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This expedition is for ocean lovers looking for more than a typical wildlife tour, but for an adventure rooted in purpose and education.

If swimming with whale sharks is on your bucket list and you've ever been curious about marine conservation, this experience offers the chance to contribute to real citizen science, no science degree required!

Alongside unforgettable wildlife encounters, you'll immerse yourself in the culture of Tanzania, explore remote islands, and learn directly from conservation professionals.

No freediving certification is required.

Travelers should consult a travel clinic or their physician 4–8 weeks before departure and travel insurance is mandatory.

To travel to Tanzania, mandatory entry requirements include:

• Yellow Fever Certificate

Additionally, It is recommended for most travelers:

• Hepatitis A

• Typhoid

• Ensure routine vaccines are up to date:

  • Tetanus (Td/Tdap)

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

  • Polio

  • Rabies

  • Malaria (a risk throughout Tanzania)

Most international travelers will fly into Dar es Salaam (DAR), Tanzania's main international airport.

From there, it's a short domestic flight (approximately 30 minutes) to Mafia Island Airport (MFA). Return flights are estimated around $300.

Please note flights are not included and you are responsible for your own transportation to Mafia Island.

Most international travelers do require a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. For many nationalities, the easiest option is to apply online for a Tanzania eVisa before you travel.

Check your eligibility through the official immigration portal here: Tanzania eVisa Application Portal

We recommend checking the requirements for your specific nationality and applying a few weeks before departure. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.

Yes! In order to book this trip and secure your spot, a $500 deposit is required.

After your deposit is paid you have the option to pay the full amount or 6 payments of $600.

The final payment is due 30 days before our trp.

The water around Mafia Island is averaging to 28–29°C (82–84°F). Our expedition will occur during one of the warmest times of the year to be in the water.

Highly recommended: Long-sleeve SPF rash guard and leggings to protect from sun exposure, since you'll spend 6–7 hours on the boat each day.

We are visiting wild animals in their natural environment, and no ethical wildlife operator can guarantee sightings.

That said, we have intentionally scheduled this expedition during Tanzania's peak whale shark season, when sightings are historically very reliable and extend our expedition to 10 days to increase our chances of encounters.

Our experienced local guides spend every day on the water and know the area intimately, giving us the best possible opportunity to encounter whale sharks.