Maldives

Meet the Maldives! This nation of nearly 1,200 small coral islands is grouped into rings called atolls, scattered across the sparkling Indian Ocean.

Why is it special?

It's the flattest country on Earth and one of the most spread-out nations, made of tiny islands.

The water around the islands is famous for being some of the clearest and most colorful in the world.

How was it formed?

The islands formed on top of ancient underwater volcanoes.

Coral reefs grew in rings called atolls around the volcano tops as they slowly sank beneath the sea.

The Maldives has about 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 natural atolls.

It's the lowest-lying country in the world, with most land barely above sea level.

The Maldives has about 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 natural atolls.
It's the lowest-lying country in the world, with most land barely above sea level.
The Maldives is home to colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and manta rays.
Some resorts have bungalows built right over the water.