4-Night Addu Atoll Uncovered

Upon arrival at Male International Airport you will be greeted by your Tour Leader and transferred by domestic flight to the Gan International Airport, in the southern atoll of Addu, meaning you also get to cross the Equator!

Settle in after your flight before taking your first steps on the sands of this southern gem, take a swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean or just explore the facilities of the hotel before dinner.

Today we travel by vehicle to the tip of the western string of islands to visit Addu Nature Park. The park encompasses the Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands and the UNESCO protected Koattey area, a sanctuary of biodiversity showcasing the wonders of the Maldives natural environment. Koattey actually means “fortress” in Dhivehi and lives up to its name by serving as a haven for almost 30 bird species, including migratory birds, as well as various species of mangroves. 

Eydhigali Kilhi is one of the largest wetlands in the Maldives, renowned for its abundant water bird population. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the presence of birds such as the eastern grey heron, the endemic Maldivian pond heron, the little egret, and the white tern, which can be observed throughout the year.

During our visit we will join one of the Park Rangers for a guided nature tour through the park. They will share tales of the historical strategic importance of the area, uncover hidden clues to the past in the undergrowth and point out unique flora and fauna. Following a picnic lunch, kayak an area known as Bedhi, famous for its beautiful red mangroves, baby stingrays and sharks and finally snorkel in search of turtles, lobsters, clams, and sponges.  It is claimed that the reef is also home to a few elusive seahorses so be sure to keep your eyes open!

The Maldives is rich in marine life but unfortunately, our marine life is no longer safe because of activities carried out by us humans. Following dinner over a coffee your tour leader will highlight the harmful practices that are pushing the balance in the eco system and what we can do to limit the impact.

Following breakfast, we depart by boat for an underwater encounter. Your guide will provide a safety briefing on responsible snorkeling and act as your ‘spotter’ during the experience, pointing out marine life that may not have caught your eye. They will assist less confident or inexperienced snorkelers, ensuring your equipment is comfortable and you feel safe in the water. 

Discover coral reefs that are teeming with fish and marine-life. Keep your eyes open for turtles and sharks. Whilst never a guarantee we may be lucky enough to encounter manta rays which can be sighted year round in the atoll. Addu is the only place in the Maldives that is home to full-sized adult Mantas, with wingspans stretching an incredible 5 meters. A Maldives Manta Conservation Programme (MMCP) initiative was launched in 2022 to establish a local base in Addu to lead an in-depth assessment of the current trends and health status of this regional manta population, a project Secret Paradise is a principal supporter of.

Late afternoon as the heat of the day diminishes, spend time exploring Gan on foot with your Tour Leader to learn more of the history of the area and its connection with the British.  Particular sites of interest include the old cinema and monuments of remembrance. We finish our walk by sampling traditional ‘hedika’ – Maldivian savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea at a local cafe.

Today we start our day of exploration cycling to Feydhoo from where we take a public ferry across the atoll to Hulhumeedhoo.  Although Hulhumeedhoo is geographically one island, it is divided into two administrative areas – Meedhoo and Hulhudhoo.  Meedhoo is one of the oldest populated islands in the Maldives and is also home to remnants of the Second World War and even centuries-old ancient relics. 

We wind our way along sandy lanes to visit Kogannu Cemetery, the oldest and largest cemetery in the country, home to many mosques and tombs of antiquity. The cemetery, which is over 900 years old, has more than 1500 tombstones and seven small mosques of which only four remain. Koagannu also has one of the largest and tallest coral grave markers in the country. The local islanders believe that the tombstone dates back to the 18th century. 

Continuing our ride, we head to the atoll’s farmland and in particular to Zuvaan Dhanduveriya, described as ‘one of the most ambitious farms in Maldives’. Experimental plants are grown via various techniques such as grafting and there are mature dragon fruit trees and crops of grapes and passionfruit.

We complete our tour at Mathikilhi Eco Garden. This area used to be abundant in freshwater lakes, the largest of these lakes being the “Fenfila Koaru” located in the center of the wetland. The common lake sedge that has spread abundantly over the years has left the area covered with a lush green carpet. The last lake was saved by locals from being turned into a wetland to form this tranquil area of natural beauty.

This morning is free for you to relax at the property reclined on a sun lounger on the beach or on the poolside before we transfer by domestic flight to Male International Airport or your onward destination arriving by 16:00.

There is the option to add on our 3-Night Fuvahmulah Experience, extend your stay at Equator Village or transfer on to a stay at either South Palm Resort or Canareef Resort.