Encompassing over 1 000 coral islands that form about 25 natural atolls, the Maldives is separated from the rest of the world by the seemingly endless Indian Ocean, offering visitors a secluded paradise. The string of islands is protected from wind and waves by the reefs, which are home to colourful, exciting marine life. The Maldives is characterised by white beaches, palm trees, deep seas and turquoise reefs.
Conveniently located in close proximity to the capital city of Male, the Alifu Dhaal Atoll, also known as the Ari South, is an administrative division of the Maldives Archipelago. Due to a recent tourist boom, the atoll now features a number of inhabited islands boasting luxury resorts and well-equipped dive centres. The capital is the town of Mahibadhoo, which is home to around 2000 inhabitants and offers a wide range of facilities and services. The exceptional diving is undoubtedly the main attraction with a diverse range of marine life inhabiting the area including manta rays, whale sharks, hammerheads, guitar sharks, turtles, grey reef sharks, frogfish, and countless other colourful fish species. Aside from diving, visitors can enjoy: windsurfing, snorkelling, kayaking, swimming or simply relaxing on one of the many idyllic white-sand beaches.
