Introduction
Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a true paradise on earth, boasting white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pristine nature. This archipelago of 26 atolls and 202 inhabited islands has been a popular destination for travelers seeking a luxurious getaway from around the world. In this article, we will delve into the best time to visit, things to see and do, how to get there, and what it costs to have an unforgettable vacation in the Maldives.
Travel Informed: Useful Info
Before planning your trip to the Maldives, here are a few useful facts to keep in mind:
- Population: 392,709
- Capital: Male
- Languages: Maldivian (official), English
- Currency: Local Currency (1€ = 17 local currency)
- Time Zone: UTC/GMT +5 (4 hours ahead of Italy, 3 when Italy is on daylight saving time)
- Climate: Monsoon Tropicale
- Minimum Temperature: 26°C / Maximum Temperature: 31°C
- No Vaccinations Required
- Entrance Requirements: Passport with a valid residual validity of at least 6 months, return air ticket, and tourist visa.
Where to Find and How to Get There
The Maldives are located south-west of India in the Indian Ocean. The islands that form this archipelago extend for 754 km in length and 188 km in width, and are divided into 26 natural atolls and 202 inhabited islands.
To get from Italy, there are no direct flights to Male. All itineraries make at least one stop, usually in Moscow or Hamad. If you fly through Moscow, you’ll need an additional 9 hours of travel time to reach Malé, while if you fly through Hamad, you’ll only need 5 hours.
How to Move Around
Inside the capital Male, you can walk around, or for longer trips, take a taxi, with a fixed tariff of €1.50. To get to the nearby atolls, you can take an airplane, which is the fastest and most comfortable way, costing around €500 (Maldivian Air Taxi and Trans Maldivian Airway), or by local flights, considering that some islands have small airports, the two main airlines are Maldivian and Flyme (prices start from €370.00 and increase with distance).
An alternative and more economical option is to take traghetti or dhoni, which cost around €40.00 and €35.00 respectively.
When to Go: Climate and Best Time Information
The Maldives have a monsoon tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures throughout the year and little temperature fluctuation.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April. During this period, rainfall is less frequent and short-lived (mainly between February and March). The average temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C.
Main Islands: Which are the Most Beautiful Islands?
The Maldives are formed by 26 atolls, which include inhabited and uninhabited islands. Each island is a paradise on earth, with white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, but if you want some more information about which islands and atolls to visit, here’s some guidance:
- Atoll of Baa: Perfect for animal lovers. Declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2011, its waters are inhabited by mantas, whales, and many other marine species.
- Island of Malé: The atollo of Malé is the main island of the archipelago. The capital Male, with its 100,000 inhabitants, occupies the entire surface of the island and offers all the necessary amenities: hotels, shops, restaurants, and a massive beach. Additionally, Malé is close to Hulhule Island, where foreign flights arrive.
- Atollo of Noonu: Not accessible for everyone, but if you have money to spend, it’s the ideal place. This atoll comprises 13 islands and is home to the resort Cheval Blanc, which connects three artificial islands and one natural island, property of the Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy group. A stay here costs around €4,000 per night.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Things to See: Beaches and Points of Interest
- Hukuru Miski Mosque: Located in Male and is the oldest mosque on the islands. Its golden cupola is visible from anywhere on the island.
- National Museum: Malé is the capital of the Maldives, where you can find all the main cultural attractions. Here, you can visit the National Museum of Maldives, which covers the history of the archipelago from fossils to more recent times.
- Fish Market in Male: The Fish Market in Male is a must-see attraction. Markets are the best way to experience local life and discover products. You’ll see plenty of fish displayed in creative ways for sale to locals.
- Ari Atoll: Famous for being ideal for water sports enthusiasts. The beach is fine-grained, and the water is crystal-clear, while the seafloor hosts a lively marine life, making it a true paradise for snorkeling and diving.
- Alifushi Atoll: Known as Dream Beach due to its white sand and clear blue waters. Some of the atoll’s buildings have small airports, where you can find some tourist services.
- Vadhoo Island: Famous for its bioluminescence in the water. This occurs thanks to the presence of certain phytoplankton and dinoflagellates that emit light when disturbed by the movement of the water.
How Much Does a Vacation in the Maldives Cost?
As for flights, the average cost is €1,100 per person, while a 7-night stay during low season can cost around €800. In high season, you can expect to pay over €1,000. Additionally, consider the budget for daily meals and excursions, which averages around €80 per person.
The Maldives are famous for their luxury resorts, ranging from affordable options (around €400 per night) to luxurious ones (€3,000 per night in some islands). The most accessible solution is staying at a Guest House, private accommodations by Maldivians, sometimes resulting in spartan conditions, but often well-organized. Many Guest Houses offer packages that include accommodation, meals, and excursions for the duration of your stay (from €128 per night).
The local cuisine is mainly based on fish dishes, especially tuna, and rice, with various spices, particularly curry, and coconut nuts.
The drink of choice is Raa, a type of palm wine. You’ll often eat at resorts or tourist villages’ restaurants, which also offer international cuisine. To try the local specialties, visit the capital’s markets, teashops, or cafes like hotaa.
Where to Stay: Hotel, Alloggios and Resorts from €120 – Look for offers
Flights low-cost Malé from €560 – Look for offers
Flight + Hotel Flight + 7 nights / 6 nights from €1,200.00 per person – Look for offers
