Chole Mjini Treehouse Lodge

Walk through Chole village on a simple guided or self-led visit. You’ll move along narrow paths, passing homes, small shops and shared spaces used by the community. If you prefer, a staff member from the village can join you and explain daily routines and local customs. You are asked to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Along the way, you can stop at community projects supported by your stay. A visit to the boatyard shows how traditional dhows are built by hand using basic tools and experience. It’s an easy way to spend time in the village while seeing how people live and work.

Head out on a traditional mashua to explore Chole Bay and nearby islands. You’ll move at a steady pace, with the crew managing the sail and route, though you can try steering if you like. The day can include stops at sandbanks for a picnic, short visits to Juani Island or a walk through the old ruins of Kua.

You’ll also pass the Blue Lagoon, the jellyfish pond or the Amazon Channel, depending on timing. Routes stay flexible and are planned around weather and tides. It’s a relaxed way to move between places while spending time on the water throughout the day.

End your day with a sunset sailing trip on a traditional dhow across Chole Bay. You’ll head out in the late afternoon as the crew sets the sail and guides the route back. You’ll sit back or shift around the boat, watching the light change as you move across the water. Drinks are served on board and the pace stays steady without any fixed schedule.

There’s no set activity, so you can talk, stay quiet or simply watch the surroundings as the day comes to a close. It’s a simple way to return after a day out, with time spent on the water before evening.