Addu Atoll Maldives Holidays
Addu Atoll
Holidays
The southernmost atoll — extraordinary WWII history, pristine reefs and the most authentic Maldivian experience
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Flight Time
10–11h from London to Malé, then 1h domestic flight to Gan
Best Time
November to April (dry season)
Country
Maldives
Suppliers
our travel partners ·
Addu Atoll Holiday Guide
Addu Atoll is the most remote, authentic and historically fascinating atoll in the Maldives — the southernmost atoll, accessible by domestic flight from Malé (1 hour), with extraordinary WWII history, pristine reefs and the Shangri-La Villingili Resort.
The British Loyalty wreck is one of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The hammerhead shark encounters are among the finest in the Indian Ocean. The local culture is the most authentic in the Maldives.
The best time to visit is November to April. We search across Travelpack, Emirates Holidays and JTA Holidays for the best deals.
Popular Areas in Addu Atoll
Average Temperatures
Jan
29°C
Feb
30°C
Mar
30°C
Apr
30°C
May
29°C
Jun
28°C
Jul
28°C
Aug
28°C
Sep
28°C
Oct
29°C
Nov
29°C
Dec
29°C
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Call 01282 960 460Top 8 Things To Do in Addu Atoll
The WWII history, pristine reefs and authentic culture that make Addu the most unique and rewarding atoll in the Maldives.
WWII History & British Loyalty Wreck
Addu Atoll was a major British military base during World War II — RAF Gan was one of the most important British air bases in the Indian Ocean. The British Loyalty, a Royal Fleet Auxiliary oil tanker torpedoed in 1944, lies in the lagoon and is one of the most accessible and spectacular wreck dives in the Maldives. The WWII history of the atoll is extraordinary.
Shangri-La Villingili Resort
The Shangri-La Villingili Resort and Spa is one of the most celebrated resorts in the Maldives — a large, beautiful island with extraordinary beaches, overwater villas, exceptional dining and a world-class spa. The resort is the only five-star property in Addu Atoll and offers a more authentic Maldivian experience than the resorts closer to Malé.
Pristine, Uncrowded Reefs
Addu Atoll's remoteness means its reefs are among the most pristine and uncrowded in the Maldives. The coral coverage and diversity is exceptional, and the marine life is abundant. The diving and snorkelling is excellent throughout the atoll, with far fewer divers than the more accessible atolls.
Hammerhead Sharks
Addu Atoll is one of the best places in the Maldives to encounter hammerhead sharks — the channels and outer reefs of the atoll are home to large schools of scalloped hammerheads, particularly from January to April. The hammerhead encounters at Addu are considered among the finest in the Indian Ocean.
Authentic Local Culture
Addu Atoll has the most authentic and distinctive local culture in the Maldives — the people of Addu (known as Adduan) have their own dialect, traditions and history, shaped by centuries of trade with Sri Lanka, India and the British military presence. The local town of Hithadhoo is the second-largest settlement in the Maldives and has a genuine, unspoilt character.
Equator Crossing
Addu Atoll straddles the equator — the only atoll in the Maldives to do so. The equator crossing is a memorable experience, and the atoll has a slightly different climate and marine environment from the atolls to the north. The southern location means Addu is sometimes less affected by the southwest monsoon.
Causeways & Cycling
Addu Atoll is unique in the Maldives in having causeways connecting several of its islands — making it possible to cycle or drive between islands, something impossible elsewhere in the Maldives. The causeways offer extraordinary views across the lagoon and are a wonderful way to explore the atoll.
Local Food & Culture
Addu Atoll offers the opportunity to experience genuine Maldivian food and culture — local restaurants serving mas huni (tuna and coconut), garudhiya (fish broth) and the extraordinary variety of Maldivian cuisine at very low prices. The local markets and fishing harbour are fascinating.
Explore Addu Atoll on the Map
Key areas, beaches and attractions across the island.
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