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Experience Hanifaru Bay
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Experience Hanifaru Bay

Discover one of the Maldives' most famous manta ray gathering places, right here in Baa Atoll

Hanifaru Bay

A Special Place Beneath the Surface

Hanifaru Bay is one of the most remarkable marine areas in the Maldives. Located in Baa Atoll's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the bay is known for seasonal gatherings of manta rays, which come together to feed in its plankton-rich waters.

From Kihaadhoo, you can join a guided snorkeling excursion to experience this extraordinary natural spectacle for yourself. There is no fixed script to the experience: conditions, tides and marine life determine what the day brings, making every visit a little different.

Main Season for Hanifaru Bay: May till October

Marine-life sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed

  • Manta ray feeding at Hanifaru Bay
  • Manta rays gathered at Hanifaru Bay
  • Manta ray in the shallow waters of the bay
  • Snorkeler observing a manta ray

What Makes It Special

A Marine World Like No Other

  • Manta Ray

    Manta Ray

    Large, gentle pelagics with wingspans up to 4 meters, famous for their graceful underwater acrobatics and train-like feeding behavior.

  • Turtle

    Turtle

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  • Whale Shark

    Whale Shark

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  • Manta Ray Gatherings

    Manta Ray Gatherings

    During the right conditions, large numbers of manta rays gather in the bay to feed on plankton

The Experience

Let the Ocean Lead the Way

Your Hanifaru experience begins with a boat trip from Kihaadhoo towards the bay. Once there, our team will brief you on the conditions and responsible snorkeling guidelines before you enter the water.

The experience is all about observing rather than chasing. When manta rays are present, you may find yourself watching them glide, circle and feed around you, sometimes with several animals moving through the water at once.

Because Hanifaru is a protected natural environment, access and activities are regulated, and the experience may be adjusted according to weather, sea conditions and the guidance of local authorities.

Explore Diving
Respect the Ocean

See Them. Don't Disturb Them.

Hanifaru Bay is a protected marine environment, and preserving it is part of the experience. Our guides will explain the local rules and responsible snorkeling practices before entering the water.

  • Keep your distance

    Give manta rays and other marine life space to move naturally

  • Never touch or chase

    Observe the animals without interfering with their behaviour

  • Follow your guide

    Local conditions and regulations determine how the experience is conducted

Snorkeler watching a manta ray at a respectful distance

Explore Diving

Experience Hanifaru Bay

Diving Center
  • Shark Dives

    Shark Dives

    Experience the thrill of diving alongside sharks while observing these incredible predators in their natural environment.
    from $85 Details