Mafia Island Marine Park, Marine reserve in Mafia Island, Tanzania
Mafia Island Marine Park is a protected area spanning roughly 822 square kilometers off Tanzania's east coast. It contains coral reefs, mangrove forests, river estuaries, and marine channels that create a complex mosaic of coastal habitats.
The park was established in 1995 after decades of damage from dynamite fishing and illegal coral mining had depleted the marine ecosystem. This action marked a turning point in efforts to restore the region's ocean life.
Ten villages within the park are home to fishing families who have maintained their traditional practices for generations. These communities have adapted their way of life to work within conservation guidelines while preserving their cultural identity.
The park is accessed by boat through the village of Utende, where visitors obtain entry permits at the barrier gate. Keep your receipt throughout your stay and follow designated pathways to protect the fragile marine environment.
The park is home to whale sharks and nesting sea turtles, two species that draw attention from marine researchers worldwide. A distinctive underwater wall in Chole Bay features extensive coral formations that rise dramatically from the seafloor.
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