Maldives: Best Manta Ray Viewing Dates, 2026-2027

Maldives: Best Manta Ray Viewing Dates, 2024-2025

Updated October 2026

The Maldives is one of the best places to see manta rays, a favorite of many snorkelers. Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the place to see them, especially May-November (although this is also during the monsoon season, so expect more rain than December-April): it's home to the world's largest known reef manta ray population. There were an estimated 4265 sightings in 2025, and the vast majority of these sightings were in Hanifaru Bay.

Manta ray wingspans can be up to 15 feet and manta rays have the largest brain-to-size ratio of any cold-blooded fish, with a cognitive function on par with dolphins, primates and elephants.

And these are the best dates for 2026-2027, perfect for those planning ahead:

2026

October 24–28
November 7–11
November 24

2027

May 18–22
June 2–6
June 16–20
July 2–6
July 16–20
July 31 – August 4
August 15–19
September 14-19
September 28-October 2
October 13–17
October 27–31
November 12–16

Where to Stay in Baa Atoll

One of our clients' favorite ways to have the chance to snorkel with manta rays is Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru‘s “Manta on Call” service, where guests are given a “manta phone” for the day.

For a much smaller, boutique luxury type experience in Baa Atoll, consider The Nautilus Maldives, with just 26 villas. Take a mini vacation with our Nautilus Maldives video review: