Travel landscape in Maldives
Maldives flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to Maldives

The Maldives is an idyllic Indian Ocean archipelago known for its paradise beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and luxury getaways.

Photo by Asad Photo Maldives · Pexels

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ELEVATION PROFILE

Altitude 580 m

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
Dhivehi
Time zones
UTC +5
Electrical outlets
230 V, 50 Hz, mainly type G sockets.
Climate
Tropical climate with a hot and humid atmosphere, dry season from November to April and wet season from May to October.

Health

Basic medical care is available in Malé; healthcare options are limited on remote islands. Travel health insurance is advised.

Travel health advice

  • Drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Protect against mosquitoes to avoid diseases such as dengue.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours.

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A; Typhoid

Required vaccines:

Money

Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)

Credit cards accepted mainly in Malé and resorts; cash is recommended for smaller islands.

ATMs are mostly available in Malé; smaller islands may lack ATM facilities.

Safety

The Maldives is generally safe for tourists. Stay vigilant in urban areas and respect local regulations concerning dress code and behavior.

  • Do not consume alcohol outside authorized tourist zones.
  • Respect local religious customs, especially during Ramadan.
  • Avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings.

Areas to check before travel: Some local islands are less touristy and less equipped; check information before visiting.

Regions

North Malé Atoll — travel guide
Region

North Malé Atoll

North of the capital, featuring many tourist islands, resorts, and easy access to Malé.

South Malé Atoll — travel guide
Region

South Malé Atoll

Area with popular resorts and white sandy beaches.

Ari Atoll — travel guide
Region

Ari Atoll

Known for renowned diving sites and luxury hotels.

Baa Atoll — travel guide
Region

Baa Atoll

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with exceptional marine biodiversity.

Haa Dhaalu — travel guide
Region

Haa Dhaalu

Northern atoll offering a more local and authentic experience.

Malé Capital Area — travel guide
Region

Malé Capital Area

Administrative, economic and cultural center of the Maldives.

Cities

Malé — city guide
City guide

Malé

Lively capital with local markets, historic mosques, museums, and restaurants.

  • Malé Market
  • Friday Mosque
  • Sultan Park
  • National Museum
Hulhumalé — city guide
City guide

Hulhumalé

Artificial island with developing modern facilities and beaches.

  • Public Beach
  • Shopping Center
Maafushi — city guide
City guide

Maafushi

Affordable island popular among budget travelers.

  • Beaches
  • Water sports
  • Local restaurants
Thulusdhoo — city guide
City guide

Thulusdhoo

Known for its famous surf spots.

  • Surfing
  • Beaches
Dhigurah — city guide
City guide

Dhigurah

Quiet beautiful island for marine life observation.

  • Turtle Watching
  • Diving
Feydhoo — city guide
City guide

Feydhoo

Local island offering an authentic atmosphere.

  • Local lifestyle
  • Traditional fishing

Highlights

Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve — travel guide
Must-see

Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO biosphere reserve ideal for manta ray watching and coral reef exploration.

National Museum of Malé — travel guide
Must-see

National Museum of Malé

Learn about Maldivian history and culture.

Friday Mosque — travel guide
Must-see

Friday Mosque

Impressive historic mosque in the heart of Malé.

Diyafaru Reef — travel guide
Must-see

Diyafaru Reef

Spectacular diving site with diverse marine life.

Fulhadhoo Beaches — travel guide
Must-see

Fulhadhoo Beaches

Secluded beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters.

Sun Island Resort — travel guide
Must-see

Sun Island Resort

Famous luxury resort with various activities.

Meridien Spa & Wellness — travel guide
Must-see

Meridien Spa & Wellness

Wellness center offering traditional and modern treatments.

Nature & other places

Ari Atoll Coral Reefs — travel guide
Coral Reef

Ari Atoll Coral Reefs

Snorkeling and diving paradise with exceptional marine life.

Maldives Turquoise Lagoons — travel guide
Lagoon

Maldives Turquoise Lagoons

Calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Baa Atoll — travel guide
Nature Reserve

Baa Atoll

Rich marine ecosystem, home of manta rays and turtles.

White Sandy Beaches — travel guide
Beach

White Sandy Beaches

Miles of unspoiled beaches offering idyllic scenery.

Haa Dhaalu Mangroves — travel guide
Mangrove Forest

Haa Dhaalu Mangroves

Unique ecosystems supporting local biodiversity.

Olhuveli Island — travel guide
Natural Island

Olhuveli Island

Popular spot for scuba diving and diverse marine fauna.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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