“Tiger Zoo” is the name of a renowned dive site discovered in April 2017 and later introduced to the public by a dedicated dive team in Fuvahmulah. The site earned its name after the team realised that tiger sharks could be reliably observed there throughout the year, from shallow waters to deeper zones—with sightings often including dozens of individuals in a single dive. With a 100% chance of encountering tiger sharks, the experience closely resembles that of visiting a zoo or aquarium.
Despite their formidable reputation, the tiger sharks at Tiger Zoo are non-aggressive, and diving with them is conducted under strict safety protocols. Each dive is primarily stationary, allowing the sharks to approach without feeling threatened and ensuring the safety of all divers. To attract the sharks to the plateau area, a small amount of fish waste is released at a distance from the divers.
On average, around 10 – 12 different tiger sharks can be observed per dive in Tiger Zoo. The dive team adheres to a minimally invasive approach—there is no hand-feeding or touching of the sharks, except in cases where diver safety requires it.
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Tiger Zoo Location
The Tiger Zoo is situated at the entrance of the harbour, Fuvahmulah, an area where fish waste has commonly been discarded since the harbour’s construction. Over time, this regular dumping has attracted an increasing number of tiger sharks, which now frequently patrol the area in search of scraps left behind by the local, sustainable tuna fishery.
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The Tiger Zoo features a shallow plateau ranging from 6 to 9 meters in depth, followed by a steep drop-off beginning at approximately 12 to 15 meters, descending into the open ocean. Divers remain stationary on the plateau, observing the tiger sharks that are drawn to the location by the remnants of the fishermen’s waste.
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How to dive in Tiger Zoo?
Safety is the top priority during tiger shark dives. Upon arrival at the Tiger Zoo, divers are positioned in a line formation, ensuring that both the guides and safety divers maintain continuous visual contact with all participants and the sharks. The dive itself is primarily stationary, a method designed to prevent the sharks from feeling threatened and to keep the experience safe for everyone involved. A small quantity of fish waste is released at a distance from the divers to attract the sharks to the plateau area.
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The tiger sharks typically remain in the vicinity for the duration of the dive, often making close passes in front of the divers, offering a thrilling yet controlled encounter. To date, more than 35 individual tiger sharks have been identified in Tiger Zoo, with an average of around 10 -12 different sharks appearing per dive.
In addition to the tiger sharks, the site boasts a rich variety of marine life. Divers may encounter large giant trevallies, rainbow runners, moray eels, and barracudas, as well as occasional sightings of silver tip sharks, sea turtles, and octopuses. To minimize human impact on the environment and its inhabitants, there is no hand-feeding or physical contact with the sharks, except in rare cases where diver safety necessitates it.
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How safe is diving in Tiger Zoo?
Safety remains the highest priority during dives at Tiger Zoo. A team of experienced safety divers is present in the water for every dive, and strict safety protocols are consistently followed. All dive guides hold Shark Specialty and Shark Expert certifications, having spent thousands of hours diving specifically with tiger sharks at this site. Their deep understanding of shark behavior and the unique conditions of the local marine environment ensures a well-managed and secure diving experience.
Prior to each dive, participants receive a thorough briefing covering tiger shark behavior, diving procedures, and all essential safety guidelines. Each diver is also provided with a specialized stick, intended solely for use as a barrier if a tiger shark comes too close for comfort—never for aggressive contact. Every dive is conducted under the leadership of a professional team of dive guides and assistants, whose primary responsibilities are to ensure both safety and enjoyment throughout the experience.
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Tiger shark database in the Zoo?
Each tiger shark observed at Tiger Zoo can be individually identified by its unique natural markings. The dive team began documenting these tiger sharks in 2016, and over the past five years, they have completed thousands of dives at the site. To date, more than 200 individual tiger sharks have been recorded and catalogued in a comprehensive database. Many of these tiger sharks have become familiar visitors, and guests may have the chance to encounter some of these regularly spotted individuals during their dive. The full database of identified tiger sharks is also available for viewing. Access tiger shark database
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In collaboration with local authorities, the team conducts official government research on tiger sharks and other elasmobranch species in Fuvahmulah. Through five years of continuous observation, the research has revealed valuable insights into tiger shark behavior, including patterns of residency, social interactions, gestation cycles, recovery from injuries, and the effects of human activity on their habitat.
The database is maintained and updated daily by the resident marine biologist, who logs every single shark dive in detail. In addition to their fieldwork, the team provides educational lectures and presentations on shark biology and the specific populations found around Fuvahmulah. Guests also have the opportunity to earn the PROJECT AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty certification during their visit, deepening their understanding of shark conservation efforts and the marine life of the Maldives.
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Is it Worth Diving in Tiger Zoo?
Absolutely — diving at Tiger Zoo in Fuvahmulah is widely considered one of the most unique and thrilling tiger shark diving experiences in the world.
Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Tiger Zoo is one of the few places on Earth where divers are almost guaranteed to see tiger sharks on every dive — often more than 10 individuals at once. With over 200 identified sharks in the area, each dive feels like meeting new ocean giants.
- Tiger Zoo isn’t just about adrenaline. It’s part of an ongoing government-recognized research project studying tiger shark behavior, social interaction, and environmental impacts. Guests can even earn a PROJECT AWARE Shark Conservation certification during their stay.
- The visibility, setting, and close passes by massive tiger sharks offer incredible photo and video opportunities. Many underwater photographers and videographers travel to Fuvahmulah specifically for this reason.
- Beyond tiger sharks, divers often see giant trevallies, barracudas, moray eels, rainbow runners, octopuses, turtles, and occasionally silvertip sharks — all in one dive.
- Unlike typical resort islands in the Maldives, Fuvahmulah offers an authentic local experience, freshwater lakes, beautiful reefs, and one-of-a-kind marine biodiversity due to its isolated geography.
- If you are a certified diver and have a passion for marine life, diving at Tiger Zoo is absolutely worth it. It’s not just a dive—it’s a rare chance to witness apex predators in their natural environment, ethically and safely.
Book With us a Tiger Shark Dive Adventure in Fuvahmulah
Tiger Zoo Fuvahmulah – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do tiger sharks attack divers?
No. Tiger sharks at this site are not aggressive toward divers. The dive is controlled and non-invasive, with safety procedures in place to ensure respectful interaction between humans and wildlife.
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2. How deep is the dive at Tiger Zoo?
The dive takes place on a shallow plateau between 6 to 9 meters, with a steep drop-off starting around 12 to 15 meters. Most of the activity happens on the plateau, making it ideal for both recreational and advanced divers.
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3. Is hand-feeding or touching allowed?
No. The dive is strictly non-invasive. There is no hand-feeding or physical contact with sharks, except in rare cases for diver safety. A small stick is provided to maintain personal space if needed.
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4. How is the shark behavior monitored?
A resident marine biologist maintains a comprehensive shark database, logging every shark dive. Over 200 individual tiger sharks have been identified based on natural markings.
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5. How do I get to Fuvahmulah for diving?
Fuvahmulah is reachable via a domestic flight from Malé International Airport. Once on the island, the dive site is just a short transfer away from local accommodations.
6. Is Tiger Zoo suitable for underwater photography?
Absolutely! With crystal-clear waters and close encounters, it’s a world-class destination for underwater photographyand videography of tiger sharks.
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7. When is the best time to dive at Tiger Zoo?
Tiger shark encounters are year-round, but the dry season (December to April) offers the calmest conditions and best visibility for diving and photography.
8. Is diving at Tiger Zoo ethical and sustainable?
Yes. The dive center follows strict ethical guidelines, avoids invasive practices, and contributes to official government research on tiger sharks and elasmobranch species in the region.
