The ocean’s gentle giants are set to make their spectacular appearances once again. Drawing on two decades of meticulous marine research, the resident Manta Trust experts at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru have unveiled the optimal manta ray encounter dates for 2026 and 2027, offering marine enthusiasts an unprecedented opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Situated within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – home to the world’s largest known manta population—the resort provides privileged access to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring marine spectacles.
Data-Driven Marine Encounters
To maximize guests’ chances of encountering these majestic rays, the Manta Trust analyzes decades of comprehensive data on manta ray movements and environmental patterns. The resulting “hot dates” represent peak periods when mass aggregations are most likely to occur near the resort.
The resort’s exclusive “Manta On Call” experience immediately alerts registered guests when mantas are spotted, whisking them away by speedboat for an intimate snorkeling adventure. Throughout the experience, participants learn from the globally renowned Manta Trust team—featured on CNN’s Call to Earth series – about manta ray biology, behavior, and critical conservation efforts.
A Record-Breaking Season
The 2025 manta season, which concluded in November, delivered extraordinary results with sightings of an estimated 4,265 reef manta rays, alongside 28 whale sharks, 16 devil rays, and 10 oceanic mantas. The Manta Trust conducted 1,282 manta surveys over 143 dedicated research days, continuously enriching their extensive database.
This past season also marked a significant conservation milestone. Through the Manta Trust’s dedicated advocacy, all 10 manta and devil ray species have been uplisted to CITES Appendix I—granting them the highest level of international protection. Commercial trade of these species is now prohibited globally, helping safeguard their future survival.
Education and Community Impact
Education remains central to the Trust’s conservation vision. Throughout the 2025 season, six interns and apprentices immersed themselves in hands-on marine biology, collecting research data, identifying individual mantas, and guiding guest expeditions. The team also worked extensively with local schools to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
In 2025 alone, they engaged with 969 community members, while 19 students graduated from their Moodhu Madharusa (Ocean School) program, demonstrating the resort’s commitment to long-term marine conservation through education.
“Watching people interact with mantas reminds us why we do this work,” says Armando Kraenzlin, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. “These encounters go beyond awe; they create a real connection to the ocean and its inhabitants. Since 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme at Landaa Giraavaru has been dedicated to protecting these remarkable creatures, and every snorkel, survey, or moment spent alongside them helps build a community committed to their survival.”
Prime Manta Encounter Dates
2026 Hot Dates:
- May 14–18, May 29–June 2
- June 13–17, June 27–July 1
- July 12–16, July 27–31
- August 10–14, August 26–30
- September 9–13, September 24–28
- October 8–12, October 24–28
- November 7–11, November 24
2027 Hot Dates:
- May 4–8, May 18–22
- June 2–6, June 16–20
- July 2–6, July 16–20
- July 31–August 4, August 15–19
- September 28–October 2
- October 13–17, October 27–31
- November 12–16, November 26–30
Please note: Manta ray sightings remain subject to weather conditions and the natural behavior of these gentle oceanic giants.
For reservations and inquiries, contact: +960 66 00 888
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