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Seenu/Addu Atoll Maldives

Seenu Atoll, also known as Addu Atoll, is the southernmost atoll of the Maldives and is renowned for its natural beauty, unique history, and cultural significance. Unlike the more tourist-centric atolls in the Maldives, Seenu Atoll offers a mix of stunning tropical landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a blend of local traditions with a modern twist.

Hotels

Resorts

Packages

Transfer

Activities

Location and Geography

  • Seenu Atoll is situated at the southernmost tip of the Maldives, approximately 540 km south of Malé, the capital.
  • The atoll consists of 23 islands, of which only a few are inhabited. The atoll's geographical structure includes a natural harbor, a large lagoon, and several uninhabited islands.
  • The administrative capital of the atoll is Hithadhoo, which is one of the largest islands in the Maldives.

    • Inhabited Islands

    Some of the inhabited islands of Seenu Atoll include:
    Hithadhoo
    Gan
    Maradhoo
    Feydhoo
    Hulhudhoo
    Meedhoo

    Population and Economy

    Seenu Atoll has a population of around 20,000 residents, making it one of the more densely populated regions in the Maldives. The primary economic activities of the atoll include fishing, tourism, and some agriculture. The region also has a history of being a strategic naval base during British rule.

    Key Highlights and Attractions

  • Gan Island: Gan is one of the most famous islands in Seenu Atoll, home to a former British Royal Air Force base, which now serves as Gan International Airport. Gan also has historical remnants from World War II, adding a layer of cultural heritage to its natural beauty.
  • Biodiversity and Diving: The atoll's coral reefs and marine ecosystem are rich with diverse marine life. Popular dive sites around Seenu Atoll include Manta Point, British Loyalty wreck, and Kottey outside. The area is famous for sightings of manta rays, dolphins, and a wide variety of colorful coral species.
  • Addu Nature Park: Located in the southern part of the atoll, the park is home to mangrove forests, wetlands, and several species of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for eco-tourism activities such as birdwatching, kayaking, and cycling.

    • Facilities and Infrastructure

  • Gan International Airport: This airport connects the atoll to the rest of the Maldives and international destinations, making Seenu Atoll easily accessible.
  • Resorts and Guesthouses: Seenu Atoll has several resorts and guesthouses that cater to various types of travelers, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious visitors. Notable resorts include the Equator Village and Canareef Resort.
  • Local Services: The atoll is well-equipped with schools, hospitals, mosques, and community centers. The infrastructure here is more developed compared to many other atolls, with good road networks connecting islands like Gan, Hithadhoo, and Maradhoo via causeways.

    • Historical Significance

    Seenu Atoll played a key role during World War II, when the British military used Gan Island as a base. After the war, the British maintained a presence on Gan until 1976, and remnants of this era, such as the British Loyalty shipwreck, still attract tourists today.

    Local Culture and Traditions

  • The culture in Seenu Atoll is heavily influenced by the Maldivian way of life, with Islam being the predominant religion. Local customs, festivals, and the hospitality of the people reflect the Islamic values embedded in the community.
  • The islands also have a unique dialect, slightly different from the traditional Maldivian language, reflecting the region's distinct identity.

    • How to Get to Seenu Atoll

  • The atoll is served by Gan International Airport, with regular domestic and international flights.
  • Visitors can travel between islands via ferries and speedboats, and there are well-established roads connecting the islands within the atoll.

    • Near By Atolls

    Vaavu Atoll

    Vaavu Atoll

    Islands in Addu Atolls

    Seenu Maradhoo Maldives

    Seenu Maradhoo Maldives

    Seenu Hulhumeedhoo Maldives

    Seenu Hulhumeedhoo Maldives

    Seenu Hithadhoo Maldives

    Seenu Hithadhoo Maldives

    Seenu Feydhoo Maldives

    Seenu Feydhoo Maldives