Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
whom depend on its natural resources for their livelihoods. Accordingly, the
park has been classified as a multi-use area to assist local communities in devel-
oping sustainable practices that allow conservation and resource use to coexist.
The main way to visit is on a diving excursion with one of the Chole Bay dive
operators.
Entry fees (payable by everyone, whether you dive or not) are US$20/5 per
adult/child per day. They are collected at a barrier gate across the main road
about 1km before Utende, and can be paid in any major currency, cash only.
Save your receipt, as it will be checked again when you leave. The
park office
(
023-240 2690;
www.marineparktz.com
) is in Utende, just north of Pole Pole
Bungalow Resort. Work is under way to expand park boundaries. When this oc-
curs, marine park fees will be payable by guests at almost all of the island's
lodges.
SLEEPING & EATING
For all Chole Bay accommodation (including all budget hotels in Utende situated both be-
fore and after entering the park gate and accommodation on Chole Island), you'll need to
pay daily marine park entry fees, whether you go diving or not. These fees are not included
in accommodation rates.
MAFIA ISLAND
Mafia Island Lodge
LODGE $$
( 022-260 1530, 0786-303049;
www.mafialodge.com
; Chole Bay; s/d with half-board
from US$114/190; Jun-Apr; ) This lodge - the former government hotel - is set
on a long lawn sloping down to a small beach, and is a recommended choice, especially
for families. There's a mix of 'standard' and 'superior' rooms and two spacious family
suites. The main restaurant, under a soaring
makuti
(thatched) roof, overlooks Chole Bay.
There's a beachside bar and a diving and watersports centre. Half-board and full-board op-
tions only.
Kinasi Lodge
LODGE $$$
( 022-284 2525, 0777-424588;
www.mafiaisland.com
;
Chole Bay; s/d full-board from
US$230/380; ) A lovely choice, with 14 stone-and-thatch cottages set on a long,
palm-shaded hillside sloping down to Chole Bay, a genteel ambience and a spa. The
Moroccan-influenced decor is at its most attractive in the evening, when the grounds are lit
by small lanterns. There's an open lounge area with satellite TV, a small beach, windsurfing
