The Maldives is a chain of about 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean. Its overwater villas, house reefs and powder-white sandbars have made it a byword for luxury, but guesthouses on local islands now offer a more affordable alternative. Its best weather also falls during the northern winter.
Why go
The Maldives offers some of the clearest water and richest reef life on the planet. You can snorkel with manta rays and turtles from your villa, dive with reef sharks and, in some atolls, swim with whale sharks year-round. Whether it is a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon or a budget dive trip, the islands deliver total relaxation surrounded by turquoise lagoons.
Best time to visit
- Dry season, the northeast monsoon (roughly December to April): sunny days, calm seas and the best visibility for diving and snorkelling. It is peak season, especially over Christmas, New Year and February, so a winter 2026-27 trip falls in the best window. Book early and expect the highest prices.
- Wet season, the southwest monsoon (roughly May to November): more rain, wind and humidity, though there are still plenty of sunny spells. Prices drop noticeably, and some atolls see more manta rays and whale sharks at this time of year.
Top things to do
- Snorkelling and diving: explore house reefs, channel dives and manta cleaning stations. Baa Atoll's Hanifaru Bay is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and seasonal manta hotspot (roughly June to November), with strict access rules.
- Whale sharks: South Ari Atoll is known for sightings year-round.
- Sandbank picnics and sunset cruises: look out for dolphins at dusk.
- Overwater villas and spas: the classic resort experience.
- Local island life: visit fishing villages, mosques and small cafés on islands such as Maafushi, Thoddoo, Dhigurah or Fulidhoo.
- Malé: a day exploring the compact capital's fish market, Old Friday Mosque and seafront.
Where to stay: resorts vs local islands
- Private-island resorts: one resort per island, ranging from four-star to ultra-luxury. Many are all-inclusive. Resorts in North and South Malé Atolls are closest to the airport, while more remote atolls usually need a seaplane or domestic flight.
- Local-island guesthouses: much cheaper, with excursions to sandbanks and reefs. Local customs apply, including no alcohol and modest dress outside designated "bikini beaches".
- Liveaboards: dive boats that cruise between atolls, ideal for serious divers.
- Hulhumalé: a convenient base near the airport for a first or last night.
Getting there and around
Velana International Airport, near Malé, has direct flights from the Gulf, Europe and many Asian hubs. From there, travel depends on your hotel: speedboats for nearby atolls, seaplanes (daytime only) for many resorts, or domestic flights followed by a boat. Local islands are served by public ferries and shared speedboats. Timetables are limited, so plan connections carefully, especially around international flights. Transfers to remote resorts can cost several hundred US dollars per person.
Indicative budget
Approximate per person per day:
- Budget (local islands): about US$80 to US$150 with a guesthouse, meals and shared excursions.
- Mid-range: about US$250 to US$500 for a four-star resort on a half-board or full-board plan.
- Luxury: US$1,000 and up at high-end resorts, often much more for overwater villas in peak season.
Transfers, the government Green Tax and the tourism Goods and Services Tax (around 17%) can add significantly to resort quotes. Check what is included before booking.
Practical tips: entry rules, taxes and responsible travel
- Entry: the Maldives grants tourists of all nationalities a free visa on arrival, normally for up to 30 days. You need a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed booking at a registered property, and proof of a return or onward ticket. Complete the online IMUGA traveller declaration in the days before arrival.
- Green Tax: since January 2025, the Green Tax has been US$12 per person per night at resorts, tourist vessels and larger hotels or guesthouses, and US$6 at smaller guesthouses and hotels on inhabited islands. Children under two are exempt.
- Departure tax: for foreign passengers flying out in economy, the departure tax rose to US$50 from December 2024, alongside a separate airport development fee. Both are normally included in airfares.
- Local laws: the Maldives is a Muslim country. Alcohol is available only at resorts and on liveaboards. Importing alcohol, pork products and certain other items is prohibited.
- Reef etiquette: use reef-safe sunscreen, never stand on coral, keep your distance from marine life, and choose operators that follow responsible whale shark and manta guidelines.
FAQ
When is the cheapest time to visit the Maldives? Generally from May to November, outside the European summer holidays, when resorts offer discounts and package deals.
Can I visit the Maldives on a budget? Yes. Local-island guesthouses and public ferries keep costs down, and many guesthouses arrange day trips to resorts or sandbanks.
Do I need a seaplane? Only for some resorts. Many are reachable by speedboat, and others use a domestic flight and boat.
