Maakurathu Island Map

Raa Maakurathu Island Maldives

Raa Maakurathu is an inhabited island in the northern Raa Atoll of the Maldives, offering a peaceful environment with pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a close-knit community. This small island, part of the picturesque Raa Atoll, is known for its natural beauty and traditional Maldivian charm.

Packages

Hotels

Transfers

Activities

Location and Geography

Maakurathu is located in the Raa Atoll, approximately 165 kilometers north of Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. It is a medium-sized island in the atoll, with white sandy beaches and a calm, clear lagoon.
The island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving, and it offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Population and Community

The population of Maakurathu is estimated to be around 1,000 to 1,200 people. The islanders are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to the sea, with many engaged in traditional fishing practices.
The community on the island is close-knit, with a strong focus on family and maintaining the local culture. While modern amenities are available, the island retains its traditional charm.

Key Highlights and Attractions

1. Stunning Natural Beauty
- Maakurathu boasts some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoons in the Raa Atoll. The beaches are ideal for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
- The lush green vegetation and coconut palms on the island provide a picturesque backdrop, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

2. Rich Marine Life and Coral Reefs
- The coral reefs around Maakurathu are teeming with marine life, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore vibrant coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, and possibly even spot manta rays and sea turtles.
- The island’s reef is relatively untouched, providing a serene environment for underwater exploration.

3. Traditional Fishing
- Fishing is a major part of the local economy in Maakurathu. Many islanders are involved in pole-and-line fishing, a traditional and sustainable method of catching fish in the Maldives.
- Visitors can join fishing trips with local fishermen, providing a unique insight into the Maldivian way of life and the importance of fishing to the community.

Things to Do in Maakurathu

1. Snorkeling and Diving
- The coral reefs around Maakurathu offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. The underwater world around the island is home to a variety of marine species, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
- Guided snorkeling tours are available for visitors, allowing them to explore the coral reefs and encounter colorful fish, rays, and more.

2. Fishing Trips
- Fishing excursions are a popular activity for visitors to Maakurathu. You can join local fishermen for a day of fishing using traditional methods, or try night fishing, which is a unique and exciting experience.
- Fishing trips offer a great way to learn about the island’s culture and its strong connection to the sea.

3. Beach Relaxation
- The peaceful beaches of Maakurathu provide the perfect environment for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the soft white sand, the clear waters, and the sound of the waves while sunbathing or having a beach picnic.
- The island’s serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas.

4. Cultural Interaction
- Cultural tours allow visitors to engage with the local community, learn about their daily life, and experience authentic Maldivian traditions. You can visit local homes, see traditional crafts being made, and taste delicious Maldivian dishes.

Facilities and Infrastructure

1. Accommodation
- While Maakurathu is not a major tourist destination, there are several guesthouses on the island that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. Staying at a local guesthouse provides a more intimate and authentic experience compared to large resorts.
2. Healthcare
- The island has a health center that provides basic medical services to residents and visitors. For more serious medical issues, patients may need to travel to larger nearby islands or to Malé.
3. Education
- Maakurathu has a local school that provides primary and secondary education to the children of the island. Education is highly valued, and the school serves as an important institution for the community.
4. Transportation
- Maakurathu is connected to other islands in the Raa Atoll and to Malé by ferry services and speedboat transfers. The nearest domestic airport is Ifuru Airport, which provides easy access to the island.

How to Get to Maakurathu

By Air: The nearest domestic airport to Maakurathu is Ifuru Airport, which is accessible from Velana International Airport (Malé). From Ifuru, a speedboat ride will take you to the island.
By Sea: Regular ferry services and speedboat transfers connect Maakurathu to other islands in the Raa Atoll and to Malé. The journey by sea offers stunning views of the surrounding atolls.