Utende Seacliff Resort -Mafia Island

Tucked away on a quiet cliffside with stunning ocean views, Utende Sea Cliff Resort is a peaceful escape on beautiful Mafia Island. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind, enjoy fresh seafood, explore the sea through diving and snorkeling, and soak in the warm, laid-back vibe of island life in Tanzania.

Getting to Utende Sea Cliff Resort is simple and stress-free. Fly into Dar es Salaam Airport, then take a short domestic flight to Mafia Island Airport, which is just 15 minutes from the resort. Free airport transfers are available for all guests. The resort is located around 13 kilometers from the nearest town, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to local life and attractions.

Scuba diving in Mafia Island offers an incredible variety of sites within the marine park, including coral gardens, turtle reef, shark point, manta reef, and even a historic wreck. With most dive spots just a short boat ride away, you can enjoy everything from relaxed reef dives to thrilling drift dives, as well as night dives and whale shark excursions—making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced divers.

[Read More: Africa Dive Travel Guide]

The locally inspired wooden chalets are designed with natural materials and positioned along the lush cliffs of Mafia Island, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by tropical gardens and ocean views. The resort features a total of 9 chalets, each housing 2 spacious rooms—with a choice of Sea View or Garden View—measuring approximately 70 m² and equipped with essential comforts for a relaxing island stay. Rooms are equipped with:

• Private en-suite bathroom with hot water shower and bidet
• Air conditioning and ceiling fan
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Private balcony or patio with seating area
• Mosquito net
• Closet/wardrobe and vanity table
• Interconnecting room option (select units – ideal for families or groups)
• Daily housekeeping service
• Towels and basic toiletries provided

Guests can enjoy a delicious blend of authentic African and Italian cuisine, freshly prepared and served with warm island hospitality. Meals are offered through plated service, ensuring personalized attention and quality presentation. The resort offers a half-board meal plan, which includes breakfast and dinner. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, allowing all guests to enjoy a comfortable and satisfying dining experience.

The scuba diving program operates within the protected Mafia Island Marine Park, offering access to a wide range of exceptional dive sites. Guests can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside whale sharks, and enjoy experiences in mangrove-rich coastal areas. The dive offerings include, but are not limited to: 

• Colorful coral gardens
• Night dives under the stars
• Whale shark excursions
• Snorkeling in nearby mangrove and reef areas

Diving activities are arranged through a trusted off-site dive center located nearby, offering easy access to Mafia Island’s top dive sites. The professional dive team provides a full range of services, including guided dives, equipment rental, and PADI-certified courses for all experience levels. Transportation to and from the dive center is organized by the resort, ensuring a smooth and convenient diving experience. With most dive spots just a short boat ride away, guests can enjoy the vibrant marine life of the Mafia Island Marine Park with the support of knowledgeable, safety-conscious instructors.