Snorkel with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay
Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll is one of the world's premier sites to snorkel with feeding manta rays. The shallow, protected bay concentrates plankton during the southwest monsoon, attracting large aggregations of reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi) and sometimes whale sharks. This is a regulated marine protected site inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — visits are controlled to minimize disturbance and protect the animals.
Location
Hanifaru Bay, Baa Atoll Marine Protected Area, Baa Atoll (nearest local hub: Dharavandhoo Island), Maldives
Duration
2–6 hours (typical half-day trip 2–3 hours including boat transfer; full-day and liveaboard options available)
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May to November (southwest monsoon). Peak manta activity: often June–October. Visits outside this window are possible but manta encounters are less predictable.
Pricing
Typical price range: USD 80–200 per person for a half-day/snorkel trip from nearby islands (Dharavandhoo/Ari). Liveaboard packages that include Hanifaru visits range from USD 800–2,500 depending on duration and comfort level. Notes: prices vary by operator, season, and whether transfers, park fees or park permits are included; always confirm what is covered.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Up-close snorkeling with multiple reef manta rays feeding in the plankton-rich bay
Site located inside a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Baa Atoll) — high conservation value
Shallow, clear water ideal for snorkelers and photographers
Often paired with other Baa Atoll snorkel sites and island visits
Chance encounters with whale sharks and abundant reef life around the atoll
Itinerary
Collection from your resort/local guesthouse or meet at the Dharavandhoo harbor (time depends on operator).
Bring: passport copy (if requested), snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, reef-safe sunscreen, water and light snacks.
Short speedboat ride to Hanifaru Bay (typically 20–60 minutes depending on departure point).
Expect some spray and possible choppy seas; wear a lifejacket during transit.
Park ranger/guide briefing on rules: no touching, maintain distance, no flash photography, and entry limits.
Important: Follow the guide and ranger instructions — Hanifaru has strict visitor limits and time slots to protect manta behavior.
Guided snorkel with the manta aggregation — sessions are usually 20–45 minutes per turn depending on crowds/permit limits.
Keep fins below the surface and avoid sudden movements. Stay calm and follow the rotation system so everyone gets a chance.
Return to the boat/harbor, quick debrief and transfer back to accommodation.
Many operators provide photos/short video for purchase; respect any additional fees.
Safety Requirements
Be a competent swimmer and comfortable snorkeling in open water.
Wear a lifejacket if required by the operator or for your comfort.
No touching or chasing mantas — maintain distance and never block their path.
Do not use flash photography; avoid dive-lights directly on animals.
Use reef-safe sunscreen or wear protective swimwear to avoid harming the ecosystem.
Follow all instructions from guides and Marine Protected Area rangers.
Tips
Book early during May–November; Hanifaru slots are limited and sell out on peak dates.
Bring your own well-fitting mask/snorkel and a lightweight reef-safe sunscreen.
Use a snorkel vest or request a lifejacket if you get tired easily — sessions may feel long when observing many animals.
Bring a small waterproof camera or action camera on a short lanyard; secure it — avoid long dangling straps that can contact animals.
Expect short, timed rotations in the water — be patient and conserve energy for your turn.
If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions (medication, ginger) before the boat ride.
Respect the environment: do not leave litter, do not stand on coral, and follow local guidelines.
Consider overnighting on a liveaboard or staying on Dharavandhoo to maximize your chance of seeing mantas.
