Pole Pole is a little slice of Italy on the edge of Chole Bay on the eastern coast of Mafia Island. Chole Bay itself is the core of the Mafia Marine Park, so the diving and snorkelling is second to none. Just seven thatch bungalow suites are dotted around the tropical gardens of this often-overlooked eco-lodge. It’s simple but stylish and very well run.
Most of the rooms on Mafia Island are built up on stilts. All are very comfortable, well decorated with lots of floaty muslin drapes and local mahogany furniture, usually with decent sized bathrooms and their own verandah overlooking the bay.