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Keylakunu Forest Reserve
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Keylakunu Forest Reserve, situated on the uninhabited island of Keylakunu within the Haa Dhaalu Atoll, is a biological anomaly and a national treasure of the Maldives. Unlike the typical palm-fringed coral islands found throughout the archipelago, Keylakunu is home to the country's only true tropical forest with a continuous, closed canopy. This unique ecosystem features rare hardwood species and ancient mangroves that have thrived in isolation for centuries. In recognition of its ecological significance, the island was officially designated as a protected area in 2017. The dense jungle provides a sanctuary for a wide array of forest-dwelling birds and reptiles that are increasingly rare on inhabited islands. The preservation of this climax vegetation features a rare glimpse into the pristine natural state of the Maldivian islands prior to human settlement. Scientific interest in the site remains high, as it serves as a critical reference point for studying island biogeography and the natural resilience of coastal tropical forests against rising sea levels and climate-related events.
- Location: Maldives
- Top sights: Maamiskith Tharaagandu · Vaikaradhoo · Archeological Mounds
- Nearby: Kulhudhuffushi (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 31 | 24 | 37 | 69 | 182 | 197 | 177 | 162 | 140 | 152 | 171 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Visiting this uninhabited island typically requires arranging a private boat transfer or an authorized guided excursion departing from one of the nearby inhabited atolls.
Best season
The dry monsoon season, which usually spans from December to April, provides calmer sea conditions for the boat crossing and more pleasant weather for walking in the forest.
Terrain & paths
Expect soft sandy beaches giving way to a dense, natural tropical forest floor that consists of earth, roots, and fallen leaves, remaining mostly flat throughout.
What to bring
Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, alongside strong insect repellent, reliable sun protection, comfortable walking sandals, and enough drinking water.
Parking
As this is an island accessible exclusively by watercraft, traditional vehicle parking does not apply; boats typically anchor offshore or at a designated arrival point.
Safety
Visitors must respect the protected nature of the reserve by not removing any flora or fauna, taking all trash back with them, and staying on rudimentary paths if visible.
Time needed
An excursion to explore the unique tropical forest and enjoy the pristine surroundings generally takes a few hours, typically structured as a half-day trip from a resort.
Geography
Facts
- Area: 12 hectares
- Protected since: 2003
- Location: Keylakunu, Haa Alifu Atoll
- Endemic species: Maldivian orchid
- Tallest tree: approx. 20 m
- Rainfall: ~2,500 mm/year
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Keylakunu Forest Reserve (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Keylakunu?
One of the few untouched forest areas.
Is it open for tourists?
Yes, but only with permission from local authorities.
What can you see there?
Birds, rare plants, and a closed ecosystem.
Are there hiking trails?
Only very simple, unmarked paths.
Do I need a guide?
Highly recommended as the area is difficult to traverse.
Keylakunu Forest Reserve: where is it located?
Keylakunu Forest Reserve is located in Maldives.
Keylakunu Forest Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maamiskith Tharaagandu, Vaikaradhoo, Archeological Mounds.
Keylakunu Forest Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Keylakunu Forest Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Keylakunu Forest Reserve, situated on the uninhabited island of Keylakunu within the Haa Dhaalu Atoll, is a biological anomaly and a national treasure of the Maldives.
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Nearby cities
Malé
The densely populated capital of the Maldives, known for its colorful buildings and historic mosques.
Fuvahmulah
A unique island city with freshwater lakes and exceptionally diverse vegetation.
Kulhudhuffushi
The economic heart of the northern part of the Maldives, famous for its mangroves.
Thinadhoo
A historically significant city in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, which developed strongly after its destruction in 1962.
Naifaru
The capital of the Lhaviyani Atoll, famous for its traditional boat building and high density.
Hulhumalé
An artificial island near Malé, built to relieve the population pressure of the capital.
Dhidhdhoo
The administrative center of the Haa Alif Atoll, serving as an important hub in the far north.
Maafushi
An island in the Kaafu Atoll, considered the pioneer of local guesthouse tourism in the Maldives.
Villingili
The capital of the Gaafu Alif Atoll, known for its educational institutions and as a regional center.
Funadhoo
A growing island city in the Shaviyani Atoll with long sandy beaches and modern infrastructure.
Eydhafushi
The capital of the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its sustainable development.
Mahibadhoo
A dynamic city in the Alif Dhaal Atoll, serving as an administrative and educational center.
Thulusdhoo
The administrative capital of the Kaafu Atoll, famous for a beverage factory that uses desalinated water.
Guraidhoo
A densely populated island in the Kaafu Atoll with strong maritime traditions.
Fonadhoo
An elongated island connected by causeways to neighboring islands in the Laamu Atoll.
History & landmarks
Nature
Neykurendhoo Mangrove Forest
The largest mangrove forest in the Maldives is located on this island.
Goidhoo Wetland Area
This extensive wetland area in Baa Atoll is known for its freshwater lakes.
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Fushifaru Thila Marine Reserve
This protected area is world-renowned as a cleaning station for manta rays.
Kaashidhoo Wetland Area
Kaashidhoo is famous for its fertile soil and ecologically important wetlands.
Madivaru Hammerhead Point
This deep-sea area near Rasdhoo is one of the world's best locations to see scalloped hammerhead sharks in their natural environment.
Kani Corner Marine Site
A vibrant marine site in Lhaviyani Atoll known for its steep drop-offs and coral gardens.
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Gaafaru Reef Protection Zone
The extensive reef system around Gaafaru is protected for its marine biodiversity.
Maaya Thila Marine Site
A premier diving site in North Ari Atoll known for its nocturnal shark activity.