Butiama Beach is the perfect place to unwind and swim with exciting marine life

Among the natural beauty of the Rufiji Mafia Kilwa Marine Reserve, Butiama Beach is located on the west coast of the Mafia Island. It is close to the main town of Kilindoni and 10 minutes from Mafia airstrip. This much less-visited island provides a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the bustle of neighbouring Zanzibar island.

Ideal for couples, friends or families, and with a maximum occupancy of 32 people, Butiama Beach provides 13 homely bungalows (including two, two-bedroom family rooms). Each bungalow comprises unique, hand-crafted furniture of reclaimed hardwoods from sailing dhows, as well as a spacious veranda complete with a hammock for ultimate relaxation. All of the rooms are en-suite and include mosquito nets, electric fans, as well as 24-hour electricity and UK-style plug sockets. Every bungalow faces north-west towards the Tanzanian mainland, with some providing stunning views of the sea.

At the retreat, guests can make use of the shop, ‘The Green Room’, which sells handmade souvenirs and dine at the Peku Peku restaurant and Chiringuito bar. A swimming pool with surrounding sun loungers is a great place to relax during the day. To really unwind, guests can have a massage at the Butiama Beach spa ‘banda’ (locally made hut). When some activity is in order, Butiama Beach offers a range of marine experiences: from sea kayaking to swimming with whale sharks (November to March). At the northern point of Mafia Island, guests can have a guided tour of lighthouse ruins left over from the first world war, followed by a picnic and swim at Kanga beach.