Couples, Families & Honeymoons
Set on the tranquil beach paradise of Mafia Island, located 160km offshore from the main Zanzibar Island, Pole Pole Lodge is one of the best eco-resorts in the region.
Pole Pole is Swahili for ‘slowly slowly’ or 'take it easy'', and this perfectly describes the atmosphere of this beautiful beachfront accommodation.
Laid-back and unpretentious, Pole Pole Lodge offers thatched bungalows right on the beach, and each luxury bungalow looks out to the islands of Chole, Juani and Jibondo.
Built in 1998, Pole Pole is renowned for its warm and welcoming hospitality and has become a favourite haven for honeymooners, families and couples looking for a peaceful retreat.
Set among coconut palm trees, white sandy shores and turquoise waters, you can spend your days lounging on the spacious daybeds, snorkelling in the crystal sea, and exploring the incredible natural treasures and marine life around the island.
Massimo, the friendly resort host, will be happy to help you organise your island adventures including swimming with whale sharks, scuba diving at the Marine Reserve, sunset boat cruises or a tour around the colonial-era ruins.
A daily tour to nearby Chole Island is included in your stay, and you can venture out at dusk to watch bats flying between the islands.
Meals here are a treat of their own, with a mix of Italian and Swahili flavours featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced organic ingredients.
There are seven breezy self-contained bungalows, with five double bungalows and two suites with two bedrooms each. Each bungalow is beautifully styled with antique furniture and intricately carved woodwork that is native to the area. Each bedroom has a ceiling fan, comfortable bed, dresser, ensuite bathroom and a private veranda with a Zanzibari daybed, chairs, coffee table and an armchair.
A luxury beach retreat isn’t complete without its own plunge pool. The Pole Pole plunge pool is particularly special, as the pool deck is made from locally sourced coconut wood and the design is reminiscent of an Arabic sailing dhow. There’s also a shaded area leading to the lush garden. For those looking to relax and indulge, the Alasiri Spa offers a range of sumptuous massage services, while those ready for adventure can visit the scuba dive centre next door.
Pole Pole features a plunge pool, gorgeous gardens and lounge and bar with indoor and outdoor dining areas. The resort houses a 5-Star PADI Dive Centre, with a team of local and expat dive instructors.
The dining area is a beautiful open lodge with ocean views and delectable dishes featuring organic vegetables, fresh seafood, homemade bread, and a special weekly Swahili dinner.
Pole Pole Lodge balances barefoot luxury while maintaining the integrity of the local culture and environment, with locally sourced produce, repurposed wooden furnishings, and sustainable practices. Built with a low-impact design, Pole Pole Lodge is committed to supporting the local community and preserving their piece of unspoiled paradise.
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
