# Kitu Kiblu > A responsible whale shark encounter operator on Mafia Island, Tanzania ## Contact - Email: info@kitukiblu.com - Home: +255 767 587 901 - Address: P.O. Box 20, Mafia Island, Tanzania - Book online: https://www.nightsbridge.co.za/bridge/book?bbid=26863 ## Pages - [Home](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/): Kitu Kiblu runs half-day encounter trips allowing visitors to interact with whale sharks in a safe, relaxed and respectful way. The encounter trips are launched from the KituKiblu Beach Lodge, Kilind… - [Encounters](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/activities/whale-shark-encounters/): Kitu Kiblu offers half-day trips to individuals and groups who wish to view (and usually have close-up, relaxed encounters with) wild whale sharks, learn about their biology and ongoing conservation… - [About](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/pages/about-us/): Whale sharks aggregate in the channel between Mafia Island and mainland Africa and are easily seen surface feeding, usually between September and March, providing an opportunity to study and interact… - [Accommodation](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/pages/accommodation-2/): Our beach houses are tents placed within stilt houses, on the beach. The houses have electrical charge points, lights and fans. These units have shared bathrooms and toilets. Our sister lodge, Chole… - [Internships](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/pages/kitu-kiblu-internships/): Kitu Kiblu offers internship programs for those interested in whale shark conservation or seeking training and experience in marine conservation and tourism. This program is a unique opportunity to i… - [Location](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/maps/location/) - [Offers](https://www.kitukiblu.co.tz/offers/) ## FAQ ### What is Kitu Kiblu? Kitu Kiblu is a responsible whale shark operator on Mafia Island, Tanzania and a lodge. Our stilted beach houses on the beachfront in Kilindoni offer a relaxed and social stay connected to the ocean, with responsible whale shark encounters, marine adventures, and hands-on internships rooted in conservation, curiosity, and exploration. ### Do I need experience to join the whale shark encounters? No previous experience is needed. As long as you are comfortable in the water and able to swim, you are welcome to join. Before entering the water, our team provides a full briefing covering whale shark behaviour, biology, conservation challenges, and how to interact with them responsibly. Our guides are with you throughout the experience to ensure both guest safety and respectful encounters for the animals. ### When is the best time to visit Mafia Island for whale sharks? Whale shark season on Mafia Island typically runs from October to March, when sightings are most consistent. Because whale sharks are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed, but this period offers the highest likelihood of encounters. ### Do you offer accommodation at Kitu Kiblu? Yes, Kitu Kiblu offers relaxed and affordable beachfront accommodation in Kilindoni, Mafia Island. Accommodation options include: 9 stilted beach houses 8 dormitory rooms Guests also have access to: A restaurant with WiFi The Boat Shed Bar with pool table A relaxed social atmosphere ideal for divers, ocean lovers, backpackers, and travellers looking to explore Mafia Island Staying at Kitu Kiblu also makes whale shark excursions more affordable, since no additional transfer to the departure poin… ### How do I get to Kitu Kiblu on Mafia Island? The easiest way to reach Kitu Kiblu is by flying to Mafia Island Airport in Kilindoni. We are located approximately 5 minutes from the airport by tuk tuk or car. It is possible to walk if travelling light, but we are happy to arrange transfers if needed. Flights to Mafia Island There are daily flights to Mafia Island from several destinations in Tanzania, including: Dar es Salaam Zanzibar Flight time: Approximately 30 minutes from Dar es Salaam Approximately 45 minutes from Zanzibar Flights ope… ### Is there WiFi at Kitu Kiblu? Yes, WiFi is available in the restaurant area. Mobile reception on Mafia Island is generally good, and many guests also choose to purchase a local SIM card or eSIM for additional connectivity during their stay. We are happy to help guide you through the process if needed. ### Do you have snorkelling equipment for hire? Yes, we have masks, fins, snorkels, and reef boots available for hire in a range of sizes. Whether you want to snorkel straight from the beach or explore Mafia Island's coral reefs and marine life on excursions, we can help get you equipped. ### Can you cater for gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian diets? Yes, no problem at all. We offer gluten-free baked options and serve plenty of fresh vegetables, salads, and locally sourced seafood. Vegetarian guests are always provided with protein-rich alternatives at meals. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when making your booking so we can prepare accordingly. ### Can I charge my camera, laptop, or other electronics? Yes, electronics can be charged in the restaurant area. The restaurant is also a comfortable place to work remotely, relax, or charge devices while using the WiFi. Standard UK three-prong plugs and most European two-prong plugs work in Tanzania. South African round plugs generally do not fit. ### What else can you do on Mafia Island besides whale sharks? Mafia Island offers far more than whale shark encounters, with activities available throughout the year. Guests can enjoy: World-class scuba diving and snorkelling Sandbank trips and traditional dhow sailing The Blue Lagoon Day trips to remote and untouched beaches along the coast Visits to the historic lighthouse Visits to Chole Island with ruins from Shirazi and Omani times Kua Ruins Birdlife and marine wildlife encounters Sea turtle hatching season during June and July Mafia Island is known… ### Do you offer internships? Yes, Kitu Kiblu offers hands-on marine internships connected to both whale shark tourism and coral restoration. Whale Shark Internship Our Whale Shark Internship provides practical experience in responsible marine tourism, conservation, and ocean operations. Interns assist with daily whale shark excursions, learn boat handling and sailing skills, and work alongside guides, researchers, and visiting marine biologists. Coral Restoration Internship In collaboration with Ropes of Hope, the Coral Re…