Kinasi Lodge

After our safari with we wanted to do some diving... I inquired about going to Zanzibar... after determining that we are more serious divers than some vacationers, They suggested going to Kinasi Lodge in Mafia Island Tanzania ... it was the perfect end to a fantastic safari.

We were warmly greeted by Hermine in the lobby, she made us feel so welcome, and the cold coconut drinks she offered were very satisfying after a long, hot day of travel. The grounds are lovely and the resort is well laid out, they've created a feel of privacy between bungalows.

Our room was gorgeous and spacious and the view of the bay was stunning. There is no A/C on site, but there are ceiling fans everywhere and there was one inside the bed netting in our room which helped a lot, it is very warm at night, and it was sometimes not easy falling asleep.

The staff put mosquito coils in our room in the evening, this helps with keeping the mosquito's at bay while it's burning, but they are persistent, bring deet or similar bug juice.

The bar is pleasant and comfortable, the food was great, everything was very fresh and well prepared. The pool is lovely, but we found it too warm to remain around it for too long, even in the shade it was too hot. The pool water wasn't refreshing because of it. :-)

Then there's the diving: Lars is a great dive master and a heck of a nice guy, we very much enjoyed diving with him and Kassim.

One morning we also went out to the marine park and saw about 7-8 whale sharks... we'd been on several trips to specifically see whale sharks and it never happened, so we were ecstatic to see so many while here!

The staff at Kinasi are very professional, welcoming and attentive. We enjoyed the unpretentious and laid-back atmosphere, things go "pole pole" on Mafia, so don't be in hurry, relax and enjoy it...

It's a bit of paradise that's slow and easy... and so easy to take.

The flight out with Coastal was a real highlight. I got to sit next to the pilot and we had stunning vistas in every direction.

Pickup at the airport is very pricey for what it is, but there is no other option. Mafia is a real rural backwater and makes Dar look like the peak of sophistication.