Welcome to the Maldives – an island paradise like no other! This scenic location boasts over 1,000 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls sprinkled across the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. 

A haven for nature lovers and conservationists, the Maldives promises sightings of unique marine species like whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays and more than 1,000 varieties of tropical fish. Five of the seven sea turtle species can also be found here! 

But the true heart of this destination is its people. Experience Maldivian hospitality as you immerse yourself in the local culture, exploring historical landmarks, indulging in mouthwatering cuisine and swaying to the sounds of traditional music.

North of Male, the capital of the Maldives, lies Naifaru, the capital of the Lhaviyani Atoll. This remote island has over 5,000 inhabitants – primarily Maldivian, with an expat community from Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan. The closest international airport is Male International Airport. From there, it’s a 35-minute domestic flight to Naifaru.

While small, the island has several shops and dining spots for visitors to enjoy, a post office and a bank with an ATM. Its bustling streets are often teeming with life as locals of all ages gather to socialise through conversation, music and spirited card games. 

This village is also home to our volunteer house, which provides easy access to project sites and is just a two-minute walk from the beach where volunteers can soak up the sun while taking in the ocean view. 

Free time is perfect for exploring the surrounding uninhabited islands, snorkelling, swimming or paddleboarding. And if it’s a taste of city life you’re craving, Male is where you want to be. Wander through its iconic streets and colourful markets or visit historic sites like the Old Friday Mosque. 

Venturing further afield, experience the laid-back atmosphere of Maafushi, a captivating island retreat known for its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend your days lounging on the shore or engaging in water sports like jet skiing, kitesurfing, scuba-diving, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. Go on a snorkelling adventure through vibrant coral gardens, where you can encounter majestic manta rays and a variety of colourful fish species.

For a deeper dive into local culture, hop on a ferry for island-hopping excursions. Travel to hidden spots, explore the local markets, and sample authentic Maldivian cuisine. 

We offer two opportunities to take part in volunteer work in the Maldives: one to assist in childhood development and another for sea turtle conservation. Volunteers for both programs will be located on Naifaru Island. 

As a participant in our childhood development program, you’ll focus on providing opportunities for youth engagement through sports, education and environmental awareness. 

Working closely with the Naifaru community, you’ll become an integral part of the local school network as you assist teachers with kindergarten classes. You’ll support local teachers with children of all ages across a range of subjects including maths, English and science. 

Your role will also involve planning and implementing extracurricular activities like sporting events for students. Get involved within the community and partake in extracurricular activities such as sports, art and nature clubs. Contribute to the teaching of a variety of sports throughout your stay including football/soccer, futsal, volleyball, handball, badminton, tennis and swimming. 

Volunteers in our childhood development program will also participate in some coastal conservation activities at our floating marine centre where sick and injured sea turtles are rehabilitated. This unique sea enclosure is five metres deep and nine metres wide, providing sufficient room for resident turtles to move around while being monitored by a team of marine biologists. 

During your time here, you will take resident turtles on rehabilitation swims, clean tanks, collect seagrass for resident green turtles and join efforts to keep local beaches clean. 

Which languages are commonly spoken in the Maldives?

English is the main language spoken on the island.

What is the weather like in the Maldives?

Expect hot weather with minimal sea breeze. Rainy season occurs from April to November. 

Are accommodation upgrades available?

Yes. An accommodation upgrade to a private room is available at a partner guest house at an extra charge, depending on availability.

How can I prioritise health and safety?

Stay hydrated, bring reef-safe sunscreen and use mosquito repellent without DEET. Be cautious about consuming food and beverages from unhygienic sources to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

How can I stay in touch with people back home?

Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation. It’s suitable for messaging, emailing and basic internet use. We recommend downloading movies/music/series in advance as the Wi-Fi may not support streaming. 

What activities can I do in my free time?

Participate in a variety of activities, including snorkelling, volleyball, trivia, games and community events. Scuba-diving and paddleboarding is available at an extra cost.