Hanifaru Bay Reopening on 25th July! Biggest Manta Feeding Hotspot in the World
Thursday 23rd of July 2020
Hanifaru Bay Reopening on 25th July! Biggest Manta Feeding Hotspot in the World
Hanifaru Bay, the biggest manta feeding hotspot in the world, is located in Baa Atoll, Maldives, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The atoll is world-renowned for having some of the richest coral reef systems in the world. You’ll find several resorts arranging programs to the Hanifaru Bay. So get ready to experience this magical feeling of swimming with the majestic creatures from 25th July!
All visitors are required to follow Health Protection Agency Guidelines of the Government of Maldives, Guidelines in re-starting Tourism in Maldives / Ministry of Tourism, Public Health Interventions to prevent COVID 19 Transmission in the Tourism Sector/ Ministry of Health and all guidelines and protocols put in place on the respective Resorts, Guest House, Liveaboards, and other individual institutions when visiting the area.
New Normal Hanifaru MPA Guidelines
1. It is compulsory to inform ranger hotline prior to arrival at Hanifaru Bay the following: Number of Pax, Tour Guide Details, Vessel name (Vessel capacity should not exceed 14, including vessel crew) Resort Name, Name of Dive School and Name of Guest House.
2. All Hanifaru Access Permits need to be purchased online to minimize physical interactions. Payments will be made through transfer (Account Number: 7730000216389, Account Name: Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office). Once Access Permits are purchased email proof of payment to info@broffice.gov.mv.
3. The total number at a given time at Hanifaru MPA until further notice will be reduced to 45 (excluding Tour Guides).
4. The total number of vessels at Hanifaru MPA will be restricted to 5 excluding the Ranger Vessel.
All extractive activities are prohibited at Hanifaru Bay, whilst activities that include “Look, See, Don’t touch” marine and terrestrial tourism and community recreational activities (e.g. snorkelling, sightseeing, picnics) are allowed. Learn more about the Baa atoll Management Plan including Hanifaru Bay here.