Rangali Madivaru

This dive site, Rangali Madivaru, which translates to 'Manta Long Reef', is a renowned manta cleaning station situated in a channel in the Maldives. The dive typically involves descending to approximately 9 meters where a sloping bottom meets a plateau reef, providing a natural stage for manta ray cleaning rituals. There is no specific historical account for the dive site, but its name clearly highlights its primary attraction. The site is teeming with marine life, most notably majestic manta rays, especially during the northeast monsoon. Divers can also encounter a variety of fish, including sharks, impressive napoleon wrasse, and graceful turtles. The reef also offers opportunities for macro photography, with small creatures found hidden in crevices and overhangs among the coral structures. The best time to visit Rangali Madivaru for manta ray sightings is during the northeast monsoon, from December to April, particularly when the current is outgoing. Freedivers and snorkelers will appreciate the relatively shallow average depth, allowing for good opportunities to observe mantas. Divers should be prepared for variable currents, which are key to bringing in the plankton that attract the mantas and can make for exciting drift diving.