Adventures In The Maldives

Want to experience sun-soaked sands, lagoons filled with crystal water and days of blue skies and blissful sunshine? In a destination that has long been thought to be exclusive to honeymooners and the wealthy, Secret Paradise have opened up the Maldives to offer an excellent range of experiences. With a variety that includes Local Island Hopping, Multi Activity, Cooking and Culture, and Backpacker Breaks, find out for yourself why you should be heading to these gorgeous, pearl-like string of islands nestled in the Indian Ocean.

Local Island Hopping

For eight or 11 magical days you’ll see the very best of these incredible islands while enjoying adventures within a tropical paradise. Arriving on Hulhumale, you get to enjoy a guided tour of the capital before heading to Guraidhoo to learn about Maldivian life and how a Dhoni – a Maldivian boat – is built. Enjoy a relaxed picnic on an uninhabited island before heading by ferry to Maafushi, to discover the world of underwater reefs. You’ll also have the chance to accompany local fishermen and try your hand at tuna fishing, as well as eat your catch! Local Island Hopping costs from USD$1,299pp and includes accommodation, all experiences, meals and domestic airport assistance.

Multi Activity Package

This is a great option if you want to try as many activities as possible during this eight-day package of the Maldives. Explore the island of Gan by Jeep, noted for its Red Lake due to all the red leaves that fall from the trees. You’ll also get the chance to learn how to Scuba Dive in a safe and secure environment, before completing two dives from the shore. Head out into the turquoise water and learn how to windsurf, surf or even captain your own catamaran. The Multi Activity Package costs from USD$1,849pp and includes, accommodation, meals, all experiences and domestic transport assistance.

Cooking & Culture

Maldivian culture is rich and varied so this eight-day package is ideal if you want to learn more about island life and its many culinary and cultural delights. Enjoy a guided tour of Fuvahmulah and visit the remains of an ancient Buddhist shrine as well as the old mosques. Experience the sights and smells of a Maldivian fish market, before selecting the ones that you’ll cook alongside the guesthouse chef. The cooking continues with you learning how to make traditional Maldivian sweets, made with coconut and sugar before enjoying a final beachside BBQ. Cooking & Culture costs from USD$2,099pp and includes, meals, island tours, food experiences, accommodation and domestic airport assistance.

Backpacker Breaks

On a gap year or backpacking adventure? This four-day package is brilliant for those who want to grab a little slice of the Maldives but may be short on time. Arrive in Male, before boarding the ferry that’ll take you to Guraidhoo and the guesthouse. Discover the beauty of the underwater reefs around the Maldives, snorkel in crystal clear waters before having dinner with a local Maldivian family. Next up, a visit to an unspoiled uninhabited island to tuck into a delicious picnic lunch followed by a lazy swim in the sparkling Indian Ocean. A Backpacker Break costs from just USD$349pp and includes accommodation, meals, experiences and domestic airport assistance.

To book your own magical Maldivian adventure, visit www.secretparadise.mv

By Kirsty Liddle