Published on Jun, 2024

Secret Paradise provided two great days on a recent round the world cruise, with 29 ports where I and friends (up to 46 of us) did tours with local operators. In each port I read scores of reviews, to find the best tour operator, and Secret Paradise was easily the one in Malé, Maldives. But BOOK EARLY as they are so good, they fill up. I was happy to be the beneficiary of a cancellation, which allowed us to do their 3 Point Snorkeling Tour, as well as their Full Day Walking Tour. We were three on the walking tour, and two on the snorkeling tour, with Ub, our excellent guide, leading both tours. He's been with Secret Paradise eight years, and we were happy to have him, learning heaps about Muslim culture and life in Male. Especially impressive was his handling of calls to prayer, and our being there during Ramadan. The fish market was super, great to be there with a guide, it felt we were less of an intrusive force with a local showing us around, and thankfully able to explain things, identify fish, answer our questions. Kudos to Ruth and her team, a quality operation. She was a pleasure to work with in planning and communication. And a special thanks for keeping their group sizes small, with a focus on the environment. I much look forward to returning in the future, when I and my group will do their Full Day North Malé Island Hopping with Ruth & Mash.

Published on Apr, 2024

Tour was very good. Saw and learnt a lot about Male and even got to visit another island and learn about the conservation efforts there. My tour guides were great! Tasted some yummy local treats at the market. Very well done!

Published on Feb, 2024

I had a great full day Male' walking tour with Secret Paradise Maldives. I hadn't come to the Maldives for a resort holiday but was mainly interested in the local history and culture of the people. My three tour guides Shaffaf, Hamty and Nafsha didn't disappoint, on the contrary. We spent the morning on Malé, visited many places like the fish market and the Old Friday Mosque, and then took the ferry to Villemale. I heard so many interesting stories that completely changed my idea of the Maledives, for the better. Greatly admire the efforts of the Save The Beach-initiative on Villemale, too. I'm happy that Secret Paradise Maldives supports this type of local groups so that they benefit from the visits of foreign tourists, too. Highly recommended. 

Published on Jan, 2024

This is a great tour for anyone who wants to understand the history and culture of the Maldives. Yes, you can visit most of the sites on your own, but Archie really added a lot of value with the information and insight. Also really enjoyed the visit to Vimalé island. Felt very, very different from Malé. Great to hear about all the restoration work the island’s NGO is doing to preserve the reefs. Do note, this tour is a lot of walking and also a lot of time in the sun. Be prepared with lots of sunscreen, water and comfortable shoes. Overall, would recommend.

Published on Jan, 2024

Very busy but the guides looked after us. A great lunch and very informative. A lovely day with another couple. Tour guides excellent.