Explore Maldives

Introduction to the Maldives
The Maldives comprise an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, divided into 26 atolls. A former trading post for Sri Lankan, Arabic and Indian merchant mariners, the island nation is known for palm-fringed, white-sand beaches, ringed by reef-sheltered lagoons. IHG offers a family-friendly resort in South Malé Atoll with a spa and beach bar among its many features.

Currency
Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR)

Official language
Dhivehi

Climate
Tropical with average year-round temperatures of 25–30C. Highest rainfall May–Aug

Arriving from Velana International Airport
Main airport is on on Hulhulé Island, 1km from capital Malé. Journey time by ferry 10 minutes

Getting around the Maldives

• MTCC ferries connect inhabited islands in several atolls
• Buses and taxis in Malé
• Speedboats and seaplanes serve island resorts
• Traditional dhoni boat charters

Top Maldives sightseeing

• Malé’s 17th-century coral-stone Friday Mosque
• The National Museum, tracing the Maldives’ history

Top experiences

• Water sports from kayaking to kite surfing
• Asian-style spa treatments in resorts
• Boat trips to residential islands to purchase traditional handicrafts such as sarongs
• Scuba diving at sites such as Banana Reef in North Malé Atoll and Alimatha Jetty in Vaavu Atoll to spot sea turtles and exotic fish