Whale Shark Capital

South Ari Atoll

Year-Round Whale Shark Encounters in the Maldives

365 Days of Whale Sharks

50+ Dive Sites

25min Seaplane

Whale Shark Paradise

South Ari Atoll is world-famous for its resident population of juvenile whale sharks. Thanks to year-round plankton blooms along the outer reef, these gentle giants can be encountered virtually every day of the year.

The South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) was established to protect this unique ecosystem. Here, responsible whale shark snorkeling allows visitors to swim alongside the world's largest fish in their natural habitat. Beyond whale sharks, the atoll offers spectacular manta diving, thrilling channel dives, and beautiful coral reefs.

Protected Marine Area

SAMPA ensures sustainable whale shark encounters

Year-Round Sightings

90%+ success rate for whale shark encounters

Luxury Resorts

World-class dive resorts with direct reef access

Top Dive Sites

From whale sharks to manta rays and everything in between

All Levels

Maamigili Whale Shark Point

The heart of SAMPA. Snorkel alongside juvenile whale sharks feeding on plankton.

Depth: 5-15m Best For: Whale sharks

Intermediate

Rangali Madivaru

Premier manta cleaning station. Watch mantas hover over cleaning rocks.

Depth: 12-25m Best For: Manta rays

Intermediate

Broken Rock

Unique topography with a massive crack through the reef. Swim-throughs and canyons.

Depth: 8-28m Best For: Topography

Photo Gallery

Experience South Ari Atoll through images

Swimming with whale sharks

Manta ray at Rangali

Pristine coral reefs

Video Tour

Experience South Ari Atoll diving

Video coming soon - South Ari Atoll whale shark encounters

Diver Reviews

4.9 out of 5

James T.

Australia - March 2024

Swimming with whale sharks in South Ari was a life-changing experience! We saw 3 whale sharks on our first day. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable about respecting these gentle giants.

Emma S.

UK - February 2024

Best diving of my life! The reefs are pristine, we saw manta rays, reef sharks, and endless colorful fish. The local guides know exactly where to find the action.

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