Seamlessly integrated into its surroundings in both culture and environment
Location: Tucked into tropical gardens overlooking Chole Bay on the southeast coast of Mafia Island, Pole Pole Lodge is far from the usual beach resort experience. Accessible only by light aircraft, it’s a world away from the everyday – and all the better for it.
Rooms: There are just seven elegant bungalow suites, designed to blend effortlessly into the natural surroundings. Each has a large private veranda with views of the bay. Two of the bungalows are suitable for families (children aged 10+), with two bedrooms and a shared bathroom. Interiors are simple but stylish, with a strong focus on comfort and sustainability.
Amenities: Meals are fresh and varied, with a creative blend of Swahili flavours and Italian flair – special dietary needs can be catered for with notice. The lodge’s dhow-shaped swimming pool is a lovely spot to cool off, and the small Alasiri Spa offers relaxing massages and essential oil treatments.
Activities: Mafia Island Marine Park is renowned for its unspoilt coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving (for all levels). Pole Pole also offers daily boat trips to sandbanks and nearby islands, village visits, 4x4 island tours and gentle forest walks. Whale shark encounters (seasonal) and turtle hatching are unforgettable experiences for nature lovers.
Sustainability: Pole Pole is one of East Africa’s leading eco-resorts. The lodge was built with local materials and minimal environmental impact, and works closely with Mafia Island Marine Park to promote marine conservation. Most staff come from the surrounding communities, and the lodge supports local education and environmental initiatives year-round.
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