Are you looking for a unique and diverse destination in the Maldives that offers more than just sun, sand, and sea? If yes, then you should definitely visit Addu City, the southernmost atoll of the Maldives. Addu City is a cluster of six inhabited islands that are connected by a 14-km long road.
It is the second-largest urban area in the Maldives and has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. In this article, we will give you 10 reasons why you should visit Addu City and how to plan your trip to this amazing place.
How to Get to Addu City
By Air
The easiest and fastest way to get to Addu City is by air. Addu City has its own international airport, Gan International Airport, which is located on the island of Gan. You can fly to Gan from Male, the capital of the Maldives, or from other countries such as Sri Lanka, India, and Malaysia. The flight time from Male to Gan is about 70 minutes. You will need a valid passport and a visa to enter the Maldives. You can get a free 30-day visa on arrival if you have a confirmed booking for a hotel or a resort. You will also need to follow the COVID-19 protocols, such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, and presenting a negative PCR test result.
By Sea
Another option to get to Addu City is by sea. You can take a ferry, a speedboat, a yacht, or a cruise ship from Male or other islands to Addu City. However, this option is more time-consuming, costly, and less frequent than flying. The ferry service from Male to Addu City operates twice a week and takes about 24 hours. The speedboat service operates daily and takes about 6 hours. The yacht and cruise ship services are more luxurious and offer scenic views of the islands, but they are also more expensive and depend on the weather and availability.
Where to Stay in Addu City
Resorts and Hotels
If you want to enjoy the ultimate luxury and comfort in Addu City, you can choose from a variety of resorts and hotels that cater to different tastes and budgets. You can stay in a beachfront villa, a water bungalow, or a garden suite, and enjoy the amenities and facilities such as swimming pools, spas, gyms, restaurants, bars, and water sports. Some of the top resorts and hotels in Addu City are Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Equator Village, Canareef Resort Maldives, and South Palm Resort Maldives. You can book your stay online or through a travel agent, and compare the ratings, reviews, and prices of different options.
Guesthouses and Homestays
If you want to experience the local and authentic life in Addu City, you can opt for a guesthouse or a homestay that offers a more cozy and affordable accommodation. You can stay with a local family or a host, and enjoy their hospitality, cuisine, culture, and activities. You can also interact with the locals and learn more about their history, traditions, and customs. Some of the best guesthouses and homestays in Addu City are Charming Holiday Lodge, Wave Sound by 3S Maldives, Pebbles Inn, and Island Break Maldives. You can book your stay online or through a local tour operator, and check the availability, facilities, and services of different options.
What to Do in Addu City
Historical and Cultural Sites
Addu City has a lot of historical and cultural sites that showcase its rich and diverse heritage. You can visit the British Loyalty shipwreck, the largest shipwreck in the Maldives, which was sunk by a German submarine in 1944. You can also visit the Hithadhoo Museum, which displays artifacts and photos from the British colonial era, the Koagannu Cemetery, which is the oldest cemetery in the Maldives, and the Addu Nature Park, which is a protected area that hosts a variety of flora and fauna. You can also visit the Meedhoo Jetty, which is a popular spot for fishing and sunset views, and join the local festivals, such as Eid, Independence Day, and National Day, that celebrate the culture and spirit of Addu City.
Adventure and Nature Activities
Addu City is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers, as it offers a range of activities and experiences that will thrill and delight you. You can go diving, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and explore the coral reefs, marine life, and shipwrecks that surround the islands. You can also go birdwatching, cycling, hiking, and discover the mangroves, wetlands, and forests that cover the islands. You can also cross the equator, which passes through the atoll, and get a certificate and a souvenir to commemorate the event. You can also go island hopping, and visit the other islands in the atoll, such as Hithadhoo, Maradhoo, Feydhoo, and Hulhudhoo, and experience their unique charm and attractions.
Food and Shopping
Addu City has a lot of food and shopping options that will satisfy your taste buds and your shopping needs. You can try the local cuisine, which is influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic flavors, and consists of dishes such as mas huni, roshi, bis keemiya, garudhiya, and hedhikaa. You can also enjoy the international cuisine, such as Chinese, Italian, and Thai, that is served in the resorts, hotels, and restaurants. You can also shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, local products, and other items in the markets, shops, and stalls that are scattered across the islands. You can find items such as lacquerware, coir products, mats, baskets, shells, jewelry, and clothes, that reflect the culture and craftsmanship of Addu City.
Addu City is a hidden gem in the Maldives that offers a unique and diverse destination for travelers who want to explore the southern heart of the Maldives. It has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty that will enchant and inspire you. It also has a variety of accommodation, transportation, and activity options that will suit your preferences and budget. If you are looking for a place that has more than just sun, sand, and sea, then you should definitely visit Addu City and experience its wonders for yourself.
To plan your trip to Addu City, you can visit our website and find the best deals and packages for your stay. You can also contact us and get personalized advice and assistance from our travel experts.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover Addu City, a hidden gem in the Maldives. Book your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.