Summary
The Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma in the Maldives is thrilled to announce the return of its annual "Manta Month," a highly anticipated event for divers and snorkelers. This year's celebration runs from May 1st to September 30th, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to witness the majestic manta rays that frequent the waters around the resort. Manta rays are filter feeders, and Kandooma's location in Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, provides an ideal feeding ground during the southwest monsoon season. The resort is emphasizing responsible tourism practices during this period, with trained marine biologists guiding manta ray interactions to minimize disturbance to these gentle giants. The return of Manta Month is a significant boost for the resort's tourism, drawing in eco-conscious travelers and reinforcing the Maldives' reputation as a premier diving and snorkeling destination. This event not only offers incredible wildlife viewing but also contributes to conservation efforts, as the resort actively participates in manta ray research and monitoring programs. The announcement highlights the growing trend of sustainable tourism that prioritizes wildlife conservation and responsible interaction with marine ecosystems. Kandooma is aiming to provide an educational and awe-inspiring experience, promoting awareness about the importance of manta ray conservation and the fragility of marine environments.
Key Details
- Event: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma
- Dates: May 1st to September 30th
- Location: Hanifaru Bay, Maldives (near Kandooma Resort)
- Species: Manta Rays (specifically, the Mobula alfredi species)
- Resort Focus: Responsible tourism, guided manta ray interactions, conservation efforts.
- UNESCO Designation: Hanifaru Bay is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Feeding Season: The southwest monsoon season (May-September) is when manta rays congregate in Hanifaru Bay.
- Resort Activities: Snorkeling trips, diving excursions, manta ray educational programs.
Geographical Information
| Location Name | Country/Region | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Maldives | South Asia | An archipelago of over 1,190 islands in the Indian Ocean, known for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. |
| Hanifaru Bay | Maldives | A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its massive aggregations of manta rays during the southwest monsoon season. |
Impact & Implications
- Travelers:
- Increased opportunity for manta ray viewing.
- Potential for higher prices during peak season (May-September).
- Emphasis on responsible tourism practices is likely to influence traveler choices.
- Travel Restrictions/Requirements: Standard Maldives entry requirements apply (passport, visa if required, etc.). Check the latest Maldives government travel advisories.
- Safety Considerations:
- Follow guide instructions carefully during manta ray interactions.
- Be mindful of marine life and avoid touching or disturbing the animals.
- Wear appropriate sun protection (reef-safe sunscreen).
- Check weather conditions before heading out on any water activities.
Additional Context
The Maldives is heavily reliant on tourism, and marine life is a key attraction. Manta rays are particularly popular, drawing divers and snorkelers from around the world. However, increasing tourism puts pressure on fragile ecosystems. The Maldives government and resorts are increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism practices to mitigate environmental impact and protect marine life. Hanifaru Bay's UNESCO status underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the region. The annual manta ray aggregation is a natural phenomenon linked to the food availability (plankton) in the bay.
Original Source
Website: Breaking Travel News
URL: https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/holiday-inn-resort-kandooma-maldives-announces-return-of-manta-month/
URL: https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/holiday-inn-resort-kandooma-maldives-announces-return-of-manta-month/
