A natural treasure made up of 1192 coral islands grouped into a double chain of 26 Atolls (Ring-shaped Islands), southwest of Sri Lanka and India.
In this Travel Guide of the Maldives, I will try to help you find the Best Places to Stay, the Best Places to Eat, and the Best Things to See and Do, to make your trip unforgettable.
All Information and prices are updated to 2024.
"To escape and sit quietly on the beach- that's my idea of Paradise" - Emilia Wickstead
Table of Contents
Top Things to know about the Maldives
When to visit?: November to April is the best time to visit the Maldives for fewer crowds and cheaper prices, but more chances of rain and storms. May till October is the best time for the best weather.
Worst Weather is in August and October.
The best time for diving is from December to May, with visibility up to 30 meters. The best time to see bioluminescent Plankton is from June to October.
Currency: Rufiyaa is the currency of the Maldives, but most Hotels and Resorts accept credit cards or USD.
Use the Wise Credit Card for the best exchange rates.
Traveling should be about adventure, exploration, and creating lasting memories—not about worrying over hidden fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Wise empowers travelers by providing transparency, affordability, and convenience in managing their finances abroad.
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Language: Dhivehi, also known as Maldivian, is the local language spoken, but English is well-spoken in all the resorts and at the airport.
Getting around?: Velana International Airport is the main airport in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Most Resorts prearrange your transfer from the airport, either by boat or by seaplane.
Tip: Book a resort on an island reachable by seaplane! It is an experience worthwhile!
There are also local ferry's that will get you to many of the islands if you decide to explore on your own.
Safety: The Maldives is a very safe country to visit, especially if you are staying on a resort island. Just keep an eye on your valuables.
When visiting the capital, Malé, take a bit more care and be aware of your surroundings.
Tip: It is not advisable to drink Tap Water.
How to get from the Airport to the Resorts?
Velana International Airport is the main airport in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Most Resorts prearrange your transfer from the airport, either by boat or by seaplane.
Tip: Book a resort on an island reachable by seaplane! It is an experience worthwhile!
There are also local ferry's that will get you to many of the islands if you decide to explore on your own.
Top 4 Things to do on the Maldives
The Maldives is a stunning tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. Here are the top four things to do when visiting the Maldives:
#1. Snorkeling and Diving:
The Maldives is renowned for its incredible coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find some of the world's best underwater experiences here. Explore the colorful coral gardens, encounter manta rays, whale sharks, and various species of fish. Many resorts have their own house reefs, making it easy to access these underwater wonders.
At some Atolls, you can even go cavern or wreck diving!
Also, due to the great visibility, you can enjoy spectacular views of the many sea inhabitants by just snorkeling!
The best time of year to see Whale Sharks and Manta Rays is from August till November.
#2. Overwater Bungalows:
Staying in an overwater bungalow is a quintessential Maldives experience. Wake up to the sound of the ocean and step directly into the warm, turquoise waters from your private deck. Many resorts offer luxurious overwater accommodations, creating a romantic and idyllic setting for couples and honeymooners.
#3. Sunset Cruises:
Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on a traditional Maldivian dhoni or a luxury yacht. Watching the sun dip below the horizon while you're surrounded by the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean is a magical experience. Some cruises may include dinner and entertainment.
#4. Island Hopping:
The Maldives is made up of over 1,000 coral islands, and each one has its own unique charm. Consider going on an island-hopping adventure to explore different local communities, pristine beaches, and hidden gems. You can experience the local culture, sample Maldivian cuisine, and interact with friendly locals.
Remember that the Maldives is also an excellent place to relax, unwind, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, this tropical paradise offers a range of experiences to suit your preferences.
Best Hotels and Resorts in the Maldives
A wonderful little guest house on an island at the southernmost tip of the Maldives.
They offer bikes to hire and explore the island. Restaurants and shops are nearby.
A five star luxury resort with two private diving reefs and just a
40-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport in Malé.
A 4 star resort about 35 minutes seaplane flight from Velana International Airport. They have a great coral reef for snorkeling and even a ship wreck to dive to. You can take diving lessons in their own diving center.
It is a bit of an older resort and the walls of superior villas are thin, so you will hear the quests next to your room. But the staff is very friendly and the food is great!
An enchanting 5star Resort in the North Malé Atoll exclusively for adults.
It offers a free boat transfer from Velana International Airport in Malé and has an amazing underwater restaurant!
How much did this tip cost?
The flight to Malé, Velana International Airport from Zurich, Switzerland cost us around €1400.
3 weeks in the Filitheyo Island Resort, all-inclusive, cost us around €4500.
A single Dive at the Filitheyo Island Dive Center cost us around 88USD per Person.
So all in all, this trip to the Maldives cost us around €6100.
* We paid for this Maldives vacation out of our own pocket. All tips given are our own. Some links are advertising links. This means that, if you book something through these links, we receive a small commission. Every month we donate 20% of our earnings to an animal shelter, animal sanctuary or animal welfare organization around the world.
Thank you for your support!
Travel Essentials for the Maldives
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