Chole Mjini
Chole Island
Accommodation
Chole Mjini offers a unique experience and is in no way comparable to a "normal" hotel. The lodge has limited electricity and there are no roads or vehicles - Chole Mjini is designed for those guests who like and appreciate the Robinson Crusoe lifestyle.
Constructed under lush treetop canopies, Chole Mjini comprises seven individually furnished, thatched tree houses set atop high stilts. The tree houses are accessed via wooden staircases and feature a beautiful bed, open-air shower (with warm water) and simple privacy. Five of the houses have two stories providing sufficient room for families. Several offer ocean views; others are nestled in the forest. All of the lodge's tree houses are open-sided, allowing the fresh ocean air to circulate freely.
The Red Herring Café is solar powered and is the only place with (220V) charging points for Chole Mjini guests. Standard three prong UK or 2 prong plugs fit. There is also WiFi at the Red Herring Café, reception and sunset bar.
The only draw-back: There is no beach close to the lodge.
Location
The lodge is situated south of Zanzibar on Chole Island, one of the islands that make up the Mafia Archipelago. Chole Bay is literally on the doorstep. The lodge is actually built on the ruins of Chole Town, which was a relatively busy trading post in the 19th century; the silent walls are now all that remain of its past.
From the airport at Kilindoni on Mafia Island, it's roughly a 30-minute drive across the island to Utende beach, followed by a 15-minute boat ride to Chole Island. You will stop at the gate for Mafia Marine Park on route to pay the park fees; these must be paid locally and by credit card (cash not accepted). There is no jetty at Chole so guests must wade through water - remember to bring suitable footwear.
Wildlife
Mafia Island Marine Park was the very first marine park in Tanzania. The aquatic and island biodiversity is rich and varied and includes whale shark, dolphin and monkey, bush pig, large palm and baobab.
Mafia is a paradise for divers and snorkelers and offers the chance of seeing whale shark. Great snorkeling is available at all times. SCUBA diving is best after the tradewinds switch in September or October. Turtle hatchings peak earlier in June /July but there are still a few nests to visit throughout the year. The whale shark season runs from the beginning of October to February, sometimes up to March. The rainy season starts mid March.
Activities
The lodge offers dhow trips in a traditional sailing boat to a sandy island for snorkelling, visits to the local village, trips on the island and diving in the lagoon or from a boat on the open sea.
Good to know
The water can receide quite far from the beach at low tide. This is normal at most places in the archipelago.
Chole Mjini on the map
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