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Assalaamu Alaikum އަސްސަލާމު ޢަލައިކުމް
Assalaamu Alaikum އަސްސަލާމު ޢަލައިކުމް
Welcome to The Maldives
Welcome to The Maldives
Luxury escapes, turquoise waters, pure bliss...
Luxury escapes, turquoise waters, pure bliss...
The Maldives, a constellation of 1,192 coral islands strewn across 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, is a tropical paradise where 540,000 souls dwell amid nature’s most dazzling canvas. Stretching 800 km south of India, this archipelago whispers tales of ancient mariners with its turquoise lagoons, powdery sands, and swaying palms heavy with coconuts.
It’s a land where the hum of dhoni boats ferrying fishers blends with the lapping of waves against overwater villas, and the muezzin’s call drifts over reefs teeming with manta rays and whale sharks. From the frenetic pulse of Malé’s fish markets to the barefoot luxury of Baa Atoll’s resorts, the Maldives is an intoxicating escape—whether you’re sipping fresh coconut water on a sandbank, snorkeling with sea turtles, or watching the horizon melt into a fiery sunset, this is island life distilled to its purest, most mesmerizing form.
Finding All The Right Places
Finding All The Right Places
We've compiled a helpful map showing all of the attractions we've detailed throughout the guide.
Click on the icon at the top left of the map to open the Attractions menu.
Click on one of the numbered waypoints to open details about that attraction.
You can also expand the map using the icon at the top right of the map.
You can also click the icon at the top right of the details pane for directions when you're there.
Best Flights to The Maldives This Year
Best Flights to The Maldives This Year
The Maldives’ gateway is Velana International Airport (MLE) on Hulhulé Island, 2 km northeast of Malé, a compact yet bustling hub perched on the edge of the Kaafu Atoll, surrounded by shimmering seas.
Malaysian Airlines: Fly with Malaysian Airlines for a seamless, affordable experience. Their Maldives-bound flights offer top-tier service and competitive pricing. Book your flights now!
Expedia: Are a great option for searching for the perfect flights from practically any location on earth. Search for your flights now!
See our Flights page for more options.
Popular Airlines and Routes
From Europe: London, Paris, or Frankfurt flights range $600–$1,200 (10–14 hours) with Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Turkish Airlines—typically one stop via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul; British Airways flies direct from London Gatwick, a rare 11-hour treat.
From the U.S.: New York or L.A. to Malé costs $900–$1,800 (20–28 hours) via Emirates, Singapore Airlines, or Etihad—one or two stops in Dubai, Singapore, or Abu Dhabi; no directs from the mainland, though connections via London or Istanbul add flair.
From Asia: Singapore or Colombo flights run $200–$500 (4–5 hours) with Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, or Maldivian—direct options galore from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Delhi, with budget carriers like AirAsia keeping it cheap.
From Australia: Sydney or Perth to Malé is $600–$1,300 (11–16 hours) via Qantas, Singapore Airlines, or Emirates—one stop in Singapore or Dubai; Perth sees occasional directs with Malindo Air, cutting it to 9 hours.
When to Book for the Best Deals
Dry season (Nov–Apr) dazzles with clear skies and peak crowds—book 3–4 months ahead to snag fares under $1,000 from Europe or $1,500 from the U.S. Mid-week flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) can slice $50–$200 off, especially on long-hauls. Wet season (May–Oct) ushers in rain, fewer tourists, and lush atolls—watch for monsoon-end sales from SriLankan Airlines or dry-season kickoffs from Emirates to save big.
Maldives Travel Tips
Airport Transfers: From MLE, speedboats to nearby resorts (South Malé Atoll, North Ari) cost $100–$300 USD (15–60 minutes)—resorts arrange seamless rides. Seaplanes to far-flung atolls (Baa, Noonu) run $250–$500 USD (20–90 minutes)—book via Trans Maldivian Airways for postcard-worthy flights. Domestic flights to local islands like Gan or Hanimaadhoo are $100–$200 USD (30–60 minutes)—pre-book via Expedia (#affiliate-link). Malé’s a 10-minute ferry hop (20 MVR/$1.30 USD) or a $15 USD taxi bridge ride—cash only for the ferry!
Visa Requirements: All nationalities score a free 30-day visa on arrival—bring proof of onward travel (e-ticket) and a confirmed stay (resort or guesthouse booking). Extensions to 90 days cost 750 MVR/$49 USD at Malé’s immigration office—plan ahead if island-hopping.
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Top Places to Stay in The Maldives
Top Places to Stay in The Maldives
Whether you’re traveling on a shoestring budget or looking for high-end luxury, the Maldives offers accommodation to suit every type of traveler. From city center luxury hotels to countryside Chateau's, here are our top recommendations:
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See our Accomodation page for more options.
Where to Stay: Hotels in The Maldives
The Maldives offers a spectrum of stays—luxe resorts on private atolls or guesthouses on inhabited islands—each with its own slice of paradise.
Budget: Kaani Grand Seaview in Maafushi (2,000–4,000 MVR/$130–$260 USD/night) delivers beachfront charm on a lively local island—think affordable snorkeling trips and sunset beers. Plumeria Maldives in Thinadhoo (1,800–3,500 MVR/$117–$227 USD/night) mixes cozy rooms with Vaavu Atoll’s laid-back vibe—perfect for budget travelers craving authenticity.
Mid-Range: Adaaran Club Rannalhi in South Malé Atoll (5,000–9,000 MVR/$325–$585 USD/night) offers overwater bungalows, all-inclusive feasts, and a house reef teeming with fish—tropical ease without breaking the bank. Kuramathi Maldives in Rasdhoo Atoll (6,000–10,000 MVR/$390–$650 USD/night) stuns with sprawling beaches, dive sites, and sunset cocktails—ideal for a balanced splurge.
Luxury: Soneva Fushi in Baa Atoll (30,000–60,000 MVR/$1,950–$3,900 USD/night) redefines eco-luxury with jungle villas, private pools, and an observatory—barefoot bliss meets UNESCO biosphere magic. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa (25,000–50,000 MVR/$1,625–$3,250 USD/night) enchants with lagoon-side spa pavilions and gourmet dining—timeless indulgence over turquoise waters.
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Best Local Food in The Maldives
Best Local Food in The Maldives
Maldivian cuisine is a sea-swept symphony—spicy, coconut-rich, and laced with South Asian and Arabian notes, born from island ingenuity and ocean bounty.
Mas Huni: Shredded smoked tuna with grated coconut, onion, and chili—breakfast fuel with roshi flatbread. Hithadhoo eateries on local islands (50 MVR/$3 USD).
Garudhiya: Clear tuna broth with rice or bread—simple, soul-warming fisher’s fare. Seagull Café in Malé (80 MVR/$5 USD).
Hedhikaa: Savory snacks like fish cakes (fihunu mas) or samosas—short eats for any time. Shell Beans in Hulhumalé (30 MVR/$2 USD each).
Traditional Maldivian Dishes to Try
Traditional Maldivian Dishes to Try
Bis Keemiya: Cabbage and tuna-stuffed pastry—crisp and spicy. Jazz Café in Malé (40 MVR/$2.60 USD)—a local staple with tea.
Kukulhu Riha: Chicken curry with coconut milk and pandan—earthy and rich. Bokkura on Maafushi (120 MVR/$8 USD)—island comfort.
Fihunu Mas: Grilled reef fish with chili paste—smoky ocean zing. Kaani Grand in Maafushi (150 MVR/$10 USD)—fresh from the lagoon.
Saagu Bondibai: Sago pudding with coconut cream and cardamom—sweet, silky bliss. Local guesthouses like Plumeria (60 MVR/$4 USD)—a dessert gem.
Best Restaurants in The Maldives
Best Restaurants in The Maldives
Ithaa Undersea Restaurant (Conrad Rangali): Dining 5m below sea—fish swim by your plate (5,000 MVR/$325 USD mains)—book months ahead.
5.8 Undersea (Hurawalhi): Underwater gourmet—tuna tartare with a view (4,000 MVR/$260 USD mains)—surreal elegance.
The Lighthouse (Baros): Overwater seafood—grilled lobster and reef vibes (2,000 MVR/$130 USD mains)—sunset perfection.
Symphony (Maafushi): Local island dining—mas huni and curries with heart (200 MVR/$13 USD mains)—casual and authentic.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Just Veg (Hulhumalé): Plant-based Maldivian twists—vegan kukulhu riha (150 MVR/$10 USD)—fresh and flavorful.
Reethi Beach Resort (Baa Atoll): Veggie resort fare—coconut curries and salads (300 MVR/$20 USD)—tropical and meat-free.
Staying Connected in The Maldives
Staying Connected in The Maldives
Best eSIM Providers for The Maldives
Dhiraagu and Ooredoo deliver solid 4G across Malé and resort-heavy atolls, though remote islands and open water drop to 3G or nothing at all. Airalo’s “Maldives” plan (5GB, $20, 10 days) suits short stays—activate it before takeoff. Ubigi’s flexible packs (500MB for $3, 10GB for $30) cater to longer trips or Instagram addicts. Resort Wi-Fi ranges from sluggish (free) to speedy ($10–$20 USD/day)—mobile data’s your lifeline for reef selfies!
iRoamly eSIMs: iRoamly offers eSIM data packages tailored to the Maldives, with fast and affordable plans. You can activate it before departure and start using it as soon as you arrive. Get your iRoamly eSIM here!
easySim: For frequent travelers, easySim offers global coverage and flexible data plans perfect for staying connected no matter where you go. Purchase your eSIM now!
See our Travel eSIMs page for more options.
Best Attractions in The Maldives
Best Attractions in The Maldives
Must-Do in The Maldives: Unmissable Experiences
The Maldives is a turquoise tapestry of sea and serenity—here’s your must-see list, packed with details.
Snorkel the House Reef
Why: Vibrant coral gardens alive with parrotfish and rays—your resort’s underwater playground.
Details: Free with gear rental ($10–$20 USD), anytime tides permit—most resorts offer masks and fins. Takes 1–2 hours.
Tip: Morning swims catch feeding frenzies—float gently to spot shy turtles or baby sharks.
Dive with Manta Rays
Why: Graceful giants glide in Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll)—a marine ballet in crystal depths.
Details: Dive trips $100–$150 USD (gear included), June–Nov peak manta season. Allow 3–4 hours with boat travel.
Tip: Book via resorts with eco-credentials—keep your distance to respect these gentle beasts.
Explore Malé
Why: The world’s smallest capital—mosques, markets, and Maldivian hustle squeezed into 5.8 sq km.
Details: Free to roam, ferries from MLE 20 MVR/$1.30 USD (10 minutes) or bridge taxi $15 USD. Needs 2–3 hours for highlights like the Hukuru Miskiy.
Tip: Haggle at the fish market—grab a coconut (30 MVR/$2 USD) and watch dhonis unload tuna at dusk.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Why: Spinner dolphins leap against a molten sky—nature’s evening show over the atolls.
Details: $50–$100 USD via resorts, departs 5 PM–7 PM on traditional dhonis or sleek yachts. Takes 1–2 hours.
Tip: Clear evenings in dry season shine—bring a light jacket for the sea breeze and spot pods near South Malé Atoll.
Relax on a Sandbank
Why: Fleeting strips of white sand in the ocean—your private castaway moment.
Details: Day trips $50–$150 USD (resort-organized), anytime weather’s calm—some include snorkeling or BBQ. Spend 2–4 hours.
Tip: Slather on reef-safe sunscreen—arrive early to claim your slice of solitude before the tide shifts.
Fish Like a Local
Why: Night fishing on a dhoni—reel in reef fish under the stars, a Maldivian tradition.
Details: $40–$80 USD via resorts, 5 PM–8 PM with handlines and bait. Takes 2–3 hours; catch often cooked for you.
Tip: Aim for snapper or grouper—calm nights near North Ari Atoll boost your haul.
Stargaze from Your Villa
Why: Unpolluted skies over the equator—constellations blaze from your overwater deck.
Details: Free, 365 days a year (best 8 PM–midnight). Spend 1–2 hours with a drink or telescope if offered.
Tip: Dry season clears the view—spot the Southern Cross or Scorpio with a free app like SkyView.
Check out our Maldives collection on Viator for all the best Traveler rated experiences!
Travel Doctor
Travel Doctor
We hope you'll never find yourself in the intrepid position of needing a doctor whilst you're on the other side of the planet. But life happens! And so does the need for quality medical care.
Air Doctor: Need immediate access to a qualified doctor you can not only trust, but also understand? Choose from over 20,000 doctors worldwide. Book a consultation.
See our Travel Doctor page for more options.
Protecting Your Trip to The Maldives
Protecting Your Trip to The Maldives
Sunburn, jellyfish stings, or a rogue wave can nip—minor clinic visits on local islands start at 500 MVR/$32 USD, resort medics charge $100+ USD. Insurance covering cancellations, health, and lost gear costs 5–8% of your trip—$50–$100 for a $1,000 journey. Check out the great options below.
Faye Travel Insurance: Whether you’re planning adventurous activities like diving or trekking, Faye Travel Insurance offers comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations and even has add-ons for adventure & extreme sports. Get a free quote here.
OnshoreKare Travel Insurance: For those seeking a range of coverage options, OnshareKare offers affordable plans that include trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency medical assistance. Protect your trip today!
Freely Travel Insurance: Need specialized coverage? Freely offers essential travel insurance that is customizable with the add-ons you need to suit the needs of families, solo travelers and adventurers alike. You can even add daily boosts to suit those last minute trips. See your insurance options.
See our Travel Insurance page for more options.
Practical Tips for The Maldives
Practical Tips for The Maldives
Best Time: Dry season (Nov–Apr) for endless sun—peak luxury season; wet season (May–Oct) brings rain, waves, and quieter resorts—great for surfers or deal-seekers; April–May hits 31°C/88°F—humid but lush.
Getting Around: Resort transfers (speedboats $100–$300 USD, seaplanes $250–$500 USD) are your lifeline—pre-arranged bliss. Local ferries between inhabited islands (20–50 MVR/$1.30–$3 USD) crawl slow—bring patience. Malé’s walkable or hop a scooter taxi (50 MVR/$3 USD)—no Grab here!
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR); $1 USD = ~15.42 MVR. USD widely accepted at resorts and guesthouses—cash (MVR or USD) rules local islands; ATMs in Malé charge 100 MVR/$6.50 USD per withdrawal.
Pack: Swimsuits, rash guards, flip-flops, a sarong for modesty on local islands, reef-safe sunscreen—Maldives is hot, wet, and reef-rich year-round.
Maldives Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Maldives Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Maafushi’s Local Beach: Skip resort atolls for this public shore—locals play soccer, and you can snorkel free (rent gear, MVR 100/$6.50 USD). Best at sunrise—1–2 hours; ferry from Malé (MVR 30/$2 USD).
Day Trip to Fulhadhoo: A 2-hour speedboat from Malé (MVR 500/$32 USD round-trip) hits this Baa Atoll isle—empty beaches and stingray-filled lagoons beat Malé’s bustle. Half-day; guesthouses serve curry (MVR 50/$3.20 USD).
Fish Market Café in Malé: Ditch resort buffets for this dockside spot—tuna mas huni (MVR 20/$1.30 USD) with chai draws fishermen. Open till 6 PM—near Villingili Ferry Terminal. Watch boats unload for free.
Why It’s Worth It: Maafushi’s local pulse, Fulhadhoo’s solitude, and Malé’s gritty bites swap Maldives’ luxe for islander life.
The Maldives Cultural Insights and Etiquette
The Maldives Cultural Insights and Etiquette
Customs
Greetings: A nod or handshake with “Assalaamu Alaikum” (Peace be upon you)—Maldivians are reserved but kind. Smiles bridge language gaps.
Dress: Bikinis at resorts, but cover up on local islands (Baa Atoll)—long skirts, tunics for women; shorts, tees for men. Sunhats beat the glare.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do: Greet with a smile—it opens doors at guesthouses. Bargain lightly at Malé’s fish market (10% off, e.g., MVR 100 to 90/$6.50 to $5.80 USD).
Don’t: Tip heavily—5% (MVR 50/$3.20 USD) at local cafés is ample; resorts include service. Don’t bring alcohol—strictly banned outside resorts.
Respect: Avoid public affection—hand-holding’s fine, kissing isn’t. Respect prayer times; shops pause five times daily—wait quietly.
Festival Highlights
Eid al-Adha (lunar-based, July/August): Feasts on local islands—share fish curry if invited to feel community warmth.
Fisherman’s Day (December): Malé’s boat races—cheer for dhoni crews to join the maritime pride.
Blend In: Say “Shukuriyaa” (thank you)—it softens chats. Eat with your right hand at local teashops (MVR 20/$1.30 USD hedika); it’s custom. Avoid flashy jewelry—simplicity fits Maldivian calm.
Let the Good Times Roll in The Maldives
Let the Good Times Roll in The Maldives
The Maldives dazzles with its sapphire seas, coral kingdoms, and barefoot elegance. From Malé’s vibrant chaos to the stillness of a private atoll, it’s an archipelago that seduces with every wave. Book savvy flights, pick a stay that whispers your name, savor ocean-fresh flavors, and dive into its aquatic wonders for a journey that lingers like a tropical dream. With this guide—covering flights, hotels, eSIMs, and insurance—you’re ready to drift into paradise. Get set to embrace the Maldives’ magic this season!
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