Laamu & Gaafu Atoll — The Remote Ones★★
The atolls of Laamu and Gaafu lie far south and are only accessible by domestic flight. What they offer is pure seclusion — untouched reefs, deserted beaches, and the feeling of being at the end of the world.
Laamu Atoll
The Laamu Atoll is located 270 km south of Malé and is accessible via a 50-minute domestic flight to Kadhdhoo. It hosts one of the most important archaeological sites in the Maldives and one of the most sustainable resorts.
- Six Senses Laamu: The flagship for sustainable luxury in the southern atolls. 97 villas on a densely forested island, own farm, zero-waste program, marine biology center, and the opportunity to help release baby turtles. The underwater world here is almost untouched — manta rays, sharks, and turtles right at the house reef. From 700 $/Night. Coordinates: [1.9425, 73.5142].
- Kuruhinna Tharaagandu: The largest known Buddhist site in the Maldives — a monastery complex with over 50 stupas on the island of Mundoo. Archaeologically significant but difficult to access (only by boat and with local permission). Coordinates: [2.0397, 73.5058].
The local island Gan (not to be confused with Gan in the Addu Atoll) is the largest inhabited island in the Laamu Atoll and lies directly next to the Kadhdhoo airport (connected by a causeway). Here, there are 3–4 guesthouses (30–50 $/Night) and an authentic island life away from any tourist infrastructure.
Gaafu Atoll
The Gaafu Atoll (divided into Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu) hosts the largest atoll in the Maldives and one of the largest in the world — the Huvadhu Channel between Gaafu and Laamu is one of the widest and deepest channels in the Indian Ocean, over 90 km wide. The deep-sea current through the channel brings nutrient-rich water and biodiversity that is exceptional even by Maldivian standards.
- The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi: 5-star resort with one of the longest beaches in the Maldives (2 km). 94 villas, infinity pool, Aman-inspired architecture. From 400 $/Night. Domestic flight to Kooddoo + 15 min. speedboat. Coordinates: [0.5342, 73.2183].
- Amari Havodda: Modern 5-star resort with excellent value for money (from 300 $/Night), outstanding dive sites, and one of the best house reefs in the Maldives. Coordinates: [0.4017, 73.0178].
The local island Gadhdhoo is famous for its Thundu-Kunaa weaving — here, women create the intricate woven mats that are valued in the Maldives as prayer rugs and wall decorations. Visiting the weavers is a unique cultural experience.
