Dhigurah lies on the southeast side of Ari Atoll. Dhigurah actually means long island and at 3km, it is indeed the longest island in the atoll. It is also one of the most picturesque with a long beach, protected lagoon and a sandbar at its southern end. It is just 20 minutes from Male by domestic flight or a 3 hour speedboat journey. Dhigurah is a popular destination not only for those wishing to relax but also for divers and snorkelers who seek out whale sharks, mantas and the world-renowned reefs, which make this location one of the best for diving in the Maldives. Stroll along the refined, white sandy beach with a length of more than 3 km and you will feel as though you have the beach all to yourself or treat yourself to dinner at one of the many close by 5* luxury resorts.

The guesthouses are situated a short walk away from the hub of the small local community whilst the dive school and harbor area can be reached either on foot or by guesthouse transfer vehicle. With a population of about 600, Dhigurah has all the necessary community facilities, a school, Medical Centre, sports pitches and a generous harbor. The population is concentrated in a small area to the north of the island leaving the reminder of the island for fruit and vegetable gardening and natural vegetation. There are currently minimal dining options on Dhigurah, one local restaurant and café but with new guesthouses being built this will gradually change.

ITINERARY

Day One:

Arrive Male International Airport where you will be greeted by one of our team who will assist you with your public speedboat transfer to the local island of Dhigurah in South Ari Atoll. The speedboat operates every day and leaves Male in the afternoon taking three hours to journey across the Indian Ocean to Dhigurah. View the beauty of the many Maldives islands that pass you by, keeping your eyes open for dolphins. For those arriving on a morning flight we offer a complimentary walking tour of Male city to discover the history and tradition of the Maldives.

Day Two:

South Ari Atoll is well known for the possibility of encountering whale sharks particularly on the reefs behind Dhigurah. There is only one way we can spot them and that’s the old fashioned way of being out on the boat and looking! So this morning head out in search of the ocean’s largest fish. We may see 2 or 3 sharks in half an hour or maybe only one for the whole time we are searching, but the unpredictability all adds to the excitement! When we do spot them we will have the opportunity to snorkel alongside them, a truly magical experience.

Day Three:

Today is a free day with plenty of options. Spend the day just relaxing on the beach or snorkeling the lagoon. If you were unfortunate to encounter a whale shark yesterday there is a discounted rate offer if you choose to try again today. Ask the team at the guesthouse for details. Feeling energetic take the complimentary kayak or SUPs out onto the lagoon or why not take a tropical forest hike to the end of the island for sunset!

Day Four:

Following an early breakfast you will transfer by early morning public speedboat to Male and on to Male International Airport or your onward destination.

INCLUDED

• 3 Night Standard room accommodation including breakfast
• 3 Dinners
• Airport and domestic transfer assistance
• Return transfer by public speedboat
• Airport and domestic transfer assistance
• Arrival Briefing
• Whale shark snorkeling safari
• Complimentary use of kayaks and SUPs
• In Country 24/7 Support
• All Local Tax (10% service charge, 12% GST and $3 Green tax per person per night)

Accommodation Options:

Includes standard room at TME Retreat

Transfer Options:

Arrival in Maldives required by midday in order to take speedboat transfer option included
Departure from Maldives required after midday in order to take departure speedboat transfer option included
Optional upgrade to domestic flight to allow greater flexibility $150 per person for return flight