Whale sharks
Whale sharks live in the waters off South Ari Atoll for much of the year, and snorkel trips from Dhigurah go out to look for them. Sightings are never guaranteed, and we encourage respectful distance and following the guides' rules.
LOCAL ISLAND GUIDE · SOUTH ARI ATOLL
Dhigurah, the long island
The long beach and the whale sharks. Best for whale shark trips, long beach walks, quiet snorkelling, couples and nature lovers.
AtollAlif Dhaal (South Ari Atoll)
From MaléAbout 97 km south-west, by boat or domestic flight plus boat
Island sizeAbout 4 km long and only 100 to 200 m wide, under 800 residents
Best forWhale sharks, beach, snorkelling, sandbank
ABOUT THE ISLAND
Dhigurah in a few words
Dhigurah means "long island", and it fits. The island stretches about four kilometres and is only a couple of hundred metres across, so one side is a long, quiet beach and the other is lagoon. At its southern tip a narrow sandbank appears and disappears with the tide.
It is one of the few inhabited islands in the Maldives where whale sharks are a regular sight, which is why many guests come here for snorkelling trips.
FAMOUS FOR
What Dhigurah is known for
The long beach and sandbank
Walk the whole west side of the island on white sand. At the southern end, a sandbank with shallow turquoise water is a favourite picnic and photo stop.
Turtles, rays and reef sharks
The house reefs and nearby channels are known for turtles and small reef sharks close to shore, along with manta, dolphin and reef trips.
Diving and fishing
Dive centres run trips in South Ari Atoll, and evening fishing trips are a local tradition.
HOW TO GET THERE
Reaching Dhigurah
Ferry and speedboat times change by season and by day. Share your flight and we confirm the right transfer for your dates.
Dhigurah is far enough from Malé that the choice of transfer matters. A shared or private speedboat from Malé takes roughly two to three hours depending on the boat and sea conditions.
A short domestic flight to Maamigili airport followed by a boat transfer is a quicker alternative, especially if the sea is rough. Flights and boat times change, so we confirm the best option for your dates.
- Swimwear is for the bikini beach and the sandbank; dress modestly in the village.
- Alcohol is not sold on the island.
- Follow your guide's instructions with whale sharks: do not touch or chase them, and keep your distance.
- Friday is the prayer day, and some shops and cafés close for part of it.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before you go
- The dry season (about January to April) has calmer seas. The wetter months bring more clouds and fewer crowds.
- There is very little shade on the sandbank, so bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Mobile coverage and Wi-Fi are available, but cash and cards are not accepted everywhere.
- There is a small health centre on the island, and serious cases go to Malé. Travel insurance is advisable.
WHERE TO STAY
Stays and holidays on Dhigurah
Guest houses we work with
Holiday packages
Ask us for dates, availability and a quote.
Planning a trip to Dhigurah?
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. We reply on WhatsApp with options, transfers and a clear plan.
OTHER ISLANDS