Maldives
Currency
MVR
Language
Dhivehi
Timezone
Maldives
Continent
Asia
Discover Maldives
The Maldives are not visited like a normal destination: nearly 1,200 islands spread across atolls, and you will mostly see one — the island your accommodation sits on. Choosing that island therefore matters more than anywhere else. Malé, the capital, is among the most densely populated cities on earth and deserves a day.
When to go
November to April, the dry season. From May to October the south-west monsoon brings rain and wind, but also markedly lower rates and better diving visibility at certain sites.
Getting around
Seaplane or speedboat from Malé depending on how far the atoll is — budget for that transfer, it is far from incidental. Once on the island, everything is on foot.
Where to eat
Dining is largely whatever your accommodation serves, which is why full-board packages are the norm. On local islands a few independent places exist in and around Malé, at prices bearing no relation to the resorts.
Good to know
The Maldives are a Muslim country: alcohol is available only in private resorts, and covered dress is expected on inhabited islands — swimwear belongs to resort beaches. Eighty-one halal addresses are listed, which simply reflects the local norm. Our coverage here is thinner than elsewhere: open data maps the archipelago poorly.
Best Hotels in Maldives
Overwater Paradise Maldives
432 reviews
Top Activities in Maldives
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Velassaru Caves
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Bolifushi
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Maafushi Thila
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Digu Kuda Giri
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Dhigu Thila
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Shark Point
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Embudu Channel / Embudu Express
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Crow's Nest
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