How to Get to Gan Maldives [2025–2026 Guide]
To reach Gan Maldives, fly 10–11 hours to Malé ($900–$1,600), then take a 1 hr 30 min domestic flight ($280–$380 round trip) to Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll, the southernmost Maldives atoll.
To get to Gan Maldives, fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé (10–11 hrs, $900–$1,600), then continue by 1 hr 30 min domestic flight ($280–$380 round trip) to Gan International Airport (GAN) in Addu Atoll.
✈️ International Flight to Malé
All international visitors first land at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. Gan lies in the Addu Atoll, the southernmost part of the Maldives, requiring a connecting domestic flight.
- Flight Time (from U.S./Europe):
- From Dallas: ~10–11 hours with 1–2 layovers (via Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Singapore)
- Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines, British Airways
- Cost: $900–$1,600 round trip depending on booking and season
Tips for Travelers:
- Choose flights arriving in Malé by afternoon for same-day transfers
- Late-night arrivals may require an overnight stay in Malé
- Book 3–6 months ahead for better fares
🛫 Domestic Flight to Gan International Airport
From Malé, the only practical way to reach Gan is by domestic flight.
- Airline: Maldivian Airlines (local carrier)
- Route: Malé → Gan International Airport (GAN)
- Duration: 1 hr 30 mins
- Cost: $280–$380 round trip per person
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights available
Why Choose This Option?
- The most direct and efficient route
- Comfortable flight with views of Maldivian atolls
- Operates throughout the day
🛥️ No Seaplane or Speedboat Transfers
Gan is too far south for speedboats or seaplanes, so the domestic flight is the only way to reach the island from Malé.
🚖 Getting Around Gan Maldives
Gan is one of the largest islands in the Maldives and is connected by causeways to other islands in Addu Atoll, making it unique for local travel.
- Taxis & Cars: Affordable and widely available on Gan
- Bicycles & Scooters: Popular for exploring the island and nearby connected islands
- Walking: Easy for short distances within resorts and villages
🌸 Best Time to Visit Gan Maldives
- Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Best weather for diving, snorkeling, and exploring (higher rates)
- Wet Season (May–Oct): Lower costs, occasional rains, excellent for diving with mantas and whale sharks
Insider Tip: Gan is less touristy than central atolls, offering a mix of local culture, history, and diving experiences.
🗺️ Travel Summary Table
| Travel Option | Route/Distance | Time Estimate | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Flight | Dallas/Europe → Malé (MLE) | 10–11 hrs | $900–$1,600 | Via Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Singapore |
| Domestic Flight | Malé → Gan International (GAN) | 1 hr 30 mins | $280–$380 RT | Only option, multiple daily flights |
| Local Transfers | Within Gan & Addu Atoll | 5–20 mins | $5–$20 | Taxis, bicycles, scooters, walking |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I get to Gan Maldives from Malé?
By a 1 hr 30 min domestic flight to Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll.
Q2: How much does it cost to travel from Malé to Gan?
Around $280–$380 round trip per person.
Q3: Can I take a seaplane or speedboat to Gan?
No, Gan is too far south—domestic flights are the only option.
Q4: Is Gan Maldives a local island or a resort island?
Gan is a local inhabited island with guesthouses and some resorts, plus a rich history as a former British airbase.
Q5: What is the best season to visit Gan Maldives?
The dry season (Nov–Apr) for the best weather, but divers enjoy the wet season (May–Oct) for manta rays and whale sharks.
This 2025–2026 guide explains how to reach Gan Maldives, from international flights to domestic transfers, ensuring a seamless journey to this unique southern paradise.