Maldives Travel Guide
Paradise above and below the water
The Maldives is what most people mean when they say 'paradise': 1,200 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, each barely above sea level, each ringed by a lagoon of impossible turquoise. This is the pre-eminent destination for overwater bungalows, snorkelling with manta rays and whale sharks, and doing absolutely nothing with extraordinary contentment. The Maldives is also increasingly sophisticated — some resorts have their own marine biologists, wine cellars, and submarine tours.
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Quick Facts
Currency
Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) / USD accepted
Language
Dhivehi / English
Timezone
Indian/Maldives
Weather
28 – 32 °C year-round
Best Time to Visit Maldives
November – April
The dry northeast monsoon season brings calm seas, excellent visibility for diving, and minimal rain. May to October is the wet season with rougher water and lower resort prices.
Maldives Daily Budget
$150/day
Hostels, street food, public transport
$500/day
Hotels, restaurants, some tours
$2000/day
5-star stays, fine dining, private guides
Top Things to Do in Maldives
Overwater Bungalow Stay
$400Glass-floor villas directly above the coral lagoon.
Snorkelling with Manta Rays
$70Seasonal manta ray cleaning stations with guaranteed sightings.
Scuba Diving
$100Some of the world's most biodiverse coral reef systems.
Whale Shark Safari
$80Swim alongside the world's largest fish near South Ari Atoll.
Local Island Hopping
$60Visit inhabited local islands for authentic Maldivian culture.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise
$45Spinner dolphins are common at dusk in the North Malé Atoll.
Why Visit Maldives
- The clearest water and most vibrant coral reefs of any ocean destination
- Overwater bungalows — an experience bucket-listed by millions
- Exceptional marine biodiversity: rays, turtles, sharks, and reef fish
- Local islands offer a genuinely affordable alternative to resort stays
- Year-round warmth with minimal seasonal variation
Sample Maldives Itineraries
Maldives Luxury Honeymoon
7 daysOverwater villa, snorkelling, sunset cruise, spa, and a dive with whale sharks.
Plan This TripBudget Maldives on Local Islands
8 daysStay on local islands, snorkel house reefs, rent a bike, and experience real Maldivian life.
Plan This TripMaldives Safety Overview
The Maldives is extremely safe with very low crime rates. The primary risks are water-related — currents and jellyfish. Follow resort guidelines for water activities.
- Check current conditions before snorkelling on outer reefs
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral
- Emergency services: contact your resort reception immediately
- Alcohol is only available at resort islands — not on local islands
Visa Requirements
All nationalities receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. No advance application is needed.
Official visa informationMaldives Travel Tips
- Book speedboat or seaplane transfers to your resort well in advance
- Seaplane transfers operate only during daylight — plan arrival times accordingly
- Resort prices include food, drink, and activities in all-inclusive packages
- Local island guesthouses cost 10–20% of resort prices
- Bring US dollars in cash for tips — USD is universally accepted
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