Family Adventure in Dhigurah: Exploring Maldivian Beauty

Island Adventures: Jungle and Sand

Today was a day of contrasts, perfectly encapsulating the diverse beauty of Dhigurah. We ventured from the depths of a tropical forest to the serene expanses of a pristine sandbank, experiencing the raw, untamed heart of the island and the tranquil beauty that draws so many to the Maldives. It was a day filled with exploration, relaxation, and the joy of sharing these moments with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hawaii Foods. Aishath and I enjoyed some traditional *mas huni*, while Ibrahim opted for pancakes – a little taste of home in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the equatorial forest that covers a significant portion of Dhigurah. This wasn't just a walk in the park; it was an immersive experience into the island's wilder side.


Discover the enchanting Equatorial Forest in Dhigurah, Maldives—your gateway to lush hiking trails and vibrant wildlife in a tropical paradise.

The forest trail was a vibrant tapestry of green, teeming with life. Towering trees formed a dense canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. The air was thick with humidity and the earthy scent of vegetation. Ibrahim, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by the tiny lizards darting across our path and the colorful birds flitting through the branches. Aishath, with her background in nursing, pointed out various medicinal plants, sharing her knowledge of their traditional uses in Maldivian culture. I felt a deep connection to this land, remembering my childhood days spent exploring similar forests back in Naifaru.

The equatorial forest occupies about 2.5 kilometers of the island, offering well-maintained trails for hikers of all levels. As we walked deeper, the sounds of the village faded away, replaced by the symphony of nature – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of insects, and the occasional call of a Koel bird. It was a welcome escape from the everyday, a chance to reconnect with nature and each other. I made sure to capture the beauty around us, snapping photos of the unique flora and fauna with my camera, hoping to share the essence of this experience with my blog readers.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

After our jungle adventure, we were ready for a change of scenery. Our next destination was the Longisland Sandbank, a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. We hopped on a *tuk-tuk* for a short ride to the northern tip of the island, where we arranged for a boat to take us to the sandbank. The boat ride itself was a treat, with the gentle sea breeze on our faces and the stunning views of Dhigurah receding into the distance.


Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Longisland Sandbank, a hidden gem in the Maldives, perfect for relaxation and underwater exploration.

As we approached the Longisland Sandbank, its beauty was simply breathtaking. The sand was powdery soft and dazzlingly white, contrasting against the vibrant blue of the ocean. The water was so clear that we could see the colorful fish darting around the coral reefs below. Ibrahim was thrilled and immediately jumped into the water, eager to explore the underwater world with his snorkeling gear. Aishath and I followed suit, marveling at the vibrant marine life that thrived in this protected ecosystem. The South Ari Atoll, where Dhigurah is located, is renowned for its diverse marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and countless species of colorful fish.

We spent the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the Longisland Sandbank. I tried my hand at underwater photography, hoping to capture the beauty of the coral reefs and the playful antics of the fish. Aishath collected seashells with Ibrahim, teaching him about the different types of marine life that call this place home. It was a perfect family moment, a memory that I knew we would cherish for years to come. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this slice of paradise with my loved ones, to show them the beauty of the islands where I grew up.

For lunch, we had packed a picnic from MIXE (formerly The Island Kitchen). Their fresh seafood and traditional Maldivian curries were the perfect complement to our island adventure. Eating on the sandbank, surrounded by the vastness of the ocean, was an experience in itself. The flavors of the food seemed even more vibrant, enhanced by the fresh sea air and the stunning natural surroundings. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me, a feeling of being completely present in the moment.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Maldives at MIXE in Dhidhdhoo – where local cuisine meets international flair.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we packed up our things and headed back to Dhigurah. The sunset over the Indian Ocean was a spectacle of colors, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. We watched in awe as the sun slowly disappeared below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the island. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Back in Dhigurah, we decided to try Ekuveri Hiyaa Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant offered a cozy ambiance and a menu filled with local delicacies. We savored the flavors of Maldivian cuisine, sharing stories and laughter as we relived the day's adventures. Ibrahim, tired but happy, fell asleep in Aishath's arms, his face flushed with sun and sea. After dinner, I decided to check out East Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere. I enjoyed a refreshing drink, chatting with some locals and fellow travelers, soaking in the island vibes before heading back to our guesthouse for a well-deserved rest.


Experience the vibrant flavors of the Maldives at East Bar, Dhigurah's premier dining destination, blending local seafood with tropical delights.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Sunset Beach and the 5 Rocks (oceanholic). Sunset Beach, as the name suggests, promises stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon, while 5 Rocks (oceanholic) offers another opportunity to discover Dhigurah's vibrant marine life. And, of course, we'll be trying out Grill Terrace for breakfast, The Coffee Concepts for lunch and Drift Restaurant for dinner. I am also hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at Cool Shop.

Today was a reminder of why I love the Maldives so much – the natural beauty, the sense of tranquility, and the warmth of the people. Sharing these experiences with my family made it all the more special. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this journey, for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots and create lasting memories with my loved ones.