Pole Pole Eco-Lodge - Mafia Island Pole Pole (Swahili for “slowly slowly”) is a small exclusive eco-resort situated on the wonderfully untouched beaches of Mafia Island. The island lies just south of Zanzibar and is very remote and peaceful in comparison, with just a few lodges scattered across its shores. Pole Pole is a traditional but elegant lodge designed utilising the magnificent natural materials native to Tanzania, allowing it to merge flawlessly with its’ stunning setting among the coconut palm trees. Situated on the east coast of the island, on the shores of the crystal clear azure waters of Chole Bay, it is an area known for unrivalled diving and snorkelling opportunities. Pole Pole offers guests the opportunity to continue their safari underwater; an ideal place for those looking for barefoot comfort in a natural environment without the need for all the amenities of a larger resort.
The beach is a stunning stretch of white sand naturally separated by the mangroves at the end. Due to the strong tides common to islands in this area, swimming directly from the shore can only be enjoyed at high tide; however the pool offers a great alternative for a dip or guests can always organise a local dhow boat trip out to a sand bank for a swim! 
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Highlights
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The LodgeThe main area at Pole Pole is a raised wooden structure by the ocean with large palm leaf thatched roofs, dark wood carved furniture and splashes of vibrant African fabrics. Guests can relax around the charming bar or on the wicker furniture in the lounge area. The lodge is small, allowing staff to offer personalised service for their guests, and the food is wonderful and fresh using local ingredients with an Italian flair, reflective of the nationality of the owners. Towards the rear of the property is the swimming pool and small spa area offering a range of treatments.
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AccommodationWith only 7 bungalows, 2 of which can be converted to accommodate 4 people, this lodge is ideal for those looking for a tranquil retreat. Each thatched roof bungalow is raised on stilts set on a slight hill, allowing privacy and direct ocean views. The exterior is sympathetically made entirely from wood and palm, while the interior offers understated elegance in dark wood, with touches of exotic African fabrics, and white washed walls. Each bungalow has a spacious veranda with table and chairs, and a day bed. The rooms have wooden desks, a twin or double bed and an ensuite bathroom with twin basins, hot showers and flush toilets.
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Activities and AdventuresAlthough Pole Pole does not offer an onsite dive center, they work closely with a PADI 5 star certified centre which can be reached just 5 minutes up the beach. The center operates in a variety of languages, including German! The lodge offers a wide variety of excursions to sand banks, small islands, and other beaches along Mafia, for underwater and land activities, such as snorkeling and exploration of ancient ruins.
From October to March adolescent whale sharks can be observed off the west coast of Mafia, and day trips can be arranged through a responsible whale shark encounter operator to visit these magnificent peaceful creatures and if you wish, swim alongside them. Although sightings can never be guaranteed, chances are high and speaking from personal experience, it will be an adventure you will never forget! |
