What You Need to Know about Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in the Maldives: The Best of the Archipelago

Often regarded as the most breathtaking corner of its parent atoll Huvadhu, the world's largest atoll, the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is no ordinary piece of paradise in the Maldives. Blessed with stunning beaches and some of the country's most pristine landscapes, it is also one of the few inhabited regions of southern Maldives. Here's everything travellers need to know about this idyllic destination in the Maldivian archipelago.

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll: At a Glance 

Occupying pride of place inside its parent atoll Huvadhu, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is a must-experience highlight for all travellers. Located in the largest atoll in the world, which occupies a whopping 3152 square kilometres, this particular atoll is made up of more than 150 islands. With only 10 inhabited islands, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is the perfect destination for those looking to experience Maldivian culture while also enjoying its secluded islands and uninhabited spaces. Located in the country's south, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll lies 340km away from the Maldivian capital, Malé. While the overall population of the atolls is around 10,500 residents, Thinadhoo Island is where most locals reside. 

Image via NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort

Getting There 

Those who wish to reach Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll must first fly into the Kaadedhdhoo Airport. Located on its namesake island, Kaadedhdhoo Island, the airport is less than 4km away from Thinadhoo, the capital of the atoll. Travellers flying into Kaadedhdhoo Island from Malé will find that the domestic flight is a little over an hour. Upon landing on Kaadedhdhoo Island visitors can proceed to travel to Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll via speedboat. The journey will take no more than 50 minutes.

Where Beauty Meets Authenticity

Travellers on the lookout for a genuine Maldivian travel experience will find Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll a fascinating area of the Maldives. Thriving on fishing, tourism and agriculture, Thinadhoo is where the atoll's finest restaurants and boutiques are found while the island is also where the 18th-century palace called Utheemu Ganduvaru is located. Wreck divers often head to Madaveli Island mainly due to its shipwreck although couples tend to stick to Vaadhoo Island where the famous bioluminescent beach happens to be situated. The glow-in-the-dark shoreline is one of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll's main highlights as it is a natural phenomenon that is truly magical. 

A Quiet Refuge for Discerning Travellers 

While there are equally captivating atolls in the Maldivian archipelago, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll sets itself apart from other locales due to the privacy and seclusion it offers. Despite its popularity, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is never crowded nor teeming with tourists during the dry season as other covered atolls in the island nation.  This is why it is the perfect hideaway for couples, families and solo travellers in search of unusual attractions, water sports activities and white, sandy beaches. Those in search of a tranquil and laid-back vibe would be hard-pressed to find more serene locations than the islands occupying the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

Top Attractions and Activity Options

Tourists based at NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort or some of the similar best beach resorts in Maldives can also head to Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll on a day trip. Some of the area's main attractions include the remains of former Buddhist temples and stupas that have been uncovered on Fiyoaree Island, Gan Island and Vaadhoo Island. Those in search of cultural experiences in Thinadhoo will find that some of the best seafood restaurants in the region are found here. Tourists may find the interiors of Madaveli island's interiors equally engaging as is it a populated island with its own heritage. Don't forget to sign up for an island-hopping safari during your tour of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll as there are 140 uninhabited islands to choose from.