Maldives Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Malé – capital city with markets, mosques, museums
- Atolls & Resort Islands – luxury stays in private islands
- Hulhumalé – reclaimed island with beaches and cafés
- Baa & Ari Atolls – excellent for snorkeling and whale sharks
- Local Islands – experience culture and guesthouses
Best Hotels & Resorts
Language & Culture
Dhivehi is the official language, but English is widely spoken in resorts and tourism. Maldivian culture is influenced by South Indian, Arabic, and Islamic traditions—respect modest dress in public islands.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Domestic seaplanes, speedboats, ferry, dhoni boats, domestic flights from Malé
- Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), USD commonly accepted
- Food: Seafood curries, mas huni, roshi, tropical fruits, fine-dining international cuisine
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| November – April | Dry, sunny | Peak season—ideal beach weather |
| May – October | Warm, wetter | Low season—good deals, some showers |
Main entry via Velana International Airport (MLE), near Malé
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $1,200 – $2,500 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | $300 – $2,500/night | Guesthouses to luxury resorts |
| Meals | $100 – $400/day | Resort vs local cafés |
| Transfers | $200 – $800 | Seaplane or speedboat |
| Activities | $200 – $600 | Diving, snorkeling, spa, excursions |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport & travel documents
- Swimwear, rash guard, water shoes
- Sunscreen (reef-safe), sunglasses, hat
- Light clothing plus modest wear for local islands
- Power adapter (Type G) and waterproof bag
20 Basic English & Dhivehi Phrases
| Dhivehi | English |
|---|---|
| ހެނދާ (Hendhaa) | Thank you |
| ޝާހައްދު (Rahadh) | You’re welcome |
| ދެވޭ؟ (Dhiveh?) | How much? |
| ފަހު؟ (Fahu?) | Where is it? |
| އިތުރަފްފާ (Ithuraafaa?) | Do you speak English? |
| ސުކި؟ (Suki?) | Is it spicy? |
| މަސްހުރިއްޔާ (Mas huriyaa) | I’m lost |
| ބާވަތައް (Baavathah) | Excuse me / Sorry |
| ތިތައް؟ (Tithah?) | Can I take a photo? |
| ތާރީއްޓި (Taareeti) | Tourist |
| ކޮއްލަކު؟ (Kolaku?) | Where’s the taxi? |
| އިއްޔެ؟ (Iyye?) | No |
| ހެ؟ (Heh?) | Yes |
| އިސްލާމް (Islam) | Please |
| ތިރައިގެ (Thiraigey) | Bill, please |
Health & Safety
- Safe & peaceful destination with low crime
- Tap water isn’t potable except at resorts; drink bottled or filtered water
- Emergency: 119
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Respect local culture—covers required off-resort islands
Festivals & Holidays
- Ramadan & Eid celebrations
- Independence Day – July 26
- National Day – November 11
- Surfing Champions Trophy – April/May
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
Foreign nationals (except a few) receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. Always verify latest rules.
Is it safe to swim and snorkel?
Yes! But only swim at designated beaches; respect currents, marine life, and reef health.
Can I visit local islands?
Yes. Many guesthouses welcome tourists. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees in villages.
When is the best time to visit?
November to April is dry and ideal. May to October sees more rain but also lower prices.
How do I get between islands?
Seaplanes are common for resorts, while public ferries and speedboats connect local islands.
