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South Ari Atoll

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South Ari Atoll Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

South Ari Atoll year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 29.1–30.1°C, hot and humid climate, rainfall gradually increases, with the most rainfall in May. Common activities: Water sports, diving, snorkeling. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hat, sun-protective clothing.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 29.0–29.7°C, hot and humid climate, slightly less rainfall than spring, but sun protection and rain protection are still necessary. Common activities: Water sports, diving, snorkeling, sunbathing. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hat, sun-protective clothing, rain gear.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 28.5–28.8°C, hot and humid climate, relatively high rainfall, similar to summer. Common activities: Water sports, diving, snorkeling, enjoying the beach scenery. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hat, sun-protective clothing, rain gear.
  • Winter (December): Average 28.5°C, hot and humid climate, highest rainfall, pay attention to rain protection. Common activities: Water sports (if wind and waves permit), diving, snorkeling. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hat, sun-protective clothing, rain gear.

South Ari Atoll climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 29.1°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 2390 mm / Summer humidity: 75%–85% / Rainiest month: December

South Ari Atoll monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
28.6°C
120.3
February
29.1°C
60.8
March
29.6°C
101
April
30.1°C
179.7
May
29.7°C
304.3
June
29.7°C
97.3
July
29.4°C
200.9
August
29°C
277.2
September
28.8°C
237.4
October
28.7°C
238.3
November
28.5°C
238.3
December
28.5°C
335

South Ari Atoll weather for the next seven days

12/31
Wednesday
Patchy rain nearby
27.3°C/26.9°C
1/1
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
27.4°C/26.7°C
1/2
Friday
Partly Cloudy
27.4°C/27.1°C
1/3
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
27.3°C/26.6°C
1/4
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
27.7°C/27°C
1/5
Monday
Sunny
27.6°C/27.3°C
1/6
Tuesday
Partly Cloudy
27.4°C/27°C

South Ari Atoll Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

How do I get to South Ari Atoll?

To reach South Ari Atoll, you typically fly from Velana International Airport (MLE) to Villa International Airport (VAM). From there, you can take a speedboat or seaplane transfer to your resort in South Ari Atoll. While ferry options might exist to certain local islands, resort transfers are usually by seaplane or speedboat for direct access to your accommodation.

What is the best time to visit South Ari Atoll?

The peak season for visiting South Ari Atoll, and the Maldives in general, is from December to April. This period offers the driest weather and calmest seas, making it ideal for water activities and wildlife encounters like whale sharks and manta rays, which are frequently spotted in the South Malé and Ari atolls during these months.

How to reach Lux South Ari Atoll?

Reaching Lux South Ari Atoll involves either a scenic 25-minute seaplane transfer directly from Velana International Airport (MLE), offering breathtaking aerial views of the atolls, or a combination of a domestic flight to Maamigili Airport followed by a 90-minute speedboat ride. The domestic flight and speedboat option provides more flexibility in terms of timing.

What are the best water activities in South Ari Atoll?

South Ari Atoll is renowned for its incredible marine life and offers a plethora of water activities. Popular choices include snorkeling and diving to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish species, whale shark and manta ray spotting excursions, dolphin watching tours, and various watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

Can I spot whale sharks in South Ari Atoll?

Yes, South Ari Atoll is one of the best places in the Maldives to spot whale sharks year-round. While sightings are more frequent during the peak season from December to April, the atoll is known for its resident whale shark population, offering excellent opportunities for encounters with these gentle giants.