Tanzania Coast and Islands
Pole Pole
Pole Pole is a small luxury lodge with a great location within the stunning Mafia Island National Park off Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coast. Pole Pole (which means slowly, slowly in Swahili) is world renowned as one of the most charming and exclusive island resorts in Africa. The resort consists of just ten exquisitely decorated thatched bungalows, each superbly decorated with wooden floors, Italian textiles and featuring a large verandah and private double bathroom. The service at the lodge is excellent and the restaurant serves delicious organic and locally produced food which directly benefits the local fishing and farming communities.
There is a small white sand beach just steps away from the main lodge which offers great views to Chole, Juani and Jibondo Islands and virtual doorstep swimming. There is no air-conditioning in the rooms because of the gentle cooling sea breeze but fans are provided for the warmer days.
Massage and spa treatments are available as well as a variety of both land and water based activities. The most popular pursuits are scuba diving, snorkelling, 4×4 tours of the island, cultural activities, village tours, birdwatching and trekking.
Mafia Island Marine National Park is an Indian Ocean archipelago of tiny islands and extensive coral reefs offering beautiful white sand beaches and excellent snorkelling and diving on various coral reefs, some of which are found in the sheltered lagoons and bays around the island.
Facilities
Restaurant, bar, lounge, private bathrooms (24hr hot water), laundry service and safety deposit box.
Local Wildlife
A spectacular diversity of coral, including giant table and blue tipped staghorn corals, and over 400 species reef fish thrive here. Between October and March, whale sharks pass through the area offering the possibility of a sighting. Between the months of July and November, green and hawksbill turtles nest on Mafia’s east coast.
Optional Activities
Scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, turtle watching and cultural activities.
Jonathan Morris
Area Specialist
Don’t rule out travelling here during the rainy season. Rainfall can be surprisingly light, the seas are usually calm and water visibility good. Between October and March, you also have very good chances of whale sharks. Worth putting up with a few showers for.
If you have any questions regarding our Tanzania tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
Very good. Very personal, friendly, efficient service. We especially liked the service in the restaurant, and the visit by the dive centre each evening to plan excursions for the next day.