The Maldives at a glance
Picture endless white sand beaches, crystalline water, and thriving marine ecosystems. The Maldives often feels like paradise on Earth, and it ranks among the most visually striking island chains anywhere.
One of the top dive sites on the planet
Water is the main event here. You can fill your days with cruises, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing. It is an ideal spot to try scuba diving for the first time, though snorkelers will find plenty to love as well. The underwater visibility is incredible, with schools of colorful fish weaving through vibrant coral reefs. You will frequently spot sea turtles and rays during a dive, and the water stays warm year-round. Addu Atoll boasts some of the most striking coral colors, particularly around the island of Gan. For the adventurous, Hammerhead Point in Rasdhoo Atoll offers the chance to spot hammerhead sharks at thirty metres depth. Out by Ari Atoll, you might encounter massive whale sharks reaching ten metres in length, though they are entirely harmless to humans. Ready to slow down after all that activity? Have your resort drop you off for the day on a dhoni (a traditional local boat) at one of the hundreds of uninhabited islands in the archipelago, where you will feel miles away from civilization.
Experiencing daily life in Malé
The Maldives consists of 1,199 islands, but only 202 are inhabited. Most travelers stay at resort islands that take up an entire landmass. Since 2009, the government has allowed visitors to stay on local inhabited islands, giving travelers a window into authentic Maldivian daily life, mostly centered in the capital city of Malé. Away from the luxury pools and cocktail bars, you will experience a distinct culture and welcoming locals. Walk through the busy markets and grab a short eat (a local snack) by the waterfront. To travel between islands, seaplanes are the best option, offering unforgettable aerial views of the atolls and reefs below. Landing directly on the water makes for a memorable arrival.
When to go
The Maldives is a year-round destination. Peak season runs from December to February, bringing pristine weather along with higher prices, while the dry conditions typically hold through April. The rest of the year brings pleasant temperatures, averaging 28 degrees, though you should expect occasional tropical showers.
How to get there
You will fly into Velana International Airport in the capital city of Malé. A round-trip flight from Paris runs about $900* and takes 12 to 14 hours depending on layovers. From Malé, you can easily reach the outer islands by boat or seaplane.
