Day 1: Arrive Mafia Island – Butiama Lodge (7 nights, half-board)
Arrive Dar es Salaam and connect with flight to Mafia Island. On arrival, meet your driver for transfer to Butiama Lodge, where you stay 7 nights (sea front bungalow on half-board basis).
Butiama Lodge
Butiama is located on one of the longest beaches on Mafia Island and consists of 15 sea front bungalows, each decorated in a relaxed, bohemian style.The furniture is crafted locally and where possible makes great use of reclaimed wood from old dhow boats. The colourful fabrics and soft furnishings are also locally sourced and used to great effect. Beds are large and comfortable with ceiling fans and mosquito nets.
Each bungalow has a large verandah with hammocks from which to take in the fabulous ocean views and sunsets.
Butiama’s main public area is built under cool makuti thatch and consists of an open-sided restaurant with ocean views, beach bar, library with board games and a pool table, small spa, and swimming pool.
Butiama is the perfect escape for those wanting to enjoy a spot of winter sunshine on one of East Africa’s least-developed islands. It’s a laidback, owner-run lodge, which makes up for what it lacks in luxury amenities with its low-key charm.
Situated on one of Mafia’s quieter beaches, Butiama is also very well placed for keen divers and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers among the best opportunities for whale shark swimming between Nov and Feb, as well as diving, kayaking, and dhow boat excursions throughout the year.
Day 2-7: At leisure
At leisure at Butiama Lodge to enjoy the beach, pool, and the wealth of activities available on Mafia Island.
Day 8: Departure
After a leisurely breakfast at Butiama, transfer to the airport for flight out/onward transfers.
This itinerary can easily be extended with a couple of nights in Zanzibar’s capital of Stone Town, or with a few days in one of mainland Tanzania’s superb game reserves – ask us for suggestions.
Mafia Island (Butiama)
7 nights on Mafia Island staying at the fabulous Butiama Lodge
Mafia Island (Butiama)
Low-key, 7-night beach break to Mafia Island's Butiama Lodge - enjoy a spot of winter sun on one of East Africa's least-developed islands.
Outline Itinerary
Price guide
Price based on two travellers in shared double accommodation and subject to availability at the time of booking.
Pricing
8 days from £1200pp
Southern Tanzania and Zanzibar
We saw loads of animals and had the most fabulous time, the staff were warm, friendly and just lovely.
