Maldives

Imagine that famous screensaver — a tiny island with white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. That paradise exists, and it’s called the Maldives. This breathtaking archipelago of 1,192 islands — only about 200 of which are inhabited — lies in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka.

The islands are home to a rich and diverse culture shaped by African, Arab, and South Asian influences, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel instantly at peace.

A genuine Maldives Travel Guide reveals that this tropical haven is more than just luxury resorts and overwater villas — it’s a world of natural beauty and serenity. With year-round sunshine and consistently warm temperatures, the Maldives offers the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure.

The surrounding waters are some of the clearest on Earth, teeming with vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish, making it one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world.

Even if you’re not a diver, the Maldives offers endless ways to enjoy its aquatic wonders. Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and sunset cruises all provide ways to connect with the tranquil rhythm of island life.

Or simply unwind on the soft sand, surrounded by nothing but the gentle sound of the waves. Whether you seek romance, luxury, or a quiet retreat into nature, the Maldives delivers the ultimate tropical escape — an island dream come to life.

Articles and Guides about Maldives

Frequently Asked Questions about Maldives

No, most travelers do not need a pre-arranged visa to enter the Maldives. A 30-day visa on arrival is granted to all nationalities, provided you have a valid passport (at least six months remaining), proof of accommodation, and a return or onward ticket. For longer stays, visa extensions can be applied for at the Maldives Immigration Office.

The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season (November to April) when the weather is sunny and ideal for beach and diving activities. The wet season (May to October) brings tropical showers but also vibrant marine life and fewer tourists, making it perfect for off-season travelers seeking lower prices and lush scenery.

The Maldives has reliable 4G and expanding 5G coverage through its two main providers: Dhiraagu and Ooredoo Maldives. Both offer prepaid tourist SIMs with generous data packages. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport upon arrival or ordered as an eSIM before your trip for instant activation.

👉 Order your Maldives prepaid SIM or eSIM here>>

The Maldives is made up of over 1,000 islands grouped into 26 atolls, offering countless options for every traveler. North and South Malé Atolls are closest to the airport and ideal for first-time visitors. Ari Atoll is famous for diving and whale sharks, while Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers luxury resorts and pristine reefs.

👉 Find the best resorts and private island hotels in the Maldives here>

Transfers from Velana International Airport (Malé) depend on your resort’s location. Options include speedboat transfers, seaplanes, or domestic flights followed by a short boat ride. Most resorts arrange transfers in advance for guests. Booking a private or shared transfer ensures a smooth and timely arrival.

👉 Book your Maldives airport transfer or seaplane transfer here>

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended. While the Maldives is a safe destination, medical treatment and emergency evacuations can be costly due to its remote location. Your insurance should include medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and water activity coverage such as diving or snorkeling.

👉 Compare travel insurance options for the Maldives here>

Getting between islands is done by speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight, depending on distance. Inter-island ferries also connect some local islands and are the most affordable way to travel. Seaplane transfers offer spectacular aerial views — a highlight of any Maldivian trip.

👉 Book your inter-island transfers, seaplanes, or ferries in the Maldives here>

Maldives – The Short Guide

Weather in the Maldives

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate year-round, offering warm temperatures, gentle sea breezes, and sunshine almost every day. Average temperatures hover around 27–31°C (80–88°F), and the ocean stays comfortably warm for swimming and diving.

Dry Season (November–April): The best time to visit, with clear skies and calm seas, perfect for beach holidays, snorkeling, and romantic getaways.

Wet Season (May–October): Characterized by short tropical showers, lush greenery, and fewer crowds. This period also offers excellent surfing conditions on the outer reefs.

A good Maldives Travel Guide tip: even during the wet season, rain usually falls for a short time before giving way to sunshine, so there’s rarely a bad time to visit paradise.

See the Maldives monthly weather chart here >

Maldives Travel Guide – Flights to the Maldives

Most international travelers arrive at Velana International Airport near the capital city, Malé. The airport connects to major cities such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore, Bangkok, and London.

From Malé, visitors continue by speedboat or seaplane to their island resorts. The scenic flights are part of the experience, offering breathtaking aerial views of turquoise lagoons and coral atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean.

Find the best flights to the Maldives with Kiwi.com — compare routes, prices, and airlines easily.

Comfortable and Safe Airport Transfers in the Maldives

After arriving at the airport, transfers are arranged directly to your resort. Seaplanes and speedboats are the main options, and most hotels handle the logistics for you.

If you prefer flexibility or are staying on local islands, KiwiTaxi offers private boat transfers and scheduled connections to nearby atolls.

Book your Maldives airport transfer here >>

Maldives Travel Guide – What to Do in the Maldives

The Maldives is a dream destination that blends natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. With crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and luxurious overwater villas, it’s easy to see why it tops bucket lists around the world.

Start your journey in Malé, where you can explore the Old Friday Mosque, the National Museum, and local markets offering a glimpse of daily island life. But the true magic lies beyond the capital — among the private atolls and local islands surrounded by the Indian Ocean.

Snorkeling and diving are must-do experiences, with coral reefs teeming with marine life, from turtles and reef sharks to manta rays and colorful tropical fish. Sunset cruises, dolphin watching, and romantic beach dinners are highlights for couples, while water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing keep adventurers entertained.

Every Maldives Travel Guide emphasizes one thing — whether you seek peace, adventure, or connection with nature, this island paradise has something for everyone.

What to Do in the Maldives with Kids

The Maldives is not just for honeymooners — it’s an excellent family destination, offering safe beaches, warm waters, and fun activities for children. Many resorts feature kids’ clubs, shallow lagoons, and guided snorkeling tours suitable for beginners.

Families can take boat trips to spot dolphins, feed reef fish, or visit local islands to experience Maldivian culture. For something educational, try coral planting or eco-excursions that teach kids about marine conservation.

Find family-friendly tours and resorts in the Maldives with Viator >>

Recommended Itinerary in the Maldives

A 5- to 7-day stay offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration:

Day 1: Arrive in Malé and transfer to your resort.
Day 2–3: Relax on the beach, snorkel in the house reef, and enjoy sunset cocktails.
Day 4–5: Take a boat trip to a nearby sandbank or local island.
Day 6: Enjoy a spa day or go diving with manta rays.
Day 7: Depart after one last swim in the turquoise waters.

Read our Perfect 7-Day Maldives Itinerary >

SIM Card for the Maldives

Staying connected in the Maldives is simple. Local SIM cards from Dhiraagu and Ooredoo Maldives are available at the airport, providing fast 4G coverage across most islands.

If you prefer convenience, buy an eSIM before your trip — it activates instantly and ensures seamless connectivity upon arrival.

Order your Maldives eSIM here for instant connectivity >

Where to Stay in the Maldives

The Maldives offers accommodation for every traveler, from luxury resorts to guesthouses on local islands.

For ultimate indulgence, choose an overwater villa at resorts like Soneva Fushi, Baros Maldives, or The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, where privacy and ocean views redefine luxury.

Travelers seeking authenticity can stay on local islands such as Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, or Dhigurah, where boutique hotels provide comfort and cultural immersion at affordable prices.

Compare the best hotel deals in the Maldives on Booking.com >>

Malé, Atolls, and Beyond

Malé, though small, gives visitors a taste of local life with bustling markets and mosques. Beyond the capital, the North and South Malé Atolls are home to world-class resorts surrounded by coral gardens. The Ari Atoll is famous for manta rays and whale sharks, while Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, showcases stunning biodiversity.

Each island feels like its own world, making every journey through the Maldives Travel Guide unique and unforgettable.

Shopping in the Maldives

Shopping in the Maldives is a relaxed experience, focused on locally made souvenirs and natural products. Visit Malé’s Local Market for handmade jewelry, coconut oil, and woven palm baskets. Resorts also feature boutique shops offering spa items, beachwear, and local art.

Attractions in the Maldives

The Maldives offers endless beauty both above and below the surface. Highlights include:

Malé – the capital with cultural landmarks and markets
Ari Atoll – diving with whale sharks and manta rays
Baa Atoll – a UNESCO marine sanctuary
Sun Island – pristine beaches and vibrant reefs
Vaadhoo Island – the magical “Sea of Stars” phenomenon at night
Sandbanks and lagoons – perfect for romantic picnics or photography

Whether you dream of adventure or pure relaxation, Maldives Travel Guide invites you to explore a world of turquoise waters, coral gardens, and unforgettable tranquility.

Read next: Top 20 Things to Do in the Maldives >