Discover SAMPA for South Ari Marine Protected Area in Maldives, the world’s most unique and significant sites for whale sharks.
SAMPA is the largest protected area in the Maldives, and it represents one of the world’s most unique and significant sites for whale sharks due to their presence throughout the year.
What is SAMPA ?
SAMPA ( South Ari Marine Protected Area ) is a Maldivian non governmental organization that exists to promote environmental protection and sustainable development of the South Ari atoll Marine Protected Area and the communities which border it. Located in South Ari Atoll it was designated as a MPA ( Marine Protected Area ) on June 5, 2009 by a directive from the Maldivian government.
The South Ari Marine Protected Area was established with 3 objectives :
- To protect and preserve an important Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) aggregation area in the Maldives
- To provide a means to promote and ensure the long-term conservation and protection of the South Ari ecosystem
- To generate income for local islands through sustainable tourism, facilitating scientific research projects and fostering community-focused education and conservation initiatives
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Where is SAMPA located ?
SAMPA is located on the southern fringe of coral reef of South Ari Atoll (Alif Dhaalu) and encompasses a boundary extending 1 km seaward from the reef edges of all islands between southwest corner of Rangali Island to the northern tip of Dhigurah Island.
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SAMPA is the world’s most unique and significant sites for whale sharks
SAMPA is the largest protected area in the Maldives, and it represents one of the world’s most unique and significant sites for whale sharks due to their presence throughout the year.
SAMPA encompasses 4 local islands within its boundary, Maamigili Island, Dhigurah Island, Dhidhdhoo Island and Fenfushi Island.
If you’re looking for the Maldives best resorts to stay for whale sharks in Ari Atoll, a few top choices stand out : Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Sun Island, Holiday Island Resort and LUX* South Ari Atoll.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, these resorts offer the perfect blend.
Map of Whale Shark Snorkeling Activity and Intensity in SAMPA
This map shows the intensity of whale shark snorkeling activity in the South Ari Marine Protected Area.
This illustration is based on data’s and researches conducted by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in cooperation with Maldivian government.
This research was funded by USAID.
About Whale Sharks
Whale sharks are majestic and gentle sea giants. They are the largest known fish and can weigh up to over 20 tons and reach a length of a truck ( 18 meters / 59 feet ).
They are by far the largest living nonmammalian vertebrate and sole member of the genus Rhincodon and the only extant member of the family of the Elasmobranchii clade, a sub member of the Chondrichthyes, a class of cartilaginous fishes like sharks and rays.
Despite the huge size of their mouth ( up to 1.5 m / 4 ft wide ) whale sharks can neither bite nor chew.
They are filter feeders and have no teeth but armless gill rakers, a bristly structure made of cartilage that allows them to eat plankton and small nektonic prey like tiny shrimps’ and fishes by using their gills as a suction filter.
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1 comment
While South Ari Atoll is famous for its whale shark encounters, I strongly urge caution when planning tours in this area. Sadly, incidents of injuries and even fatalities have occurred, highlighting the urgent need for better management of these activities. Until the region establishes sustainable and safe practices—progress is anticipated in 2025—it’s best to avoid tours here for now. The risks to both humans and marine life remain significant. Please prioritize ethical and responsible operators if you choose to visit.