Maldives tour

The Maldives offer more than just idyllic landscapes—they’re a delicate ecosystem needing our respect. Conscious Journeys encourages travelers to explore this archipelago responsibly, reducing environmental impact and supporting local sustainability. Here are some guidelines for a mindful experience in the Maldives.

1. Environmental Sustainability and Reef Protection

The Maldives’ fragile environment is under threat from pollution and unsustainable tourism. An essential step to protect this habitat is using reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreens. Traditional sunscreens often contain harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs and marine life. By choosing eco-friendly products, you not only protect your skin but also help conserve this vital ecosystem.

Single-use plastic is another pressing issue. Carry a reusable water bottle and a cloth bag to avoid plastic waste. Refill stations can be found locally, reducing the number of plastic bottles and bags that might otherwise end up in the ocean, protecting the water and marine life.

When choosing activities, ensure they’re environmentally conscious, like those following Green Fins principles—an international standard promoting sustainable marine behavior. Avoid tours where marine animals are fed, as this alters their natural behavior and disrupts ecosystem balance.

2. Respect for Local Culture and Cultural Awareness

The Maldives isn’t just a destination of natural beauty but also a cultural crossroads rich in tradition. The Maldivian people are warm and welcoming, but it’s crucial to respect their traditions. Learning a few words in Dhivehi, the local language, can enrich your interactions and show respect for the culture and heritage of the islands.

In many areas, you’ll need to dress respectfully, especially in local villages or sacred sites. Getting familiar with local customs before you go and following tour leaders’ advice can make your journey more meaningful and appreciated by the local community. When interacting with locals, avoid intrusive behavior and ask for permission before taking photos to respect their privacy.

3. Responsible Resource Use and Conservation Practices

Access to resources like water and energy can be limited on the islands, so conscious consumption is essential. Shorter showers, turning off air conditioning and lights when leaving your room, and reusing towels are simple steps with a big impact. Not only does this support the environment, but it also aids the Maldives in maintaining sustainable development by preserving natural resources.

Many accommodations offer recycling and waste management services—ask your hotel how to correctly dispose of waste. Minimizing packaging and bringing reusable items from home also reduces the amount of waste that needs to be managed on the islands.

4. Safety During Your Stay

Safety is key to enjoying a positive and serene experience in the Maldives. Always wear a life jacket when traveling by boat; water safety in an archipelago like the Maldives should never be overlooked. When swimming or snorkeling, avoid going alone, and stick to designated safe areas. Currents can be unpredictable, so remain vigilant and follow the guidance of local experts.

Additionally, avoid shark-swimming experiences if operators feed them, as this impacts both animal and human safety by altering natural behaviors. Take advantage of hotel safes for valuables, and be mindful of your belongings in public areas for a secure stay.

5. Supporting Local Tourism and a Sustainable Economy

Supporting local activities is a meaningful way to give back to the host community. Purchase handmade products crafted by local artisans, dine at family-run restaurants, and choose excursions that engage with local communities. Doing so will not only enrich your experience but will also help the local economy thrive sustainably, supporting communities in maintaining their traditions and unique lifestyle.

Following these practices allows you to experience the Maldives with respect and gratitude, enjoying an experience that both honors the environment and enriches travelers. Through conscious tourism, you contribute to a positive legacy for future generations, preserving the Maldives’ extraordinary natural and cultural beauty.

Malè: is the archipelago’s capital and one of the smallest in the world, being on an island of only 2 sq. km.
Despite its small size, the city hosts a quarter of the Maldives’s population. Unlike the other islands, in Malè you’ll find tall buildings and asphalted roads, offices and boutique. Here there are no beaches and it is often used only as a stopover, to then continue towards the smaller and wilder atolls.
Hanimaadhoo: paradise island in the north of Maldives, which also hosts one of the few domestic airports of the archipelago and a meteorological observatory.

The main ingredients are fish and rice, instead meat and chicken are only used in special occasions. The local drink is the raa, a sweet palm wine, and except for the coconut, a great part of fruits and vegetables are imported.
Mas huni: typical fish dish served for breakfast with white rice or with Roshi, unleavened bread similar to our wraps. It exists in different variations, but the inevitable ingredients are tuna, onion and coconut, often accompanied with peppers, tomatoes and a local aromatic plant, called Hikandhi.
Geri riha: very spicy dish with curry and beef, cooked with coconut milk.
Chichandaa satani: a very original dish made with snakeskin, onion, chili pepper, lemon juice and coconut milk.
Kandumahu mussanmaa: tuna dumplings wrapped in palm leaves and flavored with curry and coconut, a dish that combines the flavors of the ocean with the spicy taste so loved by Maldivians.
Kaliyaa Birinjee: typical dish in the fishermen’s houses, made with patna rise seasoned with onion, garlic and spices such as cinnamon, fennel seeds, ginger and cardamom.
Raiymahu riha: it is a very tasty and spicy snapper soup. Starting from a sauté of garlic, onion and curry, whole fish (including the head), coconut milk and water are then added. The resulting soup is fragrant and very tasty.
Theluli mas: typical tuna fish fry.
Kukulhu bis riha: single dish with a delicious exotic flavor. It is made with chicken, eggs, potatoes and coconut cream, all flavored with curry.