UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - Home to Hanifaru Bay and Luxury Eco-Resorts
Baa Atoll is one of the Maldives' most celebrated destinations, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2011 for its exceptional marine biodiversity. Located in the central western part of the Maldives, this atoll is home to Hanifaru Bay, one of the world's largest manta ray feeding destinations.
With its pristine coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Baa Atoll offers visitors a perfect blend of luxury and environmental consciousness. The atoll features some of the Maldives' most exclusive eco-friendly resorts alongside traditional Maldivian island communities.
Pioneering eco-luxury resort with spacious villas, exceptional dining, and a strong sustainability focus.
View Resort
Luxury resort with a world-class marine research center and exceptional wellness offerings.
View Resort
Contemporary luxury resort with spacious villas, excellent dining, and vibrant house reef.
View Resort
World-famous marine protected area where hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks gather to feed on plankton between May and November.
Depth: 5-15m | Level: All levels | Best Time: May-November
Vibrant reef with stunning coral formations, home to reef sharks, eagle rays, and a diverse array of tropical fish species.
Depth: 10-30m | Level: Intermediate | Best Time: Year-round
Experience the thrill of swimming alongside gentle giants at Hanifaru Bay, one of the world's largest manta ray feeding stations.
Visit traditional Maldivian islands like Eydhafushi and Thulhaadhoo to experience authentic culture and witness local craftsmanship.
Embark on a sunset cruise to spot playful spinner dolphins that frequently visit the waters around Baa Atoll.
Baa Atoll is located approximately 126 km northwest of Male' and can be reached by:
Most luxury resorts in Baa Atoll arrange seaplane transfers directly from Male' International Airport.
The best time to visit Baa Atoll depends on your interests:
For the ultimate Baa Atoll experience, visit between June and October when manta rays gather in large numbers at Hanifaru Bay.
In June 2011, Baa Atoll was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its exceptional biodiversity and the sustainable development practices implemented by local communities and resorts.
The reserve covers the entire atoll, including:
Visitors to Baa Atoll are encouraged to practice responsible tourism and follow guidelines to help preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.
This protected marine area is world-famous for the spectacular natural phenomenon that occurs between May and November when hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks gather to feed on plankton.
Strict regulations are in place to protect this unique ecosystem, including limited visitor numbers and guided snorkeling only.
Swimming with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We stayed at Soneva Fushi and the resort arranged everything perfectly. Baa Atoll is truly a paradise for marine life enthusiasts. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status is well-deserved.
We visited Baa Atoll in May and were lucky enough to see the first manta rays of the season! The local islands are charming and the people are so friendly. Thulhaadhoo Island's lacquer craft workshops were fascinating. Highly recommend visiting both resorts and local islands to get the full experience.
