5 natural attractions to experience in the Maldives – cradling your every desire

Hugging the southernmost corner of the archipelago and within the periphery of the Addu Atoll is a nature reserve named after the atoll itself. Comprising the Koattey region in Hithadhoo Island and the wetlands of Eydhigali Kilhi, Addu Nature Park is bathed in the many pleasures of the natural world and in turn, presents curious globetrotters with ample space in which to comb its every nook and cranny. Housing a diverse collection of floral and faunal species, one would be encouraged to hire a canoe or kayak and explore the wetlands and mangrove forests that dominate the Park. The avid birdwatcher will surely be thrilled to bits given the platforms that have been assembled to catch a glimpse of the native and migratory birds that flock to Addu Nature Park.

Categorised as a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, the Baa Atoll comes across as a wonderful portrayal of the Maldives and its close association with the marine world. Encompassing 139,000 hectares, the Atoll boasts coral reefs and marine mammals of varying shapes, sizes and hues that make for quite the intriguing encounter indeed should you decide to suit up and dive down. Of particular importance is one of its prized possessions, Hanifaru Bay which serves as a magnet for large schools of manta rays that can be spotted from May through November. Attracted by the plankton that inhabits these oceans, the manta ray together with the likes of the whale shark and dolphin will come across as worthy companions during your diving or snorkelling trip in the Baa Atoll.

Known for its spread of dive centres and accommodation options, the alluring South Ari Atoll is next on the list of natural attractions that must be visited when in the Maldives. A far cry from its northern counterpart with respect to the sport of diving based on the fact that novice divers will be presented with several shallower sites to access, the Atoll will serve as a springboard to your outdoor escape in the tropics. For instance, a vast array of marine life is part and parcel of this area coupled with the eye-catching coral reefs that pair well with the crystal-clear waters. In terms of the activities that can be had, do factor in the possibility of sailing on board a catamaran surrounded by every luxury imaginable or ready yourself for an adrenaline rush never felt before as part of some flyboarding that will see to it that you shoot off into the air in seconds. 

Born out of a result of volcanic activity, the island of Fuvahmulah located between Huvadhu and Addu respectively is truly a sight for sore eyes. Featuring tropical forests, fruits, flowers and two freshwater lakes to behold, Fuvahmulah is one such destination whose identity and appearance are in complete contrast to what you would generally associate with the Maldives. In terms of advice, it is recommended that you visit Koda Kilhi which is a mud bath found in the wetland area surrounding Bandaara Kilhi Lake.

Nestled in the North Male Atoll and some 30 km from VARU by Atmosphere which has its own Maldives beach villas to come home to, Himmafushi Island is a thrill seeker’s dream come true on the back of the region famed for its outstanding surfing and dolphin watching excursions. While newbie surfers would be directed towards the dual surf points of Honkys and Ninjas, the more skilled practitioner will find Jailbreak quite the daunting challenge based on the understanding that swells during the summer months are known to reach as high as 8 feet. For a more laidback and toned-down affair, do toy with the thought of hiring a cruise and preparing yourself for an afternoon filled with spinner dolphins and their playful antics.