Dhigurah Island, located in the Alif Dhaal Atoll of the Maldives, offers a quieter and more authentic experience compared to the more famous tourist hotspots. This long, narrow island has a local population and only a few guesthouses, making it perfect for those who want to explore the Maldives without the crowds. While many come to the Maldives for luxury resorts, Dhigurah Island stands out by offering something different. It is a great destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, and it provides an excellent option for those seeking cheap travel in a place known for high-end tourism.
Beaches and Marine Life
Dhigurah is famous for its beautiful, white-sand beaches that stretch for kilometers. Unlike the more crowded islands, the beaches here are quieter, allowing visitors to enjoy the ocean without distractions. The island’s sandbank is especially stunning and stretches out far into the sea, providing a peaceful place to relax or take a long walk. The clear, warm waters around Dhigurah are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
One of the most unique aspects of Dhigurah is its proximity to areas where you can swim with whale sharks. The waters around the island are a haven for these gentle giants, and visitors can join boat tours to snorkel with them. This experience sets Dhigurah apart from many other islands in the Maldives, making it a favorite for those interested in marine life. The coral reefs near Dhigurah are vibrant and teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and rays. Snorkeling and diving here are must-do activities, and the lack of crowds means you often have the reefs to yourself.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Beyond its beaches, Dhigurah Island offers a glimpse into Maldivian life that many tourists miss. The island has a small population, and you can explore the local village to see how people live and work in this part of the world. The guesthouses are run by locals, giving you a more personal experience compared to the large resorts. The island’s quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for those who want to escape the hustle of more commercial areas.
A notable off-the-beaten-path experience on Dhigurah is simply spending time with the locals. Unlike the more developed islands where tourism dominates, here, you can get a sense of Maldivian culture and hospitality. You can also take boat trips to nearby islands or uninhabited sandbanks. These trips are great for those who want to explore the untouched beauty of the Maldives. It’s a chance to enjoy the natural environment without the noise and crowds found in more touristy spots.
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Budget Tips
Dhigurah, unlike the more touristy islands in the Maldives, offers a quieter, more affordable experience but requires some preparation. For cheap travel, you will need to rely on public transportation, as private transfers are costly. Public ferry schedules can be confusing, and the language barrier may make it harder to find accurate information. Similarly, affordable guesthouses are available but often not online and may not take card payments, so you will need cash and some basic language skills. Mobile reception and internet can be limited in parts of the island. Some activities like boat tours to see whale sharks and local flights are noticeable cheaper with smaller local providers, but there may be similar challenges like with local travel + you need to be mindful of safety standards which can be different than in the western countries. You also need to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting less touristy islands. If you are less experienced, make sure to plan ahead, as navigating Dhigurah requires flexibility and a bit of adventure, but the rewards are worth it. If you do not want all this hustle, maybe some more touristy destinations in Maldives will be a better option for you.
Seasons Info
The best time to visit Dhigurah Island is during the peak tourist season, which runs from December to March. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, with calm seas, making it perfect for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and beach relaxation. The downside to visiting in peak season is that prices tend to be higher, and the island sees more visitors, though it still remains quieter than the major resorts in the Maldives.
The shoulder season on Dhigurah Island occurs in November and April. During these months, travelers can enjoy relatively pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak tourist season. In November, the island experiences the transition from the wet season to the dry season, with occasional rain showers that usually clear quickly, allowing for plenty of opportunities to explore and relax on the beautiful beaches. In April, the weather remains warm and sunny, but visitors can benefit from slightly reduced rates on accommodations and activities as the peak season winds down.
The off-season, which runs from May to October, brings higher chances of rain and humidity due to the monsoon. This season is not the best time to visit Maldives as the main activities are beach/sea related and monsoon also brings rough seas. Some transportation and accommodation can also be limited.
Conclusion
Dhigurah Island is a hidden gem in the Maldives that offers something different from the usual luxury resort experience. It’s perfect for travelers seeking cheap travel without compromising on the beauty and adventure the Maldives is known for. From swimming with whale sharks to relaxing on its long, peaceful beaches, Dhigurah provides a chance to explore the Maldives in a way that feels more authentic and connected to the local culture. Whether you visit during the peak season or choose the quieter shoulder or off-seasons, Dhigurah’s natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination.
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Prices info
Compared to Western countries, prices in the Maldives can vary significantly depending on the location and the type of accommodation and activities chosen. Generally, the Maldives is considered a more expensive destination due to its isolated island geography and the reliance on imported goods and services. Local guesthouses and public transportation offer more budget-friendly options.
Food and water safety
When visiting local islands or smaller establishments, it’s best to stick to bottled water to ensure safety. For food, when dining at local eateries, exercise caution by selecting clean and well-cooked options. Consider choosing restaurants that are popular with locals. It’s also advisable to avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, as the local population may be more accustomed to certain types of uncooked meals.
Customs, laws, safety
Customs and laws in Maldives can be different than in EU and US so do your research before your stay.
Maldives is generally considered safe for travelers.
– Maldives is not LGBTQIA+ friendly, homosexuality is illegal in the country.
Important information
– Safety – US Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
– EU, UK, and US citizens need VISA upon arrival to visit Maldives
– Tetanus vaccination is recommended (consult with your doctor)
– Read our Cheap travel tips
– You can find weather by month, difficulty level, and LGBT friendliness in our Data tables.
– You can join Couchsurfing for free accommodation
– Follow us on social media for every day suggestions:
Digital nomads
Many guesthouses and cafés offer Wi-Fi, though it’s essential to check the connection quality before settling in. While accommodations are generally affordable compared to Western standards, nomads should be prepared for occasional limitations in internet access and amenities.
Bigger touristy resorts may be a better option for digital nomads due to better internet connection, but the cost of living in Maldives, especially in luxurious resorts, is higher compared to western countries.