The Maldives - a dream destination famous for its beautiful white beaches and breathtaking underwater scenery. But there is more to this unique nation, these 1190 islands spread across the Indian Ocean and circled into 26 natural atolls.

Sun, sand and sea, a thousand Robinson Crusoe islands, massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination. They boast rich cultural traditions, a history of kings and queens, pageants, feasts and festivals, their own language and script.

A string of pearls scattered over the deep blue Indian Ocean - The first glimpse you get of this fascinating atoll- formation confirms two unique aspects of the Republic of Maldives. Not only does it consist of the most beautiful tropical islands, but 99% of its 90.000 km² is covered by the sea. 1190 islands are spread over 26 atolls, ring like coral formations enclosing a lagoon, which gives the Maldives its unique paradise-like appearance. They stretch for about 820 km from North to South, 130 km at the widest point and do not exceed a length of 4.5 miles or an altitude of 6 feet above sea level. No more than 200 islands are inhabited; the rest includes the 87 tourist resorts and uninhabited islands, some of which are used for drying fish or other agricultural activities. The capital Malé, the seat of government and the centre of trade, commerce, business, health and education, is located in the middle of the atoll chain, a small island buzzing with the sounds and activities of about 75.000 people which is about one third of the population.

Maldives, famous for its wonderful coastal beauty, keeps luring people. The idyllic islands, lying in the Indian Ocean, have so beautiful beaches that have earned praise from people from all over the world. And Maldives is not just about beaches. Lagoons, adventure, sports, seafood and spa join beaches to create unique experience. In this section you can get information about various facets and activities of Maldives like shopping, surfing, culture, scuba diving and snorkeling. While embarking on Maldives tourism, enjoy all this too.

If you have a booking with a resort, transfer is usually arranged prior to your arrival. The options of speedboat or seaplane transfer where available is for you to choose from. For transfer to resorts close to the airport, motorboat or Dhoni transfer is quite convenient. Even if you make a resort booking while in Malé, transfer arrangements are often made by the resort.

The Maldives has one of the largest seaplane fleets in the world, not surprising for a country with 99% ocean and more than a thousand islands. The low altitude seaplane journey offers you the additional opportunity to experience a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the country.