Angolhitheemu Island Map

Raa Angolhitheemu Island Maldives

Angolhitheemu is an inhabited island in Raa Atoll, located in the northern part of the Maldives. This peaceful island is relatively small and less visited compared to other more popular islands in the atoll, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking a serene and authentic Maldivian experience. Known for its quiet charm and strong community ties, Angolhitheemu provides a glimpse into traditional Maldivian island life, with its fishing-based economy and beautiful natural surroundings.

Packages

Hotels

Transfers

Activities

Location and Geography

Angolhitheemu is part of Raa Atoll and is situated approximately 170 km north of Malé, the capital of the Maldives.
The island has a modest size, with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters that are typical of the Maldives’ islands.
It is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, making it a great spot for marine activities, despite its off-the-beaten-path appeal.

Population and Community

The population of Angolhitheemu is relatively small, with around 400 to 500 residents. Most of the island’s inhabitants are engaged in fishing, boat-building, and small-scale agriculture.
The community is close-knit, with a traditional lifestyle centered around family, religion, and the sea. The islanders are known for their friendliness and hospitality towards visitors.
Islam is the predominant religion, and the local mosque serves as a spiritual and social hub for the islanders.

Key Highlights and Attractions

1. Fishing and Local Economy
- Like many Maldivian islands, fishing is the main source of income for the people of Angolhitheemu. The island’s fishermen use traditional fishing methods, including pole-and-line fishing for tuna, which is a significant part of the Maldivian diet and export industry.
- Small-scale agriculture is also practiced on the island, with locals growing coconuts, bananas, and a few vegetables for their own use and trade.

2. Traditional Maldivian Life
- Angolhitheemu offers visitors an opportunity to experience traditional Maldivian island life away from the touristy luxury resorts. Visitors can see how locals go about their daily lives, visit the island market, and enjoy local cuisine in simple yet hearty meals.
- The island also preserves handicrafts and traditional boat-building, though on a smaller scale compared to neighboring islands like Alifushi.

3. Natural Beauty and Marine Life
- While Angolhitheemu is not a major tourist hub, its natural beauty is undeniable. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The reefs are home to colorful marine species such as parrotfish, butterflyfish, and moray eels.
- The tranquil beaches on the island are ideal for those looking to relax in a peaceful, undisturbed environment. Angolhitheemu’s natural charm makes it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a retreat from bustling cities.

Things to Do in Alifushi

1. Snorkeling and Diving
- The coral reefs around Angolhitheemu are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters and abundance of marine life make it an excellent spot for exploring underwater. Visitors can swim alongside tropical fish, encounter rays, and even spot sea turtles in the area.

2. Cultural Tours
- Visitors to Angolhitheemu can take a cultural tour of the island to learn about the local lifestyle, including fishing practices, agriculture, and the role of the mosque in the community.
- You can visit the local mosque, interact with residents, and enjoy traditional Maldivian food, giving you an authentic experience of Maldivian culture.

3. Relaxing on the Beach
- For those looking to relax, Angolhitheemu’s secluded beaches are perfect for a quiet day by the water. The island’s unspoiled beaches and gentle waves offer a tranquil environment where visitors can unwind, swim, or sunbathe without the crowds found in more developed tourist destinations.

Facilities and Infrastructure

1. Accommodation
- As Angolhitheemu is not a major tourist destination, the island does not have resorts. However, there are a few guesthouses available for visitors. These guesthouses provide basic but comfortable accommodations, offering a more budget-friendly and authentic alternative to the high-end luxury resorts found elsewhere in the Maldives.
2. Healthcare and Education
- The island has a small healthcare center that provides basic medical services to the residents. For more specialized treatments, locals often travel to larger islands or to the capital, Malé.
- Education on the island is available through primary and secondary schooling. For higher education or specialized training, students generally move to other islands or the mainland.
3. Transportation
- Transportation to and from Angolhitheemu is primarily via speedboats or ferries from nearby islands or Malé. Domestic flights to Ifuru Airport or Dharavandhoo Airport followed by a speedboat transfer offer the fastest way to reach the island.

How to Get to Angolhitheemu

By Air: Travelers can take a domestic flight from Malé to Ifuru Airport in Raa Atoll or Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll. From there, a speedboat transfer will take you to Angolhitheemu.
By Sea: Regular ferry and speedboat services operate between Malé and Raa Atoll, providing an alternative route for those who prefer to travel by sea.