Are you ready to have some close encounters with one of the most majestic creatures? Hanifaru Bay – the biggest manta feeding hotspot in the world, located at UNESCO biosphere reserve in Baa Atoll, Maldives is open from 25th July.
With the opening of Maldivian borders to the world and the steady increase in tourist arrivals, Maldives is offering a chance to experience the best of Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Ensuring visitors enjoy a safe experience, the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve office has implemented a new set of SOPs, in line with the “new normal”.
Hanifaru Bay is a heaven for people who love snorkeling with manta rays and whale sharks. This UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Maldives is legally designated as a Marine Protected Area.
Hanifaru was declared protected on 5 June 2009 and the protected area of coverage includes the uninhabited island of Hanifaru and the reef of Hanifaru extending to 200m.
Hanifaru Bay remains a jewel in Baa Atoll, the place where – in season – the world’s largest gathering of manta rays can be seen. Snorkeling with these peaceful ocean giants is an unforgettable experience.
The season runs from June to November each year and sightings depend on many factors such as tide times, moon phases and currents.
The site is biologically and biodiversity significant for Baa Atoll, Maldives and globally. It is also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles.
