Overwater bungalows
Sleep just above the water in villas built over the lagoon, with direct views of the coral and private access to the sea.
The Maldives
Set deep in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives scatters more than a thousand coral islands across translucent blue lagoons. Each island resort offers rare privacy, with overwater villas, coral gardens just steps from the shore, and a stillness that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Why visit the Maldives?
The Maldives draws visitors with its translucent lagoons, coral reefs and one-island-one-resort model that guarantees calm and privacy on every stay. The archipelago is also one of the world's most renowned diving and snorkeling destinations, thanks to its exceptional marine biodiversity.
What to discover in the Maldives?
The Maldives is made up of twenty-six natural atolls scattered with more than a thousand coral islands, only some of which are inhabited or developed as resorts. Each island follows the 'one island, one resort' model, offering an intimate setting away from crowds, with white sand beaches, shallow lagoons and coral gardens reachable straight from the shore. The overwater bungalows that have become the destination's signature let guests watch marine life without ever leaving their terrace.
Below the surface, the Maldives ranks among the world's finest diving and snorkeling destinations, with a rich variety of corals, manta rays, reef sharks and sea turtles. The capital, Malé, is dense and lively, a striking contrast to the calm of the atolls, and worth a visit for its local market and mosques. Water-based activities, kayaking, paddleboarding or excursions on a traditional dhoni boat, round out a stay built around relaxation and immersion in a well-preserved marine environment.
Cities to visit in Maldives
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Maldives in pictures
Don't miss
Between lagoons and reefs, the Maldives offer a handful of unmissable experiences.
Diving and snorkeling
Explore pristine coral reefs teeming with manta rays, reef sharks and sea turtles, all accessible just a few steps from the beach.
Atolls and lagoons
Sail between twenty-six natural atolls, each with its own shallow turquoise lagoon, separated by channels rich in marine life and currents.
Exceptional marine life
Spot a remarkable range of marine species, from colorful tropical fish schools to seasonal whale sharks passing through certain dive sites.
Malé Island
Visit the dense, colourful capital, its fish market and mosques, a striking contrast to the calm of the resort islands.
Traditional dhoni trips
Board a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat to reach other islands, watch dolphins at play, or simply enjoy a slow sunset at sea.
Practical information
- Capital
- Malé
- Land area
- About 300 km² of land
- Population
- About 520,000
- Language
- Dhivehi
- Currency
- Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
- Time zone
- UTC+5
- Climate
- Tropical, warm and humid year-round
- Best season
- December to April, dry season
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
The dry season, from December to April, generally brings clear skies and calm seas, ideal for diving and relaxing on the beach. The wetter season, from May to November, is still workable but brings more frequent showers and occasionally rougher seas.
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
Most nationalities receive a free thirty-day tourist visa on arrival, simply by presenting a passport and proof of accommodation. It is worth checking the exact requirements with the relevant authorities before departure.
Can you visit the Maldives on a budget?
Yes, by choosing local inhabited islands rather than private resorts, reachable by public ferry or speedboat from Malé, where guesthouses and local restaurants make exploring the archipelago notably more affordable.
How do you travel between islands?
Transfers mainly happen by boat, speedboat or seaplane depending on distance and resort. Some atolls near Malé are also connected by public ferries, a cheaper option but with limited schedules.
Is the Maldives a good destination for families?
Many resorts offer kids' clubs, shallow safe lagoons and family villas, making the Maldives a popular choice for families looking for calm surroundings and gentle water activities suited to younger children.
What diving level is needed in the Maldives?
Snorkeling sites reached directly from the beach suit all levels, while some dive spots with strong currents are better suited to experienced divers. Certified dive centers offer outings tailored to every level.
Plan your trip to Maldives
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
