Maldives
GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES
The Maldives consist of more than a thousand islands, which have been grouped into 19 island groups and spread over 26 atolls. The Maldives are located in the Indian Ocean and are about 500 km from the mainland of India. About 400,000 inhabitants live on a total area of about 298 km2. The international airport is located in the capital city of Malé. From there, you can continue your journey with domestic flights, seaplanes or motorboats, depending on your travel budget and destination. On the island is the official language Dhivehi. The Maldives are located in the time zone UTC + 5 hours.
DIVING AT DESTINATION
DIVING QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE
The Maldives are suitable for divers regardless of their level of experience. In turquoise blue water, visibility of up to 40 m can be achieved. The Maldives are predominantly made of corals and therefore offer excellent coral reefs. These offer in the underwater world an attractive habitat for more than 400 different species of fish such as manta rays, whale sharks, eagle riffs, sweet-lipped fish, barracudas or napoleon fish. In addition, steep slopes, reefs, wrecks and flowy atoll canals invite you to dive.
In order to dive without any further problems, travelers should always be able to demonstrate a certified health and fitness certification.
Beginner to advanced.
POPULAR DIVE REGIONS
MARSA ALAM
NORTH MALE ATOLL
The North Male Atoll offers divers a variety of exciting dive sites. Divers can be impressed by colorful reefs, steep walls, exciting caves and wrecks. Especially the diving in the "Rainbow Reef" and the nature reserve "Banana Reef" is popular. In these areas, reef sharks, manta rays, fan corals or swarmfish can be admired.
MARSA ALAM
ARI ATOLL
The Ari Atoll offers travelers imposing diving areas and is therefore very popular. In this atoll, beginners as well as advanced divers can discover a breathtaking underwater world, with various coral species, caves, manta rays and whale sharks. Above all the areas Broken Rock Thila, Omadhoo Thila, Kudarah Thila or Tinfushi Thila are worthwhile diving areas.
CLIMATE
The Maldives are characterized by a tropical climate and, due to the average temperature around the 30 C °, is a popular destination that can be visited all year round. Especially in the first quarter the weather conditions are particularly recommendable due to the pure air, the clear sky and the crystal clear water.
BEST TRAVEL TIME
The Maldives can be visited in any season. The months November to May are ideal for divers because of the good diving conditions.