North Malé Atoll

The North Malé Atoll is the Maldives’ principle atoll and is home to the Fari Islands and Malé, the capital and most highly populated island, which also happens to be one of the world’s most densely populated cities. Comprising 50 islands, 42 of which are uninhabited, the North Malé Atoll is a playground for adventurous island-hoppers. Activities on the inhabited islands are mostly catered to guests but old-world island life still lives on visibly: Dhiffushi plays an integral part in the fishing industry, with boats taking the day’s catch to Malé and beyond; the ancient Vihamanaafushi island is where, according to local legend, a Buddhist monastery once stood; Kuda Bandos is the go-to place for daytrippers from Malé; and Lhohifushi is a favorite for surfers. Take a traditional dhoni or seaplane to this varied and geographically stunning part of the world.