Located on the untouched west coast of Mafia Island, Butiama Beach offers deserted beaches, total tranquility, beautiful sunsets and some of the best whale shark encounters in the world. Passionately run by owners, Maura and Moez, they are on hand to ensure you have the most relaxing time possible whilst you soak up the beautiful natural surroundings, enjoy delicious fresh food and explore this stunning archipelago on a fantastic variety of activities.

“Butiama Beach is all about relaxation in truly special surroundings. We want our guests to unwind, let go and be themselves and help them along by providing a laid-back atmosphere coupled with ensuring we do everything possible for each guest to have the most perfect stay.”

Maura, Owner, Butiama Beach

Receiving far fewer visitors than its northern neighbour Zanzibar, Butiama Beach is a barefoot beach retreat on the untouched west coast of Mafia Island. Located on a beautiful beach on the opposite side of the island from the Marine National Park, and subsequently other lodges on the island, it benefits from a very quiet location that makes it the perfect spot to relax after an adrenaline fuelled safari! From November to March the west coast is also an incredible spot to swim with whale sharks, making Butiama the perfect base!

Dotted among swaying palm trees the 10 thatched Beach Bungalows face the ocean with spacious private verandas complete with lounge area and hammocks to really enjoy the view. The interiors are simple but stylish with unique hardwood beds reclaimed from traditional sailing dhows, crisp white linen and colourful local sarongs, called Kikois.  Ideal for families, the 2 family bungalows have two separate bedrooms which share a bathroom.

Overlooking the beach the lodge also has its open sided restaurant, comfy beach lounge and welcoming sand floor bar called Chiringuito which is the perfect spot to enjoy a Butiama cocktail or ice-cold Kilimanjaro beer as you relax with a good book or learn the local game of Bao. To ensure the highest levels of relaxation are achieved there is also a massage banda and large pool with sun loungers.

With some of the best whale shark encounters in the world and a marine national park on the opposite side of the island, the in-house PADI dive centre at Butiama can arrange some incredible underwater adventures. Alternatively you can grab a kayak, set up a fishing line or walk into the village and Maura is also on hand to help arrange 4×4 excursions around the island and dhow cruises to many of the exotic islands in the archipelago.

When not exploring the islands by 4×4, foot or boat, the lodge really is the perfect spot to relax and the atmosphere created by Maura & Moez is positively lazy – relax in your hammock, laze around the pool, enjoy seafood lunches and wait, drink in hand, for that sunset!