Remote northern atolls with manta rays, whale sharks and pristine reef systems
The northern atolls of the Maldives — Raa, Baa, Noonu — offer the most remote and wildlife-rich experience in the archipelago. Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where manta ray aggregations of hundreds of individuals gather at Hanifaru Bay between July and November in one of the world's most spectacular marine wildlife events. The northern atolls see fewer tourists than the more accessible central atolls near Malé, resulting in reefs in better condition, fewer crowds, and a sense of genuine remoteness. Liveaboard dive safaris are the best way to explore the area's spectacular marine life.
When to go: November to April is the dry season. Baa Atoll manta aggregations peak August to October.
The best months to visit Maldives North are January, February, March. Peak season is March with the best combination of warm temperatures and low rainfall.
| Month | Air | Sea | Rain | UV | Wind |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C | 29°C | 85mm | 11 | 19 |
| Feb | 29°C | 29°C | 40mm | 11 | 20 |
| Mar | 30°C | 30°C | 60mm | 12 | 21 |
| Apr | 30°C | 30°C | 105mm | 12 | 22 |
| May | 30°C | 30°C | 178mm | 11 | 23 |
| Jun | 29°C | 29°C | 160mm | 10 | 22 |
| Jul | 29°C | 29°C | 155mm | 10 | 21 |
| Aug | 29°C | 29°C | 165mm | 10 | 20 |
| Sep | 29°C | 29°C | 185mm | 11 | 19 |
| Oct | 29°C | 29°C | 180mm | 11 | 18 |
| Nov | 29°C | 29°C | 210mm | 11 | 19 |
| Dec | 29°C | 29°C | 200mm | 11 | 19 |
The best time to visit Maldives North is January, February, March. Peak season is March when temperatures reach 30°C with very little rain. November to April is the dry season. Baa Atoll manta aggregations peak August to October.
Sea temperatures in Maldives North range from 29°C in January to 30°C in March. The sea is bath-warm at its warmest.
Winter temperatures in Maldives North average 29°C with sea temperatures of 29°C. This makes it a great winter sun destination.
The driest month is February with 40mm. The wettest month sees 210mm. Maldives North receives 1723mm annually.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Some rain (85mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Very little rain (40mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Very little rain (60mm). UV 12. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (105mm). UV 12. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (178mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (160mm). UV 10. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (155mm). UV 10. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (165mm). UV 10. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Heavy rainfall (185mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Moderate rainfall (180mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Heavy rainfall (210mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
Hot and bath-warm seas. Heavy rainfall (200mm). UV 11. Sun protection essential.
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