This is question that we get a lot, so we thought we would answer it!
Short answer: manta rays are NOT dangerous
Despite their large size, manta rays are not dangerous to humans. They feed on plankton and small fish, and do not have the sharp teeth that other predatory fish have. This makes them safe to interact with and observe up close. Unlike other rays like stingrays or blue spotted stingrays, they cannot use their tail to sting.
Manta rays are also very smart. They have a big brain compared to a lot of other fish and they can exhibit interactions with each other but also with humans.
How to interact with manta rays?
If you want to go scuba diving with manta rays in Nusa Penida, there are a few things you should know. First, you will need to either be a certified diver or do a short pool training for your PADI Discover Scuba program.
The best dive sites to encounter manta rays in Nusa Penida are Manta Point and Manta Bay. There is a good chance that with diving Nusa Penida on these specific sites that you will get lucky and meet those amazing creatures!
If you are not a diver, you can also snorkel on these popular Nusa Penida dive sites as manta rays come quite shallow to feed or clean.
For more information on code of conduct for manta rays interactions, you can watch this short video:
Overall, scuba diving with manta rays in Nusa Penida is an unforgettable experience. Get in touch to book your dives!