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Mafia Island is the largest of a small archipelago of islands and
atolls and is truly a paradise in the Indian Ocean. It is the southern
most of three islands (Pemba & Zanzibar) located off the coast
of Tanzania. 25kms from the mainland and 130kms from Dar es Salaam,
it is reachable by light aircraft in 35 minutes or 45 minutes from
Zanzibar and the Selous Game Reserve.
The resident population of 46,000 are mainly fishermen or smallholder
farmers that grow coconut, paw-paw, rice and cassava. The islanders
are friendly and welcoming and the atmosphere relaxed and laid-back.
The dominant religion is moderate Islam and both christians and
muslims live in peace and harmony. The air and sea temperatures
remain warm all year round with the rainy season between April to
June.
Today Mafia is known as a beautiful Indian Ocean tropical resort
that is famous for deep sea fishing and scuba diving. Aquatic life
is abundant and the coral gardens are pristine due to the protection
of the Mafia Island Marine Park. The park is located between the
Rufiji River delta to the west and the open Indian Ocean to the
east. The dual influences of the river and the sea have combined
to create a rich and exceptional biodiversity with unique landscapes
under the sea and on dry land.
It is a unique and perfect destination as part of a safari package
or simply a place to unwind and get away from the daily, modern
and busy world.
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