By air
Velana, Malé (MLE), ~25 min by seaplane
Indian Ocean Islands · Maldives
Ari Atoll, Maldives
Whale sharks and bright house reefs
Getting there
Best time to visit
November to April — dry season, the best visibility
Don't miss
The South Ari Marine Protected Area
Maaya Thila
Fish Head
Local islands
Things to do
Swimming with whale sharks
Diving the manta points
Sandbank days
Where to eat
What to pack
Snorkel gear, an underwater camera
A quieter corner
The whale-shark reef off Maamigili in South Ari
Questions travellers ask
When is the visibility best in Ari Atoll?
November to April, the dry season. Bring snorkel gear and an underwater camera.
Where can I swim with whale sharks in Ari Atoll?
At the whale-shark reef off Maamigili, in South Ari.
Which sights should I plan for in Ari Atoll?
The South Ari Marine Protected Area, Maaya Thila and Fish Head, plus local islands. Divers can also head for the manta points, and sandbank days are part of the fun.
How long is the transfer to Ari Atoll?
About 25 minutes by seaplane from Velana, Malé (MLE).
About Ari Atoll
- Island
Where it is
Ari Atoll lies west of Malé in the Maldives, one of the country's largest atolls, and is divided administratively into North Ari, or Alif Alif, and South Ari, or Alif Dhaal.
History
Ari's islands were long home to small fishing communities that sailed the atoll in wooden dhonis. Resort islands spread across the atoll from the late 20th century.
People
Ari's local islands, such as Mahibadhoo in the south and Rasdhoo in the north, are home to Dhivehi-speaking Maldivians who have long fished for tuna with pole and line. Many islanders now also work in resorts, dive centres and guesthouses.
Known for
- Whale sharks in South Ari
- Manta cleaning stations
- Dive sites such as Maaya Thila and Fish Head
- Resort islands with house reefs
- Sandbank excursions
Did you know?
Whale sharks are year-round residents of South Ari, and snorkelling and diving trips set out to find them.
We haven't written a guide for this place yet — you can still plan a trip here.