Travel Guide: Maldives
The snapshots and stories of tourists venturing out to the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of the Maldives are enough for anyone who dreams of booking a flight to this dazzling network of atolls nation.
As an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, you certainly won’t be short of options. The fun starts with finding the right product for you. Research is key, and if you want to go off the beaten path, here are three lesser-known islands, each with its own unique charm that is totally worth your attention.
Malé, Maldives
The capital of the Maldives on Kafu Atoll is a must-visit, even if it’s just for a day. Home to some famous landmarks and landmarks, the city is full of Maldivian culture and history. This is the most important thing for us
Sultan Park
If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed a feast of Creole cuisine for lunch and want to burn off calories, head to Sultan Park. Built on the site where the Royal Palace was demolished, you will see a beautiful oasis. You will find it next to the Great Mosque on Fridays.
Sultan Mohammed Takurufanu Ozam Mosque
Next, the Great Friday Mosque – one of the largest houses of worship in the entire Maldives. The impressive exterior is made of magnificent white marble topped with a striking golden dome, while the interior showcases intricate ancient woodwork. Non-Muslims can enter the mosque relatively freely during opening hours (arms and knees need to be covered), but access is restricted during prayer hours.
Malé Fish Market
You won’t see fish markets on most Maldives itineraries, but keep in mind that fishing was the original lifeblood of this island nation, with around 30% of the population engaged in fishing. Take a quick tour and watch the fish caught that day be hauled and cleaned up. This is the closest you can get to experiencing local life.
Maldives Crossroads
Located about 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé, it is the only multi-island destination in the Maldives. There are two stunning family-friendly resorts – SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, each with its own island but connected by a bridge across the clear turquoise waters.
Boasting spacious rooms, stunning overwater villas, studios and suites, each with pristine views of the turquoise waters, the resort is perfect for families, couples and even solo travellers.
Outside of your room, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shopping, and spas serving a variety of delicious dishes. Want to travel between islands? It’s walkable, but there are also strollers to pick you up and down – perfect for the little ones when they’re tired after a day of exploring.
If you just want to soak up the tranquility, you can enjoy a drink, read a book or take a nap in the sun on one of the sun loungers by the beach.
Fuwamula
For more experienced swimmers and divers (or if you’re keen to learn how to dive), Fuvahmulah should be at the top of your Maldives island wish list. Located in Gnaviani Atoll, you need a flight to the southern part of the Maldives. Your flight will fly over the equator, and to celebrate the occasion, you will receive a certificate with your name and flight details. It is a moment that has been celebrated by sailors for centuries and is definitely a memory on display.
While you’re there, here are some extra must-dos….
Kodakili
Enjoy mud baths in wetland areas and get dirty. Since the island is volcanic, the mud is rich in minerals and is a relaxing and fun experience. It takes some hiking to get to the natural mud bath, but more importantly you need to watch your footsteps. We recommend that you go with your guide, who will be able to safely take you to and from the mud bath.
Tondu Beach
After a fun mud tour, clean up the shallow waters of Thoondu Beach. Located in the northern part of the island, the beach is popular with locals and tourists alike for one unique feature: the white sand is not real sand at all, but is made up of coral pebbles. Unfortunately, swimming here is not recommended as the currents are quite strong, but surfers can show their skills here in August.
Extreme diving Fuvahmulah
At Extreme Dive Fuvahmulah, a PADI certified five-star dive center, you can learn the best from Extreme’s team of experienced professionals. It features a 4.5-meter deep swimming pool where you can practice breathing techniques, balance and all important gestures. The dive center has all the necessary equipment to rent, so you can try it out. Once the team thinks you’re ready, you can enjoy…
Tiger shark diving
The Fuvahmulah Extreme Dive Team offers multiple dives per day (weather conditions permitting). During your experience, you may come face-to-face with several different shark species, as well as other fascinating marine life. But you won’t be alone, as every dive is accompanied by an experienced dive center team. Non-swimmers can also stay on the boat and watch plenty of marine life from above.
