guide voyage maldives

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Male International Airport Guide

Top Romantic Resorts

Sustainable Resorts

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Snorkeling & Diving

Nature Experiences

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Your Trip to the Maldives: The Complete Guide

Made up of nearly 1,200 coral islands strung north to south in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is one of the most popular beach destinations on the planet. Known for world-class diving, miles of empty white-sand beaches, and resorts oozing with luxury, the Maldives isn’t always the most budget-friendly destination (though bargains can be found). But if you’re looking for mind-blowing sunsets, sugary sand, and the most turquoise water you’ve ever seen, break out your credit card and book a flight. Read on for our complete Maldives visitor’s guide, and learn the best places to stay, eat, dive, and explore in this spectacular tropical locale.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time To Visit: In true tropical island style, temperatures in the Maldives average 83 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius) year-round, and there are only two main seasons; dry and wet. The dry season comes in fall and winter, from November through April, with temperatures ranging from 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) to 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The low, monsoon season runs from May through October, with the wettest month usually falling in June. Temperatures in the rainy season range from 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) to 87 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

Getting Around: As an island nation spread across hundreds of miles of the ocean, it’s only natural that boats are the country’s transport mainstay, so prepare your sea legs (or Dramamine). For those staying near the capital or attempting a more budget holiday, ferries are offered between some of the more populated islands in the Malé Atoll capital area. Speedboat taxis can be hired for short-distance island hopping, and private resort speedboats whisk guests away to properties in the immediate vicinity. For resorts set in distant atolls, further transport will be via seaplane or a domestic flight to one of the more far-flung airports followed by speedboat transfer to the resort.

Travel Tip: Many visitors to the Maldives must travel by seaplane to reach their final destination, so it’s important to note that seaplanes only operate during daylight hours. If your flight arrives after dark, consider staying at a nearby hotel on either Hulhulé Island or in nearby Malé city.

Things to Do

This is a country surrounded by water, water, and more water, so it's only natural that water sports have emerged as the leading activity in the Maldives. Landlubbers can bask in the sun on deserted sandbanks, or perhaps spend the day in one of the dozens of spas dotted at upmarket resorts throughout the nation.

• Diving: Some of the world's best diving can be found in the Maldives' coral atolls. Spot whale sharks and manta rays from May through November in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, or dive deep with octopi and reef sharks to explore some of the area's famed shipwrecks.
• Water sports: Snorkeling, stand-up paddle, surfing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and every other water sport imaginable are available year-round. Most resorts include access to non-motorized water sports equipment, and the larger populated islands generally have water sports rental facilities.
• Spa experiences: The Maldives is home to some of the most indulgent hotel spas in the world. These havens of tranquility offer everything from Thai massages set in overwater villas, to underwater treatment rooms, to complete detox, rejuvenation, or restoration packages. Most resorts have a spa on the property, so it's only a matter of choosing which will best suit your budget and relaxation desires.
• Nothing: Perhaps the ultimate activity of all in the Maldives is doing absolutely nothing. This definition of "nothing" means laying on a sun lounger on one of the country's best beaches , staring into the sea-green distance while sipping ice-cold coconut water and reading a novel.

What to Eat and Drink

Maldivian cuisine borrows mainly from India and Sri Lanka, which both highlight hot, spicy flavors. But in the Maldives, what you’ll eat largely depends on where you stay. High-end resorts offer a variety of a la carte local and international fare in a host of luxurious settings, including in overwater and underwater restaurants .

Budget resorts are more likely to provide buffet meals with both Western and Asian options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are also small local eateries and cafes on many of the inhabited islands, purveying specialties such as fish cakes, soups, and curries.

Alcohol is prohibited in the Maldives (except for tourists at licensed hotels and resorts), so don’t expect to wash down your curry with a beer in any of the local establishments. Many of the more upmarket resorts, however, have full bars, and even wine cellars with hundreds of vintages to choose from.

Where to Stay

If visitors stay in the city of Malé, it’s rarely for more than one night, as there’s not much going on in the capital other than commerce, a few restaurants, and a museum or two. Most visitors stay in one of the dozens of resorts, which are often set on private islands in one of the country’s myriad coral atolls.

Accommodations vary widely in the Maldives, from rustic local guesthouses to some of the world’s most expensive resorts. If you’re on a budget, there are a handful of guesthouses and small hotels in many of the inhabited islands, such as in the North Malé Atoll or Ari Atoll.

There are also a variety of all-inclusive resorts, which range widely in quality. Check out Adaaran Prestige Vadoo , which is only 20 minutes by speedboat from the airport and has overwater villas with private pools, or the chic design and five restaurants at LUX* South Ari Atoll .

The Maldives’ lineup of five-star resorts are the stuff holiday dreams are made of. Postcard-perfect beaches, overwater villas, serene spas, and private butlers are only a taste of what to expect should you choose to splurge. Some of the most popular (and expensive) options include chains such as the Four Seasons , St. Regis , and the Six Senses , plus properties like Soneva Jani , which features massive overwater villas with private pools and waterslides, or Huvafen Fushi Maldives which has the world’s first and only underwater spa.

Getting There

The gateway to the Maldives is Velana International Airport (MLE), formerly Malé International Airport, which is set on an island adjacent to the capital city of Malé. Upon arrival, the best transport mode depends on where you’re staying. A bridge connects the airport (on Hulhulé Island) to adjacent Malé city, or there are taxis, speedboat taxis, and regularly scheduled (though not always on time) ferries.

The Maldives’ seafaring past and Indian Ocean location means the remote country has been heavily influenced by its closest neighbors, India and Sri Lanka, as well as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Africa. Many visitors will only see the surroundings of their chosen resort, but the Maldives possesses cultural treasures on the local islands and in Malé that are also worth exploring.

• One of the oldest mosques in the Maldives is the Malé Hukuru Miskiy, or Old Friday Mosque, which was built from ornately carved coral in 1658. The mosque is set on Hulhulé Island, an easy taxi ride from the airport.
• The Maldives National Museum in Malé is a compact yet illuminating repository for the country’s prized artifacts. Displays range from ancient to modern times and contain everything from religious carvings to whale skeletons to lacquered wood boxes handmade by Maldivian craftspeople.
• Across Sultan Park from The Maldives National Museum is The National Art Gallery. Established in 1999, this relatively new museum houses collections of Maldivian art from both past and present.

Money-Saving Tips

• May through October is monsoon season in much of Southeast Asia, and the Maldives is no exception. Although summer can sometimes bring heavy rainfall and severe storms, most often there are only afternoon showers, and risking a visit during these monsoon months (particularly June, considered the wettest month) means deep discounts compared to visiting the country during the peak season.
• Since alcohol is heavily taxed and marked-up in the Maldives, a drinks bill at the end of your trip can pose a hefty surprise. To keep the holiday stress-free and the umbrella drinks coming, consider choosing an all-inclusive package if you plan to indulge in adult libations during your stay.

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How to Plan the Perfect Maldives Vacation at the Best Hotels

Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect Maldives vacation.

The world's lowest-lying nation rises barely three feet above sea level (at its highest point, a mere 10 feet) and fans over the Indian Ocean in wide, flat circles of blindingly white sand. The Maldives are nestled halfway between Indonesia and Africa and attract travelers seriously committed to communing with the sparkling turquoise tides.

Made up of 26 atolls spanning 1,190 different islands (of these, less than a third are inhabited), the Maldives are like one giant jigsaw puzzle of sandbars and lagoons. An impressive number of marine species have made their homes in the surrounding reefs and, as a result, a Maldives vacation is particularly popular among scuba divers.

The Maldives are where people come to experience island life at its most relaxed — and most beautiful. Whether you're criss-crossing coral reefs in a glass-bottomed boat or dozing off in your private overwater bungalow, the chances of returning home disappointed are slim to none. Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect Maldives vacation.

How to Get Around on Your Maldives Vacation

Within each of the island chain's ring-shaped atolls — North Ari Atoll, South Ari Atoll, Laamu Atoll, and so on — is a group of different islands typically anchored by a small airport. The Kaafu Atoll is home to Velana International Airport, which is the main entry point for all travelers. This main airport, near the capital island of Malé, is where you'll likely start your Maldives vacation. From here, you'll need to arrange a separate flight or speedboat transfer to get to your individual hotel — and if you're resort hopping, you may need to take more than one seaplane or boat to get around the Maldives. Often the luxury hotels can help you organize a seaplane or boat transport to your final destination. You can also hire your own speedboat transfer through companies like Atoll Transfer or take a public ferry between islands.

When to Plan Your Maldives Vacation

December through April is the dry season and the most popular time to visit the Maldives. This can make hotels slightly more expensive, but it's also when you can enjoy a near-guaranteed streak of gorgeous, storm-free days. Moreover, dry season makes for better visibility (think: crystal-clear snorkeling and underwater diving). No matter what time of year, travelers can expect balmy temperatures in the mid-80s.

How to Visit Multiple Islands in the Maldives

The Maldives are full of dreamy, relatively untouched islands, and one of the joys of vacationing here is venturing beyond your hotel. A typical excursion might include fishing at sunset in a 60-foot dhoni (a traditional Maldivian wooden boat). Another favorite is island hopping, when resort guests are taken to a handful of nearby islands and properties to snorkel and explore on land (a packed or barbecue lunch is almost always included). Some hotels even offer intimate escapes for couples. Just imagine being taken out to a deserted beach in a dinghy, where you're left to enjoy the company of your significant other for the entire afternoon, equipped with only a fully stocked picnic basket and a mobile phone in case of emergencies.

Best Hotels in the Maldives

Patina Maldives, Fari Islands was perhaps the biggest news coming out of the Maldives in 2021. This icon-in-the-making hotel debuted in May 2021, and it's the inaugural Patina Hotels & Resorts property (a new brand by Capella Hotel Group). The 90 one- to three-bedroom beach and pool villas feature exquisite architectural elements. Guests will love spending time at the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club, all of which are part of the Patina experience.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi launched a new private island at the beginning of 2021 that's available only for exclusive rental. Not only that, but the iconic luxury property debuted new villas and the country's first Aqua Wellness Center for travelers who want to maintain their healthy lifestyle while enjoying the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives debuted in June 2021 in the North Malé Atoll. Located near Chickens Break, a must-visit surfing spot, it's the perfect hotel for travelers looking to take advantage of water sports on their Maldives vacation. The property also boasts a spa overlooking the beach and a Singaporean-style street food market.

Another great stay in the Maldives is Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa — a luxe experience by Marriott. In the Lhaviyani Atoll, this resort is all about beachfront cafes, lagoon-access overwater villas, and an embrace of midcentury Maldivian design.

Must-try Activities in the Maldives

Scuba diving in the Maldives is second to none — the nutrient-rich waters, fed by currents from the Indian Ocean, are like a Whole Foods for marine life. Brightly colored tropical fish, manta rays, reef sharks, whale sharks, eels, sea turtles, and more are attracted to the waters of the Maldives. Start at the South Ari Atoll, where you'll find popular dive sites like Broken Rock (split in half by a deep canyon) and Kudarah Thila.

In 2005, Ithaa became the world's first all-glass, undersea restaurant. Though the trend has spread, travelers can still enjoy a seafood feast at the intimate, 14-seat restaurant. Everything on the menu is sustainably caught. To eat here, however, you'll need to plan ahead: Reservations are required well in advance, and guests of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island , where the restaurant is located, get first dibs.

Dolphin watching in the Maldives is also fairly popular, though it of course requires patience. One of the best spots to see the gorgeous creatures is Muli Channel. Work with your hotel or a local dive center to snorkel these waters on a clear day, when you'll have the best chance of seeing a dolphin.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Maldives

Home to over 1190 coral island and 26 atolls, the Maldives is hands-down one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in the world. A Maldives getaway is popular with celebrities and the jet-set crowd, honeymooners as well as loved-up couples. It also makes a wonderful vacation for families, with many Maldives resorts offering family-friendly accommodation and fun activities to keep all ages entertained.

When it comes to booking a Maldives vacation , things can get a little tricky. After all, there are over 130 different Maldives resorts to choose from – each offering up their own slice of paradise. It’s wise to get clued-up on things like high and low season timings, as well as monthly weather averages, culture and customs, and currency before you plan your trip. Luckily, we have done the hard work for you and put together this info-packed travel guide that will help you to book the best vacation (ever) to the idyllic Maldives.

Where are the Maldives?

The Maldives is perfectly positioned in the warm shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean. The many islands and atolls are spread out over a total area of 293 km, which makes it one of the most geographically dispersed countries in the world. The Maldives are nearest to Sri Lanka, and around 2,100 miles away from the Southern Tip of India.

Here are some of the distances from major cities to the Maldives.

Maldives to Lisbon 9085 km Maldives to London 5292 km Maldives to Perth 6003 km Maldives to Kuala Lumpur 3133 km Maldives to Los Angeles 15,692 Maldives to Paris 5149 km Maldives to Mombasa 3812 km Maldives to New York 8725 km Maldive to Rio De Janeiro 12,835 km

How to Get to the Maldives

Just 15 years ago or so, it was rather expensive to book flights to the Maldives, as only a few major Airlines flew there which resulted in much higher prices. Nowadays the Maldives is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination, with more and more airlines operating flights here. But still, getting a direct flight to the Maldives may be difficult unless you are coming from London, parts of the Middle East, Singapore, India, and Hong Kong.

In fact, it’s a popular option to divide the journey into two flights and stop at one of the destinations listed above. Scoot is one of the newest Airlines to operate flights to the Maldives, and they can act as little as $100 per leg departing from Singapore, which makes them very affordable indeed.

Airlines that fly direct to the Maldives include:

Qatar Airways flights Korean Air flights Saudia flights Turkish Airlines flights Air India flights Hong Kong Airlines flights Singapore Airlines flights Etihad Airways flights Scoot flights Cathay Pacific flights Aeroflot flights AirAsia X flights

When flying into the Maldives, you will fly to Male International Airport which is located on the Island of Hulhule. From there you either need to get a seaplane or a speedboat to get your Maldives resort .

Seaplane rides are an incredible experience and all part of the Maldives adventure, so if you have the choice between the two and we recommend you to go for a plane over the boat. Saying that they can be rather expensive, and many people are shocked to find out that they may actually cost the same amount as your international flight! On top of this, seaplanes are any allowed to depart during daylight hours, so if your flight is late at night you may have to book an overnight stay on Huhule before departing onwards the next day.

Weather: High Season and Low Season

The Maldives has two distinct Seasons: the dry season and the rainy season, otherwise known as the high season and the low season. The high season runs between December and March, and the low between June and November. Expect room rates to be high in the high season, particularly around holidays and celebrations like Christmas and New Year’s. The resorts will also be busier during these time and rooms often get booked up with plenty of time in advance.

During the rainy season, you can expect drizzle – quite often on a daily basis, but this typically passes pretty quickly, and it’s warm rain too so you can still enjoy a nice swim in the sea. A benefit of visiting in the off-season is that you get some of the best deals on Maldives resorts – plus it will be a little quieter during this time too.

If you want more detailed information on Maldives weather, then check out this detailed guide which reveals month-by-month averages including rainfall, hours of sunlight and highs and lows .

Culture and Customs

It’s worth noting that the Maldives is a Muslim country, and they have a number of traditions, rules, and customs that need to be adhered to during your Maldives vacation. The first rule is that you should never bring any alcohol into the country. There’s are special machines in the airport arrival area where officers screen your bags to make sure you haven’t bought any contraband in. It’s also illegal to bring in any sort of pork products, as well as religious texts.

If you are visiting one of the local Maldives Islands, then you will also need to cover up properly, avoid wearing swimwear on the beach, and don’t partake in any public displays of affection. This only applies on the local islands, and on the Maldives resort Islands, you are free to wear what you want.

Maldives Currency

The currency in the Maldives is called the Rufiyaa, which comes in sizes of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 2. If you plan on staying in a Maldives resort then it’s likely that you won’t even need to use any of this currency. All of the large Maldives resorts are able to accept major credit and debit card payments. Your bill will be presented to you at the end of your stay.

Saying this, it’s always nice to take a little cash with you if you want to tip some of your favorite staff during your stay. The best way to do this is to place some money into an envelope and then hand directly to them. It’s acceptable to tip in US Dollars rather than the local currency.

If you want to get some money changed in the Maldives, then you’ll find currency exchange booths within Male international airport, as well as speckled around the main island of Huhule. There are also ATMs located within the International Airport, and it may be a better option to withdraw cash there rather than exchange it if you want to get a better rate on the conversion.

Where to Stay

High-end luxury.

The One and Only Reethi Rah is the go-to resort for A-listers and newlyweds. Glamorous, opulent and luxurious, this stunning resort is one of the most highly rated in the Maldives. It is home to 128 beautifully designed and decorated thatch-roof villas that are located on sugary beaches, in secluded lush jungles and of course, out on stilts in the ocean. Guests are treated to a range of out-of-this-world culinary experiences, which range from casual and chic beach dining to contemporary Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. We love how Reethi Rah goes above and beyond to offer complimentary services including fresh fruit daily, mineral water, laundry for children and garment pressing for adults, sea salt baths and some water sport activities.

It’s definitely one of the best resorts in the Maldives , and a great choice if the budget allows. Click here to see more photos and find out how much a stay will cost at the One and Only Reethi Rah .

Centara Grand is an excellent mid-priced option, as this resort offers overwater Villas, beach suites, palm-fringed beaches set around a shimmering lagoon. Past guests rave about the Reef Restaurant, which offers champagne breakfasts, casual lunches, and Asian-inspired dinners. The Coral Bar and Lounge is a wonderful spot to chill out and wind down. It features an elegant lounge area, fine wines, teas, and delectable handcrafted cocktails.

You can also indulge in a massage and the spa hit the overwater fitness centre, play badminton or tennis, scuba dive, snorkel, and swim in the beautiful infinity pool. They also have a great value all-inclusive package.

Click here to check out more photos and the see the latest rates at Centara Grand .

Low-Cost Maldives Accommodation

Kurumba Resort is known for being one of the original resorts in the Maldives . It is located amongst the warm waters of the North Male Atoll, on an island that was once a coconut plantation. The Enormous resort offers everything you’d expect from much higher-priced resorts, including a fabulous spa, sauna, steam room, tennis courts, indoor Fitness Centre, large infinity pool, private beaches, and a huge selection of dining options.

Are you interested in staying in the Kurumba Resort Maldives ? Click here for more photos and the lowest prices on a stay at this wonderful resort .

What to Eat in the Maldives

Not only is the Maldives one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, the resorts here famed having some of the best food around too. Many of the larger Maldives resorts will often have a generous buffet, which include a huge selection of local and international dishes. In recent years, hotels are making more of an effort to cater for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free holidaymakers. There is actually a vegetarian restaurant called Just Veg by Atmosphere which is located at Kanifushi Resort .

Some resorts such as Soneva Jani also offer special food rooms, including an incredible ice cream room which offers over 68 different flavors of ice cream (with dairy-free options too), as well as a chocolate room and cheese tasting room.

Many resorts draw their food influences from the rich and vibrant Maldivian cuisine. If you want to sample some local dishes then try some bubbling coconut curries, breadfruit, cassava, and don’t forget the freshly caught fish.

What to Pack

You will want to make sure that you pack wisely for your holiday to the Maldives, simply because it can be rather difficult trying to purchase things when you are actually on the island itself. Shopping is often very limited and the even the larger Maldives resorts often only have a simple convenience store as well as a boutique or two.

No matter what time of year you go the weather is often warm and balmy, so it’s nice to pack cool and airy items for your Maldives vacation. think things like white flowing kaftans, sarongs which could be used in multiple ways, and many bikinis or swim shorts as you’ll be spending a lot of your time in them. You will also want to pack some athletic wear if you plan on hitting the gym.

Most resorts actually have a rather casual vibe and operate on a no news no shoes policy which means you are not required to wear any footwear. Saying this though, some top Maldives Resorts have a dress code policy for some of their main restaurants so you may want to pack some sort of evening wear and dressy shoes to look the part.

When it comes to personal toiletries, try bringing eco-friendly items. The Maldives has a very fragile ecosystem, and introducing chemicals from your personal products can actually affect sea life and corals in the Ocean; the same applies for sun cream. Hawaii has actually banned some forms of sunscreen because of the damage that they are causing to marine life and reefs.

You’ll also want to bring along things to help keep you entertained on rainy and lazy days. Think things like new books or a Kindle, and you may want to put together some music playlists, and even download some of your favorite movies.

For a more detailed article, check out our article Must-Haves for the Maldives: The Ultimate Packing Guide .

How to Get the Best Deals to the Maldives

Getting the best deals to the Maldives is an art form itself, and requires a little savvy travel know-how. If you want the best rate it’s best to book during the low season and avoid any sort of major holiday. It also pays if you are able to be flexible with your dates. Skyscanner has an excellent feature which allows you to search for flights over a month-long period. Studies show that the cheapest flights depart on a Tuesday or Wednesday, and if you don’t mind leaving early or late then red-eye flights unsurprisingly also come with the lowest rates too.

For a huge selection of the best resorts click here, which displays all the best rates on stays in the Maldives. All-inclusive is often the best option to go for, as it means all drinks, snacks, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included in your stay. Although you’ll obviously pay more for it to start, in the long run, you will save more money.

If you want to save up to 50% on your next vacation to the Maldives then click here for all our top money-saving tips .

So there you are our ultimate guide to the Maldives. Bookmark this page to refer back to when it comes to booking your dream vacation in paradise. Happy travels!

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6-Days Maldives Itinerary | First-Timers Guide to a Perfect Vacation

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Maldives Itinerary

Azure waters, thrilling adventures, rich culture and enamoring beaches are the adjectives which come in mind when one thinks of planning a Maldives Itinerary.

From being a perfect honeymoon destination for love birds to providing the much required solace to solo travellers, the tropical destination of Maldives makes sure that every kind of traveller enjoys vacationing here.

Be it customizing the package or availing a shelf made package matching your choices, Maldives Itinerary of the package must be fulfilling so that you do not feel any kind of regret later.

Depending on your choice, you can choose the number of days you want to enjoy there, however a trip of five to seven days is the best.

In this time limit, you can easily try your hands on various adrenaline rushing activities on your way to visit many famous landmarks. The best itinerary which can be followed for those 5 days includes:

Starting from

The first day of your day should provide you with much required rest after a session of travelling through air

Booking you stay near any beach is recommended so that you can spend your evenings walking across the shore and enjoying the beautiful sunset and the scenery of swaying palms.

If staying within the city reaches, the evening of your first day can be spent hopping cafes and relishing upon local delicacies made by some excellent chefs using authentic recipes.

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The second day can begin with an early morning hike around the beach in which you can click various memorable pictures and make beautiful memories.

Since you will be having your first breakfast in Maldives, you can opt for breakfast in the pool or beachside breakfast services.

In the day, you can visit various famous landmarks and tourist attractions like the Bikini Beach.

You can have your lunch in one of the beachside diners or can choose to stay back in your rooms and choose in room dining services.

Once the night falls, you can visit the world famous glowing beach and click loads of memorable pictures.

The second day of this trip can be ended with reaching your stay back and resting for the night.

Suggested Read:  Maldives Honeymoon Packages

The third day of your Maldives Itinerary can be dedicated to water based activities.

From diving into the deep sea by opting a session of scuba diving to marvelling at the colourful corals and marines by trying your hands on snorkelling, the whole day can be spent indulging in an array of adrenaline rushing activities.

Once you are done enjoying all the adventures, you can rest in for the night in your comfy and cozy rooms.

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Enquire Now for Maldives Tour Package From Delhi

The fourth day of this trip can be dedicated to shopping and trying local foods. You can hire speed boats and visit multiple flea markets to shop for souvenirs and other items to take back home.

Some famous locations where you can shop for various items include Male Local Market, loaded with small shacks and handicraft shops.

If looking for makeup items, you can visit Le Cute which houses an array of beauty products at cheaper prices.

The day can be ended by hopping towards some night clubs and enjoying the chic parties till early in the morning.

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The fifth day of this trip can be spent relaxing around the beaches and opting for a beachside spa.

Nothing can be more relaxing and sensational than enjoying therapies while experiencing the cool breeze coming from the sea.

The remaining part of the day can be dedicated to your stay and indulging in its own activities. The day can be ended with relishing upon various tasteful dishes from the in house restaurant of your stay.

Suggested Reads:  Places to Visit in Maldives

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You can mark an end to your trip on this day by boarding a flight to fly back home.

However, if you want to indulge in some other activities or are thinking of visiting more famous locations, this day can be dedicated to the same.

Enquire Now for Maldives Honeymoon Package From India

What are the best places to visit in Maldives?

Male Island: Usually found in the Maldives itinerary of all travelers, Male is the capital of Maldives. This island is packed with some of the major places of interest in the entire archipelago including Tsunami Monument, Artificial Beach, and National Museum. Maafushi Island: Boasting important attractions like Bikini Beach, shark diving, and snorkeling, Maafushi Island is known as the hub for fun and thrill in Maldives. This place also offers the most delicious seafood you would wish to try on your island holiday. Mirihi Island: The luxury island of Mirihi has gained a lot of popularity among honeymooners for its lavish water villas. This island is also known to offer the best snorkeling and scuba diving experience. Utheemu Ganduvaru: Lying in northern Maldives, Utheemu Ganduvaru is the place of birth of Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu, the man who played a major role in getting Maldives its independence from the Portuguese. This small island makes for a famous cultural heritage site and is known for the Utheemu Ganduvaru Monument.

What are the best things to do in Maldives?

Enjoy the Best Diving Experience at Banana Reef: Include Banana Reef in your Maldives itinerary and head to engage in a bewildering diving session. While you are under the water, explore the colourful corals, intriguing caves, breathtaking cliffs, and blooming marine life. Admire the Intricate Architecture of Male Friday Mosque: Visit the Male Friday Mosque and marvel at its intricate carvings and brilliant Islamic architecture. Also known as Malé Hukuru Miskiy, this magnificent mosque was established back in 1658. Experience Underwater Dining at Ithaa Underwater Restaurant: Pay a visit to the world-famous Ithaa Underwater Restaurant to enjoy a unique fine dining experience that allows you to relish delectable food and wine with a spectacular view of the exuberant underwater life. Pamper Yourself With an Invigorating Massage in a Spa Resort: Enjoy a tranquilizing massage with virgin coconut oil, lying over the glistening azure waters. Some of the most popular massage therapies are offered at Six Senses Laamu and One And Only Reethi Rah.

How many days do you need in Maldives?

You need to choose a Maldives itinerary of at least 5 nights and 6 days to explore the island nation to the fullest. During these 6 days, you will get enough time to visit the famous landmarks of the archipelago, shop for your favourite souvenirs, try water sports, relish the flavoursome local delicacies, and enjoy leisure time lazing at your resort.

How much does Maldives trip cost?

In general, the Maldives itinerary packages start from as low as 25,000 per head and can go up to as high as 50,000 per head. The cost of your tour may vary on the basis of the duration of your Maldives itinerary, place of accommodation, activities you engage in, and the places where you take your meals at.

What is the best time to go to Maldives?

The most ideal time for visiting Maldives is during the dry months of December to April. This period of the year brings calm seas, sporadic showers, clear skies, and bright sun to the country, allowing the tourists to enjoy beach activities like snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing.

Is Maldives Safe?

Yes, Maldives is absolutely safe for all kinds of travelers. The country has also been detected safe against COVID 19 and the authorities have incorporated strict rules and regulations for keeping the disease at bay.

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Economy
• 4.3 Culture
• 4.4 Climate
• 4.6 Visitor information
• 6.1 Entry requirements
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.2 By boat
• 9.1 Diving and snorkelling
• 9.2 Surfing
• 10.2 Tipping
• 11.1 Maldivian cuisine
• 13.1 Resorts
• 13.2 Guesthouses
• 13.3 Village homestays
• 16 Stay safe
• 17 Stay healthy
• 19.1 Emergency services

The Maldives ( Dhivehi : ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ Dhivehi Raajje ) are an archipelago in the Indian Ocean with picture-perfect beaches, strikingly blue water, and luxury resorts. There are 200 inhabited islands and 154 islands with tourist resorts. Just under the surface of the beautiful blue ocean, there's a wealth of wildlife to see: over 2000 species of fish in all colours of the rainbow roam the clear waters around the islands.

Regions [ edit ]

The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands formed of 26 atolls, or atholhu in Dhivehi — the source of the English word. These are not single islands, but giant ringlike coral formations hundreds of kilometres wide that have fragmented into countless islands.

Atoll naming is complex, as the atolls have both lengthy traditional Dhivehi names like Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi , and snappy code names like Baa that refers to administrative regions and may consist of more than one geographical atoll. The code names are the letters of Dhivehi alphabet, but being easier for non-Maldivians to remember and pronounce, the code names are popular in the travel industry and are hence also used here. Of the 21 administrative atoll groups, only (parts of) 10 are open to tourism, and from north to south these are:

The other atolls are Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Gnaviyani, Haa Alifu, Noonu, Haa Dhaalu, Laamu, Njyavinani, Shaviyani and Thaa.

Cities [ edit ]

• 4.175 73.508333 1 Malé — the capital and by far the largest city, crammed onto a small island and by some measures the world's densest city

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 5.333889 73.463889 1 Kuredu — one of the inhabited islands of Lhaviyani Atoll
• 4.190278 72.747222 2 Mathiveri — island belonging to North Ari Atoll
• 4.262778 72.991389 3 Rasdhoo — smallish inhabited island and the capital of the North Ari Atoll
• 4.436192 72.956261 4 Thoddoo — an isolated inhabited island that administratively belongs to North Ari Atoll . It's also the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives.
• 4.21389 72.8644 5 Ukulhas — smallish 1 km long island of Alif Alif Atoll

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The heritage of the Maldives is told in legends, in records of old copperplates, coral-carved ancient scripts and echoes of traditional culture. The story tallies in known South Asian history with mentions of the great Mauryan ruler Emperor Ashoka.

After being a Sultanate under Dutch and British protection, the Maldives gained independence from the British in 1965 and became a republic in 1968. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ruled over the country with an iron fist and did not hesitate to jail dissidents. He was re-elected five times in more or less rigged elections. Resistance to his rule culminated in violent rioting in 2003 and 2004. Much to everybody's surprise, free and fair elections were held in 2008, and Maumoon conceded defeat to opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed, "Anni". By December 2011, though, the tables had turned. Most of Nasheed's allies had left his government and there were increasingly large anti-government protests. Nasheed resigned in 2012 under murky circumstances and then lost a controversial 2013 election to Maumoon's half-brother Abdulla Yameen, whose administration has cracked down on political freedom and imprisoned opposition figures. During his rule, Yameen withdrew the Maldives from the Commonwealth, and pivoted his foreign policy away from Maldives' traditional ally, India, to align more closely with China in exchange for Chinese investments.

In the 2018 election, Yameen was defeated by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Despite fears that he would refuse to step down, Yameen publicly conceded the election shortly after, and handed power peacefully to his successor on 17th November 2018. Under Solih, the Maldives re-joined the Commonwealth in 2020, and has largely pivoted Maldives' policy back to India, though it has continued to maintain cordial ties with China.

The tsunami of 26 December 2004 caused extensive damage to the Maldives - of a population of only 290,000, over a third was directly affected by the tsunami and more than 15,000 people were left homeless. The economic damage alone was over 62% of the GDP or US$470 million. The immediate response from international donors and agencies mobilized more than US$400 million in aid after the disaster, much of which was used to help misplaced persons rebuild their homes and infrastructure damaged by the waves.

Economy [ edit ]

Tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounts for 28% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. Over 1.7 million tourists visited the islands in 2019. Fishing is the second leading sector. The Maldivian government began an economic reform program in 1989 by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labour. Most staple foods must be imported. Industry, which consists mainly of shipping, boat building and handicrafts, accounts for about 18% of GDP. Maldivian authorities worry about the impact of erosion and global warming on their low-lying country; 80% of the area is one metre or less above sea level.

Culture [ edit ]

Maldivians are entirely Sunni Muslim, and the local culture is a mixture of Sinhalese, South Indian and Arab influences. While alcohol, pork, dogs and public observance of non-Muslim religions are banned on the inhabited islands, the resorts are allowed to exist in a bubble where almost anything goes.

Note that the weekend in the Maldives runs from Friday to Saturday, during which banks, government offices and many shops are closed. You won't notice this at the resorts though, except that lunch hours may be shifted for Friday prayers.

Climate [ edit ]

The Maldives are tropical, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 26.4°C (79.52°F) to 31.5°C (88.7°F) throughout the year. However, rainfall increases considerably during the April-October southwest monsoon, particularly from June to November.

Read [ edit ]

• The Maldives: Islamic Republic, Tropical Autocracy by J. J. Robinson, a journalist who lived in the Maldives through some of its 21st-century political turmoil. In addition to an interesting look at what life is like for foreigners in Malé and for staff behind the scenes at the resorts, the book gives a detailed and surprisingly readable account of the complex political crises that the country experienced between 2008 and 2015.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Visit Maldives website

Talk [ edit ]

Maldivian ( Dhivehi ), a close relative of Sinhala (spoken in Sri Lanka) but with borrowings from Urdu, Hindi, Arabic and many other languages, is the official and national language. It is written in a remarkable hybrid script called Thaana , which uses Arabic and Indic numbers as the base of the alphabet, written from right to left with Arabic vowel signs. The script is thought to have originated as a secret code for writing magical formulas so that outsiders can't read them, which would also explain why the ordering of the alphabet is, as far as linguists can tell, random.

English is widely spoken, particularly by government officials and those working in the tourism industry. English is also the language of instruction in schools. "House reef" describes a coral reef accessible from the beach or jetty, thus you may hear discussions about whether an island has a good house reef or not.

Since the Maldives are a popular destination for German and Italian holidaymakers, a sizeable number of local resort workers speak German and Italian. This may vary depending between resorts.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

The Maldives have a remarkably easy visa policy: Everybody gets a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided that they have a passport valid for a minimum period of 1 month from the date of entry, a return journey confirmed ticket and entry requirements to the onward destinations, a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel or proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives (US$100 + $50 per day). See the Maldives Immigration website [dead link] for details.

Traveller Declaration must be filled in and submitted by all travelers travelling to and from Maldives, within 96 hours to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via IMUGA [dead link] .

Importing explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including ‘idols for worship’ and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol into the Maldives is forbidden and all luggage is X-rayed on arrival. Exporting sand, seashells or coral is forbidden. All dogs are banned from the Maldives. See the Maldives Customs Service website [dead link] for details.

By plane [ edit ]

Practically all visitors arrive at Velana International Airport [dead link] ( MLE  IATA ), on Hulhulé Island next to the capital city Malé . The airport is served by a wide array of flights from China , India , Sri Lanka , Dubai , major airports in South-East Asia , and charters from Europe. Many flights stop in Colombo (Sri Lanka) on the way.

If you want to get an amazing aerial view of the islands, try to get a seat on the left side of the flight.

British Airways flies directly from London Gatwick to Malé during the winter (October to March). No direct flights operate from London Heathrow, however, it is possible to get an indirect flight via India or the UAE for example. Singapore Airlines flies daily direct from Singapore to Malé, with late night timings.

Gan Airport ( GAN  IATA ), on the southern atoll of Addu , serves a few international flights.

Departure taxes are included in your ticket.

By boat [ edit ]

There are no regular passenger boats to the Maldives. Even yachts usually steer clear, as navigating around the reefs is hazardous and permits are expensive. Dogs are banned from the Maldives. Even if they remain on your boat the authorities can be extremely sketchy about this compromise, and this can put the life of your dog at risk, should the officials you are dealing with not be sympathetic to your situation. Be sensible and do not bring them into any Maldivian port.

Get around [ edit ]

There are four main ways of getting around in the Maldives: domestic flight , boat , seaplane and private yacht (liveaboard). The boats are the Maldivian equivalent of a car, while seaplanes and private yachts (liveaboards) are mainly reserved for tourists.

Seaplanes prefer not to operate at night, so if you arrive at the airport after dark and are going to a distant resort, you may have to spend the night in Malé , Hulhumalé or at the airport hotel in Hulhulé . Private transfers, though expensive can be opted for resort transfers, instead of spending the whole night at Malé City. Private transfers could cost US$500-800. On the way back, there may also be a significant gap between the time your transfer arrives and your flight departure. Check with your resort or travel agent.

No point in the Maldives is more than 90 minutes away by plane from Malé , and visitors to the more far-flung resorts use air taxi services. There are four main operators: Manta Air , Flyme operates scheduled flights from Malé to Maamigili, Dharavandhoo and Hanimaadhoo, Trans Maldivian Airways which flies DHC-6 Twin Otter seaplanes that take around 15 passengers. The company schedules most planes at 6PM the previous day. Delays are frequent, it is not rare to wait for 5 hours in the TMA lounge. Seaplane scheduled in the evening has a high risk of being cancelled as delays add up and the sky becomes darker, in such cases TMA will make you take a combination of domestic flight and boat, potentially making you reach your destination well after dinner time.

Scheduled inter-island services are provided by Maldivian , which flies from Malé to Gan , Maafaru, Thimarafushi, Dharavandhoo, Funadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru, Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, kooddoo, Kudahuvadhoo, Maavarulu, Faresmathoda, Hoarafushi, Madivaru and Kulhudhuffushi. Travel permits are no longer required.

The taxi boats generally take tourists to and from the islands in the North and South Malé atolls. They come in all different shapes and sizes depending on the quality of the resort you stay, and the Four Seasons has a large enclosed motor cruiser with drinks and food, while the lesser resorts have open-sided dhoni fishing boats.

Public dhoni ferries and cargo boats are available for more the independent-minded and budget-conscious. The main operator is MTCC , who list schedules and fares on their website.

The previous system of requiring written invitations and Inter Atoll Travelling Permits (IATP) for those wishing to visit other islands has been abolished; you're now free to travel wherever you wish. IATPs are still required if you wish to dock your own yacht, see Customs for details.

By bus [ edit ]

There are a number of bus routes around the capital including those which connects with the airport. They are run by RTL .

See [ edit ]

Most visitors come to enjoy the countless plush resorts, excellent beaches and stunningly colourful underwater life . Due to the isolated position of the island, the number of animals on land is limited, but the ocean has a wealth of wildlife. You will likely see plenty of anemones, different kinds of rays, octopus, squid and even giant clams. Whales, dolphins and turtles are spotted often. The Baa Atoll , named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 and one of the richest coral reefs in the world is becoming the main tourist draw while also becoming an example of sustainable tourism in a protected area. In short; snorkelling or diving is an absolute must, see the Do-section below for more information.

The gorgeous and ubiquitous white sand beaches are a sight by themselves, especially with the tropical island setting they are in. A flight to one of the many resort islands gives spectacular aerial views of these picture-perfect islets, defined by rims of white sand and wide strokes of cobalt blue water.

Yet, if you can pull yourself away from your luxury holiday spot, the capital city Malé might be an interesting diversion. The bustling financial and political centre of the country has a few sights. Try the National Museum for a touch of history. While the building may not look too promising, the museum's fine collection includes beautiful Arabic and Thaana engraved woodworks, religious pieces, weaponry and other historic artefacts. The town also has a number of worthwhile mosques. The 17th-century Old Friday Mosque is the oldest one in the country, and officials are often willing to let polite and properly dressed visitors in. The Grand Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre is its 1984 modern counterpart, and dominates the city's skyline. While simple in design, the large, white marble structure and the shining gold dome is an attractive sight.

Do [ edit ]

Diving and snorkelling [ edit ]

Aside from making the water bungalow rock on your honeymoon, the primary activity on the Maldives is scuba diving . The atolls are all coral reefs hundreds of kilometres away from any major landmass, meaning that water clarity is excellent and underwater life is abundant. Manta rays, sharks, even a few wrecks, you name it, you can find it in the Maldives.

While diving is very good by world standards even in the immediate vicinity of Malé, visibility and the chance of encountering large pelagic fish increases as you head to the outer atolls. Many divers opt for live-aboards, which can work out much cheaper than paying high resort fees. Currents vary considerably, with generally little inside the atolls but some powerful streams to be found on the sides facing the open sea. Water in the Maldives is warm throughout the year and a 3 mm shorty or Lycra dive skin is sufficient. Diving is possible throughout the year, but rain, wind and waves are most common during the season of the southwest monsoon (June-November). The best time for scuba diving is from January to April when the sea is calm, the sun is shining and the visibility can reach 30 m. There are decompression chambers on Bandos in Kaafu (15 min from Malé), Kuredu in Lhaviyani Atoll and at Kuramathi on Alifu .

The one downside to diving in the Maldives is that it's quite expensive by Asian standards. Prices vary considerably from resort to resort, with specialist dive resorts offering better prices. In general, a single boat dive with your own gear cost around US$50, and US$75 without. Beware of surcharges: you may be charged extra for boat use, guided dives, larger tanks, etc. On the upside, safety standards are usually very high, with well-maintained gear and strict adherence to protocol (check dives, maximum depth, computer use, etc.) being the rule rather than the exception.

Hanifaru Bay is a protected biosphere by UNESCO and is famous for some of the largest congregations of manta rays on the planet.

Surfing [ edit ]

The Maldives is becoming an increasingly popular surfing destination. Turquoise water and perfect waves make it an ideal and uncrowded destination for surfers looking for smooth surfing conditions.

The best period for surfing in the Maldives is between March and October; the biggest waves occurring in June, July and August. This paradise is exposed to the same swells as Indonesia is, except that its higher latitude and its South-East exposure offers cooler and less hardcore surfing.

The O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives have placed Maldives firmly on the world’s surf map. While most of the recognized surf breaks are in Malé Atoll, there is certainly more to be discovered.

Specialized companies organize tailored multi-day boat trips in the region, allowing surfers to move easily from one point to another and maximizing the surfing time.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa , denoted by the symbol " Rf " or "MRF" (ISO code: MVR ). It is divided into 100 laari. However by law, resorts price services in US dollars and require payment in hard currency (or credit card), so there's no need to change money if you're going to spend all your time at the resorts. Most hotels have a shop but this is limited to diving and holiday essentials (sun cream, sarongs, disposable cameras, etc.) Some excursions from resorts will take you to local islands where there are handicraft type things to buy, but they are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups.

Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 laari, 1 and 2 rufiyaa. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rufiyaa. The current series of rufiyaa banknotes is printed entirely on polymer.

If you are heading to Malé City or the other inhabited atolls, exchanging some rufiyaa will come in handy. The coins, in particular, are quite attractive and make an interesting souvenir in themselves, but the smaller denominations are rarely used or seen. The rufiyaa is tied to the US dollar within a 20% band but is practically 15:1. US dollars are near-universally accepted: shops usually exchange them at 15:1 or 10:1.

Maldivian rufiyaa can be changed at Bank of Maldives in the arrival area of airport. If you want to change rufiyaa back to your currency before departure, you need to keep the receipt. After check in, at Bank of Maldives in the departure area of airport, you can change rufiyaa back to the currency you previously changed to rufiyaa, not exceeding the amount listed on the receipt. The Bank of Maldives may not have small notes of your original currency though.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping is not compulsory in the Maldives as a 10% service charge is added to everything, although it is not certain that the money is passed on to the staff.

Over the years the tipping culture has changed in the Maldives, mainly due to overseas visitors giving varying amounts of cash as tips.

Costs [ edit ]

Maldives is expensive for those who have comfort and service-oriented tourism in mind. Resorts have a monopoly on services for their guests and charge accordingly: for mid-range resorts, US$1000 per week per couple is a conservative budget for meals, drinks and excursions, in addition to the cost of flights and accommodation. Practically anything, including hotel rooms if booked locally, has a 10% "service charge" added, but tips are expected on top.

For an adventurous traveller who has time, Maldives can be a very affordable and rewarding experience, with prices comparable to Malaysia. A number of inhabited islands have guesthouses with typical prices €25-40 per room. On more remote islands, renting rooms in villages is possible at even less. Food is inexpensive, and fish curries are delicious. Public ferries will transfer you between different islands of the same atoll for a few US dollars (though for less obvious locations, there will typically be 1 ferry per day and no ferries on Fridays). For transfers to remote atolls, one can negotiate with cargo boats, which would often take people for €14-38, depending on the destination. Cargo boats do not have schedules and depart when loaded. One may expect 1 boat in 1-3 days for each atoll.

It is important to have in mind that staying on inhabited islands implies respecting the strict Muslim norms including no alcohol, modest dress, reserved behaviour. However, the locals are very welcoming and the experience may be much deeper and more rewarding than staying in resorts.

Eat [ edit ]

All the resorts are self-contained so they have at least one restaurant, which generally serves the type of cuisine expected by their guests (i.e. modern European or generic Asian). Breakfast is almost always included, and most resorts offer the option of half-board , which means you get a dinner buffet, and full board , which means you get a lunch and dinner buffet. These can limit the damage compared to ordering a la carte, but your options are typically very limited and drinks are often not covered, not necessarily even water. If you're planning on drinking a lot, it may be worthwhile to go all inclusive , but even this typically restricts you to house drinks.

The only other place to find food is Malé City . This comes in two forms. Either small restaurants aimed at the tourists (of which there are a couple of nice Thai restaurants), which are often expensive, or small cafes called hotaa , selling local Maldivian food at prices as low as Rf20 (US$6) for a complete meal.

Maldivian cuisine [ edit ]

Maldivian food revolves largely around fish ( mas ), in particular tuna ( kandu mas ), and draws heavily from South Indian tradition, especially Kerala . Dishes are often hot, spicy and flavoured with coconut, but use very few vegetables. A traditional meal consists of rice, a clear fish broth called garudhiya and side dishes of lime, chilli and onions. Curries known as riha are also popular and the rice is often supplemented with roshi , unleavened bread akin to Indian roti , and paaparu , the Maldivian version of crispy Indian poppadums. Some other common dishes include:

• mas huni — shredded smoked fish with grated coconuts and onions, the most common Maldivian breakfast (eat it as is or wrap it in roshi )
• fihunu mas — barbequed fish basted with chili
• bambukeylu hiti — breadfruit curry

Snacks called hedhikaa , almost invariably fish-based and deep-fried, can be found in any Maldivian restaurant.

• bajiya — pastry stuffed with fish, coconut and onions
• gulha — pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish
• keemia — deep-fried fish rolls
• kulhi borkibaa — spicy fish cake
• masroshi — mas huni wrapped in roshi bread and baked
• theluli mas — fried fish with chilli and garlic

Drink [ edit ]

As the Maldives are Muslim, alcohol is banned from the local population. However, nearly all resorts, live-aboard boats and the Hulhulé Island Hotel (on the same island as the airport) are licensed to serve it, usually with a steep markup.

Tap water in resorts may or may not be drinkable: check with the management. Bottled water is extortionately priced, with US$5/bottle being typical.

Sleep [ edit ]

The Maldives had a longstanding policy of keeping tourists on dedicated islands, which meant they could only stay in full-service resorts where the cost of a night's accommodation started around US$200 and went up into the stratosphere, and the vast majority of visitors continue to opt for these. However, from 2008 all the islands were opened to tourism, and backpacker-friendly guesthouses starting from US$30 a night opened on inhabited islands across the archipelago.

Resorts [ edit ]

Most resorts take up their own island (1500 x 1500m to 250 x 250m), meaning that the ratio of beach to guests must be one of the best in the world and it is hard to imagine that you would ever have to struggle to find your own private piece of beach to relax on. Many have a "no shoes" policy and with such soft sands, it is easy to love this idea.

The range and themes or the resorts are impressive, and most people will find one they like. They can be grouped into three types:

• Dive resorts , designed primarily for divers. Geared expressly for people who want to spend most of their time underwater, facilities on land are limited, but the house reef is usually excellent. Often found in the more far-flung parts of the archipelago.
• Holiday resorts , designed primarily for families. These are large and have a full complement of facilities (several restaurants, day-care centres, etc.), but don't have the over-the-top luxury and have less privacy. Most of these are located on Kaafu , with easy access from Malé City.
• Luxury resorts , designed primarily for honeymooners and the jet set. The place to be if you want designer furniture, gourmet food and a plasma TV in an overwater villa reachable only by rowboat, and are willing to pay high prices for the privilege.

A Maldivian classic is the overwater bungalow , built on stilts directly above a lagoon. While these look fabulous and sound appealing, they have their downsides:

• They're usually packed tightly together, often sharing a wall, meaning little privacy.
• Especially at low tide, the water level may be too low to allow swimming or snorkelling.
• Resort facilities may be a fair distance from the bungalows.
• The lapping of waves is romantic enough on a calm day but can make it next to impossible to sleep if a storm blows through.

These factors vary from resort to resort, so research carefully. A good one is definitely worth trying at least once, but many Maldives repeaters prefer a bungalow with a private beach .

When considering where to go, factor in transport time and costs from the airport: the more far-flung resorts generally require an expensive seaplane transfer and you may have to stay overnight at the airport on the way. On the upside, the further away you are from Malé, the more peaceful the islands and the better the diving.

Many resorts, especially the smaller dive-oriented ones, cater largely to a single nationality, leading to "Italian" resorts, "Dutch" resorts, "German" resorts, etc. While almost all welcome any nationality and have some English-speaking staff on hand, you may be cut off from any evening entertainment and have problems e.g. diving if you don't speak the local lingo.

Guesthouses [ edit ]

There are guesthouses on inhabited islands, and Maafushi island is popular with looking for hassle-free accommodation of this type. Low-end prices are €25-35 per night.

Examples include: Equator Village on Addu Atoll, a former British Royal Air Force base converted to a 78-room hotel. The cost is around US$100-150 per person per day all-inclusive (including some alcohol). Another unique location is Keyodhoo Guest House, this guest house is on top of a recreation centre built by an Australian after the tsunami (US$20 pp/per night). Most visitors are scuba divers or adventure travellers. Other Inns/B&B can also be found on Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Kaafu Atoll, North/South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll Hangnaameedhoo. Only a few of these inns and B&Bs have their own pool. Confirm if bikinis are allowed on the beach. The distance between the inns and beaches are usually short, but visitors should still dress appropriately to Maldive customs.

Village homestays [ edit ]

More independent-minded travellers and those looking for cultural experience may consider renting rooms in villages. This will require either walking through the village and asking around if you're particularly confident of your social skills or inquiring in Malé City whether someone can put you in contact with their friends or relatives on a remote island for such an informal homestay. Prices can be as low as €15 per night for a clean functional room.

Learn [ edit ]

The first university in Maldives (Maldives National University) was inaugurated on 15 February 2011. Operated under the aegis of the Department of Higher Education and Training, MCHE and the Islamic University of Maldives are the only free public degree-granting institutions on the island. The college offers a range of degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with particular emphasis on engineering, health science, education, tourism, and management. The average enrolment at MCHE is around 4,000 students in long-term (that is, more than one academic year) programs and around 2,000 in short-term (shorter than one academic year) courses. State-owned institutions such as Maldives Polytechnic and TVET Maldives offers free technical and vocational training to help develop skills for employment. Several private institutions offer internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Work [ edit ]

Getting a job in the Maldives can be tricky. It is not the kind of place where you can just turn up and start job hunting. Generally, the resorts take on a mix of local and international staff so you need to approach the resort Human Resources departments. There is a good mix of jobs but a lot of the roles are diving based (divemasters, instructors, photographers, etc.)

Most resorts are predominately one or two nationalities so finding the resorts that match your language skills helps. After that experience always helps (especially for diving instructors as the Maldives are well known for their strong currents and half of the time the currents will take you straight out into the Indian Ocean).

Generally, if you get a job with a resort then they will get you a work permit and pay for your flight, food and accommodation. They don't really have much choice, it's hardly as if you can pop out to the supermarket and pick up a pizza for dinner.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Dial toll-free number 1478 or (+960) 9790070 to contact the tourist police at anytime for information or assistance.

Most visitors to the Maldives stay in “resort hotels” where crime levels are relatively low. Nevertheless petty crime, including the theft of goods left unattended on the beach or in hotel rooms, does occur. You should take care of your valuables and other personal possessions, especially when travelling in Malé City. Use safe deposit boxes on island resorts.

The sea around the Maldives can have strong tidal currents and a number of tourists drown every year. You should always take local advice before entering the sea.

You should be sensitive to local dress standards when on local islands or if staying on an island where the resort is not the exclusive property on the island – cover your shoulders and avoid short or tight-fitting shorts (men and women). Bikinis are only allowed in a designated area on some local islands. Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.

Maldives has very strong anti-drugs laws. Importing or possessing drugs can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment. Locals and police are likely to treat seriously the possession and consumption of alcohol, and being intoxicated, outside resorts and liveaboards.

Same-sex relations are illegal and convicted offenders could face lengthy prison sentences and fines.

Cases of sexual harassment are not rare in Maldives. Solo female travellers should be vigilant.

Blasphemy, criticism of Islam and proselytizing by non-Muslims in Maldives, including the public possession and distribution of non-Muslim religious materials (such as the Bible), is illegal.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Health facilities are established in each inhabited island with island level primary health centres, followed by a higher level of health facilities and speciality care hospitals at the atoll level, and tertiary care facilities at the urban/city level. If you fall seriously ill during your stay, you may be transported to another country for adequate medical care.

There are no serious problems with diseases in the Maldives. Beware that tap water may not be drinkable at all resorts: enquire locally. The Maldives are malaria-free, but some islands do have mosquitoes and catching dengue fever from them is possible, albeit highly unlikely. For those coming from regions infected by yellow fever, an international certificate of inoculation is required.

Most of the problems come from diving or sun-related injuries. Heatstroke always causes problems in the tropics but couple that with divers spending hours at a time on a boat wearing a wetsuit and overheating of one form or another is a real issue. Keeping this in mind, such injuries will be easily avoidable as long as you drink lots of water and get into the shade as much as possible.

Lots of the resorts have their own doctor or nurse and most are within easy reach of the decompression chambers. Malé City has efficient and fairly modern hospitals but bear in mind that it is a long way to get medically evacuated home from.

Respect [ edit ]

Much of what is considered good manners in South Asia is applicable to the Maldives.

Maldives is a highly religious country and local laws reflect the fact that the country is an Islamic country. You can very easily elicit strong responses by speaking negatively about religion, especially from an agnostic point of view.

Connect [ edit ]

There are two mobile operators: Dhiraagu and Ooredoo . Both of them sell local prepaid SIM card or eSIM with the internet connection at competitive rates. The first-mentioned of them is the leading local telecom company which has wider coverage while prices are about the same with its competitor. They both have shops right next to the airport arrivals area upon exiting. Also, both offer 4G/5G data connections. Also if you plan to sail maybe you can be interested in satellite service offered by Ooredoo.

Most hotels and cafés offer public Wi-Fi but connections are usually slow. A local mobile number is needed to purchase time at many Wi-Fi hotspots around the country.

Emergency services [ edit ]

Dial 119 or (+960) 3322111 for police, (+960) 3322211 for flight information, 118 for fire and rescue, and 191 for coast guard.

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The Complete Guide To Visiting The Maldives

The Maldives are the epitome of island paradise and the dream destination of pretty much everyone you ask – seriously, ask anyone around you right now if they’d want to visit the Maldives. 🙂

These pristine, beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean are a haven of natural beauty and one of those places that definitely lives up to the hype, as we got to discover recently.

Prior to booking our flights, I hadn’t really done much research into the Maldives (it was just one of those places I knew I wanted to go to) and shortly after booking, I soon realised how it was a lot trickier than I initially anticipated. There’s a lot more choice than I realised, so many things you should pack (and so many thing you shouldn’t), local laws I had no clue about and a whole range of activities those pretty Pinterest photos  never seem to highlight.

To that end, I’ve put together this guide to helping you plan your stay in the Maldives. Some stuff might seem more obvious than some other but hopefully, each of these will help you make the most out of your time in one of the most beautiful places on earth!

7 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

1.) The Maldives is a muslim country. This means no alcohol so on your way over, skip the duty free purchases. If you buy any, you will get it taken off you at the airport (they used to keep it for you until you left but I’m not sure if that still happens). Point is, you’re not allowed to bring alcohol with you.

2.) The capital city of Male is a proper city and probably one of the least photographed places on here. This is where a lot of locals live and tourists never seem to visit. Even when you arrive at Male airport, you really don’t arrive on Male island itself, you actually arrive on Hulhulé Island.

3.) Now while the individual resort islands in the Maldives are pretty liberal, the Maldives as a country is quite conservative so act accordingly when you’re in places like the airport. Don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to get into your bikini and speedos when you get to your own island resort.

4.) Each resort tends to be on its own island.

5.) Each resort typically has unique features and characters so bear this in mind when booking. They are NOT all the same – despite what the water-villa and snorkelling photos might have you believe.

6.) Peak season in the Maldives is December till April and the prices during this period will reflect this! There’s a good reason to visit in peak season of course (the amazing weather being one of them) but Maldivian weather is pretty good all year round so if you want to save on some money, it’s worth considering visiting outside of peak season.

7.) A lot of the islands here have their own time (island time is a real thing here). It’s typically an hour behind local time in Male and leaves you with ‘more time’ to do things like enjoy the sunset before dinner and generally feel like you’re somewhere entirely different (yes, I know moving the time back an hour doesn’t actually add time but trust me, once you get started with island time, you’ll find yourself settling rather nicely into the island bubble).

WHAT TO PACK

Seriously, this is one place you definitely do NOT need to over pack for.

We’re talking light and breezy summer clothes. No one is here for your fashion and the vibe everywhere is definitely too laid back to care. Pack a couple of smart clothes in case you feel like dressing up in the evenings but you might find that you’re the only one who wants to.

If you do decide to go uber-stylish, do remain practical – almost everything except your room is outdoors and heavy clothing will not work here.

Toiletries :

Pack the usual stuff. Do remember to take extra sunscreen though as there’s a lot of water based activities here so you’ll find that you need to top up a lot more here.

Don’t forget to pack your underwater camera ( UK here || US here ). Almost grab one of these floaters as well ( UK here || US here ) just in case you drop the camera.

Everything else:

Pack as usual. These islands are used to having guests and there are shops on them so if you forget any essentials, chances are that you can get them here so don’t worry.

Don’t forget your medication (if you’re on any) though some islands have their own on island Doctors

HOW TO GET THERE

Flights from whatever country you’re travelling from to the Maldives is fairly straight-forward and no different than booking a flight from say, London to Paris.

The getting to the islands is the bit you need to remember to sort out and plan ahead.

GOING BETWEEN ISLANDS

Booking a stay at more than one place in the Maldives is a great way to cram in as many new experiences as possible in your time there (even the snorkelling will be different). Each island is unique and moving around helps you relive the excitement of discovering somewhere new in the Maldives. I can’t recommend it enough. (Plus, you get to be smug when others are leaving for home and you’re just transferring to your next stunning Maldivian island).

To get to and from the islands, you tend to have one (or two) of three options depending on which island you’re in. You can either:

1.) Arrive by boat

2.) Travel  by seaplane (the most expensive option and by far the most scenic). Seaplane journeys are dependent on the weather so do bear that in mind when it comes to arranging your return.

3.) Travel to a local airport and then connect by boat .

You have to contact wherever you’re staying to have them organise your transfer in advance. Don’t leave this till the last minute.

If you’re moving between islands, let the islands know where you’ll be arriving from and leaving for. You won’t have much control with the time if you’re flying in between islands as the flights are scheduled however the islands will talk to each other and make sure they synchronise your departures and arrivals. All you need to do is to tell them the name of the place your going to and head back to enjoying your cocktails on the beach.

If possible, the general consensus is that you have to try to experience the seaplane at least one. The journey on this is quite picturesque and it’s a unique way to see the Maldives.

WHERE TO STAY

We search far and wide for where to stay and came up trumps on when it comes to amazing places to stay in the Maldives. Here are our recommendations on where to stay and why (in no particular order and absolutely backed by our personal experience):

1.) Dusit Thani Maldives

This Dusit Thani comes with it’s own personal butler and a range of different luxurious places to stay in (ocean villas, beach villas… etc). You get your own butler and it has the largest infinity pool in the Maldives. You can either choose to be carted around in a golf buggy or cycle around. Oh, and this is the island where you get those bioluminescent plankton on the beach at night so do look out for those when you visit. See more from our time at the Dusit Thani  here and here .

2.) Angsana Ihuru

It’s is all about intimacy at the Angsana Ihuru. It’s one of the smallest islands here and from sunset cruises, to candlelit dinners on the beach (plus a tiny deserted sandy island) the service is all intended to make you feel very special indeed. The coral reef here is one of the best on offer here (you’ve got dolphins, turtles, sharks, clownfish – the works) and you’ll get to see animals that you wouldn’t easily see anywhere else. See more details and photos from our time at the Angsana Ihuru  here and here .

3.) Kurumba Maldives

The Kurumba is the biggest one of the lot and part of this means that it comes with so much to do and see when you’re here. The range of accommodations here is quite huge which means that even though it’s premium (it is a 5 star resort, after all) it caters to a wider range of budgets (e.g. if you’re someone who wants a 1 bed own villa or 4 bed mansion, you can find it all here). The sea life here is pretty good too and as it’s really close to Male so it’s the perfect place to start or end your Maldivian holiday here. See more from our time at the Kurumba  here and here .

WHAT TO EAT

In our experience, the food in the Maldives will be the least of your worries. Every place has a lot of variety on offer and if you have specific dietary requirements, inquire in advance though you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place that can’t cater to you.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

There’s so much you can get up to here and although it’s best to check with you island resort to see what’s on offer, here are some reliable options you can count on regardless of where you’re located.

1.) Go snorkelling.

Even from beach in front of you, you jump right in can straight away start to experience the beautiful and rather varied Maldivian wildlife.

2.) Have a romantic meal.

Private island dining, candlelit dinner by the beach , special villas – the choices are endless. Choose one and make it special.

3.) Go swimming with sharks.

Swimming with whale sharks is definitely one of those unique experience you’ll be talking about for ages but even if you arrive out of season, you can still go swimming with black tip sharks who are around pretty much all year round.

4.) Take a guided tour with marine biologist.

Snorkelling on your own is great but going with an expert is so much better . They spot things you might otherwise miss and are able to help you make the most of your experience here.

5.) Go on a sunset tour.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see some dolphins while you’re at it too. Even if you don’t, the sunset here is absolutely incredible and goes down quite well with a few glasses of champagne .

6.) Have a spa day.

You don’t even need to over-think this one. Just do it.

7.) Go swimming with manta rays.

Like whale sharks, manta rays are huge and very impressive to see in the wild. The Maldives is the perfect place to see them though you do have to visit in season for this. 🙂

MONEY-SAVING TIPS

I’m going to be frank about this, a trip to the Maldives will set you back a few bob. It’s a premium, luxury destination and that’s the honest truth though there are a few ways to make savvy savings while having the holiday of a lifetime.

1.) Go half board.

You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to do this here. You end up having breakfast quite late anyway and if like me, you tend to over-indulge at every meal, you’ll find that by the time lunch-time rolls by, you’re not hungry enough for another meal. You can choose to have a light snack for lunch or do it like the pros and lunch on champagne but effectively, going half-board is a very sensible option for a trip to the Maldives. We were full-board but we even had days where we just stayed out to snorkel or chill by the pool because we weren’t hungry and know know much I like my food, that says a lot!

2.) Visit out of season.

Prices are lower, availability is better and you still get the great weather. You can definitely save yourself some money by visiting between the months of May till November.

3.) Move around.

Stay in the more expensive water villas to start (or at the end of your holidays) and move to a beach villa later on. Or perhaps even just move across islands.

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Travel guide to the Maldives

Glamorous overwater resorts , pristine white-sand beaches , and a spectacular underwater world make the Maldives the ultimate travel destination for the discerning traveler. The sovereign archipelagic nation – positioned in the Indian Ocean southwest of India – consists of 26 breathtaking atolls boasting rich cultural traditions and natural treasures. All 1192 coral islands and sandbanks (200 inhabited islands, plus 100 islands with tourist resorts) are the visible coral tips of an oceanic volcanic mountain range whose outer edge at some points plunge to depths of over 3 km (10,000 ft). The tiny islands are encircled by magnificent beaches and incredibly beautiful lagoons, blessed with crystal clear waters and protected by reef structures. Every resort in the Maldives is built on its own private, picture-perfect palm island, with the world’s most exclusive hotel brands  competing with each other to offer their guests unprecedented levels of mind-blowing luxury. A holiday in the Maldives can be easily combined with a stay in Sri Lanka  as there are numerous direct flights – most of them operated by  SriLankan Airlines  – between Sri Lanka and the Maldives (with a flight time of around one hour).

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to the Maldives with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Getting around
• Travel requirements
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate, hot all year round, with a weather pattern that is mainly determined by two monsoon seasons in which the trade winds blow from opposite directions.

• The best weather in the Maldives is between January and mid-April, when the dry northeast monsoon prevails. You can expect blue skies and low humidity, although occasional, short showers can still occur (especially in the southern atolls). The dry season also coincides with the northern hemisphere’s cold winter season, which means this is high season in the Maldives, with low availability (although it never gets crowded) and often insanely expensive room rates at the resorts.
• The wet southwest monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. Although the temperatures remain as warm as in the dry season, rainy days and thunderstorms are far more likely. There may be days, or periods of a few days, when the sky is cloudy. However, even during this period, there are usually long periods of bright sunshine, and more affordable room rates mean this is still a good time to visit.
• The transition periods  between the dry northeast and the wet southwest monsoon usually occurs sometime in late November or December and the end of April or May. These transition periods are often accompanied by a longer period of unsettled weather and overcast, rainy days.

It has to be noted that the tropical climate in the Maldives and the exact timing of the transition periods have become very much unpredictable in recent years, with the wet season becoming drier and the dry season seeing more showers. Also, there a subtle differences in the weather patterns from atoll to atoll, since the Maldives is a very large country, stretching out over 800 km (500 mi) in the equatorial area. The northern atolls – which are home to the archipelago’s most luxurious resorts – enjoy more sunshine and have lesser annual rainfall than the central atolls (where the capital Male is located) and the atolls located south of the Equator. This geographic difference is mainly due to the fact that the dry season is more pronounced in the northernmost atolls.

Some travelers visit the Maldives, not so much for the beaches and resorts, but for the world-class diving and the opportunity of swimming with manta rays and whale sharks. Diving conditions are superb throughout the year, but the areas frequented by the larger marine animals vary with the seasons. During the dry northeast monsoon season, manta ray and whale shark diving in the Maldives is best on the western side of the atolls, whereas during the Southeast Monsoon season, manta rays and whale sharks will typically be encountered near the eastern edge of the atolls.

IMHO, it is worth paying higher prices and sticking to the dry season in the Maldives (January to mid-April) as there is not much to do on a rainy day, except drink, eat, work out, or scuba dive.

HOW TO GET THERE

The majority of the Maldives’ secluded resorts on far-flung private islands are within a one hour boat or floatplane ride from the Maldives’ main airport, Male International Airport (MLE; also known as Velana International Airport ), which is located in the North Male Atoll near the capital of Male. The airport is served by a wide array of international Asian and European airlines, both charters and mainstream carriers. Click  here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Male International Airport.

Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading my  tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket .

GETTING AROUND

Transfers from Male airport to the hotels are taken care of by the resorts:

• Hotels located in the North and South Male Atoll are reached by speedboat from the airport, with a transfer time between 15 minutes and one hour. Due to their proximity to the airport, these resorts experience more boat traffic and noise levels as compared the more remotely located resorts in other atolls. Boat transfers run 24 hours a day.
• Hotels located in all other central atolls (except the Laamu Atoll) as well as the northernmost atolls can be reached by seaplane from the airport, with a flight time between 20 minutes and one hour. Admiring the picture-perfect archipelago from a bird’s eye perspective is one of the  ultimate experiences that the destination has to offer . However, keep in mind that seaplanes operate during daylight hours only, so you may have to stay overnight near the airport when you arrive in the Maldives after 4 pm. In addition, getting to a resort in a remote atoll by seaplane does take more time as compared to reaching one of the hotels closer to the airport, because of additional waiting time at the airport. On a positive note, most five-star hotels offer a private lounge near the airport to ease the waiting process which seldom exceeds two hours.
• Hotels located in the Laamu Atoll and all southern atolls are reached by a domestic flight , operated by a turboprop plane, followed by a speedboat transfer. Getting to these resort requires an often lengthy and tiring trip, something you may not be looking forward to after your long-haul flight arrives in the Maldives. Besides the 30 to 60 minute domestic flight, you also have to take into account waiting time – varying from one to maximum five hours – at Male airport, both at the start and the end of your journey. All in all, it means that getting to these resorts may take a large chunk of your holiday time on the day of your arrival and departure, making the southern atolls not ideal for a short trip. I suggest you stay at least 5 nights here to make the most of the long journey getting there. The good news is that once there, you will completely relax in otherworldly tropical scenery.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into the Maldives differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Maldivian embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to the Maldives.

• You need a valid  passport . The passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into the Maldives.
• The Maldives have a remarkably easy visa policy: everybody gets a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided that you have a valid travel document, a ticket out and proof of sufficient funds, defined as a confirmed reservation in a hotel.

Make sure you read my 10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS, & TRAVEL TIPS

There are several good reasons why you should put the Maldives on your bucket list:

• Magnificent white-sand beaches, that rank among the best beaches in the world .
• Incredible marine  wildlife viewing opportunities (the Maldives is the world’s best snorkeling and diving destination).
• Ultra-luxury overwater resorts, unmatched in the world.

The following articles may also inspire you and help you plan your holiday to the Maldives:

• Top 10 best things to see & do in the Maldives
• Top 10 most insanely beautiful resorts in the Maldives
• Top 10 best resorts in the Maldives for snorkeling
• Top 10 best resorts in the Maldives close to Male airport
• Top 10 most fabulous overwater villas in the Maldives
• Top 10 best resorts in the Maldives for couples
• Top 10 best resorts in the Maldives for families
• Maldives vs Seychelles vs Mauritius: which one is best?
• Maldives vs Bora Bora: which one is best?
• Get complimentary VIP perks at the Maldives’ most exclusive resorts: the Soneva properties
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

Most people who travel to the Maldives stay at one resort for one week. I don’t recommend to travel around too much within the Maldives, since getting from one resort to another is an expensive and often time-consuming affair (since you mostly have to backtrack via Male airport).

However, if the prospect of staying an entire week at one resort on a little island sounds too much for you, there are a few resorts that can be easily combined in one and the same itinerary, because they are either located in the same atoll or connected via a direct and private (and often pricey) speedboat transfer. A few examples:

• Noonu Atoll: Soneva Jani , Cheval Blanc Randheli , and Velaa Private Island
• Baa Atoll (a UNESCOBiosphere Reserve): Soneva Fushi , Four Seasons Landaa Giravaaru , and Anantara Kihavah
• Raa Atoll:  JOALI Maldives , JOALI BEING , Alila Kothaifaru Maldives , and InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
• North Male Atoll: One&Only Reethi Rah , Patina Maldives , The Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands , Four Seasons Kuda Huraa , and Gili Lankanfushi
• South Male Atoll: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa , Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi , Naladhu and COMO Cocoa Island
• Huvadhu Atoll: Park Hyatt Hadahaa and Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort

In addition, a select group of ultra-luxe hotel companies operates more than one resort in the archipelago, offering an enhanced and more convenient transfer experience between their properties. A few examples:

• Soneva: Soneva Fushi  and  Soneva Jani  (60 min speedboat transfer between both resorts)
• Four Seasons:  Four Seasons Landaa Giravaaru  and  Four Seasons Kuda Huraa  (40 min watertaxi transfer)
• COMO hotels & resorts:  COMO Cocoa Island  and COMO Maalifushi  (45 min watertaxi transfer)
• JOALI:  JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING (25 min speedboat transfer)

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

I recommend to visit my top 10 travel lists if you are eager to know how I rank the Maldives’ top hotels, based on my own experience:

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in the Maldives (with pros, cons, and tips to save money per hotel).

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These are the island of the paradise.

Yes! Finally something about cialis interactions.

Hello, I am from New Hampshire and would be flying out of MHT or Boston Logan to start my journey (alone)..which comes to my next question. I would like to stay in a Villa on the island in the Maldives, the smallest one available. What would I be looking at for cost to fly round trip with all transfers, food, all inclusive, by myself, for one week? Thank you for your time and thoughts in advance.

Nice blog author. Thank you. Keep it up.

This is a great site. We’ve been watching your YouTube channel for a while now and our normal Caribbean trip is likely to be replaced by a Maldives stay. Advice is always appreciated. Our budget is reasonable but not unlimited.

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Ultimate Trip to Maldives Planning Guide

Have you ever imagined waking up in a bungalow, opening the window with the sun beating on your face, only to see a blue immensity of the calm sea around you? Then planning a trip to Maldives should be on your bucket list!

It is no lie, the Maldives is an absolute paradise destination and we were lucky enough to spend two weeks exploring the very best it has to offer. From posh resorts to epic diving locations, this island paradise is a true tropical getaway. 

We realize this destination is not an easy one to reach, but we promise it will be worth the trip. The Maldives travel planning guide shares with you the things we’ve learned so that you don’t have to be surprised like we were. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Maldives (Travel Guide)

Ultimate Trip to Maldives Travel Planning Guide

Table of Contents

Where are the Maldives?

Comprised of more than 1,000 islands spread along two atoll lines, with about 200 inhabited, the Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean near India and Sri Lanka.

What makes an atoll so special is the fact that the islands are populated with lagoons of turquoise shallow waters, with coral reefs and brightly colored fish and fringed with clean sandy beaches.

How to Get to the Maldives

As it is an archipelago, the best way to get there is by airplane. International flights land on Hulhule Island, an area in the capital Male, in the North Atoll of Male. Several domestic airlines then have flights to take you to your Maldives vacation.

If you find yourself in Southeast Asia , there are several direct flights from major cities that will get you right into the Maldives. When we visited, we flew directly from Singapore. 

We also saw flight options from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. It is also possible to reach the Maldives by flying through the United Arab Emirates. If you’re flying from the UK or Europe, chances are that you will connect here. 

For travelers coming from the United States, you’ll really be able to fly either way. Either through Asia or the UAE, depending on what deals you can find when you search for your travel dates. 

Find great travel deals: Priceline or Skyscanner

Useful Tips for Maldives Travel

The official language in the Maldives is Dhivehi but English is spoken in touristic areas and resorts. The local population is used to receiving foreign tourists and is super solicitous and helpful.

In order to visit the Maldives, it is recommended to take your international certificate of yellow fever vaccination. Other than that, they ask for a passport with an expiration date of at least six months beyond the end of the trip.

Here are some more useful tips to know before your trip to Maldives vacation:

Time: Maldives Standard Time (GMT/UTC plus five hours)

Electricity : 220v to 240V, 50Hz (Standard UK-style three-pin outlets)

Maldivians are very polite shy people if you meet them off resorts. While used to foreigners and their behavior, below are a few things that a local will appreciate when meeting you.

• Greetings: Shake hands with men when you meet them right away. Give a nice firm shake, no one likes shaking a limp fish. Local women do not generally shake hands.
• Eating: While off the resorts – Eat with your right hand only when dining. The left hand is considered unclean, and while it can be used to prepare food, it should not be used to move food to the mouth at all times.
• Dress: Remember how conservative the islands are outside resorts. Men should not walk without a shirt on. Women should never be walking around in their bathing suit, they should wear long skirts and avoid low-cut tops.

Cultural Restrictions

The official religion of the Maldives is Islam, so they are conservative in regard to customs, following the principles of their religion is important. For example, it is not allowed to swim in bikinis on its urban beaches or to drink alcoholic beverages.

However, this does not apply to resorts. It is also strictly forbidden to enter the country with articles mentioning another religion, as well as openly practicing other religious cults.

Money Exchange

The local currency in the Maldives is the Rufiyaa (MRF). In tourist centers, it is customary to pay in US dollars. In hotels, it is possible to exchange currency.

Most establishments accept credit cards and if you intend on staying at a resort, chances are you will be paying for everything at the end of your Maldives vacation.

Communication

What appeals the most to a place like the Maldives is the feeling of being away from everything. Hotels have Wifi, but many encourage guests to limit their use in common areas.

Besides, not all resorts have a free Wifi connection and the signal hardly covers the entire extent of the island.

It is possible to buy a pre-paid sim card for your mobile phone as soon as you arrive at Male Airport. There are shops for Dhiraagu and Ooredoo, the only two telephone operators in the country.

When to Take a Trip to the Maldives

Being a place where beaches and lush landscapes are one of the main attractions, it is crucial to know the best time to visit the Maldives. Being close to the equator, the Maldives has a warm and stable climate.

In general, the archipelago presents two distinct seasons: one dry and more suitable for tourism and the other with strong winds and many rainy days.

The best time to visit the Maldives is between December and April when you can enjoy sunny days on its beautiful beaches. The temperature of the Maldives varies between 24°C and 33°C (75F and 91F) throughout the year.

Although the humidity is relatively high, the constant fresh sea breeze keeps the hot air moving.

Transport to the Resorts

Most tourists arriving in the Maldives do not stay in Male, but rather in a resort on one of the paradisiac islands. For this reason, it is necessary to take a boat or a seaplane to reach your island of choice.

Hotels usually make these transfers available at an additional cost or you can book them yourself. The cost of the transfer, depending on which island you stay at, can be very expensive and should be taken into consideration when booking your Maldives vacation.

The Best Resorts in the Maldives

When planning your vacation to the Maldives it can be had to pick exactly which island resort to stay on, there’s just over two hundred to pick from.

All Islands and resorts in the Maldives are as amazing as the next with white sand beaches lightly shaded with tropical palm trees, atolls that seem to float on the turquoise ocean.

Below are the top five resorts in the Maldives based on the beach, location, things to do, amenities and customer reviews.

• Milaidhoo Island Maldives  
• AYADA Maldives  
• Baros Maldives  
• LUX South Ari Atoll  
• Six Senses Laamu  

Resort Activity Considerations

Maldives resorts offer activities to suit all tastes and budgets. That said, you will want to look at what is offered to be sure that your interests are catered to. There are some places that are better for diving, for example, than others. 

You can spend the whole day relaxing on a stunning beach (eating and drinking) or venture into other activities, such as tours to get to know the region’s marine life, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing, fishing, kayaking, jet-skiing, stand up paddleboarding, cultural excursions and much more.

In addition, some resorts often offer themed evening parties for their guests.

Cruises Around the Maldives

If you want to explore several islands, the best option is a cruise. Besides the huge flash cruises that travel around many countries at once, the Maldives have another great option to spend your Maldives vacation on the water. These are called Safari-Boats.

Liveaboards

For diving lovers, it is recommended to choose a liveaboard option because the prices are reasonable and it is the best way to see the most incredible dive sites in the country.

In this case, be sure to book a boat that offers a passage through South Ari Atoll, more specifically a site called Maamigili. It is a very famous place to see whale sharks.

These are our recommended cruise options in for a Maldives trip:

• Maldives Dhoni Explorer 7 days, Male to Male – The extraordinary islands of the Maldives are the world’s most spectacular and a multi-day cruise is the only way to take it all in. This seven-day cruise takes you to turquoise lagoons, perfect beaches, and isolated sandbars that might have only existed in your dreams until now.
• Maldives Island Hopping 8 days, Hulhumale to Hulhumale – The Maldives has long been an underexplored tropical destination. Be among the first to discover its idyllic islands on this eight-day trip and hop around this archipelago.

Big Game Fishing Cruise

Cruise fishing boats offer the opportunity to spend a week in several different islands doing big game fishing. This is the term given to offshore fishing and it is a common activity in places such as Croatia and Seychelles.

Tuna and Marlin are the main targets for this sport. Best of all, you get to eat what you fish right there on the boat!

Reef or Shore fishing is not allowed in the Maldives and penalties can range from $500-$2000 to offenders. You might be thinking “What does this mean to me? “I’ll just fish from my resort.”

The problem is that most resorts want to protect their house reefs, and have secured a status of ‘reserve’ for their house reef in order to protect it, so no shore fishing is allowed there unless explicitly permitted by the resort management.

While there is no off-season, Big Game fishing is best November – March in the Maldives.

What kind of fish can I catch in the Maldives? The waters in the Maldives are home to an abundance of aquatic life and thousands of species of fish, ranging from small types of fish such as snapper, squirrelfish, and parrotfish to large fish like grouper, giant trevally, marlin, and tuna.

Things to Do and Activities for a Trip to the Maldives

For those who are passionate about marine sports, the best suggestion is to practice diving in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Those who prefer more tranquil walks, it is worthwhile to schedule a boat trip through the islands of the archipelago and check out the beauty of the country’s almost untouched nature.

But most popularly, a Maldives vacation is perfect for those who want to explore beautiful beaches.

Day Trip to Male

If you are relatively close to the capital, there are tours that allow you to explore Male. Male is the capital of the Maldives, with a population of about 158 thousand people.

The city has good infrastructure for basic services such as banks, shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and cheap hotels. Despite this, Male is not the most touristic and beautiful region of the Maldives.

If you want to get to know Male, one day is enough to explore its main attractions: Male Islamic Center, Hukuru Mosque, Sultan’s Palace, Fish Market, Sultan’s Park and National Museum of the Maldives.

If you are going to base yourself in Male, check out these top tours:

• Half-Day Walking Tour of Malé
• Snorkeling Safari 
• Private Half-Day Local Experience of Malé
• Island Day Trip from Hulhumale
• 2-Hour Maldives Submarine Tour From Male

Picnic Safari

This boat tour, from South Male Atoll to Rihiveli, includes snorkeling at two distinct spots on the reefs in the South Male Atoll (with snorkel included), dolphin sighting, a sandbar for lunch and a visit to Guraidhoo Island, another island inhabited by the atoll.

This island is breathtaking, it has a beach with an extraordinary coral reef.

Snorkeling Trip

From Maafushi Island it is possible to go on a snorkeling day trip to explore a few coral reefs. The Biyadhoo Reef is magnificent, full of colorful corals and fish. It is even possible to see turtles swimming in the dark blue waters.

The Turtle Reef is another spot where you can swim among the turtles. Banana Reef is yet another beautiful site to explore reefs filled with biodiversity.

Staying in Malé? Check out this snorkeling tour  

There are also many safari boats for surfing. The best surf spots are in the North Male Atoll, which has waves for all kinds of surfers. These boats usually have good prices, great quality and you can surf the best waves on the different islands.

The prime surfing season is between April till September. The South Atolls have a more extended season from February till November. March and November can be considered transition months.

The best surf spots in the Malé Atolls of the Maldives are: 

• Honky’s
• Lohi’s
• Pasta Point

The best surf spots in the Central Atolls of the Maldives are:

• Malik’s
• Mada’s
• Tsunami’s

The best surf spots in the South Atolls of the Maldives are: 

• Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll (also known as the Huvadhoo Atoll)
• Voodoos or Blue Bowls
• Five Islands/Gani Point
• Love Charms
• Tiger Stripes or Rockets
• Two Ways/Twin Peaks
• Gaukendi Bridge

The top surf resorts in the Maldives

• Hudhuranfushi Surf Resort – Lohis
• The Perfect Wave Cokes Surf Camp 
• Six Senses – Laamu Atoll 
• Niyama Private Islands  
• Ayada Resort  

Best Islands to Visit on a trip to the Maldives

To give you an idea of how amazing the Maldives is, 99% of the archipelago consists of water and only 1% of islands. As you can see, the formation of these islands has this incredible turquoise blue tone because of the coral reefs and visiting all of them is almost impossible.

Here are a few recommendations for some special islands you might want to visit during your Maldives vacation:

Maafushi is an island inhabited by local people and as such, you can only wear bikinis on the beach designated for foreigners. The beach is not big but it is very pretty with palm trees, coral sand and even a coffee shop with natural juices and fruit dishes.

Maafushi is well known for cheap guest houses, therefore, it is sought by backpackers in search of a more affordable Maldives vacation. This is the cheapest Island to visit in the Maldives and there tends to be a lot of backpackers. 

Top places to stay on Maafushi Island, All are under $100 USD!

• Kaani Beach Hotel  
• Kaani Grand Seaview  
• Kaani Village & Spa  
• Arena Beach Hotel  
• Crystal Sands  

Top things to do in Maafushi, Maldives:

• Enjoy the beaches
• Go snorkeling
• Go scuba diving
• Go to Sandbank
• Go on a Dolphin Safari
• Explore Maafushi and Experience the Local Culture
• Enjoy the water sports
• Go on the Floating Bar and Safari
• Enjoy the spa

Top Beaches on Maafushi, Maldives

• Bikini Beach
• Public Beach
• Water Sports Beach
• Coral Beach

Thinadhoo Island

Thinadhoo Island in Vaavu Atoll has beautiful beaches hidden by paths through the green forests. Also, in Vaavu Atoll, is the famous Alimatha Jetty, a diving site known for its night dives and snorkel adventures among hundreds of sharks. 

Another site that offers the opportunity to swim with unique animals is Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll. There you can witness the amazing dynamics between hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks. Because it’s a marine reserve you cannot dive there, only snorkeling is allowed.

Manta rays can also be observed on Hembadhu Island . In fact, there is a tour intended to give you the opportunity to swim alongside manta rays. The boat leaves when the manta rays enter the reef to feed.

Top things to do on Hembadhu Island:

• Enjoy the beach
• Swim with manta rays
• Go snorkeling
• Go scuba diving
• Have a private picnic on a sandbank
• Experience the local culture

Top places to stay on Thinadhoo Island:

• Plumeria Maldives
• Casa Barabaru
• Hudhu Raakani Lodge
• Raabade Maldives

How safe are the Maldives for travelers?

The Maldives is a typical tropical island where chances are you are coming from somewhere far more dangerous than the Maldives. Do not be fooled by its relaxed atmosphere, here are a few things to keep in mind for your vacation in the Maldives.  

Keep in mind the most likely dangers in the Maldives are getting sunburnt or grazing yourself on some coral while snorkeling. As a tourist staying on the resorts you probably will not encounter any of these.

• Beach and bag safety: Crime rates are low in the Maldives and most crimes are petty thefts and happen on the beach or from hotel rooms. 99% of the time it’s from someone who works at the hotel. It is best to use the safe-deposit boxes at the resort.
• Islam is the law: No explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, and drugs are allowed in the Maldives. But in addition to those are pornography, pork/pork products, alcohol, idols for a warship, bibles or any non-Islamic text is also illegal. Most of those will not apply to you if you are staying at a resort. But do keep in mind alcohol is not to be taken off the resort island or the boat. Don’t bring in liquor, they will take it away upon entering the Maldives.
• There is on and off civil unrest in the Maldives:  Since a terrorist bombing in 2007 where 12 tourists were injured, there have been isolated incidents in Male. Most travelers tend to arrive into Male and then travel onwards to the islands.
• Maldivian Island Hopping: Tourists visiting the Maldives are generally discouraged from visiting non-resort islands. This is because they want to keep a tight grip on where tourist dollars are spent. This will make sure the non-resort islands are not corrupted by foreign influences.
• Maldives Transport Safety: Travel to and from the different islands in the Maldives is by either boat or seaplane. Safety standards are high and many boats and planes are in good condition.
• Don’t buy coral or turtle shell souvenirs:  You will see coral and turtle shell souvenirs for sale, do not buy them. It is illegal to export them so you can not take them off of the Maldives Islands.
• Private means private:  Keep in mind you can’t go everywhere. This includes flying a drone. You could go to prison for flying or exploring someone’s private bungalows.

More on the Maldives:

• Amazing Things to do in the Maldives
• 21 Maldives Photos Reveal Pure Paradise
• Quick Guide to Scuba Diving in the Maldives
• 16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
• Honeymoon Ideas for Adventurous Couples
• 9 Romantic Getaways for Couples
• How to Master GoPro Photography
• GoPro Dome: How to Choose the Best One & Take Epic Photos

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Everything you need to know before you go to The Maldives

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Maldives Travel Guide

The Maldives offers visitors a true island paradise. This idyllic island nation, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, beckons you with irresistible charm and natural beauty.

With soft, white sand beaches set against gentle turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, the Maldives is a sanctuary of tranquillity unlike anywhere else on Earth.

In this ultimate travel guide we cover everything you need to know about visiting the Maldives:

Climate & Weather

Getting to the maldives, visas & entry requirements, accommodation, attractions & activities, honeymoons and weddings in the maldives, local culture & etiquette, practical information for travellers, safety in the maldives, what about sharks, packing essentials for the maldives, travel insurance, environment & sustainability.

Set in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives consists of 26 atolls , made up of over 1,000 coral islands scattered across some 90,000 square kilometres. These atolls, formed from coral reefs, stretch from 600km south of India and Sri Lanka towards the equator, painting a picturesque panorama of blues and greens.

Despite the vast area, land accounts for just under 300 square kilometres. The Maldives is more than 99% water and one the most geographically dispersed countries in the world. Each island, often surrounded by a turquoise lagoon, is typically no more than 1.8 meters above sea level.

The geography of the Maldives gives rise to a unique visitor experience: one island, one resort. This means that each resort occupies an entire distinct island – you never have to share the beach with guests from other hotels!

The Maldives enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. This can be broadly divided into two seasons: the dry season (Iruvai) associated with the northeast monsoon and the wet season (Hulhangu) with the southwest monsoon.

There is no concept of winter and summer in the Maldives.

• Dry Season: From December to April, the Maldives sees clear blue skies, calm seas, and plenty of sunshine. This period is considered the peak season for tourism.
• Wet Season: Occurring between May and November, this season brings in periodic rains and occasional thunderstorms. However, the showers are often short-lived and are interspersed with bright spells.

Whilst the Maldives is a year-round destination, the dry season is often preferred by sun-seekers aiming for perfect beach days. Those willing to encounter a few rain showers in exchange for fewer crowds and potentially better deals should consider the wet season.

No matter when you choose to visit, the Maldives offers consistently warm temperatures, ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (88°F), and inviting turquoise waters that maintain a steady 28°C (82°F) throughout the entire year, even 30m below the surface.

Travel to the Maldives is well established despite the remote location and spread-out nature.

International Arrivals

Malé International Airport (MLE), also known as Velana International, is your gateway to the Maldives. Nearly every international flight, be it from Europe, Asia, or the Middle East, lands here. This airport is located on the island of Hulhulé which is adjacent to the capital city Malé.

Whilst there are several other airports dotted around the Maldives they’re typically used for domestic transfers within the Maldives. International traffic to the smaller airports is almost exclusively light jets; commercial airlines all land at Malé.

The biggest carriers serving the Maldives are Emirates (via Dubai), Qatar (via Doha), and Etihad (via Abu Dhabi).

Airlines such as British Airways (London Heathrow), Singapore Airlines (Singapore Changi), Discover (Frankfurt), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), and IndiGo (Mumbai) operate a limited number of direct flights to the Maldives. Further airlines operate direct flights on a seasonal basis.

How to get to your Resort

Once you land in the Maldives, you’ll need to take connecting transport to reach your resort or local island. There are three common ways for tourists to get around the Maldives.

• Seaplanes : A uniquely Maldivian experience! Seaplanes operate during daylight hours and offer breath-taking, low-level aerial views of the atolls and lagoons.
• Speedboats: Ideal for destinations closer to Malé, speedboats offer a swift and scenic transfer without the need to board a small plane.
• Domestic Flights: For distant atolls, there are domestic flights that can whisk you away to regional airports scattered across the country, usually followed by a short boat ride.

If you're not sure which would be best for you, we've got a great comparison to help you decide between seaplane or speedboat .

Additionally, public ferries and dhonis also operate throughout the Maldives and present a good option for the budget traveller or those wishing to explore local islands.

The Maldives is particularly open when it comes to welcoming tourists. All nationalities receive a 30-day free tourist visa upon arrival, provided you have a valid passport, a confirmed hotel reservation, and an onward or return ticket. While the process is typically hassle-free, it's always wise to check for any updated visa policies before travel.

The Maldives has no COVID restrictions or requirements for tourists.

The majority of tourists visiting the Maldives choose to stay at one of the 170+ island resorts , but they’re not the only option for travellers. Guesthouses and local hotels are gaining in popularity, and liveaboards offer a diver’s haven.

Resort Islands

The Maldives is renowned for its resort islands where each resort occupies a private island with a limited number of guests. This unique approach means that no matter which resort you go to you’ll enjoy a more exclusive and secluded experience than other destinations.

Resorts range from affordable and rustic through to opulent and luxurious with options to suit every taste and budget. The vast majority are family friendly these days with a handful of adult-only resorts.

Guesthouses & Hotels

Local islands have seen a surge in guesthouses over the past decade. They offer travellers an authentic Maldivian experience at a fraction of the price of luxury resorts. Moreover, staying on a local island lets you immerse in Maldivian culture and traditions.

While the Maldives is famed for its luxury, there are a number of budget-friendly hotels, particularly in Malé and the surrounding areas. These offer a more affordable way to experience the Maldives.

Note that staying at a guest house or hotel on a local island means fully embracing local culture and values – alcohol is prohibited outside of the resort islands and modest dress is expected.

Liveaboards

Liveaboards are like small floating hotels that roam around the Maldives, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the ocean's beauty.

They offer an unparalleled opportunity for diving enthusiasts to explore multiple dive sites without returning to land. With comfortable accommodations, expert dive guides, and all the necessary amenities, liveaboards are an attractive option for those looking to embrace the underwater world.

The Maldives offers more than just clear waters and white sand beaches. It has activities for everyone, from adventure seekers to cultural enthusiasts or those wanting to relax. Whatever your interest, the Maldives has something to offer.

Water Sports

• Snorkelling: With its vibrant marine life and clear waters, the Maldives is a snorkeler's paradise. Swim alongside manta rays, turtles, and more tropical fish than you can count. Many resorts offer equipment and guided tours.
• Scuba Diving: Dive into the deep blue and explore the Maldives' hidden underwater world and diverse marine ecosystems. The Maldives boasts some of the world's best dive sites.
• Surfing: Primarily during the wet season, there are regions of the Maldives which offer impressive waves for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
• Fishing Trips: Participate in a sunset or night-time fishing trip, a traditional Maldivian activity. Some excursions even conclude with a BBQ grilling your very own catch of the day.
• Over Water Sports: A wide range of activities are available at resorts from jet-skiing to paddleboarding, sailing and canoeing, to name just a few.
• Island Hopping: Most resorts offer excursions to local islands, letting you interact with local communities, indulge in traditional cuisine, and experience Maldivian daily life.
• Sunset Cruises: Another popular option offered across the Maldives – enjoy a lap or two around your island with a cocktail whilst watching the sun paint the sky in reds and pinks.
• Wildlife Safaris: From dolphin safaris to swimming with turtles or manta rays, the Maldives is teaming with sea life, and some of the best spots are easily reached by a short boat ride.

Spa & Wellness Treatments

• Relaxing Spas: The Maldives is famous for its spas set in paradise. Elevate your relaxation with a spa session with views over the azure waters.
• Yoga Retreats: Several resorts offer yoga retreats, allowing you to rejuvenate your mind and body against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
• Serene Beaches: Maldivian beaches are like nothing you’ve seen before – quiet, peaceful, with very few people around. Unwind and enjoy what feels like your personal beach.

Unique Dining Experiences

• Underwater Restaurants: Dive into a dining experience like no other with Instagram-worthy venues offering gourmet meals surrounded by the marine world.
• Beach Dining: Enjoy a romantic or family dinner set up right on the beach just for you, under a canopy of stars.

Cultural Experiences

• Explore Malé: While many tourists bypass the capital, Malé offers a glimpse into the country's culture and history. Visit the Sultan Park, Malé Friday Mosque, and the bustling fish market.
• Bodu Beru Performances: Witness this traditional Maldivian dance and drumming performance, which is an integral part of local celebrations.

The Maldives is a popular spot for romantic celebrations due to its scenic beauty and excellent hospitality. With its tranquil azure waters, romantic sunsets, and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder the Maldives is a top choice for couples.

Many resorts cater specifically to honeymooners, offering personalised services, and exclusive experiences like candlelit dinners on the beach. Several resorts offer tailored honeymoon packages that may include complimentary gifts, romantic bed decorations, spa treatments, and special dining experiences.

It’s recommended to travel within 6 months of getting married, as many resorts restrict honeymoon packages and benefits to recently married couples.

Weddings and Vow Renewals

It's crucial to note that while the Maldives offers breathtaking settings for weddings, these ceremonies are symbolic and not legally binding. Many couples opt to complete the legal formalities in their home country and then have a ceremonial wedding in the Maldives.

Whether you dream of a barefoot beach wedding, an under-the-sea ceremony, or a luxurious villa celebration, resorts offer customizable themes to make your day as unique as your love story. For couples looking to recommit and celebrate their journey together, many resorts offer vow renewal ceremonies. These can be intimate affairs or grand celebrations, depending on your preference.

Most resorts have dedicated wedding coordinators to handle every detail, from floral arrangements to traditional Maldivian drummers.

Maldivian society is deeply rooted in its traditions, customs, and Islamic heritage. As travellers, understanding and respecting these traditions ensures a harmonious visit.

Culture & Heritage

The Maldives has a rich tapestry of history that dates back over 2,500 years. Its geographical location made it a significant crossroads for sea traders, which has influenced its culture, politics, and economy. Whilst Buddhism was likely practiced by early settlers, Islam has been the dominant religion of the Maldives for nearly 1,000 years and deeply interwoven into the nation's cultural, social, and daily fabric.

Traditional crafts like lacquer work, mat weaving, and boat building (Dhoni) play a pivotal role in the Maldivian cultural landscape. They offer a glimpse into the nation's rich history and craftsmanship.

Dhivehi is the official language, with its unique script called Thaana. English, however, is widely spoken in the tourism sector.

Etiquette and Do’s & Don’ts

The Maldives is an Islamic nation and it is advised that tourists are aware of social norms before visiting.

There is a marked difference between local islands inhabited by Maldivians which observe strict rules and resort islands which are able to operate looser rules for guests.

When visiting local islands, and ideally when transiting Malé:

• Dress Modestly: When visiting inhabited islands or Malé, modest dress is expected. This means clothing long enough to cover knees, tops that cover shoulders, and no exposed waist or back.
• Swimwear: is restricted to designated tourist beaches when outside resorts.
• Public Behaviour: Public displays of affection, like kissing or hugging, are frowned upon, especially on local islands. It's best to be discreet and respectful.
• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is only permitted on resort islands and at sea, so you won’t be able to purchase alcoholic drinks on Malé, local islands, or in Maldivian airspace.
• Religious Observances: The Maldives observes several Islamic holidays and festivals. During the month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours can be disrespectful on local islands.
• Gift Giving: If invited to a local's home, it's a kind gesture to bring a small gift. Gifts from your home country or sweet treats are often appreciated.

The Maldives faces serious challenges related to environmental preservation. Travelers should be conscious about coral protection and never touch marine life. Follow the principles of leaving nothing but footprints and taking nothing but memories.

Understanding and respecting local customs and the environment not only enriches your travel experience but also fosters positive interactions with locals. Always keep an open mind and the Maldives will reward you with memories to cherish.

Whilst tips are not expected it’s a welcomed gesture where great service is delivered and can be an important income source for workers.

We generally recommend tipping a couple of dollars per guest for one-time services such as with drivers, boat crew and baggage handlers. For on-going services such as those provided by waiters and waitresses and housekeeping many guests opt to tip once towards the end of their stay. Tips in the region of $10-20 per week are about right.

In any case, tips are at your discretion, particularly within resorts where a service charge of 10% will be added.

Maldivian Cuisine

The culinary landscape of the Maldives is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry and abundant marine life. Infused with flavours from its neighbouring countries and centuries of history, Maldivian cuisine offers a delectable voyage for the palate.

Staples of Maldivian Cuisine

• Fish: Tuna, in particular, is a mainstay in Maldivian dishes, be it in the form of curries, grilled preparations, or sun-dried.
• Coconut: Used in various forms – grated, milked, or as oil – coconut adds a distinctive flavour and richness to many dishes.
• Starches: Rice and roshi (a type of flatbread) often accompany main dishes. Tubers like taro and sweet potato also make frequent appearances.
• Chilies: Don’t underestimate the local palate! The Giltheyo Mirus (scotch bonnet) is one of the most popular varieties grown throughout the Maldives.

Maldivian dishes tend to make up a small but important part of the cuisine available at resorts, which often feature food from around the world through themed restaurants or nights.

For those looking to delve deeper into Maldivian gastronomy, consider taking a cooking class or joining a local family for a meal. Many resorts and local islands offer such immersive experiences, allowing travellers to not just taste but also craft these culinary delights.

Even when travelling to paradise it's always wise to be equipped with practical information to ensure a hassle-free journey. Here's what you need to know before setting foot on the Maldives' powder-soft shores.

The Maldives operates on Maldives Standard Time, which is 5 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5). However, it's essential to note that some resorts set their own " island time " to optimise daylight for guests, usually an hour ahead or behind the official time.

The Maldives does not observe daylight saving time, ensuring consistent timings for sunset and sunrise throughout the year.

The official currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR); however, the US Dollar is the standard within the tourism sector. Resorts operate on a USD basis. Some resorts will also allow you to settle your bill with other reserve currencies such as EUR and CHF.

Electricity & Sockets

Maldives uses British style three-pin plugs (Type G) at 230V / 50Hz. Resorts are often able to supply adapters but it’s worth coming prepared if needed.

Dhivehi is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism sector. English is the primary language in most resorts, and many resorts also have staff that speak other languages as such as German, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, French, and many more.

Warm and temperate all year round. Seasons are dictated by the monsoons with dry season being December through to April and the wet season typically May to November.

Dry season is characterized by clear skies and glassy calm seas. It's the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices. Wet season sees more rain and occasional tropical storms. However, this is the best time for water sports enthusiasts and can be materially cheaper.

Connectivity

Most resorts offer Wi-Fi, and local SIM cards with data packages are available for purchase at the airport or in Malé. A digital sim is a great option for those with modern smartphones.

There is good mobile coverage across the Maldives, but be aware it is one of the most expensive places in the world to make or receive international calls.

Vaccinations

No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but it's advisable to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations in any case. COVID vaccination is not required.

The Maldives is no exception in levying taxes on goods and services. The current rate of tax (GST) for the tourism sector is 16%. Resorts must also add an additional 10% service charge for tourism services, as required by Maldivian law, for the benefit of employees.

Tip: Be aware that the majority of places list prices exclusive of GST, service charge and green tax . Always read the small print or ask for clarification to be sure of the true cost.

Some websites also follow this practice, appearing cheaper than competitors until the final checkout page.

The Maldives is generally regarded as a safe destination for tourists and is well regarded. This is particularly true of the resorts which each occupy their own exclusive island. Simple steps will ensure a smooth and relaxing holiday.

Political Environment

Whilst political demonstrations occasionally take place, they are typically isolated to the capital city of Malé. Travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings or demonstrations if visiting the capital and check their foreign office before travelling for up-to-date information.

Crime levels are very low in resorts and typically isolated to petty theft of unattended items. You should avoid leaving items unattended, remember to lock your room when away, make use of safes or safety deposit boxes, and be vigilant of your valuables if visiting local islands.

The warm waters around the Maldives are particularly inviting but the ocean must be respected at all times. Tides and currents can pose a risk to swimmers.

We recommend speaking to the dive centre at your resort for advice specific to your island. They’ll be able to inform you of local conditions and best practices as well as the times and locations to hit the water. Safety and snorkelling equipment will also be available.

Personal Health

The Maldivian sun can be intense – even when cloudy. Always apply a high SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (from 10 am to 4 pm).

With the tropical climate, it's easy to get dehydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're indulging in water activities.

Drinking Water

Fresh water is a scarce and valuable resource in the Maldives, and tap-water is generally non-potable. Always consume bottled water and drinks where possible, especially if visiting local islands. Boiled / treated water can be used if needed.

Marine Life

When in the water simply avoid touching any wildlife and maintain a safe distance. You could accidently injure yourself or stress the animal. Take care to stay away from stonefish and lionfish which both have venomous barbs. If you follow the simple rule of looking without touching you are extremely unlikely to have any problems.

Despite popular culture, sharks in the Maldives are not a threat to people. The huge whale shark is a filter feeder and smaller sharks such as reef sharks and nurse sharks are timid, preferring to swim away. Whilst wild animals can lash it out if they feel threatened or attacked you don’t need to be afraid of sharks in the Maldives.

Tip: Dress for your destination when travelling. Wearing light clothing and using a blanket on the plane will make your arrival in the Maldives much more comfortable.

Be aware that the baggage weight limit for seaplanes is typically lower than for international flights, especially if travelling business or first class. Try to pack light!

• Beach Attire: Swimwear, sarongs, and light beach cover-ups are a must for those idyllic beach days. Consider a rash vest to effectively protect yourself from the intense sun.
• Resort Wear: Typically, lightweight dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and sandals for lounging at the resort or dining out. Some resorts have more formal air-conditioned restaurants where smarter dress is expected.
• Modest Clothing : If you plan to visit local islands or Malé, ensure you pack modest attire such as long skirts, trousers, and tops that cover the shoulders.
• Footwear: Flip-flops for the beach, water shoes if you're exploring coral reefs, and a pair of comfortable sandals for the island. Some resorts also require trainers to use their gym.

Accessories

• Sunglasses: Naturally!
• Power Adapter: The Maldives uses the British-style three-pin plug (Type G), so you may want to bring a travel adapter
• Chargers: For all your important devices. Consider adding a portable charger for excursions and extended beach lounging.
• Waterproof Bags: Useful for boat trips or water sports to keep your valuables dry and safe.
• Waterproof Camera: To capture the underwater marvels during snorkelling or diving sessions.
• Snorkelling / Diving Gear: If you prefer using your own. Many resorts and dive shops, however, provide equipment for rent or as part of a package.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and minimize plastic waste. Health and Personal Care:
• Reef-Safe Biodegradable Suncream: Essential for protecting both your skin and the delicate marine ecosystems.
• Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Most resorts have a medical centre or resident doctor in any case.
• Insect Repellent: While resorts generally maintain a bug-free environment, it's handy when visiting local islands. Small denomination USD bills are useful for tipping and visiting local islands.

Prohibited Items

The Maldives is an Islamic nation and certain items are strictly prohibited. Some of these may not be obvious to travellers unfamiliar with local customs including:

• Religious materials and idols: Anything contrary to Islam, including religious texts and symbols from other religions. In practice, tourists are generally able to travel with small personal effects such as a single cross on a necklace, but having a significant amount of material could be seen as trying to undermine Islam which carries serious penalties.
• Alcohol and pork: Both are prohibited for import and consumption on local islands, but are available to tourists on resort islands.
• Narcotics and illegal drugs: The Maldives has strict anti-drug laws. Possession of even personal quantities for medicinal purposes can lead to severe punishments in the Maldives. For legal prescription medication it is recommended to travel with your prescription or doctor’s letter. If in doubt check with the Maldivian authorities before travelling.
• Materials harmful to the environment: Single-use plastic is frowned up and increasingly prohibited at resorts. Any chemicals or materials harmful to the environment may also be restricted at import.
• Shells and sand: Taking shells or sand from the Maldives is strictly prohibited, including items sold to you by vendors. Such items will be confiscated at customs and may incur significant penalties.

When in doubt it’s best to leave items behind or check with the Maldivian authorities or embassy beforehand.

Drones are strictly prohibited at resorts without prior agreement from resort management on a case-by-case basis.

We strongly recommend taking travel insurance when visiting the Maldives. A good policy will cover disruptions beyond your control, any potential health issues, accidents, and emergency evacuations.

Given the island nation's geography and remote location, medical evacuations by air can be extremely expensive. The most serious incidents may even require transport to another country such as India.

For those interested in scuba diving – whilst many insurers cover recreational diving (to 30m in line with PADI) it’s worth confirming in advance and considering specialist diving travel insurance.

Some of the top resorts in the Maldives command significant price tags well above what standard travel insurance will cover. In these cases, we recommend high-value travel insurance.

The Maldives, with its fragile marine ecosystems and low-lying islands, is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change and human interference. At the same time, the country is heavily dependent on tourism. It is critical that all visitors respect the environment and preserve it as best they can.

By following the principles of leaving only footprints and taking only memories you’ll help to preserve this unique and beautiful environment. Here are a few practical steps you can take:

• Reef-Safe Suncream: Chemicals in many sunscreens can be harmful to corals. Always opt for biodegradable, reef-safe options.
• Coral Care: Corals are living organisms which take decades to grow, so take great care not to touch them, stand on them or accidently kick them with fins.
• Conserve Water: Fresh water is a valuable resource in the Maldives so please avoid waste.
• Green Practices : Consider choosing resorts that implement sustainable practices like water conservation, waste management, and energy-efficient systems.
• Conservation Initiatives: Some resorts have marine biology programs, coral planting, or turtle conservation initiatives. You can support and participate in these efforts.
• Reduce Waste: Almost everything used at resorts has to be shipped in, and the waste has to be shipped out. Simple acts like avoiding disposable items and avoiding food waste can make a big difference.
• Minimise Plastic: Whilst plastic is hard to avoid entirely, we can each strive to do our best to minimise plastic usage, particularly rejecting single-use plastics.

Sustainable travel in the Maldives isn't just about enjoying the archipelago's wonders; it's about ensuring that these wonders endure. Embracing these guidelines will ensure that your journey leaves a positive imprint on the islands and ensures they remain a paradise for years to come.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Maldives Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

The Maldives is one of the most sought-after luxury destinations in the world, conjuring images of lavish resorts and jet-set honeymooners lounging in beachfront villas and swimming in sapphire waters. While the Maldives is home to all of those things and is known as a luxe destination for splashing out, it’s also possible to visit here without entirely breaking the bank.

Located in the Indian Ocean, this remote country of 1,192 islands and 26 coral atolls is bursting with world-class diving and snorkeling. There are a plethora of opportunities to explore outside the hotel resort bubble and take in the beautiful remoteness of this tropical paradise. Thanks to a greatly improved boat transfer system and the opening up of independent guesthouses, the Maldives is evolving into a (slightly more) budget-friendly vacation spot.

This travel guide to the Maldives can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this gorgeous tropical getaway!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Maldives

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Maldives

1. Explore Malé

The Maldivian capital, while small, has plenty of things to see and do. Seet the country’s 17th century mosque (Hukuru Miskiiy) and get a historical overview of the country at the National Museum. Be sure to grab a coffee and watch the world go by in one of the charmingly chaotic cafes too.

2. Go diving

The Maldives is one of the best diving destinations in the world. See hammerheads in Rasdhoo Madivaru (aka Hammerhead Point) or free dive with whale sharks. There are also lots of mantas and sea turtles here too. Single-tank dives start at 775 MVR.

3. Relax on the beach

Outside the private resorts, Omadoo (on the South Ari Atoll) and Ukulhas Island (on the Alif Alif Atoll) are two of the best beaches in the country. Manadhoo is another great place too. Just make sure you’re on a designated ‘Bikini Beach’ (a beach specifically for westerners).

4. Enjoy the food

The seafood here is beyond delicious and incredibly fresh. Most of the restaurants in Malé offer outdoor dining areas. Some of the more popular places to go include The Seagull Café, Symphony, Royal Garden Café, and Irudhashu Hotaa (for quick meals).

5. Do some watersports

Banana boats (inflatable boats pulled behind a speedboat), parasailing, water skiing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and kayaking can all be found here. Prices range from 380 MVR for snorkeling to 2,000 MVR per person for tandem parasailing.

Other Things to See and Do in the Maldives

1. treat yourself to a spa day.

Even when you’re on a modest budget, it’s wonderful to indulge in an extra dose of R&R. Expect to pay at least 1,000 MVR for a 30-minute massage. Some of the larger hotels offer discounts for early-morning/late evening bookings so inquire with your hotel, Airbnb host, or guesthouse to find out about deals.

2. Go fishing

Seafood is an integral part of Maldivian cuisine. Most hotels and guesthouses rent poles, bait, and provide a guide for around 775 MVR. Skipjack and yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, bigeye scad, and mackerel scad are all commonly found here. If you’re an experienced angler, some of the best game fishing in the world can be done here. Expect to pay at least 3,000 MVR for a half-day shared charter.

3. Snorkel in the Baa Atoll

The Baa Atoll is a 1,200-square-kilometer (463-square-mile) UNESCO Biosphere Reserve brimming with manta rays and whale sharks. On a clear day, you can see them swarming below the surface. It’s only a five-minute boat ride from Dharavandhoo Island but visiting the area is strictly regulated and there is an 80 person capacity so as not to disrupt the precious ecosystem. Admission is around 550 MVR, which gives you 45 minutes in the water and a certified snorkel guide. Profits go towards the Baa Atoll Conservation Fund.

4. Tour the National Art Gallery

Established in 1999, there’s no permanent gallery here so be sure to check the website in advance as the space is left empty if there is no visiting exhibition on display. The temporary exhibitions at the gallery, which range from traditional paintings and local textiles to international modern artists, are well worth a visit.

5. Dive the Maldive Victory

In 1981, this 100-meter-long (328-foot) cargo ship hit a reef and sank. It’s now an incredible dive site for experienced divers. Resting between 15-31 meters (50-100 feet) below the surface, there are strong currents here that keep the tropical fish flowing through the shipwreck — but they also make it a challenging dive site. There are all kinds of coral, fish, and sponges here. It’s accessible all year around.

6. Visit the Malé Fish Market

Come here and catch a glimpse of Maldivians living out their daily routine in the commercial center of Malé. Select a fish (if you can muster your way through a purchase as most fishermen don’t speak English) and have it cooked at your guesthouse for dinner.

7. Wash up on a sandbank

These tiny mounds of sand in the middle of the Indian Ocean are the closest you can get to feeling like you’re on your own private island. Private trips can be arranged to any one of the hundred different banks dotted around the islands (many of which are attached to/affiliated with resorts). Tours usually last 2-3 hours and cost 900 MVR.

8. Skip Maafushi

Maafushi, once a sleepy little island, is now the victim of uncontrolled development. There are hotels going up left and right, boats making frequent trips to Malé to pick up tour groups, and an increasingly-crowded and overbuilt beach. The few restaurants on the island cater mostly to tourists and outside the area cleaned up for visitors, it’s one trash-covered dump. Skip it!

9. Do all the watersports

Diving and snorkeling to see the life under the water is what the Maldives are famous for but there’s plenty more to do. Most resorts have kayaks, paddleboards, and paddle boats that you can borrow for free. Others offer surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing packages for both beginners and experienced surfers (May-October is the best time for this). Then you’ve got things like banana boating, tubing, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing, and flyboarding which are all also often available.

10. Stay on a local island

Most people stay in the high-end resorts when they go to the Maldives but there’s so much more to the islands than this. Local islands give you the chance to get to know the Maldives as a country rather than just seeing a resort and a ton of biodiverse marine life. The local islands are where you can find guesthouse accommodation which is cheaper, and there is more variety in terms of tour operators, restaurants, and other things to do. Fulidhoo, Ukulhas, Rasdhoo, and Thinadhoo and some of the most popular choices. Generally speaking, the further away from the capital you get the more laid-back and quiet the islands are.

Maldives Travel Costs

Accommodation – Private rooms at guesthouses are going to be your cheapest option in the Maldives, with prices starting around 625 MVR per night.

Resorts start at 6,000 MVR per night (not including the private speed boats or seaplane transfers you need to arrive there). They can cost upwards of 30,000 MVR a night, making this an ideal place to use any hotel points you have saved up.

Airbnb is available around the islands with private rooms starting at 700 MVR, though 1,200 MVR is more common. For an entire home/apartment, prices start at 1,500 MVR but can go as high as 6,000 MVR or more! Entire homes/apartments are far less common so be sure to book in advance if you prefer one.

Wild camping isn’t possible as all land around the islands is owned. Your only real camping option is to ask to pitch a tent in someone’s back yard, however, this isn’t a reliable solution so skip camping here.

Food – Traditional cuisine in the Maldives is based on fish, coconuts, and rice. Tubers like taro and sweet potatoes are also common staples. Aside from all kinds of fish and seafood soups and stews, be sure to try favorites such as gulha (fried fish filled dough balls), kuli (spicy fish cakes), and dessert treats like bondi bai (Maldivian rice pudding).

Most traditional meals cost less than 70 MVR at casual local restaurants though most resorts and hotels include meals since restaurants here are rare.

For a three-course meal of traditional food at a budget-friendly hotel, expect to pay around 300 MVR with a drink.

Alcohol is generally prohibited but can be found at the more luxurious resorts. Expect to pay a premium for it: beer costs upwards of 125 MVR while cocktails are double that. A latte or cappuccino costs 35 MVR while a bottle of water is 5 MVR.

If you’re looking to cook your own food, make sure you stock up at the STO trade center in Malé. Shopping here can save you a little extra money, especially if you are staying somewhere with a kitchen. Prices here are often more competitive than street vendors and there is a great assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other daily essentials.

For a week’s worth of staples like rice, produce, and seafood, expect to pay around 700 MVR.

Backpacking the Maldives Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking the Maldives, my suggested budget is 1,100 MVR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a budget guesthouse, cooking all of your meals, not drinking alcohol, taking public ferries to get around (but mostly sticking to one island), and doing free and cheap activities like snorkeling and relaxing at the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 4,300 MVR, you can stay in a budget hotel or private Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, take some guided tours, go diving, do some water sports, visit a couple of islands, and take the occasional private water taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 9,500 MVR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, drink alcohol, eat out for all your meals, island-hop, and do more activities and guided excursions such as fishing charters and parasailing. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MVR.

Maldives Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The Maldives is a challenging place to save money so non-resort travel is fairly new to the country. There are only a few things you can do to lower your budget here:

• Bring plenty of cash – Though the Maldives has its own currency (MVR), US dollars are widely accepted — and you often get a better price if you pay in USD. This varies from one restaurant or shop to another, so carry both and pay with whatever gives you the best rate. There are only ATMs in Malé.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with you. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and free from bacteria. It saves you money and saves the environment too!
• Island hop by ferry – The Maldives’ islands are served by a series of ferries from Malé. They run on opposite days (to Maafushi on Monday, back to Malé on Tuesday) and rarely on Friday (the Muslim sabbath). You can jump from Malé to an atoll’s capital island then to smaller, nearby islands in the chain. Ferries cost between 55-150 MVR depending on the distance. Plan ahead and research the ferries beforehand so you can avoid paying for a private speedboat.
• Consider all-inclusive packages – The taxes and import fees on food and drink means that you really don’t have many restaurants to choose from. Some hotels offer great rates which include food, drinks, and even premium amenities such as watersports, free yoga classes, or spa treatments.
• Use a travel agent for resort stays – This might seem counterintuitive for a budget traveler but agents who specialize in Maldives travel often have access to better deals than you can find on the internet. Their prices generally include speedboat or seaplane transfer costs and you may even find that you get upgrades on arrival.
• Book in advance – While most budget travelers figure out their plans on arrival, booking in advance has several benefits. For starters, Airbnbs, guesthouses, and hotels can get booked up in peak seasons so your options may be limited. If you have booked in advance, your hotel or friendly villa/guesthouse owner can help facilitate transfers and arrange activities.

Where To Stay in the Maldives

Hostels are virtually non-existent in the Maldives so people on a budget mostly stay in guesthouses and small hotels. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started and save money:

• Dream Inn (Thulusdhoo)
• Sands Exotic Hotel (Thulusdhoo)
• Hanifaru Transit Inn (Dharavandhoo)

How to Get Around the Maldives

Boat – The unreliable but reasonably-priced public ferry is a no-brainer for independent travelers, with ferries starting at 55 MVR depending on the route. If you’re looking to visit an island farther away from Malé, you need to do some island hopping via the ferry system. This might require you to stay overnight on an island along the way as the ferries do not run daily or regularly. Most ferries also do not run on the weekends.

Many of the islands further afield can only be accessed by private boat or plane. Check the ferry schedule well in advance and plan accordingly (I didn’t and it threw off my whole itinerary).

The island ferry schedule can be found here .

Private speedboats cost around 385-1,500 MVR per person depending on the distance from Malé.

When to Go to the Maldives

The Maldives is a year-round destination with temperatures hovering between 23-31°C (74-89°F). The high season runs from December to April, when airfare and hotel prices increase dramatically (especially around Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, and Easter). Book in advance if you want to visit during this period.

Don’t be too nervous about booking during the monsoon period, which runs from May to October. You can enjoy fewer crowds, better rates, and plenty of sunny days in between the few-and-far rainy spells.

Diving is spectacular throughout the year. For other watersports, such as surfing, the best breaks are from mid-February to November.

How to Stay Safe in the Maldives

The Maldives is an incredibly safe destination for tourists. Keep an eye on your belongings in public areas in Malé, which is more prone to petty crime (although at a very low level). On the other islands, especially the resort-focused islands, it’s highly, highly unlikely anything is going to happen to you or your stuff. That said, it’s always a good idea to avoid leaving any valuables on the beach while you swim.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink when out, never walk home alone at night, etc.)

With the exception of the 2004 tsunami, large-scale natural disasters are rare. However, climate change has led to an uptick in increased rainfall, storm surges, and minor coastal floods. Make sure you have travel insurance when you visit.

Respect the Muslim customs by adhering to dress codes, especially in the capital, where resort wear isn’t common. Do not drink alcohol outside your resort as fines are possible.

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you experience an emergency, dial 119 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Maldives Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Maldives Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Maldives and continue planning your trip:

My In-Depth Guide to Experiencing the Maldives on a Budget

How to Spend a Week in the Maldives for Less Than a Night in a Resort

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Budget Travel Guide to the Maldives

Table of Contents

T ranquil, unspoiled lands, blue skies, and fresh air. A tropical paradise with a population of fewer than 400,000 people. An archipelagic nation with 1,190 islands, where seaplanes are the default mode of transportation. These are just some of the things that make the Maldives the perfect retreat for weary souls or travelers looking for fresher adventures. Check out our handy Maldives travel tips for planning and preparation.

The Maldives’ tourism did not flourish until the early months of 1972, after the first resort opened in the country. Maldives’ fairly recent involvement in the tourism industry makes the country some of the lesser-known tourist destinations in the world.

However, the Maldives’ tourism continues to blossom yearly, making up an average of 30% of the country’s GDP.

Today, the Maldives is starting to be recognized for having some of the best beaches, diving, and snorkeling spots worldwide.

Only 185 of its islands are inhabited; most uninhabited islands are dedicated to tourism (hotels, restaurants) and agriculture.

Each island is unique, and there’s much to explore in the Maldives. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, read on. This is the travel guide for you.

Maldives Visa Requirements

Filipino Passport holders are not required to secure a tourist visa to visit the Maldives. Philippine passport holders can travel to the Maldives completely visa-free for 30 days.

Immigration officers will ask you to present your passport, valid for at least 6 months, return flight tickets, and confirmed hotel reservations upon arrival in the Maldives.

Best Time to Visit Maldives

As a tropical country, It’s hot, sunny, and humid all year round in Maldives, with average temperatures of 23ºC-31ºC.

The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April; these are the months with less precipitation.

The peak season falls between  December and March . If you want to maximize your vacation, avoid visiting the Maldives during the monsoon season from May to October.

How to get there

Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are two local carriers offering Manila (MNL) Philippines to Malé (MLE), Maldives’ capital. Cebu Pacific’s Malé flights stopover at Singapore (SIN), while AirAsia’s Malé flights stopover at Kuala Lumpur (KUL).

Both carriers land at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, Velana International Airport, or Malé International Airport.

Getting around

Malé International Airport is an island in itself. Getting to the neighboring urban island, the center of Malé requires riding either a boat, a ferry, or a seaplane. Seaplanes can take you to almost any island. They are the equivalent of taxis.

Riding a seaplane is the preferred method of traveling between islands and atolls in the Maldives. Riding a ferry is less expensive; however, ferries travel less frequently.

Speedboats are similarly a less preferred mode of transportation, as they can become expensive despite their convenience.

Where to eat

Thila Restaurant in Vihamanafushi

Thila Restaurant is perhaps the most famous fine-dining restaurant in the Maldives. Aside from having a menu that ranges from classic Maldivian dishes to European cuisines, Thila also offers its guests a breathtaking view of the ocean.

There’s nothing better than enjoying a full-course meal of classic local cuisines while staring at the best sight the Maldives offers. Thila is located in Vihamanafushi of the Kaafu Atoll, just north of Malé International Airport island.

Just Veg by Atmosphere on Kanifushi Island

You can probably already tell from its name alone that Just Veg by Atmosphere is a vegetarian restaurant.

Much like most restaurants in Maldives, this one has an excellent location, facing the sea on the secluded edge of Kanifushi Island of the Lhaviyani Atoll.

If you’re not a vegan and are wary of pure vegetable meals, Just Veg by Atmosphere is a good place to try some vegan dishes.

Family Room Cafe in Hulhumale

If you’re craving some pastries or a cup of coffee, Family Room Café in Hulhumale, Kaafu Atoll, should be your first stop. Known as serving the best cup of coffee around, this café is perfect for families and a large group of friends.

However, if you simply want to enjoy some time to relax alone, Family Room Café is open for you, and its fast Wi-Fi will surely come in handy.

Sea Fire Salt on Dhigufinolhu Island

Sea Fire Salt Restaurant is perfect for romantic dinners. It’s a seaside restaurant that specializes in seafood and several Mediterranean cuisines.

You can order a bottle of wine if it gets a little chilly during the nighttime. Sea Fire Salt is one of the few restaurants that serve alcohol.

Things to do and see in Maldives

Walk around. A walking tour is one of the best ways to enjoy the Maldives. The islands in the country are relatively small and are suitable for such activity. The capital city Malé is a great place to walk around.

Go to the National Museum, and scurry over to the bustling Republic Square, which is less than a kilometer away.

Try out local food

Venture out from what’s served in classy restaurants and visit small-time food joints. Maldivian meals use many coconuts, fish, and starch in their food, so going food-stall hopping wouldn’t be too heavy on your tummy! Masroshi is a classic savory snack that you should try.

Visit Mosques

The Maldives is mostly Muslim, and their religion is a huge part of their culture. The coralline Old Friday Mosque in Malé is the oldest in the Maldives and is one of the most visited.

Sunbathe and unwind

You’re in the Maldives, a tropical paradise. Not going to a beach will mean missing out on a lot! Veligandu Beach is one beach that shouldn’t be missed.

Explore Maldivian marine life

There are plenty of things to enjoy underwater as well. Prodivers Maldives in Kuredu and Maldives Passions in Maafushi Island are two of the most recommended diving schools. Providers offer nighttime diving.

Where to stay

Mirihi Island Resort

Address: Mirihi Island Resort, Maldives ( check rates and book online )

Just a 30-minute-ride on a seaplane from the capital Malé, Mirihi Island Resort is located on the small Mirihi Island of the Southern Ari Atoll. This resort offers water villas with talc-white sands and clear water: overwater bungalows that protrude from Mirihi Island’s shores. Get an unobstructed view of the horizon on your villa’s balcony, and breathe in plenty of this beach paradise’s air.

Velaa Private Island

Address: Republic of Maldives, Maldives Telephone: +960 656-5000 ( check rates and book online )

With 18 overwater private villas and an exclusive, Romantic Villa, Velaa Private Island has a relaxing ambiance. This resort has a spa house, babysitting services, and even an outdoor pool. It also offers airport transport and complimentary breakfast meals for certain packages.

Baros Maldives

( check rates and book online )

Nothing beats a holiday by spending an hour or two in a spa house or some time alone in a hot tub by the ocean. Getting to Baros Maldives is just a 30-minute boat ride from Malé. If you arranged to be picked up, the hotel could transport you for a shorter 20-minute ride.

If you don’t feel like pampering yourself in a spa house, it’s okay to hang out on your beachfront balcony. The waters are so clear that there’s no need to snorkel your way to see the teeming marine life.

AYADA Maldives

Address: Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Maguhdhuvaa Island, Maldives Telephone: +960 684-4444 ( check rates and book online )

Each villa in AYADA Maldives in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll has its own outdoor pool and butler services. With six restaurants and bars, guests can indulge in its wide range of cuisines.

Staying in a spa, chilling out on the deck, and swinging peacefully on a hammock by the sea are just some things you can do here in this secluded island resort.

Also Read:  Ultimate List of The Best Maldives Luxury Hotels and Resorts

Shopping in the Maldives

There aren’t many big malls in the Maldives like the ones you can see in Manila. However, plenty of small souvenir shops on each island sell various souvenirs, ranging from Maldivian woven mats to t-shirts.

The small Rasdhoo Island, for instance, has five souvenir shops. There are also plenty of hawkers around where you can haggle for prices. Island Bazaar in Malé is a European-style shop that might also interest you.

Local fish markets also abound and are present on each inhabited island. Although you can’t bring home a fish for a souvenir, seeing the bustling Maldivian markets firsthand is a souvenir in your memory that will go a long way.

Shopping last-minute in Duty-Free in the Malé International Airport before leaving can also be an option.

Is it Expensive to Visit Maldives?

In most cases, the answer is Yes. A vacation in the Maldives can be cheap, and it can be expensive too.

It depends on the accommodation you book, the food you eat, and the activities you prefer on this island paradise.

Maldives Travel Tips

• The Maldives is predominantly Muslim; therefore, you must observe its customs. Specifically: observe the dress code in public areas. Women and men should cover their thighs, and women should cover their shoulders. This should be strictly observed when you plan to visit mosques. On the other hand, most resorts allow any kind of clothing. Make sure to always consult with your accommodation about this.
• Don’t schedule flights that arrive on a Friday. Friday and Saturday are weekends in the Maldives. Most modes of transportation and local establishments close these days to observe customs. Make sure to consult with your travel agency so that you arrive on a weekday morning.
• Riding a ferry is the cheapest mode of transportation and is more culture-immersive. Seaplanes are generally for tourists. The downside of ferries is that they infrequently travel per island and stop operating completely on the weekends. However, if you chance upon one, it will give you the best Maldivian experience.
• The Maldives is a tropical country, so expect March to be the hottest month and January the coldest. August and September are generally rainy, and there will be fewer crowds. If you plan well enough, you might chance upon nice, rainy weather on the weekend and enjoy the seclusion of one of the resort islands as if you own it.
• There are relatively few ATMs in the country, so make sure to bring ample money. If you plan on staying in a resort during your entire stay, then money won’t be a problem. However, if you plan to explore more of the country (i.e., walking tours, budget apartments), make sure to have enough to cover you up. Most local, small-time shops won’t accept dollars.

Things to Avoid in Maldives

• Avoid Public display of affection
• Importing Alcohol To Maldives Is Prohibited
• Wearing Bikinis Is prohibited outside the boat, and resorts
• Avoid Drinking Tap Water
• Do Not Wear Shoes On The Beach
• Avoid Littering

[ Click here to search for Discounted Hotels and Resorts in the Maldives]

For more Maldives Travel Tips, you may also read:

• Best Things to do in Maldives

Other Travel Guides:

• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Ha Long Bay
• Balabac Budget Travel Guide
• Koh Samui Travel Guide
• Jomalig Island Travel Guide

Do you have a Pinterest account? Please pin this Budget Travel Guide to Maldives blog post.

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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The Maldives Travel Guide: Go Beyond The Postcard In Luxury Island-Style

The Maldives are idyllic islands in the Indian Ocean known for rejuvenating the soul with a wanderlust beauty not found anywhere else.

Kristina Lopez • Jun 2, 2023

The Maldives is all about the rejuvenation of the soul. Located in the Indian Ocean, this tropical paradise is an idyllic archipelago. Its magnetic allure entices anyone looking for a relaxing, explorative and unique experience of luxury. It is essential to recognize that the allure of the Maldives extends far beyond its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. No matter their budget or background, everyone deserves to bask in the beauty of this oceanic destination. Travelers can indulge in the all-inclusive luxury island resorts and create remarkable memories in a truly unforgettable place.

• Best time to travel: November to April (peak season), May and October (shoulder season), June and September (off-season), July and August (wet/dry seasons)
• Time zon e: Maldives Time (MVT)
• Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
• Noteworthy: Maldives Independence Day (July), Maldives Surfing Championship (August), Maldives Whale Shark Festival (December),
• Best for: Beach Getaways, Romantic Honeymoons, Adventure and Water Sport Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Luxury Travelers

Play: Things to do in Maldives

Sandbank snorkeling and sunset cruise.

The Sandbank Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise is a small-group tour with snorkeling, sunbathing and a sunset dolphin cruise from Hulhumale. Begin the day with a visit to a picturesque sandbank to learn or refresh those snorkeling skills. The two vibrant snorkel sites near Malé are home to colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, stingrays and coral formations.

As the sun begins to set, playful dolphins peek out of the water to see what’s going on. The knowledgeable guide shares stories about the islands and fish identification cards. Snorkeling equipment and local taxes are included in the main price.

Underwater Photoshoot 

Book this excursion for the ultimate souvenir from a trip to the Maldives. With adventure and artistry, this unique opportunity with an underwater photoshoot is a must-do. Surrounded by mesmerizing crystal-clear waters, guests wade into the water with a professional photographer.

Guests receive a complimentary water bottle to stay hydrated. The final print includes an edited video and up to 20 edited pictures. With this activity, visitors must rent their own snorkeling equipment. They also are responsible for booking boat transfers to and from the shoot.

2-Hour Maldives Submarine Tour From Malé

Most water-loving travelers will enjoy this submarine tour from Malé. It’s an extraordinary underwater adventure with captivating views of the Indian Ocean. This tour takes visitors in a luxury submarine that can comfortably accommodate up to 50 people.

The German-built passenger submarine can descend to a depth of 100 feet below the surface. A crew is there for convenient port pickup and easy drop-off. With multiple departure times available, this tour promises an unforgettable expedition into the depths of the Maldives.

The National Museum in Malé

For history-loving travelers, the National Museum in Malé is a beautiful way to experience the local culture. Situated within the picturesque Sultan Park, this museum was once part of the historic 17th-century Maldivian Royal Palace compound. The three-story building has been a prominent attraction since the 1950s.

The museum’s mission is to preserve the rich culture and history of the Maldives. They have an extensive collection of historical artifacts. From stone artifacts to remnants of royal antiquities, the exhibits paints a picture of the Maldives’ heritage and global connections.

Baani Spa Complex

With a true understanding of authentic Maldivian luxury, the Baani Spa Complex is a top spa experience in the region. This spa is located on Kagi Maldives Spa Island, which is an adults-only boutique retreat. The 5-star resort offers 50 beach and overwater villas, a state-of-the-art gym, two restaurants, three bars, a PADI dive center.

Skilled therapists perform holistic cleansing rituals to release stress and negative energies. They have three goals for every guest: release, restore and regain. The range of treatments include massages, facials, body treatments, salt and mud baths, and sound immersion therapy. Guests can savor fresh juices and healthy menu delights to feel nourished inside out. This is a must-book experience on any trip to the Maldives.

Gourmet: Best Restaurants In Maldives

Ithaa undersea restaurant.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (@conrad_maldives)

The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is a unique dining experience on the island. Guests are surrounded by breathtaking views of the vibrant coral garden and sea creatures. Guests can enjoy an intimate experience, since there are only 14 tables.

Reservations are required to experience this underwater restaurant. From mid-morning cocktails to mouthwatering lunches and private dinners, there’s a view and a menu for everyone. The fusion menus blend local flavors with Western influence for a memorable taste of the island.  

Just Veg by Atmosphere Kanifushi

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives (@atmospherekanifushi)

Just Veg by Atmosphere Kanifushi is the first vegetarian restaurant in the Maldives. The contemporary vegetarian restaurant has a menu that meat eaters love. Located in Lhaviyani Atoll, the stunning backdrop creates the most relaxing atmosphere. The menu includes experimental flavor combinations inspired by the Mediterranean, Middle East and Indian Ocean regions.

The menu includes dishes like cauliflower soup, Maldivian locavore curry and mango sticky rice with fresh coconut milk. It’s a a short 30-minute scenic seaplane flight from Malé.

Blue Beach Club 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝙆𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙨 (@kallies.cafes)

The Blue Beach Club is located at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru. It sits on an expansive Maldivian beach with jaw-dropping sunsets over blue waters. Executive Chef Gaetano Trovato created a delicious Italian menu with Sardinian roots and distinct recipes. There are multiple options for breakfast, lunch, dinner on the menu.

The breakfast includes an array of foods, such as Landaa eggs benedict and tomato and bean cassoulet. Intriguing dinner dishes include lobster tagiolini with herring caviar and slow-cooked rainbow runner with cauliflower and roasted lemon. An authentic Sardinian wine list pairs perfectly with every menu item.

Shell Beans

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shell Beans, Maldives (@shellbeans)

Shell Beans is a great restaurant for early risers. There’s a serene atmosphere on the air-conditioned first floor and sparkling ocean views from the balcony seating. The international fusion menu includes satiating quick-service foods, such as sandwiches and fruit juices.

There’s also Wi-Fi for traveling digital nomads and a relaxing nook to sit back and read a book. From wellness shots to health smoothies, there’s a refreshing drink for every palate. Enjoy breakfast for dinner with an island-style French toast, Masala omelet, homemade breakfast granola and their signature Shell Beans brekkie. 

Seagull Café House Restaurant 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seagull Cafe (@seagullcafehouse)

Originally a gelateria, the renowned Seagull Café House Restaurant offers a variety of American, Asian and Maldivian dishes. They have over 18 local and unique gelato flavors, along with a variety of fresh fruit bowls and toppings. The dinner options include spicy chicken broth ramen, pumpkin and lentil soup, and meat or fish curries with white rice. The bakery has cakes, muffins, pies and tarts to choose from.

Stay: Best Places to Stay In Maldives

Soneva fushi.

Soneva Fushi is home to one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives. The carbon-neutral hotel is 90 percent waste-free. The hotel takes part in a glass-blowing workshop to upcycle discarded bottles. The 64 private island villas are nestled into a lush jungle scene with breathtaking views.

Snorkelers have three house reef access points on the sunset side of the villas. If guests want more privacy, they can enjoy unobstructed sea views on the tranquil sunrise side. Guests also have personal pools and shared beach access. There are unlimited dining options, and the rejuvenating Soneva Soul spa for some pampering. 

Gili Lankanfushi

The Gili Lankanfushi is an exceptional luxury stay designed to be every traveler’s dream getaway. From romantic vibes to family-friendly excursions, there’s something for everyone. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operation and is perfect for the eco-conscientious traveler.

Gili Lankanfushi minimizes plastic usage and waste by responsibly sourcing local materials and refillable earthenware containers. The locally sourced ingredients ensure fresh and nutritious meals at their multiple dining and bar experiences. Guests can also participate in coral-cleaning ventures and contribute to scientific sustainability initiatives.

Private House For Rent

This private house is the perfect oasis for guests who want a more personal stay. Located on Ukulhas, this house includes a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, two ensuite bedrooms and a dining room. There’s a dedicated workspace with WiFi, an outside chill and lounge zone with a BBQ grill and lounge area. The villa has an in-unit washer, room-darkening shades and a private entrance with shared beach access.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Maldives

By air .

The Maldives has one major international airport, Velana International Airport, also known as Malé International Airport. It’s situated near the capital city. There are direct international flights available from major cities worldwide to the archipelago. The recommended time to visit the Maldives is the dry season from November to April. Be mindful of the monsoon season from May to October. Make sure to consult airlines and travel agencies for accurate and current information on weather advisories.

Getting around the Maldives by car isn’t the most common or practical mode of transportation. The country is a chain of islands with limited road networks. Due to the scattered nature of the islands, most of the local transportation relies on boats and seaplanes.

Some local islands have small road networks and offer car rental services. You can rent a car from local providers on these islands to explore the immediate surroundings. The luxury resorts located on the more popular and larger private islands often provide car rental services for their guests. 

By Public Transit

Taxis are a common means of transportation in the Maldives, especially in more populated areas. Visitors can find taxis at airports, ferry terminals and major tourist areas. It’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand and ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid any misunderstandings. Public buses operate on local islands with sufficient road networks, but services may be limited on less accessible routes. Check with locals or the island’s administration to plan for bus schedules and routes accordingly. 

Explore The Maldives on Foot

When visiting the Maldives, there’s no doubt that exploring the most beautiful areas on foot is top of the list. Some inhabited islands are small enough for leisurely strolls, so it’s important to wear comfortable footwear suitable for sandy terrain. Locals and accommodation staff often share popular local attractions and the best and safest walking paths.

Wear sunscreen and other sun protection as the tropical climate can be intense. If walking isn’t viable, there is local transportation, like dhonis or ferries for island hopping.

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Comprising 26 coral atolls and over 1200 islands, the overall land area of the Maldives archipelago is just twice the size of Washington DC. But with some of the finest deep sea diving on the planet (with visibility of up to forty metres), palm-fringed beaches, and the absence of any agriculture or industry, the Maldives has become the ultimate island getaway.

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10 days  / from 2900 USD

Two Paradise Islands

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime, all inclusive voyage exploring stunning sunny beaches of a nation of islands in the Indian Ocean, that spans across the equator.

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Luxury Sri Lanka and The Maldives

A perfect combination, Sri Lanka and the Maldives offers a luxury twin-centre trip of a lifetime. Experience Sri Lanka's cultural treasures and spectacular natural beauty; then take a short flight and a speedboat ride to the Maldives for some luxurious days on soft white-sand shores.

With spectacular dive and snorkel sites, as well as dozens of island resorts to choose from, the Maldives make the perfect beach extension to your tailor-made trip to Sri Lanka . Get in touch with a local expert today to plan, book, and execute your own tailor-made trip .

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WELCOME TO OUR MALDIVES TRAVEL GUIDE

Southwest of India, you will find the endless teal blue waters that make up the 26 Atolls of the Maldives. The Maldives offers incredible luxury and exclusivity that is unlike any other destination in the world. It is no surprise that the Maldives is known for being one of the world’s best honeymoon destinations, with its expansive, private bungalows perched above the waters edge or dotting the white sand. Hotel development has expanded significantly in recent years, providing luxury experiences for all price ranges.

Things to See and Do in the Maldives

“Perfect blue waters”

“Never ending sunsets”

What to know.

We recommend a minimum of 4 nights in the Maldives, overall. Depending on where you fly from, the journey is long and there is typically an additional fee to get to your hotel from Malé. Therefore, 4+ nights is recommended to make the trek worth it.

Our personal recommendation is to either:

• Spend 4 nights at one hotel
• Spend 9-10 nights and stay at 2 different hotels

The majority of luxury hotels are on their own secluded island in a larger Atoll. The closest hotels to Malé are accessible by speedboats (transfers costing $70+) and the transfers are organized through the hotel. Hotels outside the vicinity of Malé will require a plane transfer (typically through sea plane arranged by the hotel). When selecting hotels, be sure to account for transfer costs in your budget as well as the airline the hotel uses.

There are two airlines that operate sea planes in the Maldives:  Maldivian Air  and  Trans Maldivian . If you are hoping to stay at more than 1 hotel, review the properties these airlines fly to and align to that airline to avoid needing to transfer back to Malé before going to your next hotel. This can save you time and money, so check with your hotels in advance. Also note, a few luxury hotels operate their own seaplane and do not operate through Maldivian Air or Trans Maldivian, such as Cheval Blanc.

It’s important to remember that once you are at your hotel, there is nowhere to go. All your meals will be served at the property as there is no “town” to go to. When considering your resort, be sure to take into account the higher cost of food due to import taxes in the Maldives. Many hotels offer packages that typically offer breakfast or breakfast and dinner. These can typically be a great deal.

Note about alcohol:

Alcohol is available at the resorts, but alcohol is not allowed in the capital city of Malé. There is no duty free at the airport and you are not allowed to bring liquor into the country. You will need to purchase alcohol at your island resort.

Since the majority of hotels are on their own private island, most of them have a great gift shop where you can purchase clothing, accessories, items you have forgotten and other trinkets. There is no other shopping available and duty free upon departure from Malé international is limited.

Some hotels focus more on Maldivian culture than others, but in some hotel shops, you can find traditional lacquer goods, weaved goods and other crafts.

The Maldives is governed by a conservative Islamic government, and therefore, Alcohol is illegal to bring into the country via checked luggage. Since resorts are on their own islands throughout the Maldives, guests remain unaffected by conservative laws. However, it is important to note that if you spend any time in Malé or populated islands, dress conservatively in town and at your resort, do not sunbathe topless. We found Maldivians to be incredibly generous, kind and service-minded throughout our experience in the Maldives.

Travel Guide | Maldives

Explore the Maldives in 2024 with ease! Download our essential 35-page Travel Guide for everything you need to know before you book. Your Maldivian adventure starts here!

Typical costs

The Maldives is unlike anywhere else in the world for a number of reasons. It’s important to consider all the costs that go into your trip to avoid trouble along the way.

Of course, there are the international flights and standard hotel charges- but it doesn’t end there. As you look up room rates and hotels online, we encourage you to look into the cost of the transfers, before committing to a particular property. It’s common to see rates from $100-250 USD for boat transfers per person and anywhere from $450-600 USD for flight transfers per person.

Once on property, it is unlikely that you will be traveling anywhere for any meals. Most properties offer all-day dining at a number of restaurants, so we encourage you to look at restaurant and bar prices to ensure they align with your budget. Many properties offer meal plans that may be a good option for your vacation. The common packages are:

Breakfast: This rate only includes breakfast for two

Half-Board: Includes breakfast & dinner as well as soft drinks (and 90% of the time, water)

Full-Board: Includes breakfast, lunch & dinner as well as soft drinks (and 90% of the time, water)

All-inclusive: Includes all meals, snacks and alcoholic beverages.

If you are considering meal plans, be sure to look at the terms & conditions to ensure you have access to the restaurants onsite that you are looking for. It is common to be allowed into only 1 or 2 restaurants, even thought they may have 4 or 5. We recommend finding hotels that allow you to try a variety of restaurants, particularly if you are staying for more than a few days.

Suggested daily budget – What you won’t expect from the Maldives is that you can find accommodations ranging across any budget. There are beautiful little guest houses for around $100 USD, all the way up to $1,000+ USD. Pro Tip: look for all-inclusive packages for a hassle free vacation.

When to Travel Maldives Seasons

While there is no bad time to go to the Maldives, the best time to visit is between November and April. High season falls between December and March, resulting in higher prices but optimal weather. Monsoon season runs from May to October, peaking around June. The northern atolls have highest rainfall May-Nov; the southern atolls from Nov-Mar.

Travel Tips

Luxury hotel reviews.

Check out some of our favorite Maldives resorts and what we like and don’t like about each of them. 

Hotel Review: Milaidhoo Island, Maldives

When I reflect on our stay at Milaidhoo, the only thing that pops into my mind is the word: perfection.

Hotel Review: Niyama Private Islands, Maldives

Landing in the seaplane at the Niyama dock was like stepping onto the movie set of Avatar.

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Looking for information on Niyama Private Islands Resort in the Maldives? Find out what we loved in this review!

Video Review: Lux South Ari Atoll, Maldives

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Hotel Review: Lux South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Lux South Ari Atoll was our third and final stop in the Maldives as well as our longest hotel stay.

Hotel Review: The Residence, Maldives

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Hotel Review: Heritance Aarah, Maldives – All Inclusive

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Video Review: Heritance Aarah, Maldives All-Inclusive

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Transfers in the Maldives can be one of the trickiest parts of your vacation planning, and if you’re not prepared for, a big shock when it comes to pricing. In this guide, we will share the most common ways to

Hotel Review: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

Anantara Kihavah is one of the most well-known resorts in the Maldives for its incredible, lush island and unique activities. We were elated to finally have the chance to experience Anantara Kihavah on our recent trip to the Maldives and

Hotel Review: Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands, Maldives

The much anticipated opening of the Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands had us extremely excited. This modern, architectural marvel blends into its surroundings, while still managing to look a lot like a Bond villain’s private island. The food & beverage, style and

Hotel Review: Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

When you think about the Maldives, Hard Rock is likely not the first hotel name that roles off your tongue. However, Hard Rock, part of the Crossroads Marina complex is bringing a new type of vacation to the Maldives and

Hotel Review: SAii Lagoon, Hilton Curio Collection, Maldives

Hilton has had a presence in the Maldives for many years, and until now, their properties have been a pipe dream for most travelers. However, Hilton recently opened a new, far more approachable hotel in the Maldives.

Hotel Review: Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Soneva Fushi is one of the most “insta-famous” hotels in the Maldives, and for good reason. Soneva Fushi offers a unique, Swiss Family Robinson experience.

Hotel Review: Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive

Emerald Maldives has taken on a true all-inclusive experience without nickel-and-diming you for every last cent.

Video: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Hotel Review and Room Tour

Anantara had been on our list for SO long, we were so happy to finally have the chance to experience it - and spoiler alert, it did not disappoint.

Video: Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands, Maldives Hotel Review

We were ecstatic to experience the BRAND NEW Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands in the Maldives this September and it was an incredible experience. Here's everything you need to know, before you book.

Video: Hard Rock Maldives Room Tour

At Voyager Guru, we LOVE brand new hotels and we were pumped to experience the brand new Hard Rock Maldives hotel. We had the chance to tour their different room types.

Video: Emerald Maldives Resort and Spa Hotel Review – All Inclusive!

Emerald Maldives has taken on a true all-inclusive experience without nickel-and-diming you for every last cent. Read on to find out what you need to know, before you go!

Hotel Review: JA Manafaru, Maldives

JA Manafaru is located at the far northern tip of the Maldives, in fact, it’s the farthest north luxury hotel in the Maldives. We were extremely excited to experience this gem.

Hotel Review: Paradise Island Resort & Spa, Maldives

On our last trip to the Maldives, we were invited to experience Paradise Island, a Villa Hotels property, as they are undergoing an exciting renovation just 15 minutes from Malé.

Hotel Review: Sun Island Resort & Spa, Maldives

Sun Island is one of the largest and oldest properties in the Maldives and located in a pristine lagoon that literally is what dreams are made of.

Hotel Review: Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort, All-Inclusive

As an Accor hotels property, we had always felt confident in the quality based on our experience in the Gaafu Alifu atoll of the Maldives.

Hotel Review: Park Hyatt Hadahaa, Maldives

The Park Hyatt Maldives is without a doubt one of the most pristine islands we have seen in the Maldives when it comes to a stunning, uninterrupted reef.

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Hotel Review: Cora Cora All-Inclusive Resort, Maldives

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How to plan your trip

Planning a trip to the Maldives can be incredibly overwhelming. With hundreds of hotels and resorts spread across hundreds of islands, where do you even start? Our first recommendation is to set a budget for yourself. Consider what you’re willing to pay per night for your trip (and be sure to include a transfer cost of $250-800 per person). This will automatically give you a great sense of the options available to you.

Next, if you plan to stay at multiple resorts, we recommend properties that use the same seaplane company or are within boating distance to minimize transfer times.

Be sure to reach out to us via email if you need help starting to plan your Maldives trip! We have amazing partnerships with brands in the Maldives and around the world that provide additional perks and benefits for booking.

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Voyager Guru

Maldives Packing List: The ultimate guide to everything you should pack

Getting ready for the travel destination of your dreams? Nice! The Maldives is a paradise rivalled by few other places in the world. White sandy beaches, bluest of the blue waters and snorkeling and diving opportunities like no other! Prepare to be completely spoiled after your trip. This Maldives packing list is going to guide you through absolutely everything you will need to carry for the most awesome time on your vacation. At the bottom of this article, you can access a printable packing checklist (pdf) as an extra useful tool for your trip planning.

Disclaimer – Some products below contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I may earn a small commission if you buy from these links, but at no additional cost to you.

Things to know before you pack

Before you start packing for your epic Maldives vacation, these are some useful tidbits of information you need to know and keep in mind.

1. Weight limitations on seaplane

If you are going to catch a seaplane from the Male airport to your hotel island, note that weight limitations apply. These weight limitations are usually more restrictive than the international flights. In general, you can expect to have 20 kg check-in baggage allowance and 5 kg carry-on allowance. This means you will need to be a packing ninja! So, use this checklist to your advantage and pack away.

Don’t know if you will need a seaplane or a speedboat? Check out my post for all information you will need for your Maldives trip.

2. Sandals-free resorts

Some resorts have a policy of not allowing sandals and shoes. You are expected to be barefoot or use the hotel provided flip flops. To facilitate this, the hotel requests that you take off your footwear as soon as you step foot on the island. This is with the promise that they will return your shoes when you leave the island. They do this to encourage you to embrace your vacation right from the moment you step on sand!

3. Snorkel gear may be provided by your hotel for free

4. Make sure to carry Reef-safe sunscreen

Please carry and wear only reef-safe sunscreen. Normal sunscreen contains oxybenzone or octinoxate that are harmful to coral reefs. Coral reefs are critical to sustaining the marine ecosystem in the Maldives. After all, one of the reasons you are traveling there is to see the stunning corals and fish, right? Please do your part and do not use anything other than reef-safe sunscreen.

5. Be aware of drone regulations and limitations

If you plan on using your drone in the Maldives, note that you will need to register your drone and get special authorization from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and CAA . In addition, hotels will have their own rules and requirements for flying a drone on their island. In fact, a lot of high-end hotels do not allow flying a drone in the water villas to maintain privacy of their guests. So, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules you will need to abide by to fly a drone.

As a matter of fact, I would recommend forgoing a drone, given the strict baggage allowance. Instead, opt for a selfie stick and camera stand to get those up-from-above shots.

6. Buying things at the Male airport or Male

If you end up forgetting something in your packing, do not fret. You can buy items in the Male airport as well as in stores at your resort. I experienced a moment of panic when I forgot my sunglasses but was able to purchase a sweet pair of Raybans at the Male airport. The price of those sunglasses was comparable to what you’d pay at a department store in the US.

7. Weather in Maldives

The weather in Maldives is one of two: dry or wet. Read on below to know more about it. While you will mostly find it to be sunny and warm, bursts of rain are not uncommon. Make sure to carry appropriate clothing if you get caught in a tropical downpour. Also, note that this may happen at any time and season. In addition, the weather can change quickly during the span of a day.

8. Dressing style in the Maldives

The dressing style is very relaxed in the Maldives. Pack as you would for a typical beach destination. So, think flowy dresses, light breathable fabrics. Some resorts may require formal attire at their upscale restaurants. But, for the most part, you can expect beach casual dressing.

The only difference to note is Male. Be prepared to dress conservatively in Male when you take your transfer from the international flight to a seaplane or speedboat. More on that below.

Maldives Packing list: The Essentials

Here are the essential items you must carry on your Maldives trip!

1. Reef-safe Sunscreen

Reef-safe sunscreen should absolutely be at the top of your Maldives packing list! The best one I’ve used is this one . I can’t repeat this enough, but always use reef-safe sunscreen at locations where coral reefs grow.

2. Swimsuit

This one is an obvious one, but when you are in the Maldives, you gotta pack a couple (or 10!) of swimsuits, right? Go for blue for stunning photos, or red for a pop of color.

This one from Amazon is perfect for a beach destination while also providing adequate coverage.

My favorite color for swimsuits is blue or aqua. They make for stunning photos with the blue waters or sky as your backdrop.

3. Gear for water activities

If you can, carry your gear for any water activities you plan to experience. In particular, if you have a well-fitted snorkel mask, take it with you. This is especially true if you are a newbie snorkeler as nothing can ruin your first time snorkeling experience as a loose mask. Fins are less important but still crazy useful.

However, as noted above, check with your hotel in advance if they offer snorkeling gear for their guests for free.

If however, your hotel does not have equipment to rent, check out this snorkel I bought one a couple of years ago. And I have used it in every one of my snorkeling trips since then!

4. Medicines for tropical locations

Tropical destinations come with their fair share of unfortunate mishaps. So, carry antibiotic ointments and bug bite pain relievers as these can really help save your vacation.

5. Sunglasses with UV protection

Sunglasses with UV protection are the best for your eyes! Plus, you know, they’ll help you to actually be able to see things in the strong Maldivian sun. If you have prescription sunglasses , do not forget them!

6. Hair tie

If you have long hair and are going to be in the water, make sure to carry a hair tie. Having open hair in the water can be very distracting as it tends to float around your head. I would highly recommend tying those luscious locks of yours into a ponytail or a bun. Then, you can channel your inner mermaid/merman carefree.

This set of hair ties is fantastic for all types and lengths of hair (including for children).

7. Waterproof phone case

Since you will be spending time in the water, make yourself stress-free and get a waterproof phone case. That way, you don’t have to leave your phone behind on the beach when you jump into the ocean. And you can continue to click away while frolicking among the waves.

8. Rash guard shirt

Over time, I have come to realize the true value of rash guards. Rashes caused by sunburn are pretty common when you spend several hours of the day in the sun. I have used rash guards while snorkeling in the afternoons and my skin thanks me for it. Do yourself a favor and get one.

This one is a great option for women and this one for men.

9. Motion sickness medicine

Are you planning to take a boat ride? Or maybe a snorkeling or diving expedition? Or are you looking to go sailing at sunset? Do yourself a favor and carry motion sickness medicines.

Most people generally don’t foresee the importance of these meds until they are stuck hurling over the back of their boat. If the thought of your boat crashing and bumping over waves make you queasy, take them before you start from ashore.

10. Sandals

Sandals are great Maldivian accessories for all ages and genders. They are acceptable to be worn anywhere and keep you looking stylish but beach ready. However, make sure to check if your resort is footwear-free policy first!

11. Flip flops

This one should definitely be on your Maldives packing list. Flip flops go hand-in-hand with sandals and are great for lounging by the pool or the beach. Even while walking around your resort island, you will find yourself reaching for them often.

This pair of flip flops is equal parts fun and functional.

12. A book or Kindle

A good book is always on my list. I prefer a physical book, but a Kindle is equally engaging. I had the pleasure of lazing by my water villa’s plunge pool, sipping a glass of wine and getting some reading done. Sigh… that was memorable.

If a Kindle is more your vibe, I highly recommend this version of the electronic book. Its display is on point, and the battery life is long enough for plenty of days of reading under the sun.

13. GoPro or underwater camera

If you expect to spend time underwater in the Maldives (and you absolutely should!), take a GoPro or an underwater camera. The Maldives has unrivalled marine life. And the cool thing is, your resort will probably have some house reef easily accessible by guests. Throw on your swimsuit, head to the beach or down the steps from your water villa and start clicking away!

We use this GoPro for all our trips where snorkeling is involved! We have had the most fun looking at the photos and videos after our trips.

14. Camera stand

A camera stand is especially important if you are traveling solo. Or if you are traveling as a couple and want photos together but don’t want to ask for random strangers. I personally think a camera stand is super handy if you are a photography or videography enthusiast.

This one is a perfect add-on to your luggage and it’s fairly light-weight.

15. Packing cubes

One of the best ways to stay organized and maximize space in your luggage is to invest in packing cubes. They help remove the excess air from your luggage and keep your belongings organized.

Check out these ones that are perfect for your baggage.

16. Lip balm with SPF

Get some lip balm with SPF. Your lips can get sunburnt too. And that would make for a very unpleasant experience.

So, invest in these fantastic ones .

17. Nourishing moisturizer

The sun has its own way of wreaking havoc on your skin. Even though your hotel may provide you with moisturizer, it is best to carry some yourself. In the Maldives, your skin will be parched from the salty waters and strong sun. So, you will be glad to have a nourishing moisturizer to provide respite to your largest organ.

18. Aloe Gel

Admittedly, I have never been sunburnt to the degree that it requires skin repair. But I have seen it with my husband! Few things can wreck your fun on vacation time as sunburnt skin. But these things do happen.

Spare yourself the pain and carry this nourishing aloe gel that can offer your sunburnt skin some relief should you need it.

Don’t forget to pack a razor, such as this one . It’s one of those things that are easy to miss, and you’re left kicking yourself for forgetting it.

20. Optional: Light rain jacket

Now, this item is more of a nice to have. If getting wet in tropical rain does not appeal to you, carry a light rain jacket. Note that the temperature will not dip even during rains, so, your rain jacket should be light and unlayered.

Maldives Packing List for Women

These are the most important (and stylish ;)) items women should carry to Maldives.

1. Flowy dresses

No beach vacation is complete without some flowy, lightweight dresses! They transition well from day to night, resort to restaurants and look beautiful.

2. A clutch bag

Most evenings in the Maldives will be spent going for a nice dinner on your island. Hence, you should carry a clutch bag (or a small evening bag) as your dinner outfit accessory.

3. A straw bag

If a clutch bag is too formal for you, or you want some variety, get a straw or raffia bag. These nags are always in trend and pull together a beach look perfectly.

Bonus points if you can combine the straw bag and clutch bag trends to carry a straw clutch bag! That will be the only dinner bag you will need in the Maldives.

4. Nice white shorts

Shorts are a must on your Maldives packing list. Be it going for breakfast, lunch or a day out sailing, you will find yourself reaching for those often. They are also useful for doubling as a beach coverup. Pack a pair of white shorts and show off your tan!

5. Makeup and skincare

Makeup items I always carry on vacations are outlined in my carry-on bag article here. Essentials include some eye makeup, concealer, lip gloss, and highlighter. Specifically for a beach getaway, I also like to carry moisturizing skincare with SPF. The same goes for your hair too. Salty ocean water can be rough on your hair. Make sure to carry a conditioner for after the beach.

6. Sarong/beach coverup

No beach packing list would be complete without a beach coverup or sarong. Throw on one over your swimsuit, and you’ll look like a million bucks. They are also an awesome accessory for photos. Not to mention, making mad dashes from the pool to the slurpy stand nearby.

7. Hair accessories

I love carrying big, bold hair accessories on my beach vacations to have an extra element of drama on my photos. My favorite accessories are medium to big-sized bows and hair bands.

8. IG worthy sun hat

You know those wide-brim sunhats that continue to splash up on your IG? Pack one and look extra fabulous on your Maldives getaway!

Maldives Packing List for Men

These are the most important items men should carry to Maldives.

Shorts are super versatile for men as well. Not only can you go around the island or sailing in them, but also to restaurants. With regards to the color, white is always a safe bet. Except for those pesky times you are worried about dirt. In that case, khaki shorts are your friend.

2. Cotton or Linen shirts

To put together an easy outfit, pair the shorts with a linen or cotton t-shirt, and you will be ready for any event.

3. Khaki pants

Some resorts have high-end restaurants that may require formal-ish attire. When we were in Constance Halaveli, the Jing restaurant required guests to wear semi-formals. For that reason, your best bet would be to carry khaki pants in a breathable fabric.

4. Shaving kit essentials

Sport a well-groomed beard or a clean-shaven face for your vacation.

5. Slip-on shoes

The pair of shoes my husband swears by for travel are slip-ons. They are easily removed at the airport (in US airports you are required to remove your shoes). Additionally, they are easy to get in-and-out of at your hotel. They also double as semi-formal attire when you go for a fancy dinner.

You might be tempted to take your drone but bear in mind that most resorts do not allow a drone on the island. This is to protect the privacy of their guests.

Maldives Packing List for kids

Here are the items most useful and necessary for the kiddos.

1. Flotation device

For the young kiddos that are still learning to float or swim, don’t forget to pack an inflatable life jacket. With it, you will have the peace of mind to enjoy the waters with the tiny tots stress-free.

2. Kids snorkel mask

If you plan on doing activities like snorkeling with your kids, make sure to pack their gear. Especially snorkeling masks. A well-fitted rental one can be hard to come by, depending on the age of the little one.

3. Water shoes

While I’d recommend water shoes for everyone, this is especially true for kids. The snorkeling spots in the Maldives can often be rocky that the little ones might accidentally hit or rub against. Water shoes will protect their tiny feet against these mishaps.

4. Kid-friendly sunscreen

For young tots, make sure to read the labeling of your reef-safe sunscreen to ensure it is safe for use on young skin. Also, take care to have sunscreen with appropriate SPF.

5. A fun activity like a game or a book

Kids need to be kept entertained, no matter what. Pack a game or their favorite book to keep them busy for the downtimes that are bound to come up in any vacation. A tablet is also a good option.

Maldives Packing List: Other essential items

There are some additional travel essentials that should be a part of all travel trips. Check out my other article on carry-on items you should carry to get a complete picture of these essentials.

• Travel docs
• Cash – necessary for tipping
• Chargers for laptop, tablet, phone and watch
• Travel insurance
• Vaccine records, as needed

What to wear in Male

In your Maldives travels, you will need to fly into the capital city of Male. From there, you will need to take a seaplane or speedboat transfer to your hotel island. Now, you can wear anything you feel comfortable in at your hotel island, but you need to be aware of what should be worn in the Male airport during your transit.

• Flowy outfits covering arms and knees
• Long pants or leggings
• Full length jeans without rips or holes
• Half sleeve or full sleeve shirt
• Avoid tight and bulky clothing as it is quite warm

Maldives Packing List: Things to avoid

These are some items you should not carry to maximize your space and weight allowance for your luggage.

1. Lots of jewelry

Don’t carry too much jewelry to tropical beach destinations. First of all, you don’t need it. Secondly, they tend to stick to your skin, catch up with a sweat and just be unpleasant after a while.

2. High heels

Avoid high heels in the Maldives. As mentioned earlier, the dressing style there is casual. And your feet will thank you for not subjecting them to heels! If you desire a heigh boost, opt for a medium pair of block heels instead.

3. Warm clothing

Unlike some beach destinations like Hawaii that can experience cold weather, the Maldives are always warm. Skip the warm clothing to avoid adding unnecessary bulk to your baggage.

4. Tight clothing

The Maldives weather is hot and sticky for the most part. Do not carry tight clothing with you. For example, skip the skinny jeans and opt for a pair of straight or wide leg jeans instead. Better yet, go for lightweight linen pants, or dresses.

As mentioned above you may want to avoid carrying a drone. Read the fine print of your hotel properly. Most 4+ star properties do not allow flying a drone in their premises to protect the privacy of their guests. You will also need to get special permits from the government.

Since the Maldives is a Muslim country, importing alcohol is prohibited. You can drink alcohol in the resorts but not in places like Male with a predominantly local Muslim population.

7. Pork items

Similar to alcohol, pork products are also prohibited. Note that most resort will have pork products in their culinary offerings, but those items will be clearly marked with a sign.

8. Religious items

Religious items are another prohibited group of products not allowed in the Maldives.

9. Regular towel

You should not carry a regular towel with you. Or any towel for that matter. You will get towels from your hotel. If you must have one, carry a quick-dry, sand-resistant towel instead.

When to visit the Maldives

The best time for visiting the Maldives is from November to early March. If possible, avoid the Christmas to New Years’ season. That time is very busy and there are high chances of the on-site hotel restaurants being fully booked. The beach at your hotel will also be busier. And not to mention it’ll be more expensive.

How long should you stay in the Maldives?

About  5-7 days  is the perfect amount of time to spend in the Maldives. That way, you will get plenty of time to settle down, get your bearings and start your ultimate relaxing vacation. Take your time to enjoy your room or villa. Soak in the pool or go check out the reefs (if your lagoon has any). Then, around days 3-5, you can explore the island, plan some activities and still have some downtime.

Also, I would recommend against changing villas during your stay as it can be a waste of time. When I am on vacation, I like to maximize my time chilling or experiencing something new. Changing hotel rooms in between can be time-consuming. With the difference between check-out and check-in timings of your hotel, you may need to plan the entire day around this. So, best to avoid it and pick a room that best works for your needs.

If you are hopping islands, I would add a day for travel, and at least a couple of days at each island to get the best experience.

Where to stay in the Maldives

If you are visiting the Maldives for a special occasion and it fits your budget, I would recommend staying in a water villa. Even if it’s for a few days. The Maldives offers world-class hotels and if you’ve been waiting to splurge with loved ones for a dream vacation,  this is it .

If you are on a budget though, fret not. There are still plenty of hotel options for you to choose from. My biggest tip would be to get a hotel close to the island of male. The further out it is, the more expensive it will get for you to reach the island, after factoring in the seaplane or boat transfer.

Luxury hotel:  Soneva Jani, Noonu

Mid-range:  Sun Island Resort and Spa, Maamigili

Budget:  Beach Star Maldives, Hangnaameedhoo

Free Printable Maldives Packing List

Here’s your free printable Packing List for the Maldives that I promised earlier! Print it and use it as a checklist as you pack your luggage. Bon voyage!

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Maldives itinerary – 3 affordable & spectacular itineraries you’ll love

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Looking for the best Maldives itinerary that you can actually afford?

Starting at only US $70 a day , this itinerary for Maldives includes everything and I’m here to show you what the price of paradise is really like for those on a budget.

Accommodation

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Each Maldives itinerary is designed to help you budget your trip in the most cost effective way possible. So there is no surprises and you are free to enjoy your epic getaway.

Wondering if the Maldives are as good as they say. Read – Is Maldives worth visiting: 21 convincing reasons

Hi, I’m Mel, a Travel Consultant who’s been travelling the world for over 20 years.

This is me in the Maldives March 2020 when the world suddenly turned turned upside down. It was my 4th year in a row to the tropical paradise, one of my favourite places on earth.

What you can expect- Maldives travel itinerary:

• How many days in Maldives – what's ideal

Cheapest time of year to visit Maldives

What are the biggest costs to consider for your itinerary for maldives, what type of maldives vacation are you planning, what is your ideal budget for maldives, maldives trip itinerary costs, day 7. transfer back to male international airport for your outbound flight, day 1 to 4 maldives resort, day 5 departure, day 6 to 10 – resort, conclusion to maldives itinerary – making it affordable.

• 3 x spectacular Maldives itinerary – choose based on your budget
• Ranging from 5 to 10 days
• Includes all types of accommodation – ranging from guest houses to beach front bungalows
• Estimated Maldives travel costs for each itinerary

Interested in the Cheapest Over Water Bungalows Maldives instead – click here

Each Maldives itinerary is fully adjustable and can be altered to suit your needs, so be sure to tailor it till you are fully happy with your decision. My aim is for you to have the best itinerary for Maldives.

Let’s face it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for many people, dreaming of a vacation to the Maldives, but of course you want to know the vacation to Maldives cost too. And if you are wondering if the pictures are exactly what you can expect – the answer is YES, it is as gorgeous as it looks.

Be sure to check out my ultimate budget guide to Maldives below

How many days in Maldives – what’s ideal

I’ll start with this – anything less than 5 days is way too short, especially if you are a first time visitor.

Unless you are on a whirlwind trip and have already visited another country nearby, I would never consider staying less than 5 days. It will go so quick and you’ll be wishing you had more time. I would rather choose a cheaper resort or room type than sacrifice days spent in the Maldives, but that’s the budget traveller coming out in me. You might be different.

Ideally, I think a 7 days to 10 day Maldives itinerary is absolutely ideal and if you can can afford longer, then lucky you.

Something to remember is this: for those who do go during the off season, the longer you stay the more chance of sunshine you will get. Though days of solid straight rain are not as common as sporadic rain, it can happen. So stay longer if you can. Also, many resorts get cheaper the longer you stay. Through much research I found that 5 days or longer starts to get cheaper per night.

I once met a couple on Bandos island who were only on the island for 2 nights. We spent US$1300 for 9 nights and they paid $900 for 2 nights, same room type. Ouch!

4 travel tips when deciding your Maldives itinerary

Mid December to April is the high season. It brings the best weather, light winds and lower humidity. But it also attracts the highest resort prices.

For this reason choosing to stay during the months of May to early December are your best chances of landing the best nightly rates on the islands resorts.

I have travelled twice during the high season and chose to stay on the local islands or the lower end resorts to save money. The prices don’t tend to fluctuate like the high end resorts. So if you really want to get your Maldives itinerary costs down then go out of high season.

Will going in the low season mean bad weather?

Not necessarily. But you may experience short to longer burst of showers during these time. The good news is, with the equator being so close, the Maldives is naturally warm all year round. So even if you can only go during the low season, you will be blessed with hot days and warm nights.

It is really a hit and miss situation because the Maldives islands cover such a huge area. On one island it could be raining and the island nearest has non stop sunshine. It has never stopped people from flocking to the Maldives, knowing that the sun always comes out eventually and swim suits are still the dress code.

These are your biggest costs for your itinerary for Maldives: flights, accommodation, transfers, food, alcohol and activities.

If flights from your part of the world are costly, I would get onto looking for deals immediately. That doesn’t mean booking the cheapest thing you see right now, but rather keeping a close check on the airlines and their sales and special deals over the next several weeks.

Be sure to read my Cheap Travel Hacks for money saving inspiration

As for accommodation, I book immediately, especially if I can get a free cancellation close to the departure date. Otherwise what happens is this: You find a great resort, a good price and sit on it not taking any action. Suddenly, it’s gone and the only way to stay on this particular island is to either change your dates, shorten your trip or upgrade to a much more expensive room type. Then you start kicking yourself for procrastinating for so long.

All my Maldives itineraries will in some way address getting these costs down by showing you the most affordable Maldives vacations.

Further reading: Planning a trip overseas you can actually afford

A honeymoon couple or someone celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary versus a family vacation or a dive trip are most likely going to be very different trip styles. Of course, sand, sea and fun are on everyone’s agenda right!

Most islands can cater to whatever your vacation style is. That’s another beauty of the Maldives. It seems to have everyone’s travel type covered.

But there are a few times where you might choose one island or location over another. This might include choosing an island with a house reef so you can snorkel right of shore without paying for a reef trip. That’s big money saved already. Or choosing a cheaper resort over an even cheaper local island because you want to enjoy nightly cocktails. (local islands don’t allow alcohol)

Having a budget in mind is going to make it much more easier to make that hard decision on which itinerary to choose. It also will give you an insight into what you can afford in the first place. It’s so easy to overspend and while for some it may be OK to expand the budget, for others you’ll need to hold tight.

There is nothing worse than regretting excessive overspend on a vacation and one that required you to produce a credit card.

One thing I can say for sure, whichever type of itinerary for the Maldives you choose, it is going to be epic!

All my Maldives trip itineraries are based on twin share accommodation and in US Dollars.

Most people who travel to the Maldives will do so with their loved one, relative or close friend. So sharing the costs of your accommodation is factored in.

You will see the breakdown as a per person cost.

Also, another important thing to mention is that flight costs are not included. This is because we are all coming from different parts of the world, and that means different airlines and costs.

I have never paid more than US$450 for my flights from Australia and that is because I travel on budget airlines such as Air Asia via Kuala Lumpur and Scoot via Singapore (owned by Singapore Airlines). But I have also used Cathay Pacific after getting an incredibly good deal.

For those heading through Kuala Lumpur or Singapore you can read my budget guides and itineraries here.

• Singapore on a Budget
• Cheapest area to stay in Singapore
• Singapore 5 day budget itinerary
• 3 day Kuala Lumpur itinerary

Note: the local currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa though US dollars are used on Private Island Resorts. For local islands you can generally use either but most likely will receive change back in the local currency. Also, don’t expect an ATM on all local islands so be prepared and take cash.

For more travel tips on the Maldives check out my article below:

First time Visit to Maldives – read this first

OK, so let’s dive into these 5 spectacular & affordable Maldives itineraries.

Maldives itinerary 7 days – From USD $492 pp – local islands

This Maldives 7 day itinerary is perfect for:

Budget Conscious Travellers

Adventure travel

Couples , friends and family

Your 7 day Maldives itinerary

Day 1. Male City x 1 night

Arrive at Male International Airport before transferring to your hotel in Male city

Depending on your arrival time into Maldives, you have the rest of the day free. Check out the city on foot – you can read more below in the activity section.

Head to Lemon Grass restaurant for some simply delicious local food or purchase some easy snacks from the many grocers located on the island.

Directed located outside the Male Airport terminal is a line of water taxis waiting to take you into the city. The trip takes only 10 minutes to reach Male.

Alternately, ask your hotel for airport pick up. This may be a free service or a small fee. (no more than US$5 per person)

Total cost per person US $1.50

Hotel Octave is highly rated with deluxe double rooms, free WIFI, satellite TV and bottled water. Average price per night US $98

For current pricing – Hotels.com in USD / Hotels.com in AUD

Unima Grand is a 4 star hotel with ocean view rooms, breakfast included and free airport transfers. Average price US $130

For current pricing – Hotels.com USA site / Hotels.com Australia Site

Total cost per person (based on cheapest option) US$49

Enjoy a self guided tour around the city on foot, stopping at Grand Friday Mosque, Presidents Palace and the harbourside produce market, including the fish market.

Total cost per person – FREE

If you do prefer to take a guided tour of the city – you can read my post on the Male City Tour here at approx US $40 pp

A decent meal out in Male will set you back around US$10 per person. Bottles water is very cheap even in a restaurant and you wont pay much more then US $1.

Total Cost per person US $11

Day 2- 3 Maarfushi Island – 2 nights

It’s time to venture to Maafushi Island for the next 2 nights. Maafushi  is the most well known  local island  and is popular for the budget conscience. It is also one of the largest islands in the Maldives with 2,700 local residents. This busy local island is Maldives biggest tourist drawcard for water activities . Take your pick at what to do while here or simply enjoy the beach and save even more.

There is ample accommodation and restaurant options to choose from here.

Take the local ferry out to Maafushi Island. The trip will take around 90 minutes an cost a total of approx US $2.

You can either purchase your tickets on the day or arrange your hotel to organize if possible. An important note: tickets cannot be pre-purchased online but can be purchased in person at the dock. To avoid selling out I suggest showing up early or arranging tickets the day before.

Note: the local ferry runs daily except for Fridays – you will need to commute via speed boat if on a Friday.

Total Cost per person US $2

Alternative: want to upgrade to a speed boat transfer which only takes 20 minutes – add US $25 pp and contact the property in Maarfushi to arrange.

Choa Guest House – the cheapest rooms on the island. Includes double room, air con, free WiFi, private bathroom and FREE breakfast. Average price per night US $38

Nala Island Village rates nicely and includes deluxe double or twin room, free WiFi and FREE breakfast. Average price per night US $74

Total price based on the cheapest option US $38 per person for 2 nights

Maafushi has so many awesome water activities to choose from. I have budgeted up to $110 for activities here and on Fulidhoo so anything more will be extra. Click on the links to read more and see current pricing.

B est Maafushi activities under $30 

Half Day Snorkeling

Water sports – jet ski, paddle board, canoe

Banana Boat Ride

Best Maafushi Activities under $70

Half Day Snorkeling, Dophin Watching & Sandbar Excursion

Sunset Fishing with BBQ dinner

Kite Surfing & Wind Surfing

Wakeboard & Waterski

Romantic Beach dinner 

Best Maafushi Activities under $100

Single Scuba Dive including equipment

Full Day Snorkeling

Dolphin Quest Experience

Biyadhoo Island Resort Day trip

You will have plenty of choice for quality restaurants or easy take away options.

You hotel includes free breakfast so I suggest enjoying a hearty meal and eating cheap snacks for lunch from the local markets and grocers. A decent dinner shouldn’t set you back anymore than $10 to $15 per person.

Total cost of all meals US $20 per person per day = $40

Day 4 – 6 Fulidhoo Island – 3 nights

This gorgeous and low key island is your ticket to relaxation and chilled out vibes. The island is boasted as being the ‘best local island” in the Maldives. The small island has only a handful of guest houses so it feels like seclusion in comparison to Maafushi.

Take a dip at bikini beach and be sure to head down to the waters edge at dusk to watch and participate in feeding the sting rays.

Read my guide to Fulidhoo island here

Take the ferry from Maafushi to Fulidhoo Island – approx time 90 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the slow ride taking in the many island of the Maldives along the way.

Note: the local ferry only runs Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday

You can enjoy the sounds of the ocean and close proximity to the beach due to Fulidhoo being a smaller island.

Alkina Lodge includes double room with free WiFi and FREE breakfast. Average price per night US $92

Island break has twin rooms, private balcony , free WiFi and FREE breakfast. Average price per night US $110

For current pricing – Hotels.co m in USD / Hotels.com in AUD

Total cost based on cheapest option US $136 per person for 3 nights

The best activity on the island is most definitely the Swim with sharks + sandbar excursion. Don’t worry, these nurse sharks are harmless and you will be in the water with guides to help you. Then onto a secluded sandbar for where you can relax or do a spot of snorkeling. I did this half day trip and loved it.

You can arrange to book either through the dive centre of with your guest house host.

Total Cost per person US $50

If you prefer to spend your time in Fulidhoo relaxing, you can enjoy the many beaches including Bikini Beach and feeding the stingrays during the evening. You may even find free local entertainment happening at some of he restaurants during the evening.

As per Maafushi Island meal costs, Fulidhoo will be the same deal. Free breakfast, easy snacks for lunch and dinner at either your guesthouse (they make a great local meal) or a nearby restaurant.

You can find local meals such as a curry or a few western options. Each meal is generally served with rice, salad and a drink.

Total cost of all meals US $20 per person per day = $60

Speedboat Transfer to Airport from Fulidhoo Island to be organized by your guest house. Make sure you arrange this well in advance and make sure it lines up with your flight time. (if your flight is early you may need to transfer back to the mainland the day before)

Total cost US $50 per person

Want to know about Fulidhoo island – read my full review here: Best local Island Maldives

Consider what you should pack for a local island by reading The Best Maldives packing list – resorts and local islands

Maldives itinerary 5 days – From USD $750 + pp – luxe resort

This Maldives 5 day itinerary is perfect for:

Budget Honeymooners

Couples / anniversary / special event

Those on limited time wanting a most luxe affordable experience

Your Maldives itinerary 5 days

Before we get into the resorts it’s important to address how to get the best possible prices for this Maldives itinerary. Also, we want to include an activity, whether that be a water based adventure or a spa treatment. Alternately, you can opt out of an activity and put this toward alcohol instead.

All prices are at the lower end for a budget traveller, so if you can afford to indulge a little more you can easily add an extra night or another activity.

Things that will increase your spend include:

• going in the high season (mid December – end April)
• staying further out from the airport (increases your transfer cost by US $100 to $300 extra per person)
• upgrading to all inclusive rates
• upgrading your room type

That’s why I’ve included only the best resorts in this Maldives itinerary article that are still value for money. Remember, ALL the beaches in Maldives are divine but some offer a cheaper experience such as a “free: house reef (no paying for a snorkel excursion at $50+ each)

These are all the little things I take into account when choosing the right resort for the absolute best price.

Resort Islands to choose from

We look at 3 budget resorts that are great value for accommodation, transfers, meals and activities.

Basically, they are the best bang for your buck.

• Bandos Maldives- 5 star
• Eriyadu Island Resort – 4.5 star
• Embudu Village – 4 star

Transfers to resorts are organized by the resort. You cannot take a public boat. Generally, you will be contacted by the resort for your flight details and met at the airport for your transfer. Alternately, contact the resort at least 3 days prior to departure.

Bandos Maldives: speedboat transfer is 10 km from Male International and takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach.

Total Cost per person – US $94 round trip

Eriyadu Island Resort: speedboat transfer is 47 km from Male International and takes around 50 minutes to reach.

Total Cost per person US $165

Embudu Village: speedboat transfer is 11 km from Male International and takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach.

Total Cost per person US $78

Enjoy all the benefits of staying in a resort.

Bandos Maldives includes half board (breakfast & dinner)

• beach front room, free WiFi and free bottled water.

Average price per night US $270

Eriyadu Island Resort – includes half board (breakfast & dinner)

• seaview sky room , free WiFi and free bottled water.

Average price per night US $320

Embudu Village – includes half board (breakfast 7 dinner)

• beach Bungalow , free WiFi and free bottled water.

Average price per night US $285

The above resorts all have a HOUSE REEF.

This simply means you can snorkel to your heart’s content straight off the beach. The coral in the Maldives is some of the liveliest I have seen. But even better, Maldives have more aquatic life than I have encountered on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, the Red Sea, Egypt , Hawaii and the Caribbean. So save up to $45 – $50 having to pay for a snorkel trip off shore and go as often as you like. How amazing is that!

The above budget has allocated $100 per person for activities. You can increase or decrease that amount.

Into diving? Check out Bandos Resort for the best dive locations and dive shop

Choose from a water activity, spa treatment or cocktails at sunset.

To give you an idea, this is what you could get for up to $100 per person.

Bandos Maldives

55 minute massage (aromatherapy, Swedish, hot stone + more) $100

40 minute body mask or body Scrub $65

55 minute Facial $75

55 minute manicure $35 / pedicure $45

4 hour island hopping $45

3 hours Male City Tour $45

Sandbank Picnic $70

2 hour Sunset Dolphin Cruise $40

4.5 hour Night Fishing and beach BBQ $70

30 minute Glass bottom Boat $25

Single Dive $49.25 (dive packages available)

Eriyadu Island Resort

60 minutes massage (Swedish, Tropical, Aromatherapy, Hot stone + many more) $70 to $75 pp

60 minute body scrub (sandalwood, coconut) $65

60 minute Facial – $65 to $70

30 minute manicure and pedicure $25

Mask, Snorkel Fins $8 per day or just Mask and Snorkel $5 per day

60 minute SUP (stand up paddleboard) or kayak or windsurf $20

60 minutes Private Lessons – Windsurf $45 / Catamaran Sailing $65

15 minutes Banana Tube, Water ski, Wakeboard $30

Single dives starting from $52

Seafood Dinner $70 pp

Embudu Vilage

50 minute massage (Full Body Aromatherapy, Balinese, Detox +more) $81 to $86

40 minute Body Scrub $56

45 minute manicure $41

60 minute pedicure $46

60 minute facial $76

3 hour night fishing $24 pp

2 hour sunset dolphin cruise $32

2.5 hours Stingray city snorkel $35

6 hours Island hopping $48

1 hour kayak $10

1 hour windsurf or SUP $20

1 dive tank and weights $57

Breakfast & Dinner is included in the above resort prices.

The meals are buffet style and there is plenty of fresh and delicious choices to choose from. Depending on where you have previously travelled in the way of resorts, this is high quality produce and simply delicious.

I suggest snacking on fresh fruit, crackers, cookies, chocolate and whatever takes your fancy over lunch.

You can either purchase from the resort at extremely high prices ($5 small chocolate bar / $5 bag of crisps) OR pre purchase back in Male City before you head to the resort. Even the airport will be cheaper.

I generally can grab enough snacks from the mainland to last me 7 – 10 days for no more than US $20. So for your 5 days of lunches I would estimate around $10 to $15 per person.

For your final day, the resort will coordinate your departure time depending on your flight time. 

Costing breakdown for 5 days / 4 nights

Maldives itinerary 10 days – from usd $1270 pp – best of both worlds.

Want to extend your stay but not your wallet.

This Maldives 10 day itinerary is perfect for:

Those who want to extend their holiday but not their budget

Those who want to experience the luxury side of Maldives but also experience local culture

Your Maldives itinerary 10 days

5 nights local island / 4 nights resort

I suggest staying at a combination of a local island and a resort. That way you get the best of both worlds.

The following Maldives itinerary is based on combining a more luxe stay , even on the local islands. So that means faster transfers and highly rated hotels for a superior stay. But you can always opt for the cheaper side of accommodation for the local island which will cut your saving back at least $100 per person.

• local islands have much better deals on accommodation, meals & activities, while you still get to experience staying on a tropical island
• resorts give you that luxe experience you are most definitely wanting
• Combining the two helps extend your time while still being budget conscious

Day 1 to 5 – local island

For this Maldives itinerary we are using speed boat transfers over local ferry, just to make your trip a bit more luxe, but you can choose to save even more by taking the local ferry (which runs generally only every second day). Cost between $2 to $4 each way.

Local Islands to choose from

Maafushi Island – US $50 return per person

Suited to : Best island for water activities, cheap accommodation and eating out options. Also, those who don’t mind a bigger and busier island with more tourists.

Fulidhoo Island – US $90 return per person

Suited to : Small island offering a more secluded and quiet island experience. Great for shark dive and snorkel tours. Rated the “best local island” in the Maldives.

Rasdhoo Island – US $80 return per person

Suited to : those who enjoy a smaller and more secluded island. Great for dive enthusiasts and snorkeling off shore.

Thoddo island: US $80 return per person

Suited to: best island to explore. Rent yourself a bike and explore the larger island, passing though fruit plantations before stopping for a dip in one of the two tourist beaches on the island. Swimming and snorkeling are perfect in Thoddo.

Ukulhas Island: $100 return per person

Suited to: smaller island with a bigger tourist feel. Great restaurants, beaches and general vibe.

Maafushi Island – 5 night stay

Arena beach hotel : 4 star / rooms with balcony/ roof top pool / private beach / free WiFi / breakfast included

Average price per night US $157

Fulidhoo Island – 5 night stay

Island break hotel – 3 star / deluxe room / free WiFi / breakfast included

Average price per night US $107

Rasdhoo Island: 5 night stay

Rasdhoo Coralville – 3 star / deluxe room / free WiFi / breakfast included

Average price per night US $159

Thoddo Island – 5 night stay

Thoddo Inn – 3 star / double room / free WiFi / breakfast included

Average price per night US $150

Ukulhas Island- 5 night stay

Paguro Villa – 3 star / comfort room / free WiFi / breakfast included

This itinerary of allows $50 per person in activities of your choice. Spend more, spend less, it’s really up to you.

This could include a water sport, snorkeling tour or intro dive. Alternately, you could opt to save that money and just spend your time swimming and relaxing. It’s totally up to you.

Activity allocation $50 per person

With free breakfast, you only have to pay for lunch and dinner.

US $20 per person per day should be plenty to cover a delicious local meal . You might even save more by snacking only during the day, especially as the breakfast meals are quite generous.

Meal allocation $20 per person per day

Note: your 5 days in a resort are based on the same Maldives 5 day itinerary in this article.

You can always opt to increase your budget to include a full board or all inclusive rate. This generally includes alcohol and water sport activities (such as parasailing for example. ) I always find the all inclusive deal is quite a step up and may cost another $80 to $100 per person. It’s a lot of alcohol if that is all you are interested in. So for that reason I have not included this cost.

To give you a few ideas of combining islands – here are some sample itineraries:

All prices are in USD.

Example itinerary 1

Example itinerary 2

Example itinerary 3

One of the greatest things I love about the Maldives is that it’s so much easier to work out your Maldives travel costs.

How many times how you budgeted a destination and completely blown your budget out of the water. The Maldives are much easier as you kind of know what’s coming. And even if you do opt for a sunset cruise or a few cocktails each night, it’s not going to completely blind side you, as you’ve most likely pre paid every thing else.

For that reason, it’s the perfect location to set up a Maldives itinerary that works for you.

To get started, don’t forget to sign up to Hotels.com for your 10th night free. It will be well worth it on this trip.

My booking resources made handy:

CheapOAir – for cheap flights including all the budget airlines

Booking.com – the biggest range of hotels / apartments / entire homes

Hotels.com +plus get a free night for every 10 nights you save up.

Viator – for day tours from a range of tour suppliers

Klook – for all your entry tickets plus skip the line

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6 great cruises that will take you to the Maldives

Located in the Indian Ocean, about 600 miles south of India , the Maldives is known for stunning white-sand beaches, impossibly clear blue waters and dozens of over-the-top luxury resorts.

If you're thinking about a Maldives trip , you'll want to look closely at these resorts, some of which promise pampering and privacy of a sort found in few other destinations on Earth. Many of them, including the recently reviewed JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa and the W Maldives , feature overwater bungalows -- a signature feature of high-end properties here. They often are set on their very own private islands, only reachable by seaplane or boat. Exclusivity is the watch word.

But there is another, lesser-known way to visit to the Maldives that you might want to at least consider: A cruise.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

The Maldives is definitely not a major destination for cruise ships. Only a handful of vessels visit the archipelago each year. But those that do often arrive as part of unusual, long-distance itineraries that will let you visit not just the Maldives but other destinations in the region such as the Seychelles and Sri Lanka in a single trip -- all while only having to pack and unpack once.

Cruise lines that sail to the Maldives

The lines operating cruises to the Maldives vary every year. Holland America, Oceania Cruises, Ponant and Costa Cruises are among the operators that send ships to the destination most often. Seabourn Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line also have sent vessels to the Maldives recently, or have at least one ship scheduled to visit in 2020 or 2021.

In some cases, the vessels are just passing through the region while in the midst of epic, around-the-world voyages. Holland America's 1,380-passenger Amsterdam, for instance, will visit the Maldives in April as part of a 128-day, globe-circling sailing out of Fort Lauderdale , Florida, that began in January. The voyage also includes ports in South America , Australia and Africa .

Other vessels stopping in the Maldives are on Indian Ocean-focused itineraries. One example is a seven-night Costa Cruises voyage beginning in Male, the capital of the Maldives, on Feb. 22 that includes two days in the Maldives, a day in Sri Lanka, and three days in India.

The line that traditionally has offered the most in-depth voyages around the Maldives is Ponant, a France-based company that specializes in upscale, small-ship voyages to exotic locales. It sometimes runs trips that are almost completely centered on the Maldives and include visits to half a dozen of the archipelago's 26 atolls.

Planning a trip to the Maldives? Visit TPG's Maldives destination hub for more stories about traveling to the region on points and miles, where to stay and what to do while there.

The pros and cons of a cruise to the Maldives

If it's a classic Maldives experience you crave -- days spent relaxing on pristine beaches, swimming, snorkeling, diving and splurging on spa treatments -- a cruise is generally not the best choice. You'll want to fly to the Maldives and spend extended time at one or more of its many island resorts instead.

In most cases, cruises that touch the Maldives only include a brief stay at the island nation -- and we mean brief! Many ships that stop in the Maldives as part of broader Indian Ocean sailings only do so for a single day. Others will stay for two days, which isn't much better if your goal is to get a true sense of the archipelago's spectacular beaches, coral reefs, diving spots and other allures. Much more rare are cruises that feature up to a week in the destination.

In general, cruises that include the Maldives are best for travelers who just want a quick sampler of the destination and other hot spots around the Indian Ocean such as the Seychelles and Goa, India , in one easy-to-book, easy-to-manage trip. On a cruise, you sometimes can visit three, four or even five places in the region in just a week or two, with someone else figuring out all the logistics.

The downside, of course, is that you'll get very little time in any one place.

For the coming year, the only major cruise line that has voyages with extended time in the Maldives on its schedule is Ponant. Featuring visits to half a dozen destinations around the archipelago, the line's Essential Maldives trips offer vacationers the chance to see more of the destination in a week than would be possible staying at a land resort.

Another more in-depth "cruise" around the Maldives is a multiday trip on one of several liveaboard diving boats that call the Maldives home.

Here, we take a closer look at the best cruises and cruise-like itineraries to the destination:

The "Essential Maldives" with Ponant

By far the most interesting Maldives itinerary currently on the market is the eight-night Essential Maldives routing offered by Ponant. Nearly every day of the itinerary brings a stop at a different Maldivian atoll -- six in all -- for snorkeling, scuba diving, beach-going, wildlife watching and other pursuits. The routing thus offers a broader exploration of the Maldives than you can get from staying at any one land resort or even several resorts.

The itinerary includes a day at Baa Atoll, one of the archipelago's wildest corners. Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Baa is known for its globally significant biodiversity including stony and soft corals, reef fish, marine turtles, manta rays and whale sharks.

There's also a day scheduled for Rasdhoo Atoll, a hot spot for scuba diving and snorkeling where passengers can see hammerhead sharks as well as rays and turtles. The four other atolls on the itinerary are Noonu, Ari, Mulaku and Male.

Ponant typically operates just a couple departures of the itinerary each year on one of its small, yacht-like Explorer Class ships. Holding just 184 passengers, the vessels are designed for off-the-beaten-path "expedition" cruising. They have Zodiac boats on board for landings and an aft marina for water sports. They famously have an underwater lounge called the Blue Eye.

Ponant currently has just two departures of this Maldivian itinerary open for booking, starting on Jan. 25, 2021, and Feb. 2, 2021, respectively. The voyages are one-way between Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Male in the Maldives. Fares start at $4,410 per person, not including $900 in port taxes. For more information, call 888-400-1082 or visit us.ponant.com .

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A short visit to the Maldives with Oceania Cruises

Ships operated by upscale line Oceania Cruises typically stop in the Maldives two or three times a a year as they move between Europe, Africa and Asia.

Usually, these Oceania vessels only will stay in the Maldives for two days — typically in the capital, Male — as they make their way across the Indian Ocean. As a result, passengers on the sailings only get a tiny taste of the destination.

On the flipside, these cruises offer a chance to see not just a slice of the Maldives but also multiple places around the Indian Ocean in one relatively quick and easy trip.

Oceania's 684-passenger Nautica, for instance, will visit Male for two days in February 2021 as part of a 30-day voyage from Cape Town, South Africa, to Singapore. In addition to four stops in South Africa and a visit to Mozambique, the sailing will include calls at such Indian Ocean draws as Reunion Island, Mauritius and the Seychelles (for two days). Stops in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia round out the voyage.

Fares for the Nautica trip start at $8,299 per person, including government fees and taxes. For more information, call 855-335-2609 or visit oceaniacruises.com .

A quick trip to the Maldives with Holland America

One of the more unusual Indian Ocean voyages on the schedule for the coming year is a 20-day Holland America sailing out of Singapore.

The round-trip itinerary pairs four stops in Malaysia and a single day in Phuket, Thailand, with a multiday visit to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

As is the case with the Oceania sailing mentioned above, the Holland America voyage only includes two days in the Maldives. But there's a twist to the visit: In addition to a day stop in the capital of Male, the stopover includes a day in Utheemu, also known as Haa Alif Atoll. The latter is rarely visited by cruise ships.

The voyage will take place on Holland America's 1,258-passenger Maasdam. It kicks off Jan. 24, 2021.

Fares start at $2,999 per person, not including up to $210 in taxes and fees. For more information, call 855-932-1711 or visit hollandamerica.com .

A diving cruise on a floating Four Seasons

If you're a diving enthusiast, one of the top ways to cruise around the Maldives is a trip on the private Maldives diving yacht operated by Four Seasons . (Yes, that Four Seasons.)

Dubbed Four Seasons Explorer, the 11-cabin catamaran sails three- and four-night trips between two Four Seasons resorts in the Maldives: The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. Customers also can string together the two itineraries to create a seven-night loop.

Featuring stops in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the trips are aimed specifically at divers, with opportunities for three dives per day, plus occasional night and sunrise dives.

Four Season Explorer is billed as the fastest and most luxurious dive vessel in the Maldives. Capable of carrying up to 22 passengers, it has its own PADI Five Star diving center, comfortable cabins with en suite bathrooms, a main dining room and plush open-plan lounges. In addition to diving during sailings, passengers can sign up for spa treatments on uninhabited isles and take part in island barbecues, stargazing, sunset fishing and water sports.

Four Seasons Explorer cruises can be combined with a stay at one of the Four Seasons resorts in the Maldives to create an extended Maldivian vacation. Note that the spa at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru just made our list of the seven best spas in the Maldives .

Fares start at $2,550 per person for a three-night cruise, not including a 12% goods and services tax and 10% service charge. For more information, call 800-819-5053 or visit fourseasons.com .

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A cruise from the US to the Maldives

Yes, you can get all the way to the Maldives and back from the United States by ship. There are just two big caveats: First, you need to block out more than 100 days for the trip. Second, the opportunity doesn't come up very often -- usually just once every year or two.

The opportunity arises when a cruise line unveils an around-the-world voyage beginning and ending in the U.S. that includes a visit to the Maldives.

As of the publishing of this story, there are just two such voyages open for bookings:

• Oceania Cruises plans a 196-day around-the-world sailing from Miami departing on Dec. 21, 2021 that includes a one-day call in the Maldives. The trip, on the 684-passenger Insignia, ends July 5, 2022 in New York. Fares start at $42,199 per person.
• Crystal Cruises has scheduled a 116-day around-the-world voyage from Miami departing on Jan. 17, 2022 that also includes a one-day call in the Maldives. The trip, on the 980-passenger Crystal Serenity, ends in Miami on May 13, 2022. Fares start at $37,097 per person.

Smaller segments of both trips also are available for booking.

Nobody goes on these around-the-world voyages just to see the Maldives, of course. The typical around-the-world cruise includes stops at dozens of countries on multiple continents. But, if you're looking to add the Maldives to your country count while visiting an array of other nations, too, all while never boarding a long-haul flight, these two sailings are the cruises for you.

Planning a cruise for 2020? Our planning guide starts here:

• The 8 most exciting new ocean ships of 2020
• The most exciting new river ships of 2020
• 6 new cruise itineraries you should book right now
• The best cruise lines for solo travelers
• Comparing Carnival, Disney and Royal Caribbean for families
• 5 cruise lines to try if you just can't stand being around kids on vacation

• Destinations

A Memorable Adventure to Paradise: The Maldives Voyage

Immerse yourself in the beauty of a tropical paradise in the the Maldives Voyage , an enchanting archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives are world-renowned for their stunning landscapes, colourful marine life, and pristine blue seas. A trip there is like no other, providing an unmatched combination of tranquilly, luxury, and stunning natural beauty.

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Why maldives.

The distinctive one-island-one-resort model is what makes the Maldives special. Every resort is located on its own little island, providing guests with a haven away from the crowds and noise of the mainland. Overwater bungalows and villas, typical of the islands, put visitors in close proximity to the water.

The Maldives, a collection of coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination for many travelers. Here are compelling reasons why you should consider the Maldives for your next vacation:

• Exquisite Natural Beauty: The Maldives is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty. Each of its over 1,000 islands is a tiny piece of paradise, featuring white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical greenery. The scenery is postcard-perfect, offering a serene and breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and photography.
• Unique Island Resorts: The Maldives is famous for its one-island-one-resort concept. Each resort occupies its own private island, providing an exclusive and secluded experience. This privacy makes it a perfect choice for romantic getaways, honeymoons, or anyone seeking a retreat from the busy world.
• Overwater Bungalows: A signature feature of Maldivian resorts is the overwater bungalow, allowing guests to stay directly above the ocean. These accommodations often come with glass floors, private pools, and direct access to the water, making for a unique and luxurious living experience.
• World-Class Diving and Snorkeling: The Maldives is a top destination for underwater enthusiasts. The clear, warm waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and a rich diversity of marine life including sharks, rays, and hundreds of species of fish. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner snorkeler, the underwater world of the Maldives is not to be missed.
• Water Sports and Activities: Beyond diving and snorkeling, the Maldives offers a plethora of water-based activities. From paddleboarding and kayaking to jet skiing and windsurfing, there’s something for everyone who loves the ocean.
• Luxury and Pampering: Maldivian resorts are synonymous with luxury. They offer world-class amenities, including spa services, gourmet dining, and personal butler services. The level of pampering and attention to detail ensures a stay that is as relaxing as it is luxurious.
• Sustainable Tourism: Many resorts in the Maldives are committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. This includes initiatives like coral reef protection, renewable energy use, and water conservation, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free vacation that respects the environment.
• Cultural Experiences: While the resorts are a world of their own, the Maldives also offers rich cultural experiences. Visits to local islands provide a glimpse into the Maldivian way of life, with opportunities to try local cuisine, observe traditional crafts, and interact with the friendly locals.
• Ideal for Everyone: Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon destination, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, the Maldives caters to all. The islands offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, luxury, and natural beauty that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
• Accessibility and Safety: The Maldives is accessible from major international airports, with most resorts just a short seaplane or speedboat ride from the capital, Malé. Additionally, the country is known for its political stability and safety for tourists, making it a worry-free destination.

When to Go on an Adventure in the Maldives

The months of November through April are ideal for setting off on this tropical adventure due to the pleasant weather. This time of year is ideal for outdoor pursuits and leisurely strolls because of the less precipitation, reduced humidity, and bright sky. May through October is the best time to visit if you are a marine life lover, particularly if you want to see whale sharks and manta rays.

Discover a Wide Range of Exciting Activities

Underwater Adventures: Scuba divers consider the Maldives to be among the best places in the world to do scuba diving. Its pristine waters open up a world of breathtaking coral reefs inhabited by an abundance of exotic fish, turtles, and sharks.

Exciting Water Activities: From the heart-pounding jet skiing to the meditative paddleboarding, the Maldives have an abundance of exciting water activities.

Resorts with spas and wellness centres: Rejuvenate your body and soul with opulent spa treatments that use traditional Maldivian practices.

Cultural Insights: A trip to the islands is the best method to learn about Maldivian culture and customs. On these tours, you may experience authentic local music and dance while learning about the history, customs, and food of the nation.

Dedication to Promoting Eco-Friendly Travel

The Maldives has been at the forefront of sustainable tourism since it realised it was susceptible to environmental problems, especially increasing sea levels. To keep the islands beautiful for years to come, many resorts take measures such as protecting coral reefs, managing garbage, and conserving energy.

Dreaming of a Trip to the Maldives?

The Maldives offers a diverse choice of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Guests may choose from a wide range of accommodations, including private villas with every imaginable amenity and more affordable guesthouses on nearby islands.

Reaching the Goal: The international airport at Malé serves as the primary entry point to the Maldives. From there, guests may have a picturesque introduction to the islands on a seaplane or speedboat ride to their resort.

Financial Factors to Evaluate: The Maldives may be thought of as a destination for ultra-wealthy vacationers, but there are plenty of affordable choices to choose from. Getting great rates requires some forethought and early booking.

Vacationing in the Maldives is more than that; it’s stepping into a realm of unparalleled beauty and serenity. Indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Maldives, perfect for honeymooners, families, or lone travellers looking for a getaway. Thanks to its eco-friendly policies, a vacation to the Maldives is more than just a chance to relax; it’s also a chance to help preserve the world’s most remarkable ecosystems.

The Maldives are a true paradise, so start making plans to visit as soon as possible. There, you will find that every minute is precious and every vista is a work of nature’s beauty.

For more visit: https://travelloguide.com/

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