6 Fun ways to see the Maldives from above

The view of our Earth from space is a visually mesmerizing spectacle only a few lucky souls ever get to relish. Come down a little more, and when seen from the sky for the first time, most countries and cities come across as fascinating destinations, brimming with new and exciting possibilities.

A view of the Maldives and its many islands dotting the Indian Ocean is an equally breath-taking sight. Its impact, unimaginable until you see it with your own eyes, often leaves even returning visitors in a state of complete wonderment.

Typically, countries and islands worldwide have diverse topographies that include both high and low points. The mountains and hills thus act as great vantage locations to admire the surroundings from a height.

The Maldives, as it happens, is one of the flattest countries in the world. Consequently, its landmass is devoid of mountains or towering sites from where one can capture a bird’s eye view of the islands.

Still, there are six fun ways to see the Maldives from above. While not always the most budget-friendly, they promise incredible scenes worth every penny you’ll end up spending. 

Airplane

Among the easiest ways to see the Maldives from above is during your flight to Male. It’s also one option where you do not have to pay anything extra.

However, a flight to the Maldives comes with certain limitations when considering it as a sightseeing excursion. You’ll first have to book a plane arriving during the daytime. Moreover, it helps to pray to the climate gods and ask them for a sunny, cloudless day.

Then, you need to reserve a window seat, but simultaneously make sure it allows you unobstructed views. The last thing you want is a plane seat over the wings. Lastly, don’t expect expansive views. Instead, consider the scenes from your window to be a quick introduction to the beauty of the Maldives. 

Seaplane

The seaplane is somewhat similar to a large commercial flight when we consider different ways to see the Maldives from above. The few significant differences are that seaplanes are smaller and have better window-side seating.

Furthermore, seaplanes in the Maldives fly only during the daytime and when the weather is good. Also, because they fly at a lower height, you can clearly see the islands and their various structures.

Now, seaplane flights are typically short, and they are expensive. Flying time ranges anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour maximum. But if you book a resort in the Maldives, reachable by seaplane, it becomes a part of your transportation, resulting in some money-saving.

Alternatively, resorts can organize a private seaplane excursion. Known as photo-flights, these trips last from 15 minutes to half an hour. The plane, in this case, will pick you up from and drop you back at the resort. 

Drone

A drone does not give you the same excitement as being among the clouds and looking down at the islands. Still, it’s among the cheaper ways to see the Maldives from above.

Using a drone to capture the magnificence of your resort island means you can enjoy this activity on land and without going anywhere far. It does have some significant restrictions, though.

Most importantly, you need permission from the government before bringing a drone into the country. Then, you also must ask your resort if they allow drones over their property. Due to security and privacy reasons, many resorts have a no-drone policy.

Lastly, the drone limits your views to only over and around the island you are on. While it promises unmatched video captures, you still do not get the full impact of Maldives’ distinct exquisiteness.

Skydive

Skydiving, in a way, is the complete opposite of using a drone. The thrill factor of this latest excursion in the Maldives is quite literally way off the roof. Moreover, a skydive is one of the best ways to see the Maldives from above because you get a bird’s eye view in the most authentic manner possible.

Additionally, the panoramas of the islands during a skydive are all-encompassing. Plus, it’s an exclusive activity, so you know just about anyone cannot do it.

Having said that, you can be a complete novice and still enjoy tandem skydiving with a professional instructor. However, a skydive doesn’t last long, and it is quite an expensive activity. But it is an unforgettable experience you will be talking about for a long time.

Aerial water sports

If the act of jumping out of a plane scares you, there are other ways to see the Maldives from above. These alternatives might not be as impressive but are certainly cheaper and very entertaining.

Paragliding is a wonderful water sport that you can book at most private island resorts. On days the weather is nice, and there is little or no wind, head out into the ocean and soar the skies while linked to a fast-moving speedboat with rope.

Another exciting option is flyboarding. It does take a few minutes to get used to maneuvering in the air, pressured by jets of water below your feet. But flyboarding is quite an exhilarating sport once you get the hang of it.     

Treetop restaurants

Most of the ways to see the Maldives from above we have discussed till now have time restrictions. There is, however, one option where you can admire and appreciate scenic island and ocean vistas at leisure.

Treetop restaurants are your gateway to a fantastic time filled with gourmet food, signature drinks, and stunning sights. Most importantly, you can take in the views for hours without any worries, like making sure if your parachute is open or not.

Now, there are only a handful of these specialty eateries in the Maldives. Therefore, to savor an elevated gastronomic adventure, you first need to book a vacation at Joali Maldives for their outstanding Manta Ray Treehouse. Or else, book a room at the Waldorf Astoria and dine at the truly fantastic Terra.

Want more? Well, there’s also Zero at Sun Island Resort, Fresh in the Garden at Soneva Fushi, and Kaashi at JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa. Each of these treetop restaurants in the Maldives is unique in design and food. At the same time, they all allow you to indulge in incredible over-the-top romantic and culinary affairs like no other.