The recent pandemic era has redefined our relationship with nature. More often than not, travellers are taking a nature trip just to get away from their busy lives, or even to get out of their daily routine grind. Maldives is blessed with abundant natural charm making it a refreshing location for couples, a popular holiday destination for spending time with family and friends, or even a relaxing solo journey reconnecting with yourself.
Here are some eco-rich areas in the Maldives to definitely add to your travel bucket list to get in tune with nature.
1. Huraa Mangrove Nature Reserve (HMNR) in Huraa, North Malé Atoll
A favourite spot for conservationists and nature-lovers, HMNR is a protected area located in Huraa of Kaafu Atoll which stretches to 5.2 hectares at the northern end of the island. If you’re an avid bird-watcher, you must visit this place as the site is commonly visited by many species of protected birds in the Maldives.
The HMNR has the honour of being the only mangrove located in Kaafu Atoll of the Maldives, where the capital city is located. It is also the most easily accessible mangrove reserve in the Maldives, only a short speedboat ride directly from the main international airport (Velana International Airport) or from the capital Malé City itself.
How to reach: It is only a short speedboat ride directly from the main international airport (Velana International Airport) or from the capital Malé City itself.
2. Mathikilhi Eco Garden in Hulhumeedhoo, Addu Atoll
One of the many protected areas in Addu Atoll and the first Eco Garden in the Maldives, Mathikilhi Ecogarde is located in the MathiKilhi wetlands area at the intersection of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo. Its area encompasses over 54 hectares, of which some 25 hectares comprise two lakes, and another approximately 50 hectares of lush, green, carpet of lake sedge.
One of the best things about Mathikilhi is the fact that you can easily go down the constructed walkway to take a natural, warm mud bath, full of precious minerals and nutrients for your skin. The walkway itself has arches and tiny bridges that are perfect for photographs, or just to sit and dangle your feet below as you take in the beauty, tranquillity, and serenity of the space.
How to reach: Take a flight directly to Addu International Airport located on Gan Island and make your way through the different islands, all connected via a link road.
3. Dhigemahkoda Nature Park at Hoandedhdhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
It is located in the northeastern wetlands of Hoandedhdhoo Island of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, also known as Huvadhu Atoll. The park encompasses mangroves, wetlands, and freshwater lakes, and is one of the most beautiful, untouched pieces of wild forestry in the Maldives that stretch as far as the eyes can see. Its area includes an 85ft walkway, along with benches and a barbeque area constructed so as not to disturb the natural ecosystem of the wetlands.
How to reach: Get to Haa Dhaalu Atoll by taking a flight to the airport located on Hanimaadhoo Island, and then take a speedboat or ferry to Madaveli or Hoandedhdhoo.
4. Baarah Wetlands in Baarah, Haa Alifu Atoll
If you are a traveller who loves history as well as nature, the Baarah Wetlands is the perfect place for you. Encompassing some 52 hectares, the Baarah Wetlands houses several species of marine life and about 10 bodies of water within the area. One of these is directly connected to the adjacent lagoon and marine habitat, giving it crucial ecological value. An abundance of fish, crabs, and other juvenile marine organisms call this area home.
This specific lake is extremely significant in Maldivian history as well, as it was one of the mangroves used by Sultan Al-Ghazi Mohamed Thakurufaanu Al-Auzam (Bodu Thakurufaanu), the Maldivian hero who liberated the nation from the Portuguese invaders.
How to reach: Visiting the Baarah Wetlands is easy due to the domestic airport located on Hoarafushi Island of the atoll, from which the island is just a boat ride away.
5. Kaashidhoo Wetlands in Kaafu Atoll
The Kaashidhoo Wetlands located in Kaafu Atoll is special for lovers of tortoises, as one of only three islands in the Maldives with an indigenous population of the Maldivian Black Turtle, (Melanochelys trijuga thermalis, locally known as Kanzu Kahambu) an endangered and protected species in the nation.
Kaashidhoo Wetlands is the site with the most frequently reported sightings of these majestic creatures, as they thrive feeding on screw pine and breadfruit found in abundance in the area. The 42 hectares of wetlands were designated as a protected area in February 2021 by the incumbent government, due to the diversity of life in the area.
In addition to the wetlands, Kaashidhoo is one of the largest suppliers of fresh fruits and vegetables to the capital city. How to reach: Kaashidhoo is easily accessible via a ferry ride from Malé or the main international airport.
6. Kendhikulhudhoo Eco park in Kendhikulhudhoo, Noonu Atoll
Located in Noonu Atoll, the Kendhikulhudhoo Eco Park is in the wetlands region of the island, created through a project initiated by the tireless efforts of the youth of the island and completed with the aid of the entire community. The entire wetland area of this island is a whopping 494 hectares large and received protected status from the state in 2019.
The island community continue to build walkways, benches, viewing platforms and other recreational facilities at the park, and is one of the best places to visit for the traveller who wants to give back to nature as they gain from her: volunteer to help with the regular clean-up or augmentation of the park for a holiday that is more than just relaxation and fun.
How to reach: Maafaru International Airport located in Noonu Atoll is your easiest gateway to this well-loved and taken care of park in Kendhikulhudhoo Island.
