South Maldives
The hundreds of southern atolls, located between the capital city of Malé and the Equator, are the most developed in the country. This is due to their proximity to each other and the largest sand outcrops. Over the centuries, this has facilitated the proliferation of human settlements and exchanges of all kinds between their inhabitants.
The Kaafu atoll is the most populated in South Maldives, and the country’s capital city is located on one of its islands. Malé is home to approximately 150,000 of the country’s half-a-million-strong population. Approximately two thirds of the country’s population are believed to live in the southern atolls.
Kaafu is the most visited atoll by foreign tourists, followed closely by the neighbouring atoll of South Malé. Both are renowned for having some of the most spectacular beaches anywhere in the Maldives.
Dhaalu (also referred to as the Southern Nilandhe atoll), which is comprised of fifty-six individual islands of which nine are inhabited, is another highly recommended atoll. Its popularity can be attributed to the fact that it has some of the best waters in the country for snorkelling and scuba diving, where impressive marine species such as green turtles, dolphins, manta rays and sharks are regularly spotted.
Meemu, which has a wide range of hotels and resorts, is another popular atoll. Once you see everything they have to offer, it is not hard to see why these islands are regarded as the South Maldives jewels. They are the perfect place to enjoy the sun, the sea and a wide range of aquatic and outdoor activities.
The beauty of its beaches is comparable to that of the Gaafu Alif beaches. This atoll, which is also referred to as the Northern Huvadu atoll, consists of 82 islands and their various islets. The sandy beaches that characterise these islands are some of the most impressive in the Maldives. In fact, many people claim it is worth visiting these remote atolls just to experience them for yourself.
The Laamu atoll, which is also referred to as the Haddhunmathi atoll, is one of the largest in this part of the country. The biological richness of its seabeds makes its 82 islands and islets some of the most popular in the Maldives. The Thaa atoll, which is one of the furthest from the capital city and roughly 200 kilometres from its international airport, is one such example.
The city of Addu, which is the capital of the atoll of the same name, is also well worth visiting. It is one of the largest municipalities in South Maldives and is considered an excellent place to learn all about the country’s history and heritage. It has a distinct cosmopolitan vibe, a rich cultural heritage and offers a plethora of different leisure activities. It is also surrounded by some of the most spectacular natural scenery anywhere in the Maldives.
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