Where to See Whale Sharks

Whale sharks are seen year-round in South Ari Atoll (Alifu Dhaalu), especially along the outer reef near Dhigurah and Maamigili, inside the South Ari Marine Protected Area.

How to go: Join a snorkeling or diving trip from Dhigurah, Maamigili, or a liveaboard. Sightings are often early, when sharks feed near the surface.

Season: Possible in every month. December to May is the period most boats report steadier encounters.

In the water: Keep your distance, never touch the shark, and follow the guide’s grouping. Operators inside the protected area are expected to limit the number of people in the water and avoid crowding the animal.