A gorgeous beach lodge on remote Mafia Island in the Indian Ocean, 30 minutes flight from Dar es Salaam. Ras Mbisi is a fully sustainable eco-lodge made from local materials and using local staff and suppliers. The emphasis is on relaxation and enjoying this remote corner of natural paradise! There is no internet access and limited mobile phone coverage - a perfect place to escape the modern world ... There are eight kilometres of untouched, wild beach outside the lodge with no other hotels or lodges in this part of Mafia.
Fresh seafood is of course in abundance, and straight from the local fishermen on the doorstep. Eggs come from the lodges chickens and many vegetables are grown in the lodge garden, other fresh ingrediants are purchased from the local community. Food is served in a combination of international and swahili style. Breakfast buffets contain many local fresh fruits with cereals and pastries and 'full english' cooked plates and eggs or pancakes to order. Lunches are light with plenty of fruit and salads. Morning coffee and afternoon teas are served with fresh baked cakes and sundowner drinks are accompanied by bar snacks. Evening meals are three courses and vary between buffet style and barbeques. A small wine list accompanies delicious food. The restaurant is on the beach front and there is a roof top bar area to enjoy the views.
The accommodation at Ras Mbisi comprises of nine open tented style 'bandas' which are just a few steps from the sandy beach. They all have private bathrooms and a balcony to enjoy the views and the rooms and furniture are built from local sustainable coco-wood from local craftsmen. There is a swimming pool too for relaxing.
Many activities and excursions are available here. Diving is operated from Chole Bay and transfers from the lodge can be organised. There are plenty of other boating activities, village visits and outer island excursions to be enjoyed (see our main Mafia Island page). Sea Kayaks and Dug-out Canoes are available for use free of charge.
One of the highlights here in season is the sighting of Whales and Whale Sharks.
Ras Mbisi is an eco-friendly, sustainable lodge. One of the most abundant and sustainable resources is coco-wood which is the main building material of the lodge. The tropical sun is harnessed by solar power and heats the water. Other power is supplied by a biomass gasifier that is fuelled by waste. The lodge train their local staff who live in Ras Mbisi area and are developing a community project to help raise money for Chungaruma School.
