Adventure Travel in the Maldives

The Maldives can be defined as 99% thriving marine life amid clear waters and 1% land swathed in palm trees (and no lack of luxury resorts). It is made up of 26 atolls (a word originating in Maldives, meaning “circular island made up of corals”), which are comprised of 1,190 mini islands. Whereas before, travel in the Maldives had been pretty limited to staying at resorts and indulging in tourist attractions, recent years opened up this country and now offer a glimpse into the local history and culture.

One such place to view and understand the local culture is Male, the Maldives’ dense capital and mercantile heart. Male is a hub of activity and offers various ways of entertainment. Remnants of Buddhism can be seen scattered throughout the town, but there’s no shortage of Islamic influences: the Munnaaru Minaret, Medhu Ziyaaraiy (the tomb of Abul Barakath Barbary, who is credited for converting Maldivians to Islam), and the presidential palace at Mulee Aage. Alternatively, wander around the bustling streets alongside locals and go shopping for souvenirs at Chaandhanee Magu. A healthy dose of coconut is a given, whether it be in form of deep fry oil or freshly-squeezed refreshments.

If you are concerned about protecting the local flora and fauna, head on over for Maldives travel in Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll. You can volunteer to help run their small turtle sanctuary, mainly for green sea turtles. You’ll even get a chance to visit islands nearby for turtle nesting sites (after morning yoga session and before scuba diving in the evening, of course)! If you want to pair up your adrenaline-rush with some good doings, this isn’t a shabby idea.

No two islands are the same in the Maldives, each uniquely shaped and with its own quirks. The resort islands are usually the ones with the best beaches, access to lagoons, and well-tended palm trees. Beaches such as the Veligandu Beach are a good place to lounge and relax. Major tours, cruises or safaris will take you to islands such as Hulhumale and Maafushi. Try a balance of off-the-beaten-road locations and more touristy stays for a full view of adventurous life in the Maldives.