Overview
Marimbani Sand bank is the perfect place to relax and find comfort on the soothing sand of Marimbani Sandbank. With just a 20-minute boat trip away from the public beach, you’ll arrive at the half moon shaped sand bank that is approximately 700 meters long during low tide.
This treasure is only accessible during low tide because the ocean waters magically submerge it during the high tide as if it was only a dream. Once there, you can choose between swimming, snorkelling, exploring the exposed intertidal flats, or just relaxing on the beach. Usually a shaded area is prepared for your comfort as well as fire for the BBQ lunch. Sundowners can also be organized in Marimbani.
Mange Sandbank, Mafia Island
Mange sandbank is located in south of Chole Bay. It is the most pristine patch of pure, white sand that only is exposed during low tide. This tiny patch of dreams is surrounded by stunning tropical reefs teaming with colourful corals and fish. It is possible, if you look hard enough over the expanse of aquamarine water, to see the trees from our mainland Tanzania. Normally, this is a full day trip that includes a light lunch and a shaded BBQ at the sandbank.
Start with a leisurely trip in a traditional dhow to the sandbank few kilometers south of Mafia Island. Enjoy snorkelling on the nearby reefs with colourful corals and a variety of fish species. Then for lunch, take a picnic on the sandbank with fire-cooked fish, salad, and pasta. Take a swim in the clear calm water, and enjoy another snorkel in the nearby reef.
Highlights
Mange Sandbank, Mafia Island
Mange sandbank is located in south of Chole Bay. It is the most pristine patch of pure, white sand that only is exposed during low tide.
Marimbani Sandbank, Mafia
Marimbani Sand bank is the perfect place to relax and find comfort on the soothing sand of Marimbani Sandbank.
Know Before You Go
Trip Snapshot
- Location Mafia Island, Pwani – Mafia Archipelago
- Marimbani Sandbank, Mafia 3–4 hours · Beach Holiday · can be tailor-made
- Mange Sandbank, Mafia Island 5–7 hours · Beach Holiday · can be tailor-made
Things to Do
- Beach Relaxation
- Snorkeling / Swimming
Good to Know
To reach mafia one no longer sails as the first option, but rather take a flight in light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, or one of the game parks such as the Nyerere National Park. Coastal aviation and auric air both offer multiple daily flights, which take approximately 30-50 minutes. The experience is fantastic, with great views of the African bush and coastline.
The distance between Zanzibar City and Mafia Island is 198 km. It takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes flight from Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam respectively
Mafia Island enjoys two rainy seasons, similar to the mainland. In November and December and March to May. The first best time to visit is from October to February offering the best visibility The second-best time is June to September as it is the coolest time.
