Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is a Maldives region in the country’s southernmost region. The southwestern section of Huvadhu Atoll forms an administrative district. Gaafu Dhaalu is the southernmost section of this large natural atoll, south of the line connecting the channels of Footukandu and Vaarulu Kandu. Thinadhoo (formerly Havaru Thinadhu) is the region’s capital.
This atoll is approximately 340 kilometers south of Malé. It is one of the Maldives’ largest atolls, with 153 islands, 10 of which are inhabited. The district has a population of about 10,500 people, the majority of whom live on the island of Thinadhoo.
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is a popular tourist destination for those seeking an authentic Maldivian experience. The atoll is well-known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and diverse marine life, making it an ideal location for snorkeling and diving. Independent visitors to Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, on the other hand, must obtain special permission to leave the tourist zone and visit inhabited islands.
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll’s islands are primarily used for fishing, agriculture, and tourism. With the establishment of several resorts in recent years, the atoll has seen an increase in tourism. The fishing industry is also important to the local economy, with tuna being the most commonly caught fish.
Thinadhoo’s capital island is home to the district’s main hospital, as well as several shops, restaurants, and lodging options. The island also has a beautiful beach and the historic Utheemu Ganduvaru, a palace from the 18th century.
Madaveli, known for its shipwreck diving site, and Vaadhoo, known for its bioluminescent beach, are two other notable islands in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The bioluminescent beach is a must-see attraction that allows visitors to witness a natural phenomenon that causes the water and sand to glow in the dark.
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is a beautiful Maldivian region that allows visitors to experience the country’s authentic culture and natural beauty. It is an ideal location for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back vacation away from the Maldives’ more developed and busy areas. Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Maldives, with its pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and unique attractions.
