experience the unesco biosphere reserve
Hanifaru Bay is a world-renowned site within Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, recognized in 2011 for the incredible biodiversity in Baa Atoll. Nestled on its northeastern corner, Hanifaru Bay is one of the top 10 snorkelling sites on the planet. Only 15 mins by speedboat from Amilla Resort and Residences, the incredibly diverse ecosystem of Hanifaru Bay makes it one of the best places to swim with manta rays and the occasional whale sharks in the Maldives. These gentle giants are generally elusive creatures and are vulnerable to extinction, making the Baa Atoll, and Hanifaru Bay, even more special.
Manta Ray Season Maldives
From June to November, Hanifaru Bay is teeming with vibrant marine life – and when the tide, moon and other conditions are right, manta rays in the Maldives aggregate in unprecedented numbers. With 4,400 individual mantas recorded, the Maldives manta rays are one of the preeminent manta populations in the world. Peak times for spotting them during this period are during the full moon and the new moon. Plan your visit to Amilla during the Maldives manta ray season for a rare chance to swim with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
A Diverse Ecosystem
As a Marine Protected Area and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hanifaru Bay offers astonishing aquatic biodiversity. Mass gatherings of manta rays and the occasional gentle whale shark gather in large numbers to feed upon the massive quantities of zooplankton trapped here during the high tide. This feeding frenzy is an incredible spectacle and has led Hanifaru Bay to become an area of scientific research and the most famous natural attraction in the Maldives. This diverse ecosystem makes swimming and snorkelling in the Maldives an unforgettable experience.
Visiting Hanifaru Bay
When it comes to Hanifaru Bay Resorts, you will not find a spot more perfect than Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences. Our team at H.U.B. Snorkelling and Watersports Centre are experts at tracking manta rays and whale sharks in the Maldives. The team will whisk you away on a short boat journey to the bay, where you can then plunge into the water to observe the abundant wildlife. Visitors can also join Amilla’s efforts to preserve this unique and diverse ecosystem by sponsoring a coral frame and contributing to the longevity and beauty of the reef. Book a thrilling excursion to Hanifaru Bay – the experience of a lifetime.
CONDITIONS
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Manta rays and whale sharks in the Maldives are wild creatures. We can never guarantee a sighting. Wildlife sightings are subject to weather conditions, the ocean climate and the temperament of these gentle oceanic giants.
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As a Marine Protected Area and Maldives UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, regulations regarding the dates and times of visits protect the aquatic wildlife and limit the number of visitors allowed in the area at once.
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Diving is not permissible at Hanifaru Bay.
The Amilla App
Many of the activites above can be pre-booked in the Amilla App. This app, exclusive to guests of Amilla, makes booking effortless for activities, dinner reservations, and other amenities during your stay at the resort. The app will also allow guests to remain updated with the latest offers and news from Amilla. Start planning your stay today.
