• Aerial view of Vakkaru Maldives Residence in a protected biosphere reserve rich in marine life and coral ecosystems

About The Maldives

Scattered across the Indian Ocean southwest of Sri Lanka, the Maldives is an archipelago of coral islands, turquoise lagoons and vibrant marine life. Formed by ancient reefs rising from the ocean floor, this remarkable nation is composed of 26 natural atolls and more than 1,200 islands, many of which remain untouched and uninhabited.

Overwater bungalows at Vakkaru Maldives connected by wooden walkways above a turquoise lagoon.
Scenic island location of Vakkaru Maldives surrounded by turquoise lagoons and tropical beauty.

An Island Nation

The Maldives stretches across a vast underwater mountain range, forming a chain of more than 1,200 coral islands and sandbanks arranged across 26 natural atolls. Around 200 islands are home to local communities, while others host private resorts or remain uninhabited. Each island is encircled by a lagoon of clear turquoise water and protected by a coral reef, creating the distinctive “one island, one resort” concept that defines the Maldivian experience.

Signature woven fish sculpture on the beach at Vakkaru Maldives overlooking the ocean and island scenery.

History and Culture

Maldivian culture reflects centuries of maritime trade and exchange across the Indian Ocean. Influences from India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East and Africa have shaped local traditions, cuisine and music. One of the most celebrated cultural expressions is Boduberu, a rhythmic performance of drumming, chanting and dance traditionally performed barefoot on the sand, bringing communities together in a vibrant display of island heritage.

  • Overwater bungalows aligned along wooden jetties into turquoise ocean, Vakkaru Maldives Residence

    Connectivity

    Velana International Airport in Malé is the main gateway to the Maldives, well connected with major cities worldwide. From here, guests continue their journey by seaplane to Vakkaru Maldives, enjoying a scenic 30-minute flight over coral atolls and turquoise lagoons.

  • Aerial view of Vakkaru Maldives showcasing its island location amid turquoise waters and coral atolls.

    Weather

    Located close to the equator, the Maldives enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures typically ranging between 23°C and 32°C. The drier season runs from November to April, while May to October brings occasional tropical showers and cooling ocean breezes.

  • Heron standing in the shallow turquoise waters surrounding Vakkaru Maldives in Baa Atoll.

    Time Zone & Currency

    The Maldives operates on GMT +5, while Vakkaru Maldives follows island time at GMT +6. The US dollar is widely accepted throughout the resort, and major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express are also accepted for most services.