5 days 4 nights
Daily Tour
6 people
English
The Gulhi Experience offers a perfect introduction to the Maldives for families, first-time travelers, or those seeking a mix of culture, marine exploration, and relaxation. Nestled in South Malé Atoll, Gulhi is a small, traditionally fishing-focused island that has gradually embraced tourism, providing visitors with a genuine insight into local life. Its beautiful bikini beach, quiet streets, and historic dockyard make it an ideal destination for both laid-back relaxation and immersive exploration.
Guests stay in handpicked local guesthouses that balance comfort, good service, and authentic island atmosphere. Each property features clean, en-suite rooms, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, Wi-Fi, and easy beach access, often with terraces or gardens where guests can unwind. Throughout the journey, travelers have opportunities to explore coral reefs, swim with turtles, witness dolphins in their natural habitat, and visit local cafes and boatyards. Cultural interactions, such as tasting traditional Maldivian hedika and sharing meals with local families, provide meaningful insights into daily life on the island.
The itinerary combines adventure and education, introducing visitors to critical marine conservation initiatives such as the Olive Ridley turtle project and the protection of seagrass beds. Guests also engage in responsible tourism activities like beach cleaning and coconut palm planting. With snorkeling, island tours, and community-focused experiences, this short-stay program captures the essence of the Maldives, offering a deep understanding of its culture, environment, and the balance between local life and natural beauty.
Valid from: (01. Jan. 2026 – 31.Oct. 2026)
Meet your tour leader at Velana International Airport. Begin with a guided tour of Malé, exploring the fish market, local markets, Sultan Park, the President’s Palace, and the iconic Friday Mosque. Gain a rich understanding of Maldivian culture, history, and daily life while wandering through the narrow city streets. After lunch, transfer by local ferry to Gulhi. En route, watch for dolphins and enjoy panoramic views of the scattered islands.
Upon arrival, settle into the guesthouse and take a refreshing sunset swim. Conclude the day with an environmental briefing highlighting threats to marine ecosystems and ways travelers can minimize impact.
Accommodation: Tropic Tree Maldives Hotel.
After breakfast, embark on a guided snorkeling trip to nearby reefs. Learn responsible snorkeling techniques and explore vibrant corals teeming with fish, turtles, and rays. Your tour leader assists less experienced snorkelers to ensure safety and comfort.
In the afternoon, take a guided island walk to visit the boatyard, interact with locals, and witness traditional life. Stop at a local café to sample hedika with black tea. Evening discussions focus on the Olive Ridley turtle conservation project, preparing you for tomorrow’s turtle snorkeling.
Speedboat to nearby reefs for turtle encounters, following a strict snorkeling code of conduct. Soft corals provide feeding grounds for turtles, creating a memorable underwater experience. Stop at a pristine sandbank surrounded by turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.
On the return journey, watch for dolphins while the guide explains species behavior, social dynamics, and ecological roles. Conclude the day by planting a coconut palm to support the local environment
Morning transfer to Maafushi to snorkel seagrass beds, learning their vital role in the ecosystem and why they are referred to as underwater heroes. After lunch, return to Gulhi for a final snorkeling session on the house reef or leisure time on the tourist beach.
Later, participate in a beach clean to give back to the community, followed by refreshing coconut water and an ocean swim. Dinner is hosted by a local family, offering an authentic Maldivian cultural experience.
After breakfast, transfer by public ferry to Velana International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you lasting memories of marine encounters, cultural immersion, and responsible travel experiences.
Member Since 2025
