Budget
Tanzania
Mafia Island
Butiama Marine Camp is a rustic eco-camp situated on Mafia Island, right along the shores of the Indian Ocean. Designed with a focus on simplicity and natural beauty, the camp provides a down-to-earth experience for travelers looking to explore the unique marine life of Mafia Island. It is particularly popular among divers and snorkelers eager to access the nearby Mafia Island Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and whale shark encounters.
Guests value the camp’s relaxed vibe and the staff’s local knowledge, which helps create a genuine connection to the island. Rates generally range from $100 to $250 per night, with various diving and snorkeling packages available.
Attributes:
Beachfront Location, Eco-Friendly, Small and Intimate
Rooms
Butiama Marine Camp offers a range of simple, yet comfortable bungalows and tents, designed to immerse guests in the natural surroundings. Key features include:
Rustic Bungalows and Tents: Accommodations are equipped with comfortable beds, basic furnishings, and mosquito nets, creating a cozy retreat after a day of exploration.
Private or Shared Bathrooms: Bungalows include private en-suite bathrooms with showers, while some tents use shared, eco-friendly facilities.
Natural Decor: Built from local materials, the accommodations blend into the landscape, with open-air designs that keep guests close to nature.
The camp is designed to provide a low-impact experience, catering to travelers seeking a more rustic, eco-friendly stay.
Meals
Dining at Butiama Marine Camp is a communal experience, with meals prepared from fresh, local ingredients and enjoyed in an open-air dining area. The food is inspired by Swahili and coastal flavors, with a focus on seafood and tropical produce.
Breakfast: A variety of options including fruits, eggs, and pastries, served alongside locally brewed coffee, providing energy for a day of diving or snorkeling.
Lunch and Dinner: Meals highlight local flavors, featuring seafood dishes, Swahili curries, and fresh salads. Vegetarian options are available, and special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.
Beachside BBQs: The camp occasionally hosts BBQ dinners on the beach, allowing guests to dine with ocean views and enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere.
Guests often appreciate the simplicity and freshness of the meals, which reflect the local culinary traditions of Mafia Island.
Accessibility
Accessible by a short flight from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island, Butiama Marine Camp is a 20-minute drive from the island’s airstrip. The camp provides transfers to and from the airport, ensuring that guests can easily reach the property and begin exploring.
The camp’s simple layout is mostly flat, allowing easy navigation around the property. Its proximity to the beach and marine park means that guests have direct access to water-based activities without the need for extensive travel.
