The Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Also known as the Huvadhu Atholhu Uthuruburi which translates to the Northern Huvadhoo Atoll. Due to its sheer size, the Huvadhooo atoll was divided into two districts. The southern Huvadhoo Atoll, and the Nothern Huvadhoo Atoll, which is commonly known as Gaafu Alifu atoll.

This pristine atoll, nestled in the vast Indian Ocean is home to 82 lush tropical isles, and a few sandbanks as well. Out of them, 11 are inhabited with people with a total population of 9300 people. Surprisingly, 3000 people reside in Villingili, the capital island of Gaafu Alifu Atoll.

The Gaafu Alifu atoll is one of the largest coral atolls in the world. Its islands are lush with tropical foliage and rich in the history of Maldives as well. Ancient Buddhist prayer molds and mosques dating back to the 16th century can be found on the local islands of Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Early traditions can also be seen by the locals of the atoll. Nestled in the center, the island of the Dhevvadhoo is home to locals famous for their coir-rope making and textile weaving. An ancient craft of the Maldives.

Getting from Male' to Gaafu Alifu Atoll is also easier than it ever has been. Before you would have had no options, other than to cross the sea. But, with the introduction of a Gaafu Alifu Atoll Airport at Kooddoo Island, you could take a domestic flight which only takes about 40 mins. Certainly beats a long and bumpy speedboat ride.

Of course, the Gaafu Alifu Atoll resorts are the main highlights of the atoll. Utilizing the bountiful environment, the luxurious resorts set on private islands. White glistening beaches, azure waters, and hidden gardens untouched by humans. Park Hyatt Maldives and Pullman Maldives Maamula are a few shining examples when it comes to the best resorts in Gaafu Alifu Atoll.

There are lots to do in the atoll, whether its experience a luxurious Gaafu Alifu Atoll resorts, or discovering the wonders of a local island, or a simple picnic on a sandbank. There is even a whole new world below. One which you can discover with a Gaafu Alifu atoll diving experience. The channel of Kooddoo is famous for its shark diving. You can encounter, grey reef sharks, blacktip ocean sharks, and even the bizarre hammerhead. It's certainly a bewildering experience.

Gaafu Alifu atoll is full of adventures. Stunning resorts, rich marine life remote sandbanks, and exciting Gaafu Alifu Atoll Diving experiences await.