Maldives
Country guide · Indian Ocean, spanning across the equator
Diving at multiple atolls including whale shark sightings at Gnaviyani, South Ari, North Malé, and Baa Atolls; diving in Addu Atoll and North Malé Atoll · Surfing in the Maldives
About Maldives
The Maldives is a nation of islands in the Indian Ocean that spans across the equator, comprising 1,192 islands stretching along a length of 871 kilometers. The country is home to just over half a million people with its own unique culture and traditions, heavily influenced by various cultures around the rim of the Indian Ocean. Coral reefs are the foundation of the islands, offering protection as the nation's natural defense system. The Maldives has been recognized as the World's Leading Destination for 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025, and the World's Leading Green Destination for 2024 and 2025. The country offers a range of stay options including resorts, hotels, liveaboards, and guesthouses, with 175 resorts, 16 hotels, 158 liveaboards, and 843 guesthouses available to explore.
Who this destination fits
Highlights worth planning around
Strong fit
- World-class recognition as the World's Leading Destination for six consecutive years (2020-2025) and World's Leading Green Destination for 2024 and 2025
- Diverse accommodation options from clublike and boutique resorts to hotels, liveaboards, and guesthouses
- Exceptional marine experiences including whale shark sightings at multiple atolls, manta rays, and coral reef exploration
- Natural island geography with 1,192 islands spanning 871 kilometers across the equator offering naturally distanced experiences
- Cultural heritage sites including Utheemu Ganduvaru, Muleeaage, Hukuru Miskiy and Munnaaru, Kuruhinna Tharaagandu, and the Old Mosque in Laamu Isdhoo
- Surfing opportunities with dedicated surf liveaboards
Tradeoffs
- Delicate environment with coral reefs facing decline and bleaching challenges; ongoing restoration methods and community-led conservation efforts are needed
- Limited land area despite the 871-kilometer span; the country covers only 298 square kilometers of land
- Geographic dispersion requiring boats or seaplanes for travel between islands, adding time and cost to itineraries
Decision factors
Getting around
Liveaboards offer the opportunity to see more of the Maldives with dedicated surf and dive options. Hotels in Malé are convenient for business travelers, suggesting urban-based accommodation with access to the capital. Inter-island travel typically requires speedboat or seaplane transfers.