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Couples & Families
Butiama Beach is a charming beach lodge located on Mafia Island, part of a small archipelago within the delta of the Rufiji River. The rustic bungalows are surrounded by unique marine wildlife, and there's no shortage of incredible wildlife experiences to have here.
With just thirteen homely bungalows hosting up to 32 people at a time, Butiama Beach is intimate and exclusive, offering a personalised experience and a serene atmosphere.
The tranquil ambiance provides the perfect setting to relax or explore at your own pace, free from the crowds. Take a romantic sunset cruise, use one of the lodge's free kayaks, take a snorkeling trip, head off to the lighthouse, have a beach-side picnic, or simply read in the lodge library and laze poolside.
Facing the Indian Ocean, Butiama Beach has a unique position where you can watch the incredible migrations of humpback whales and observe whale sharks swimming offshore.
Swimming with whale sharks is an essential part of any trip to Mafia Island, and Butiama Beach can arrange for you to experience the privilege of encountering these majestic giants.
You can go snorkeling around the dazzling coral reefs and nearby Chole Island Marine Park. Scuba fans can sink into the underwater world of the Marine Park in Utende, venture on a PADI fun dive, or take the PADI certification course whilst spotting hawksbill turtles, sea horses or lion fish.
You can also sign up for guided tours around Chole Island, a small island strewn with historical ruins and crumbling remnants from the several hundred years it was used as a harbour for Arabs, Germans and British.
Butiama Beach is perfect for couples and families looking to escape the crowds with a comfortable, relaxing stay. Equipped with modern amenities and friendly hospitality, this wonderful hideaway is your own slice of paradise.
Each en-suite bungalow is styled with handcrafted furniture, made from repurposed wood from retired dhow ships. You can choose from double, twin and family sized bungalows, and all are equipped with mosquito nets, hot and cold water, electric fans, and private verandas with loungers and a hammock. Among the toiletries provided is a special artisan soap, handmade by Mafia Island locals using only natural ingredients. You'll also receive a complimentary beach basket and towels to enjoy the white sandy beaches.
Daily breakfast and a three-course dinner is included, and tea, coffee and water is served throughout the day. Butiama Beach has a beach and pool bar, and staff will happily serve your meals on the beach if you prefer. Most food options include seafood and fish, but the property can also accommodate to any dietary requirements.
You can take PADI diving lessons, go snorkeling and kayaking, or enjoy other seaside activities such as dhow cruises. The lodge has a pool, private beach, spa, and library.
Dining focuses on locally sourced seafood and fish, local brews, and simple, delicious meals. A fantastic breakfast and a three-course dinner is included during your stay.
Butiama Beach is a local family owned and operated business. The lodge provides support and a source of income for the local population, showcasing products such as natural, handmade soap created by local Mafia Island residents. The lodge also works with Big Blu Mafia Diving to manage sustainable visits to the Marine Park, an important site of environmental conservation in Tanzania.
Find below a collection of our favourite accommodation options on Mafia and its surrounding islands.
Talk to the team
Find out more and tailor your perfect trip with the help of
our specialist team on +44 117 313 3300