Maldives travel guide: when to go, where to stay and how to get there

The Maldives mean white sand, turquoise lagoons and a silence you can actually hear. But behind the postcard there are plenty of practical questions: when is the best time to go, which island should you pick and how do you get there? Here is everything you need in one place so you can plan your trip without surprises.

When to travel to the Maldives

The country has two seasons, and the difference between them is significant:

• Dry season (November – April): sunny weather, calm seas and great visibility underwater. This is the most popular time, so prices are higher and it pays to book early.
• Wet season (May – October): more clouds and short showers, stronger wind and rougher seas. In return, prices are lower and the nature is greener.

Tip: if you want sunshine and a good price, look at November, early December or April – the shoulder periods between peak and wet season.

Resort island or local island?

The Maldives consist of more than 1,000 coral islands grouped into about 26 atolls. There are two main ways to experience them:

Resort island

One island, one hotel. You get a private beach, overwater villas, restaurants, a spa and personal service. This is the classic luxury experience, ideal for honeymoons and total relaxation.

Local island with guesthouses

Since 2009 tourists can also stay on inhabited islands. You get a taste of local life, eat in small restaurants and pay considerably less. Tourist beach areas are set aside for visitors, and alcohol is not sold on the island.

How to reach your island

All international flights land at Velana Airport in the capital, Malé. From there, the transfer depends on the distance:

• Speedboat – for nearby atolls;
• Seaplane – for more distant resorts, and the flight over the atolls is an experience in itself;
• Domestic flight plus boat – for the farthest atolls.

Check the transfer in advance: seaplanes only fly during daylight, so a late arrival may mean a night in Malé.

What to do in the Maldives

• Snorkelling on the reef in front of your own island – often no boat is needed at all;
• Diving with manta rays and whale sharks (most likely around South Ari Atoll);
• A sunset cruise on a dhoni, the traditional Maldivian boat;
• A visit to a local island and the fish market in Malé;
• Night fishing and a beach dinner.

Practical tips

• Documents: a valid passport is required. For short stays a free tourist visa is issued on arrival, but always check the current requirements before you travel.
• Money: the local currency is the rufiyaa, but resorts mostly accept US dollars or cards. A service charge and tax are often added.
• Sun: bring reef-safe sunscreen and a UV rash vest for snorkelling.
• Clothing: outside the resorts more modest clothing is expected; swimwear is fine only in tourist areas.

Need help planning?

Choosing the island, hotel and transfer type can completely change both the budget and the feel of the trip. The Clio Travel team will help you put together a package that fits your taste and budget – from an overwater villa to a cosy guesthouse.