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Maldives Protected Areas
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South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA)

About this area

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The South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) is a world-renowned area, and the most significant feature of this area is that Whale Sharks (Fehurihi) can be seen here throughout the year. It is also famous for its reef, which is rich with diverse varieties of corals and marine life. Important species spotted in this area include turtles, manta rays and different types of sharks.

Zones

  • SAMPA

Rules

Please follow these rules during your visit.

  • Research and Mining for Oil, Gas and Minerals is not allowed in this area
  • Dumping trash/littering is not allowed in this area.
  • Land reclamation and dredging is not allowed within this area.
  • Removing or taking rocks, sand, corals, and coral rubble is not allowed in this area.
  • Anchoring/ dropping anchor is not allowed in this area.
  • Urban development and infrastructure.
  • Pollutant discharge and/ or outfalls
  • Aquaculture and mariculture
  • Taking eggs or damaging nests
  • Introducing any species of living things
  • Feeding any species of birds or marine life
  • Catching, taking or killing any species of bird
  • Touching or abusing protected species in the area
  • Lighting up the area at night
  • Disruption to natural behaviour of species in the area due to noise pollution

Bookings and fees

Plan your visit

Slot length
30 minutes

Snorkeling

This service can be booked for snorkeling within designated area.

Diving

This service can be booked for diving within designated area.

  • Everyone
    Snorkeling
    MVR 0 Per person
    Diving
    MVR 0 Per person

Each fee is for one time slot. Your visitor type (Individual - Maldivian, Resort, Guesthouse, Liveaboard, Expats) decides which fee applies; if you are unsure which one you are, contact the office before booking.

Facts

Status
Designated
Total Area
5,610.58 ha
WDPA ID
555576579
Protected Area Category
Category 6 – Habitat/Species Management Area
Date of Protection
05 June 2009
Ecosystem Typology
Marine

Announcements

All announcements

Species

All species

Resources

All resources

Contact

Advisory Committee

  • Muhusina Abdul Rahman

    Director, Ministry of Tourism and Environment

  • Yoosuf Rilwan

    Director, Environmental Regulatory Authority

  • Meenas Shaugy

    Deputy Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Environment

  • Munshidha Ibrahim

    Director, Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources

From MVR 0