Chole Mjini

PLAN MY TRIP

Just a short distance off the coast of Tanzania lies the hidden paradise of Chole Island and the charming jungle island retreat of Chole Mjini Lodge.

Accommodations at the lodge consist of seven treehouses placed around the property for the best views and privacy. Each treehouse is open to nature and features a king-sized bed protected by a wrap around mosquito net. Some of the treehouses even come with a second level with additional beds. All of the rooms enjoy sea views. The bathroom comes with a shower. Every treehouse is unique with some being constructed around a baobab, another in a ruin, while another treehouse sits on rocks under a tamarind tree. From the decks, guests can relax and watch the ample animal life and listen to the lullaby of the sea. There are even occasional visits from nesting fish eagles, flitting butterflies, and flying foxes.

The lodge is located on Chole Island within the Mafia Archipelago just off the coast of Tanzania and to the South of the more well-known islands of Zanzibar. A less-traversed paradise, Mafia island’s mangrove-lined shores, white sandy beaches, and azure blue waters invite guests to unwind and escape from the noise of life. Some reed-lined lakes are home to hippos. While the jungle forests are home to flying foxes, bush babies, elephant shrew, monkeys, and 120 species of birds as well as five species of butterflies. Chole island lies in the heart of the Marine Park on the East coast of the main Mafia Island.

Almost half the coastline has been designated a marine park. Plus, the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and teeming fringing reef provide for a wide variety of water sports and activities. The lodge can arrange private diving, otherwise guests can take advantage of the services offered by ‘Mafia Island Diving’, a 5 * PADI dive center nearby. Snorkeling above brightly colored school of fish is a great way to spend a day. While other activities include sunset cruises, whale watching, picnics, island excursions, and trips to Chole Village. An exploration of Popo Park reveals thousands of fruit bats known as flying foxes. There is also swimming with whale sharks or even the opportunity to watch green and hawksbill turtle nest hatch.

The main area of the lodge features a rooftop bar, perfect for star-watching. At night, guests gather around a candle-lit table in various garden settings for a delicious meal using the flavorful spices and coconut milk of Swahili cuisine as well as fresh-caught fish and locally grown produce. Chole Mjini is designed as an escape from reality and therefore has no television or Wi-Fi in the rooms. However, there is a solar powered charging station and Wi-Fi at the Red Herring reception café, which is also the perfect location to unwind at the end of the day and watch the sun set over the water.