Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives marks return of Manta Month

News

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has launched the second edition of its Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s inaugural initiative. The month-long programme invites guests of all ages to celebrate the ocean and support manta ray conservation through family-friendly activities and awareness efforts.

Throughout September, guests can join guided excursions to manta hotspots, where the resort’s dive and marine team provide insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks — including the story of a manta rescued near the island — highlight the importance of ongoing protection efforts.

Children can take part in manta-inspired arts and crafts and beach games, while the wider community is encouraged to join a reef and island clean-up. Collected waste will be transformed into manta sculptures, turning environmental action into creativity. Proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s boutique will also be donated to The Manta Trust in support of research and conservation.

Located near some of the Maldives’ top dive sites, Kandooma places ocean wellbeing at the heart of its guest experience. The initiative aligns with IHG’s global sustainability programme Journey to Tomorrow, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and reflects the company’s commitment to protecting the natural environment.

“What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”