Exploring Hanifaru Bay: The Ultimate Manta Ray Experience

Hanifaru bay located in Baa atoll, Maldives is a world famous manta ray point which happens to be the largest congregation of manta rays in the world, Hanifaru bay is recognized as UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 2011. Since then, the bay is protected and monitored by the government of Maldives.

Season

Hanifarubay season starts from May to until November which coincides with southwest monsoon season where wave currents trap and collects high nutrient rich waters with planktons which attract hundreds manta rays along with whale shark for feeding, manta rays and whale sharks feed on planktons. The bay is a funnel shaped bay which traps planktons with ocean current and waves.

Swimming with the Mantas

Mantatours provide all necessary arrangements to make this dream come true.

The rangers in Hanifaru bay provide the information about the presence of manta or whale shark to the nearby tourist establishments and tourists from these establishments rushes to Hanifaru bay in speed boats to see this amazing feeding frenzy which peaks in the new moon and full moon of each month.

Visitors to the bay area swim along side with manta and whale shark which is the largest fish in the ocean. This activity is not to be missed and is a lifetime opportunity to swim with manta and whale sharks.

Conservation and Regulations

Hanifaru bay is monitored by the baa atoll biosphere office located in the island of Eydhafushi which is the capital of Baa atoll. Funded by the government of Maldives the office has hired rangers to monitor and control the bay area being physically present in Hanifaru bay during the season.

 Due to its ecological significance, Hanifaru Bay is a protected area under Maldivian law. Strict regulations are in place to limit the number of visitors at a time to minimize human impact. Additionally, touching or chasing manta and whale shark is strictly prohibited, ensuring a sustainable and responsible tourism experience for the future generations,

Best Time to Visit

 The best time to visit hanifary bay is from May to November which coincides with southwest monsoon season and the best of the season is August and September, especially new moon and full moon offers 99 percent chance of seeing and swimming alongside these majestic creatures. Outside the southwest monsoon season its highly unlikely to see the manta or the whale shark in Hanifaru bay.

Plan Your Trip

 A trip to Hanifaru bay is an jaw dropping experience offering a the great opportunity to swim with these majestic creatures. Manta.tours arrange the trips with certified and experienced guides. Hanifaru bay is a must visit activity within the bucket list of many travelers around the world.

Enjoy the best of Hanifaru bay with manta.tours.