Addu Atoll
Maldives · 2 m
Description
Addu Atoll (އައްޑޫ) is the southernmost atoll of the Maldives and an important population centre in the country. Its islands are connected by causeways, forming a sprawling landscape of villages, roads, lagoons and tropical nature. British military presence once shaped the atoll, with the airbase on Gan leaving behind historic structures and the wreck of the British Loyalty. Beneath the surface, coral reefs and manta rays attract divers, while wetlands, mangroves and rich bird habitats define the interior. Addu brings together nature, history and everyday Maldivian life, offering a distinctive experience beyond the country’s traditional resort islands.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 7 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Causeway cycle route across the atoll
- Former RAF Gan base and its hangars
- Eidhigali Kilhi wetland and heron colonies
- Addu Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
- Hithadhoo and Feydhoo village life
- British Loyalty wreck dive
- Koattey point and the northern reef
- Manta Point cleaning station
- Villingili and the southernmost inhabited island of the Maldives
- Mangrove lakes and the protected area trails
- Turtles and reef sharks in the Addu lagoon
- Equatorial channel dives
Getting there
- Airports:
- GAN
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry