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Maafilaafushi Island: A Tranquil Maldivian Escape

Discover Maafilaafushi: A serene Maldivian island with stunning beaches, vibrant reefs, and a glimpse into local culture in Lhaviyani Atoll.

Maafilaafushi is a serene, long and narrow island located in the Lhaviyani Atoll of the Maldives, offering a peaceful retreat with white sandy beaches, a large lagoon, and a vibrant house reef. Once inhabited, it provides a glimpse into the local Maldivian culture and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Maafilaafushi

  • MV

Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs directly from the beach.
  • Visit local eateries to experience authentic Maldivian cuisine at affordable prices.
  • Plan your visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather and clearer waters.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting inhabited areas of the island.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to discover hidden spots around the island and learn about its history.
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Getting There

  • Ferry/Speedboat

    From Malé, the most common way to reach Maafilaafushi is by speedboat or ferry. First, you'll need to get to the ferry terminal in Malé. A taxi from Velana International Airport (MLE) to the Malé ferry terminal costs approximately MVR 75-100. From the Malé ferry terminal, purchase a ticket to Naifaru, the capital island of Lhaviyani Atoll. The speedboat to Naifaru typically costs around MVR 300-500 and takes about 2-3 hours. A local ferry is cheaper, around MVR 50-100, but takes about 6-7 hours. From Naifaru, you can hire a local dhoni (small boat) to Maafilaafushi for about MVR 100-200, a short 15-30 minute ride.

  • Seaplane

    For a quicker and more scenic option, consider a seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport (MLE) directly to Maafilaafushi. The flight takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Seaplane transfers can be arranged through your resort or a travel agency. Expect to pay between $150 to $300 for a one-way ticket. Seaplanes operate during daylight hours, so plan your arrival accordingly.

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Discover more about Maafilaafushi

Maafilaafushi, an island in the Lhaviyani Atoll, offers a tranquil escape in the Maldives. This long, narrow island is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, extensive lagoon, and vibrant house reef, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. Maafilaafushi has a rich history, having been inhabited since the 17th century. It even served as the capital of the separatist Kingdom of Boduthiladhunmathi. Although resettled in the 1980s to alleviate land scarcity in Malé, it is now mostly uninhabited, adding to its secluded charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty by lounging on the beaches, snorkeling in the clear waters, or exploring the nearby reefs. The island provides a window into Maldivian culture, with opportunities to interact with locals and discover their way of life. You can also find local shops and cafes offering refreshments and traditional snacks. Maafilaafushi is surrounded by other islands, including Meedhaahuraa, Medhafushi, and Maakoa, which features one of the largest mangrove lakes in the Maldives, where flamingos are known to breed.

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