Sitting within the South Ari Atoll, the Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa by Centara Collection is not just a destination but a living ecosystem. On the island of Machchafushi, nature takes on its full glory due to the currents of the ocean, coral reefs maldives that thrive here, the local tropical bird life, and the way the rhythm of life of the locals interacts with the environment. Thus, every feature and aspect of nature here combines into one coherent and vivid Machchafushi Universe. The underwater world is very rich and varied. It starts right at the shore with the award-winning house reef where a unique combination of hard and soft corals makes the underwater landscape incredibly diverse. Among them are Blue-tip Acropora corals and the unique Maze Corals. Here, sea fans are found to provide shade and refuge to small fish, seahorses, and crustaceans. The abundance of marine wildlife includes parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, reef sharks, stingrays, manta rays, turtles, as well as the legendary whale sharks.
The experience can be further enriched by the presence of Kudhi Maa Shipwreck that used to be a Japanese cargo ship but has been converted into an exciting living ecosystem. With such aquatic creatures as lionfish, batfish, glassfish, and groupers residing there, the place serves as a perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The heart of the whole system resides within the corals that provide the necessary structure for a reef, besides playing an important part in its development and sustainability. There are branching corals that look like trees in water, and the growth of massive corals takes millions of years.
Beyond the water, the island offers yet another landscape of natural beauty. Coconut palms that stretch towards the sky, the lush tropical vegetation, and the coastal plants make up the perfect home to several kinds of birds. The morning comes with birds singing around in trees and gentle breezes carrying all the essence of the island's natural charm. One may often observe grey herons at the shore, while white-breasted water hens will be wandering in the shrubbery. Asian koels will be heard in the air, and elegant terns will fly over the lagoon. The bright parrots, such as blue and gold macaw and ringneck parrot, can also be found on the island. One of the special features of the island is an ancient tree – a banyan tree called the Ummeedhu Tree or Wish Fulfillment Tree, which has been around for more than two hundred years. Those who visit the island are offered a chance to participate in the Sacred Thread Ceremony and tie golden leaves to the branches of the tree. As quoted from the management of the resort, “every ripple in the water, every whisper in the palm trees, and every motion in the corals have their stories to tell.” Machchafushi is not only a resort but a voyage to a universe of living things, where nature takes charge, creating memories along the way. By means of sustainable practices and conservation programs, the resort aims at preserving this world for eternity. Not only is it a journey through the Machchafushi Universe; it is also a devotion to it.
