Dhigurah in the Maldives – The affordable dream island: Everything you need to know!

This blog post will change your perspective on the Maldives forever. For a long time, the Maldives were considered an exclusive, unaffordable destination. But then I heard about Dhigurah , and my ideas about vacationing in the Maldives were completely redefined. Want to travel to the Maldives for less?

Yes, it's possible! Since 2009, tourists have been able to stay overnight on the local islands – and Dhigurah is a true insider tip. Here you'll find not only beautiful beaches, but also a breathtaking underwater world. I'll show you everything you need to know for a budget-friendly vacation in the Maldives and which experiences you shouldn't miss on Dhigurah.

Don't have time to read? Here's a quick overview of the most important information:

How do I get to Dhigurah?

Dhigurah can be easily reached by speedboat within 2 hours directly from Malé airport. The trip costs $60 one way per person.

When is the best time to visit Dhigurah?

The best time is from November to April, as the dry season offers clear water and calm seas for beach and diving activities.

Is Dhigurah a good island for budget travelers?

Yes, Dhigurah is a local island, so there are cheaper guesthouses and local restaurants compared to the resort islands.

Can I see whale sharks on Dhigurah?

Yes, the Dhigurah region is known for whale sharks, and there are many organized snorkeling and diving trips to experience these gentle giants.

Is diving and snorkeling possible on Dhigurah?

Dhigurah is ideal for diving and snorkeling, especially in the South Ari Atoll. There are several dive schools and guides on site.

What should I consider when it comes to clothing on Dhigurah?

Dhigurah is an inhabited island with a Muslim population. Modest clothing is recommended outside of the "bikini beaches" and resorts (more on that below!)

Can I take my drone to Dhigurah and fly it there?

Yes, you are allowed to fly your drone anywhere and at any time on Dhigurah without permission. However, please show respect to other tourists and especially the locals and do not disturb them with your drone.

Is Dhigurah suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, Dhigurah is safe and well-suited for solo travelers. The island offers community activities and affordable accommodations that are well-suited to solo travelers. I myself visited Dhigurah as a solo traveler and felt safe at all times.

What should I definitely do on Dhigurah?

In addition to whale shark snorkeling, an island-hopping excursion is worthwhile to explore other local islands and resorts in the Ari Atoll. Visit the stunning sandbar of Dhigurah and walk through the island's tropical jungle.

What should I definitely not forget in my suitcase?

Mosquito spray is a must in your suitcase! The mosquitoes here can be quite persistent, especially in the evening. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is also highly recommended.

General information about Dhigurah:

Dhigurah is one of the longer islands in the Maldives and is located in the South Ari Atoll . The island is just under 3 km long and only 300 m wide, but its beauty is indescribable. The name "Dhigurah" means "long island" in the Maldivian language Dhivehi , and this name is more than apt.

The island not only offers stunning beaches, but also the opportunity to observe whale sharks and manta rays year-round. At the southern end of the island, you'll also find an impressive sandbank , which is one of the most popular tourist destinations.

How can I travel to the Maldives cheaply and what role does Dhigurah play here?

Dhigurah is a local island , meaning accommodations and living costs are significantly cheaper than at luxury resorts. Since 2009, tourists have been allowed to stay on the Local Islands , opening up a whole new way to travel the Maldives on a budget.

Instead of staying in an expensive resort, you'll find guesthouses on Dhigurah, often run by locals. Here, you can stay for under €100 per night – including breakfast! Restaurants and supermarkets are also significantly cheaper, and you'll arrive by speedboat instead of an expensive seaplane , which significantly reduces the price.

Getting to Dhigurah:

Getting to Dhigurah is straightforward. From Malé International Airport, you can take a speedboat to the island in just 1.5 to 2 hours. Tickets cost around USD 60 per person and are usually arranged through your accommodation.

Duration: 1.5–2 hours (depending on sea conditions)

Cost: $60 per ride and person

Times:

Airport -> Dhigurah: daily at 11:00 am & 4:00 pm (Friday: 10:00 am & 4:15 pm)

Dhigurah -> Airport: daily at 7:00 AM & 1:00 PM (Friday: 7:00 AM & 1:30 PM)

Visa and entry requirements:

You don't need a visa for the Maldives if you're staying for less than 30 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you must have a return or onward ticket. Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are recommended but not required.

Accommodation on Dhigurah:

Most accommodations on Dhigurah are guesthouses, which are an excellent and affordable alternative to expensive resorts. These are often run by locals and offer not only affordable rooms but also an authentic experience. At my accommodation, " Akiri Dhigurah, " I paid approximately $75 per night including breakfast. Please note, however, that prices may vary depending on the season and length of stay.

What is the house reef of Dhigurah like?

I was truly impressed by Dhigurah's house reef . While snorkeling, you can discover a variety of coral reefs , rays , sharks , turtles , and many tropical fish. It's a true paradise for snorkelers and divers seeking unforgettable underwater experiences.

Are there restaurants and supermarkets on Dhigurah?

Dhigurah has several restaurants and small supermarkets, although the supermarkets only offer the bare essentials. You can find toiletries, snacks, fruit, and drinks here.

The restaurants on the island were all really great and, above all, reasonably priced. A meal here typically costs between 50 MVR and 130 MVR (depending on the dish). That's about €3–8. I can especially recommend the following restaurants: Cafe' Dune & Shell Restaurant and Cafe

Payment - cash or credit card?

I recommend bringing a good amount of cash in the local currency, the MVR , as many shops and restaurants on Dhigurah only accept cash. US dollars are also widely accepted. However, be aware that credit card payments often incur a fee of around 3.5%.

Does Dhigurah have an ATM?

And now to the question: "What if I run out of cash?" Dhigurah has an ATM on the island. It's located right at the harbor.

BUT it's not always functional or stocked with cash. So I recommend bringing enough cash with you from the airport.

Internet on Dhigurah:

Most accommodations on Dhigurah offer Wi-Fi, but if you want to stay online outside of your accommodation, you can purchase a SIM card or e-SIM for mobile internet. I chose a Dhiraagu SIM card , which had a good network and a fast connection.

The cost is between 40 and 50 USD (depending on the amount of GB).

Are there rules for me on a local island?

In the Maldives, there are clear cultural and religious rules that should be respected, especially on the local islands, as they are predominantly Muslim. This means there are some differences from the resort islands, which cater to international guests and often have less strict regulations. Here are some important tips for your stay:

Dress code:

Women : Be sure to cover your shoulders, stomach, and knees when on a local island. Loose pants, long skirts or dresses, and sleeved T-shirts or blouses are appropriate. Swimming in bikinis or swimsuits is not permitted on most local beaches. However, most islands have designated "bikini beaches" where bikinis are permitted.

Men : Men should also keep their shoulders covered and avoid very short shorts. However, at bikini beaches, you can swim in swim shorts. Bare-chested swimwear is also permitted here.

Tip : It is best to take light, breathable clothing that is comfortable to wear in high temperatures and a large scarf or shawl as a complement.

Rules of conduct :

Alcohol : The consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited on local islands. Alcohol may not be purchased or brought onto the islands. If you wish to consume alcohol, you can take day trips to resort islands where alcohol is served.

Religion : Islam plays a large role in the Maldives, and religious rules are taken seriously. Fridays are religious holidays, and certain businesses or services may be restricted.

Respectful interaction : Adhere to the standards of behavior expected of you as a visitor. Open displays of affection in public, such as kissing or hugging, are uncommon and could be considered disrespectful.

Fasting (Ramadan) : If you are traveling during Ramadan, be careful not to eat or drink in public during the day to respect those fasting.

10 things you can do on Dhigurah

1. Visit the Dhigurah Sandbank

The beauty of the Dhigurah sandbar is hard to put into words. After breakfast, head to the other end of the island and explore the sandbar. Swim in the shallow, turquoise waters and walk along the sandbar. If you look closely, you might even spot plenty of blacktip reef sharks and stingrays!

2. Stroll along the longest bikini beach in the Maldives

Dhigurah's Bikini Beach has not only been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by Bild magazine , but is also one of the longest bikini beaches in the Maldives. Find your own shady spot, go snorkeling on the Dhigurah reef, and enjoy the beautiful nature of the Maldives.

3. Snorkel with manta rays

Take a boat tour with your accommodation and snorkel with a manta ray. These animals can reach a length of 5-8 meters and a wingspan of up to 7 meters! You have the chance to spot these wonderful animals year-round in Dhigurah or the South Ari Atoll.

4. Eat at a local restaurant

In the picture, you can see the typical Maldivian breakfast, "Mashuni Roshi," which I was served daily at my accommodation. This delicious, traditional breakfast consists mainly of tuna, coconut, onions, and chili and is eaten with roshi, a thin flatbread. Don't miss this delicious dish!

"Mashuni Roshi"

5. Take a boat tour to the surrounding reefs and other sandbanks

Take a dhoni cruise and explore the surrounding reefs. The dhoni is the traditional means of transport in the Maldives. With a bit of luck, you might spot dolphins and turtles during the trip.

6. Explore the tropical rainforest in the heart of Dhigurah

Dhigurah is predominantly tropical rainforest. Stroll through it and spot several animals along the way, such as the land hermit crab, the Maldivian fruit bat, and the grey heron.

7. Dive with a whale shark

One of the most breathtaking activities you absolutely must experience on Dhigurah is snorkeling with a whale shark . They can grow to 5.5 to 10 meters in length , making them the largest fish in the world. Unfortunately, I wasn't lucky enough to see one, but you have the chance here year-round.

8. Look at the beautiful sunsets

I've never seen sunsets as beautiful as those in the Maldives. Grab some food, sit on the beach, and watch the sky change color.

9. Explore a shipwreck surrounded by corals

Take a boat tour to a shipwreck in the Indian Ocean. Snorkel along the beautiful coral reefs and discover a variety of fish species.

10. Stroll through the small village of Dhigurah

Dhigurah's village is just as beautiful as the rest of the island. Stroll through the many small streets and discover the many works of art on the walls.

By the way : Follow me on my social media channels to get exclusive insights into my travels! On Instagram (@juliantravelstheworld), I'll take you to the most beautiful places in the world, share insider tips, inform you about local prices, and show you my accommodations. I'll link everything for you so you're perfectly prepared. Let's discover the most beautiful places in our world together!

More impressions of Dhigurah:

Conclusion:

Dhigurah is definitely one of the most beautiful islands I've ever seen. The combination of breathtaking underwater world, stunning beaches, and idyllic nature truly leaves nothing to be desired. Everything feels like something out of a picture book.

If you want to travel to the Maldives on a budget and can do without an overwater villa, then I can promise you that you will have a wonderful time on Dhigurah. The island not only offers paradisiacal beaches and unforgettable snorkeling experiences, but also the opportunity to experience the authentic, local culture of the Maldives up close.