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Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,200-plus coral islands scattered across the central Indian Ocean, organized into 26 natural atolls. Famous for its overwater bungalows, electric-blue lagoons, and some of the world's richest marine biodiversity, it draws travelers seeking seclusion and underwater wonder in equal measure. Each resort island is typically its own private world, making the destination feel simultaneously intimate and boundless.

Maldives at a Glance

  • Overwater bungalows
  • World-class snorkeling & diving
  • Pristine coral reefs
  • Whale shark encounters
  • Sunset dhoni cruises
  • Maldivian seafood cuisine
Best time to visit
The dry season from November through April brings the clearest skies, calmest seas, and excellent underwater visibility — ideal conditions for diving and beach days.
Ideal trip length
7–10 days, which allows enough time to fully unwind on a resort island while adding a day or two in Malé or a liveaboard diving excursion.
Pairs well with
Sri LankaIndiaUnited Arab Emirates
Good to know
The Maldives is an Islamic nation, so modest dress is expected in local island communities outside of resort areas — packing a light cover-up is always a good idea. Seaplane and speedboat transfers connect the international airport in Malé to outer atolls, so factor in that inter-island leg when planning your arrival and departure timing.
Private Island — Maldives
sceneryPrivate IslandFrom above, a tiny island cradles a lone house amid the Maldives' impossibly blue lagoon.Photo: Asad Photo Maldives · Pexels License
Overwater Bungalow — Maldives
sceneryOverwater BungalowA bungalow perches above turquoise water at a tropical resort, the quintessential Maldivian escape.Photo: Asad Photo Maldives · Pexels License
Island Resort — Maldives
sceneryIsland ResortA luxury resort stretches beneath a cloudy sky, framed by the Maldives' endless ocean.Photo: Asad Photo Maldives · Pexels License
Boats on the Ocean — Maldives
peopleBoats on the OceanFour people drift in small boats across the ocean, capturing Maldivian island life.Photo: Axé Home studio · Pexels License
Gourmet Plate — Maldives
foodGourmet PlateAn elegant meat dish is plated on white, a refined taste of Maldivian resort dining.Photo: RDNE Stock project · Pexels License

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