Mafia is virtually unknown, a short light aircraft flight to the south of Zanzibar, with the majority of tourists visiting for the diving and snorkelling – something that Mafia has become very known for, for all the right reasons. Butiama is situated on the west coast and just outside the Marine Park boundaries, just 10 minutes by car from the airstrip, on a beautiful stretch of beach. The family owned and run beach property consists of a large thatched main building with lounge, bar and swimming pool, such a lovely place to take five.

All of the 13 en-suite bungalows are spread across the property, by the beach and amongst the tropical gardens and forest. Each room comes with unique hand-crafted furniture and are decorated with colourful hand-woven sarongs and room facilities include electric fans and safety deposit boxes. There is no doubt that the main draw for Mafia is the marine life but this beautiful little island shouldn’t be overlooked, if you like the thought of being one of only 2000 tourists that visit each year then go now before others find it.