How to get to Kudahuvadhoo

The picturesque Kudahuvadhoo is the heart of Dhaalu Atoll and its administrative capital, located in the south of the Maldives. This island attracts travellers with its authentic atmosphere, combining the measured rhythm of local life with the opportunity to enjoy untouched tropical nature.

When planning a trip to Kudahuvadhoo, it is important to consider the island geography of the region: it is impossible to arrive here by train or car from other countries. The main ways to reach this corner of paradise remain domestic flights and water transport, turning the journey itself into an exciting adventure over the waters of the Indian Ocean.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is by air. The city is served by its own modern aviation hub, Dhaalu Airport (DDD), which receives regular domestic flights, ensuring a reliable connection with the rest of the archipelago.

The flight offers a unique opportunity to view the scattering of atolls from a bird's-eye view. Since the airport is located directly on the island, it is perfectly integrated into the local infrastructure, making arrival as convenient as possible for tourists.

Railway services in the Maldives are completely absent due to the geographical features of the archipelago. The islands are too small and separated by ocean waters to lay railway tracks, so trains do not run here.

Travellers planning a route should not look for train schedules or stations. Instead, the role of the main link between the islands is performed by speedboats and local ferries, offering scenic boat trips.

Classic intercity bus service in the usual sense is not developed here, as Kudahuvadhoo is an island not connected by land roads to other cities. Long journeys on scheduled buses are impossible here due to the limited land area.

Inside the settlement itself, the transport system is compact. Although there are no major bus routes, small shuttles are sometimes used to move around the island, but most often tourists and locals move on foot or using two-wheeled transport.

It is impossible to reach the island by car from the mainland or other countries due to the lack of land borders and bridges. Car transport in the Maldives is used exclusively for local trips within a single island.

Upon arrival on the island, you can use taxi services for trips from the airport or harbour to your hotel. Distances here are small, so any trip by car will take mere minutes and will be relatively inexpensive.

To ensure your stay on the island of Kudahuvadhoo is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth preparing in advance for the peculiarities of the local culture and climate.

1. Clothing and Dress Code: As this is a local residential island, Islamic norms are observed. Outside hotel grounds, please wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; swimwear is permissible only on specifically designated "bikini beaches".
2. Transport: The island is compact and can be easily walked across in 30–40 minutes. You can order a taxi for transporting luggage, but a bicycle or walking is best suited for exploring.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa, but US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere. It is recommended to carry cash (preferably small denominations), as payment terminals are not available in all shops and cafes.
4. Health and Sun: The equatorial sun is very active even in cloudy weather. Be sure to use high SPF cream, wear a hat, and drink plenty of bottled water.
5. Connectivity and Internet: Upon arrival, it is better to buy a local SIM card at the airport or on the island. While Wi-Fi is available in guesthouses, mobile internet often works more stably and faster.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to remove shoes when entering a mosque or a private home. When greeting locals, a polite nod or a handshake (for men) is sufficient.
7. What to Avoid: Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited on local islands. It is also forbidden to break corals or export shells — this is punishable by high fines.
8. Friday is a Holiday: Remember that Friday is a blessed day for Muslims. Many shops, cafes, and ferry crossings may be closed during morning and afternoon prayer times.

Observing these simple recommendations will help you show respect for the traditions of the local residents and enjoy a peaceful holiday in this amazing corner of the tropics.