We are lucky enough to have visited the Maldives a couple of times every year for almost 15 years – it’s our job, right?!

That’s a lot of travel to a destination that is often pigeonholed as ‘tricky’ to get to and travel around. It’s a lot of time to learn about the best flight routes, the pros and cons of different seasons, the easiest way to get between resorts, and everything in between.

We thought we would put all that practice to good use and bring you a glossary of insider tips for nailing your Maldives trip, to prove that it’s actually a very easy destination to navigate if you know what you’re doing!

Pick your season

As a tropical destination, the Maldives basically has two seasons: dry and rainy, which line up with high and low season respectively. While it’s pretty warm all year round, January to March is the least rainy period, with temperatures averaging highs of around 30C and lows around 25C.

The most affordable time to visit is usually between May and November when it’s considered the wet season. Keep in mind though, even during the rainiest months you can expect a decent amount of sunshine – at least six hours a day!

Don’t rule it out as budget unfriendly

The Maldives has a reputation for being an ultra-luxurious, unattainable destination. There are certainly super high-end elements, however, it’s also quite possible to visit the Maldives on a budget. The beauty about there being so many resorts to choose from is that there is likely at least one that meets your needs, and we can help you find the best rate and the best time to visit.

As for things to do, life in the Maldives doesn't have to be all about chartering yachts and diving into the lagoon from an overwater bungalow. There are many ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Maldives. Most resorts have house reefs to explore courtesy of their complimentary snorkelling gear; some have coral planting initiatives to help conserve local ecosystems that you can participate in; and some islands are densely vegetated, making them the perfect place to jump on some bikes for a cruise around.

Choose flights and transfers wisely

One question we receive frequently is ‘what’s the best flight to take’ and the answer depends both on your budget and your country of departure. Layovers in the Middle East and Asia can help cut the cost of flights. Whichever route you choose though, we like to advise that attempt to land in the first half of the day so you can transfer to your resort before 4pm. Otherwise you have to spend the night at Male and take the earliest transfer the following day.

Regarding transfers, a few factors come into play: which resort you’re staying at, the time you arrive, your budget, and the weather. The options include speedboat for those resorts close enough, and between resorts in adjacent atolls, domestic flights, and seaplane rides. As a general rule, speedboat is the cheapest option, while seaplane transfers will set you back the most (although, they also provide the most awe-inspiring views). Some resorts offer complimentary transfers, so always check with us first.

Consider island hopping

A vast and sweeping archipelago of 1,200 islands, the most important thing to understand about the Maldives when you’re planning your trip is that the destination is famous for its ‘one island, one resort’ philosophy. Most resorts are located on their own private island – a geographic quirk that has many perks, including privacy, exclusivity, and the ability to choose between hundreds of completely different resort styles.

As lovely as it is to settle into one resort, we recommend trying to see as much of the Maldives as possible while you’re there. It’s such a unique country, with so much to offer. So whether you embark on a day trip to a local island, stay at a few different resorts during the course of your trip, or spend a night or two on a liveaboard to explore different atolls, consider a spot of island hopping while visiting the destination.

Pack appropriately

The Maldives is a majority Muslim country and travellers are advised to dress conservatively. Resorts are more relaxed than local islands and the country’s capital, Male, however, be sure to pack tops that cover your shoulders as some resorts require guests to be covered up while dining at onsite restaurants. Save your bikinis and short shorts for lazing around your private pool.

Considering the Maldives is hot and humid year-round, it’s a good idea to opt for natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. You’ll also want to pack a hat and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the beautiful coral that surrounds the islands.

Don’t waste space in your luggage packing alcohol or drones, as the former is prohibited in the Maldives, and the latter restricted. You can purchase alcohol at the resorts (although be aware it can be costly). If you are committed to photographing the destination from every angle, check with the resort first, as a lot don’t allow drone photography for privacy reasons.

PS - Some resorts like Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani are so committed to sustainability that they provide guests with complimentary reef-safe sunscreen. It’s available for use in villas and for purchase from the surf school.

Respect the local culture

Maldivian culture is vibrant, unique and a heady melting pot of Sri Lankan, Malaysian, Middle Eastern, Indonesian, and African influences. You can sample some of this beautiful culture firsthand by attending traditional music and dance performances, sampling the local cuisine rather than just sticking to resort food, and arranging a day trip to a nearby village island to learn more about the traditional way of life.

PS - Seeing a ‘Bodu Beru’ show is an enthralling cultural experience that Maldivians have developed over centuries. These dance and drum performance have African origins that are evident in the performance. A great place to catch a traditional Body Beru is Amilla Fushi.

Don’t assume it’s a drop and flop destination

There’s more to the Maldives that lounging by the pool sipping cocktails. From aquatic adventures – including everything from snorkelling to tubing, kitesurfing, big game fishing, and surfing – to animal encounters with the local dolphins, manta rays, turtles and fish, there’s plenty of action-packed choices. Many resorts have unique onsite offerings to keep guests entertained, including things like cooking classes, photography lessons, marine biology workshops, and one-on-one tennis coaching sessions. Then there’s the incredibly diverse array of food-based experiences to factor in, including private sandbank picnics, sunset cruises, underwater restaurants… the list goes on!

CONTACT US FOR HELP PLANNING THE PERFECT MALDIVES TRIP