Maldives – Destination Guide

Welcome to the Maldives – where barefoot luxury meets natural wonder. Scattered like gems across the Indian Ocean, this tropical paradise is made up of nearly 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. With powder-soft white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an underwater world teeming with marine life, the Maldives offers a dreamy escape whether you’re after relaxation, romance, or adventure. It’s a destination where time slows down, sunsets steal the show, and the magic of the sea surrounds you at every turn.

🌍 Regions at a Glance

✨ North Malé Atoll

Home to the capital Malé and the country’s main international airport, this is the most accessible atoll and ideal for quick transfers and luxury resort stays.

🌊 South Malé Atoll

Just a short boat ride from the capital, this atoll is slightly quieter than the north and offers top-notch resorts, diving, and surfing opportunities.

🐠 Ari Atoll

One of the most popular regions for diving and marine life spotting—including whale sharks and manta rays. Known for its luxury resorts and world-class snorkeling.

🦈 Baa Atoll (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve)

Famous for its rich biodiversity, including Hanifaru Bay where hundreds of manta rays and even whale sharks gather in season. Eco-luxury resorts thrive here.

🏝️ Local Islands (e.g., Maafushi, Thulusdhoo)

Budget-friendly alternatives to resort islands, where you can experience local Maldivian culture and more independent travel.

🏞️ Highlights & Must-Do Experiences

• 🐋 Snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks in Ari or Baa Atoll.
• 🧘‍♀️ Sunset yoga sessions on the beach or overwater pavilions.
• 🏄‍♀️ Surf uncrowded reef breaks in South Malé or Central Atolls.
• 🌅 Dinner on a private sandbank under the stars.
• 🛶 Glide across turquoise lagoons in a glass-bottom kayak.
• 🐢 Visit a local island to learn about Maldivian life and traditions.
• 🔭 Stargaze on the beach far from light pollution.
• 💆‍♀️ Indulge in an overwater spa treatment to the sound of waves.

🛫 Airports & Getting Around

✈️ Main International Airport

• Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé is the country’s main gateway.

🚤 Transfers

Most resorts arrange transfers via:

• Speedboat (common for nearby islands)

• Seaplane (for far-flung atolls—an experience in itself!)

• Domestic flights + short boat transfers

Inter-island travel is generally arranged by your accommodation provider and varies depending on distance and weather.

Be sure to coordinate transfers with your accommodation in advance, as options vary depending on location and time of arrival.

💡 Practical Info

• 💳 Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR); USD widely accepted at resorts

• 💬 Language: Dhivehi (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

• ⚡ Plugs: Type D and G, 230V

• 📶 SIM cards/eSIMs: Available at the airport; Wi-Fi is common at resorts. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

💰 Money & Costs

• Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR); USD is widely accepted at resorts
• ATMs are available in Malé and on larger local islands; limited or unavailable on resort islands
• Credit cards are accepted at most resorts, hotels, and tour operators
• The Maldives is a premium destination, particularly for accommodation and transfers
• More affordable options are available on local islands, especially outside peak travel periods

💸 Tipping

Tipping is not required and is often already included via a service charge at resorts. That said, tipping is always appreciated for exceptional service. As a general guide:

• Resort staff – USD 5 to 10 for standout service
• Housekeeping – USD 2 to 5 per day
• Guides or boat crew – USD 5 to 10 per excursion
• On local islands, tipping is less common but still welcomed for great service

🛂 Visa Info

🛬 Most nationalities receive a free 30-day visa on arrival.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. For official info, check here.

🍴 Cuisine

Maldivian food is a flavorful blend of South Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences, heavily featuring seafood, coconut, and spices. Must-try dishes include:

• 🐟 Mas Huni – shredded smoked tuna, coconut, onion, and chili served with roshi (flatbread)

• 🍛 Fish curry – aromatic and creamy with local spices

• 🥥 Garudhiya – traditional fish broth eaten with rice and lime

• 🍰 Bondibaiy – sweet sticky rice with condensed milk and rose water

Vegetarian options are common, especially at resorts. Expect lots of tropical fruits and fresh juices!

🎒 Packing List Summary (Seasonal)

🌞 Year-round essentials:

• Reef-safe sunscreen 🧴

• Swimsuits & cover-ups 👙

• Flip flops/sandals 🩴

• Light, breathable clothing 👕

• Dry bag, waterproof phone case 📱

• Snorkel mask (if preferred) 🐠

🌧️ Wet season (May–October):

• Lightweight rain jacket ☔

• Extra clothes that dry quickly

🌤️ Dry season (Nov–April):

• Sunglasses & sunhat 😎

• Evening shawl/light sweater for breezy nights

LGBTQI+ Travel in the Maldives

The Maldives is a welcoming and inclusive destination for visitors from around the world, including LGBTQI+ travellers. Resorts and tourist islands operate with international hospitality standards, where guests are treated with respect and discretion regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

That said, the Maldives is a culturally conservative, Muslim country, and local laws and customs differ from many Western destinations. We recommend that all travellers, LGBTQI+ or otherwise, are mindful of local norms when visiting inhabited local islands, particularly around public displays of affection.

In resort settings, travellers can relax and enjoy their holiday comfortably and safely. As always, we encourage guests to travel with awareness, respect local culture, and focus on what the Maldives does best – world class hospitality, breathtaking natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

🍹 Alcohol Regulations

Importing alcohol is illegal, and all bags are scanned upon arrival at the airport. If alcohol is found, it will be confiscated by customs and you can retrieve it when you depart the country. However, alcohol is available for purchase and consumption at all resort islands.

What to do with alcohol you purchased duty-free:

• Do not pack it in your luggage: if you intend to bring it into the country.
• Be prepared to have it confiscated: upon arrival.
• Collect it from customs: when you are leaving the Maldives.

🧳 Why Visit?

Whether you’re diving into the vibrant coral reefs, relaxing in an overwater villa, or watching the sunset with your feet in the sand, the Maldives delivers a next-level tropical experience. With its unparalleled beauty, rich marine life, and warm hospitality, this island nation is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place—and one you’ll likely dream of returning to the moment you leave.