Secret Paradise Maldives

Secret Paradise Tours runs guided and independent trips to the Maldives' inhabited local islands, using local guesthouses, boats and guides rather than the private resort islands most visitors default to. Trips mix snorkelling, sandbank visits and boat cruises with local island life, alcohol-free evenings, home-cooked meals and conversation with residents. Marine-focused itineraries partner with conservation organisations working on turtles and whale sharks.

Founded in 2012, the company holds Travelife sustainability certification and has been recognised in international responsible tourism awards. Every guesthouse and boat used is locally owned, so a much larger share of what guests spend stays on the islands they visit. Guests typically leave having stayed on two or three different local islands rather than one resort.