From 24th to 27th March 2026 InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort launches the Manta Retreat.
This marks the time that the manta rays can be found in the resort’s lagoon, seconds away from the shore.
InterContinental Maldives has partnered with one of the world’s manta ray organisations, Manta Trust, to co-host the retreat and give guests the experience of living like a marine biologist.
Given the opportunity to understand about manta rays and their natural habitats, guests can also enjoy guided reef snorkelling tours, manta excursions by the Manta Trust, coral restoration and planting workshops.
Visitors of this retreat will additionally be invited to adopt and name their own manta, alongside taking part in educational workshops.
Starting the partnership in 2019, this activity has continued to thrive in every year since its launch. The Manta Trust’s base leader, Meral Hafeez said “No matter how many times I’m lucky enough to encounter these animals, each interaction feels like I’m seeing them for the first time – the sense of awe never diminishes. The ocean is full of surprises, and I can’t wait for everyone to get to experience their first manta ray and the wonders of the deep”.
Since 2023, the Maamunagau Lagoon has been recognised as an Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA), marking the first step in identifying it as a vital habitat for manta rays and a conservation priority.
How to Book: The participation fee for the Manta Retreat is USD 1,550 per night, per room based on double occupancy, with a minimum of 4 nights stay per guest. This includes one manta ray research trip, guided house reef snorkelling, the chance to adopt a manta ray, several educational workshops, and a stay in a luxury villa or residence on a half board rate.
The 2026 Manta Retreat Brochure can be viewed here.
