The lowest country on the planet, home of the Dhivehi and the smallest Asian country in both population and area, the Maldives is an island nation composed almost entirely (80%) of coral islands. The multicolored “rainforest of marine life” consists of over 200 coral species, 300 species of fish, many of them, new to science. Famous for its marine ecosystems after the 1970s, the Maldives promoted the underwater paradise with events like the scuba diving record of 2006 or by holding a cabinet meeting in the deep blue.

Find out about the first fishermen settlers of the magnificent islets, embrace the local custom of fishing in boats called “dhoni” and learn about the cultural influences of Sri Lanka and South India. Visit the 16 historical mosques listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Islam being the only official religion of the Maldives. Dive and discover the underwater magic of the Banana Reef with gutters, mysterious caves and extravagant, tropical fish species. Observe and study the families of Grey Reef Sharks at Cocoa Corner and admire the natural beauty at Lion’s Head, a protected marine park. Relax and enjoy a beautiful environment with palm trees and blue lagoons or discover the country’s customs in the capital city, Male.

The Maldives is a beautiful island nation which can satisfy your “hunger” for sun and beach and also introduce you to a spectacular, multicolored and unique “rainforest of marine life”.