What to do in the Maldives: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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The city of Malé

Malé, perched in the heart of the Kaafu atoll, is the bustling capital of the Maldives.

In the surrounding area, the hectic rhythm of the dhonis, traditional boats, livens up the azure waters.

In the heart of the city, colorful markets, the Hukuru Miskiy mosque and Sultan Park attract the curious.

Ari Atoll

Ari Atoll, also known as Alif or Ari, stretches majestically across the central Maldives.

All around, the vast blue of the Indian Ocean hides underwater treasures, from schools of multicolored fish to impressive whale sharks.

There, snorkeling and scuba diving are the favorite activities of travelers, revealing a constantly bustling aquatic world.

Baa Atoll

Baa Atoll, in the north-west of the Maldives, glistens in the mild tropical sunshine.

Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, is a haven for mantas and whale sharks.

On the islands, golden beaches mingle with white foam, while diving unveils shimmering coral and teeming marine life.

Lhaviyani Atoll

Lhaviyani Atoll, in the north of the Maldives, is a crown of glittering islands in a deep blue ocean.

The surrounding coral reefs are teeming with life, home to a multitude of marine species.

The clear waters invite scuba diving and snorkeling, revealing historic shipwrecks and coral gardens.

This atoll is particularly popular for its dive sites, which are home to centuries-old shipwrecks.

Raa Atoll

Raa Atoll, in the northern part of the Maldives, is a true jewel of the Pacific.

Nearby paradise islands mingle with turquoise lagoons and dazzling coral reefs.

There’s no shortage of activities: diving, snorkeling or simply swimming in these crystal-clear waters, every moment is an enchantment.

Did you know that Raa is renowned for its rich cultural traditions and local festivals?

Dhaalu Atoll

Dhaalu Atoll, in the south-central Maldives, looks like a pearl scattered across the Indian Ocean.

All around, unspoilt islands lined with white sandy beaches sparkle in translucent waters.

The rich underwater world offers divers a symphony of colors, from coral to tropical fish.

Dhaalu is one of the least explored atolls in the Maldives, offering unrivalled tranquility.

Noonu Atoll

Noonu Atoll, nestled in the north of the Maldives, is an azure haven of peace.

Here, verdant islands line up, surrounded by coral reefs dyed a thousand colors.

Diving here is a real pleasure, with its schools of shimmering fish and underwater gardens.

Vaavu Atoll

Vaavu Atoll, in the central Maldives, reveals itself as a constellation of islands on a calm ocean.

Here, the lagoons are tinged with emerald and azure, while the nearby reefs are home to an impressive array of marine life.

There’s plenty for the adventurous here, from scuba diving to fishing and kayaking.

Did you know that Vaavu is the smallest atoll in the Maldives, but certainly one of the most picturesque?

Meemu Atoll

Meemu Atoll, in the south of the Maldives, evokes the image of an earthly paradise lost in the middle of the ocean.

Unspoiled islands stretch out, fringed by pristine beaches, while the surrounding waters are a sanctuary for marine life.

Epic dives, enchanting snorkeling and moments of relaxation on the warm sand are all on offer.

Faafu Atoll

Faafu Atoll, in the center of the Maldives, is a picturesque group of islands in a dazzlingly clear ocean.

Small paradise islands emerge, each surrounded by sparkling coral reefs.

Travelers are invited to dive, explore and relax to the rhythm of the waves.

Haa Alif Atoll

Haa Alif Atoll, the northernmost of the Maldives, is a jewel where tradition and nature coexist in harmony.

Lush islands dotted with coconut palms stand alongside translucent lagoons.

Activities range from scuba diving to discovering authentic villages.

Haa Dhaalu Atoll

Shaviyani Atoll, in the north of the Maldives, sparkles like a pearl surrounded by clear turquoise waters.

Small green islands, fringed with white beaches, dot this magnificent atoll.

Diving here reveals underwater wonders, while relaxing on the sand is unavoidable.

Kaafu Atoll

Kaafu Atoll, home to the capital Malé, is the vibrant crossroads of the Maldives.

In addition to the bustling city, you’ll find resort islands, fishing villages and sparkling beaches.

Between diving, shopping in Malé and seaside relaxation, adventure is everywhere.

Gaafu Alif atoll

Gaafu Alif Atoll, in the south of the Maldives, is a beautiful escape to wilder, less-frequented horizons.

Pristine islands, sapphire-blue lagoons and abundant coral reefs characterize the area.

The diving here is exceptional, and the encounters with marine life unforgettable.

Did you know that Gaafu Alif is one of the world’s largest atolls, offering an incomparable diversity of marine ecosystems?

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, next to Gaafu Alif, stretches out majestically, offering breathtaking panoramas.

Unspoiled islands with dreamy beaches, hypnotic lagoons and emerald waters.

Diving here is sublime, with waters teeming with underwater wonders.

Laamu Atoll

Laamu Atoll, nestled in the southern Maldives, is a canvas where the turquoise of the sea meets the immaculate white of the sand.

Picturesque islands, sparkling lagoons and coral reefs bursting with life are legion.

Snorkeling, surfing and leisurely strolls along the beaches are a must.

Did you know that Laamu is home to archaeological remains that bear witness to a rich and ancient history?

Thaa Atoll

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, Thaa Atoll reveals itself, isolated and peaceful.

Ephemeral sandbanks, translucent lagoons and effervescent marine life are the jewels of this atoll.

Diving enthusiasts will be delighted, exploring the abysses to encounter pelagic fish.

Thaa is one of the few atolls where you can observe bioluminescent plankton, offering magical nights?

Seenu Atoll

Seenu Atoll, in the southernmost part of the Maldives, is a jewel case of tropical beauty.

Pristine coral islands fringe clear waters tinged with deep blue.

The dives here are exceptional, offering the chance to rub shoulders with sharks, manta rays and other wonders of the deep.

Gnaviyani Atoll

Gnaviyani Atoll, an undiscovered treasure, nestles far off the beaten Maldivian track.

Unspoiled islands, crystalline blue lagoons and abundant reefs form an idyllic picture.

Diving and snorkeling reveal an incredibly rich underwater world.

Huvadhu Atoll

Huvadhu Atoll, majestically spread out in the south of the Maldives, is a natural spectacle of impressive proportions.

This vast expanse of coral islands offers mesmerizing lagoons and resplendent reefs.

Diving here is an adventure, with deep sites, ancient wrecks and abundant underwater fauna.