Maldives: Where Are They? What To See And When To Go

26 atolls in the Indian Ocean - blurring between sea and sky - almost as if suspended in the blue, surrounded by more than 100 coral islands, this is the dream of the Maldives.

The world's best-known archipelago, an international tourist destination famous for its white beaches, blue lagoons and unique sunsets, lies south-west of Sri Lanka and south of India.

It has absorbed traditions and culture from these countries. However, the heterogeneity of the ethnic groups that make up the population is even more diverse. Over the centuries, Arab, Indian and North African communities have settled here, making the local culture and arts unique and varied. Here is information on when to go and what to see.

What to see in the Maldives

• Malé

• Noonu Atoll

• Ari Atoll

• Baa Atoll

• Malè Atoll North

• Malè Atoll South

Malè

The capital of the Republic of Maldives is Malé, which is located on a small atoll. To the eyes of visitors it appears westernised and modern, full of skyscrapers and chaotic traffic. It is the most populous city in the world in terms of population/territory ratio and is well worth a visit.

A must-see is the characteristic fish and fruit market, whose colours and smells capture the attention of tourists. Not far away is the great Hukuru Miski Mosque, famous for its golden dome that can be admired from all points of the island, which is open to the public during non-prayer hours.

Malé is also home to the National Museum, rich in exhibits from the archipelago's history, and for art lovers, the National Art Gallery.

The waterfront that surrounds the entire island is beautiful.

From the capital's harbour, ferries take tourists and visitors to the various atolls. Not all of them are inhabited, there are some better known ones on which there are luxurious resorts and hotels, others wilder and more unspoilt.

Noonu Atoll

Comprising 13 islets, it is the most exclusive destination for luxury tourism. Here stands, among others, the Cheval Blanc resort, which connects three artificial islands to one natural island.

On the small island of Lanhoo (part of the 13 islands) are the remains of a kind of 'hawitta' pyramid about 6 metres high built by the redin, the island's ancient inhabitants.

Photo: © Myroslava Bozhko/Shutterstock

Ari Atoll

The best known of the atolls, it comprises 81 islands and is a favourite destination for divers. Its seabed is famous for hosting a wide variety of marine life: from hammerhead sharks to whale sharks. Spectacular are the crevices and caves where one can admire black corals, anemones and various species of fish.

The capital is Mahibadhoo, which boasts beautiful beaches. On the edge of the atoll there are other inhabited islets and on some of them it is possible to visit the remains of Buddhist and Hindu settlements.

Baa Atoll

Located in the northern part of the Maldives, it was listed as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve site in 2011.

On the island of Horubandhoo, snorkellers can admire the rich marine flora and fauna on its seabed. Tulhaadhoo is an island in the atoll that is well known for its lacquered ceramics from which handmade souvenirs are made.

North Malé Atoll

Consisting of 50 islands, it is among the most beautiful and most visited, thanks also to the fact that the Maldives' international airport is located on Hulhulé Island. Endowed with enchanting beaches, snorkelling is also practised on this atoll, offering tourists a wonderful view of the seabed rich in corals, colourful fish and dolphins.

The capital is Thulusdhoo whose beaches are frequented by surfing tourists.

Bicycle rides through the streets of the village, on whose houses one can admire traditional murals depicting the life of the place, are also worthwhile.

South Malé Atoll

Of its 37 islands, only three are inhabited. The largest island is Maafushi, a tourist centre with wonderful beaches, enchanting views and historical treasures. Seventeen islands are well known for the diversity of their coral reefs and waters rich in rare and colourful fish.

10 things to do in the Maldives

• Diving

• In search of dolphins

• Explore the islands

• Male Market

• Desert island

• Sandbanks

• Walk among the stars

• Sleeping under the stars

• Spa

• Dolce far niente

When to go to the Maldives, the best time of year

The best time to visit the Maldives is certainly between January and March. This is the dry season and rainfall is not frequent during this period.

This allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty. You can find information on the weather in the Maldives in June at this link and information on the weather in August here.

Map and map

• Maldives