut Vultures.
Marine Park Border.
We are located directly on the protected Chole Bay sanctuary.

Travel with Purpose

At Eco Shamba Kilole, we believe the best adventures are those that respect the rhythm of the island and the people who call it home.

A green sea turtle swimming closely past a scuba diver in the deep blue waters of the Mafia Island Marine Park

Protecting the Blue

From supporting green sea turtle nesting sites to following strict ethical guidelines for whale shark encounters, we are dedicated to preserving the Mafia Island Marine Park for the future.

A Tanzanian staff member preparing an outdoor dinner table lit by traditional lanterns at Eco Shamba Kilole Lodge on Mafia Island

Local Heart & Soul

Our team is 100% Tanzanian. By staying and exploring with us, you are directly contributing to the Mafia Island economy and supporting the families who make this sanctuary so special.

Island Exploration: Recommended Gear

Earth Pak 20L Waterproof Dry Bag

A light blue Earth Pak 20L waterproof dry bag with a protective phone case, recommended gear for boat safaris on Mafia Island

Ideal for keeping your camera gear, extra lenses, and personal electronics perfectly safe and dry from ocean spray during boat safaris and marine excursions.

Saguaro All-Terrain Rock Shoes

Black Saguaro all-terrain water shoes with high-traction soles, essential gear for reef exploration and tidal walks on Mafia Island

Essential for tidal walks, reef exploration, and boat landings. Features a flexible, puncture-resistant sole to safely protect your feet from sharp coral and razor shells.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Insulated Bottle

A white Hydro Flask wide mouth insulated water bottle with a straw lid, recommended eco-friendly gear for traveling on Mafia Island

Stay perfectly hydrated under the tropical sun. Keeps your drinking water ice-cold for over 24 hours while helping us eliminate single-use plastics across the archipelago.

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