Things To Do
in Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It consists of 26 atolls, which are made up of more than 1,000 coral islands, attracting tourists seeking luxury resort experiences, water sports, and underwater adventures.
This island nation is celebrated for its rich marine life, including diverse species of fish, turtles, and sharks, alongside its commitment to sustainability and conservation efforts.
- "As-salaam 'alaikum" - Peace be upon you
- "Shukuryaa" - Thank you
- "Baajjeh" - Yes
- "Haa" - No
- "Dhanyabaad" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $500
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $100
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $10
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast on the beach. Enjoy the morning sun while lounging on the soft sand.
Take a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs. Discover an underwater paradise filled with colorful marine life.
Indulge in a beachfront dinner under the stars. Savor a mix of local and international cuisine while listening to the gentle waves.
Kick off the day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Spend some time soaking up the sun on a deserted island.
Visit nearby islands and immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore quaint villages and enjoy traditional Maldivian snacks.
Return to your resort for a sunset cocktail. Unwind and reflect on your day's adventures as the sun sets over the horizon.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and turquoise waters
- Rich marine biodiversity, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving
- Luxury resorts offering over-water bungalows and private villas
- Year-round warm tropical climate
- Unique cultural experiences and local cuisine
- High cost of living and expensive accommodations
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Environmental concerns, including rising sea levels and coral bleaching
- Potential for overcrowding in tourist hotspots
- Travel restrictions or regulations can change suddenly due to global events
Best Activities in Maldives
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives.
Embark on a boat trip to observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Discover the diverse underwater world and dive alongside manta rays, sharks, and tropical fish.
Visit different islands, each with its own unique charm and beauty, to experience the Maldives' stunning natural scenery.
Engage in traditional Maldivian fishing methods or join a big game fishing excursion to catch tuna, marlin, or sailfish.
Tours
Uncover the best of Maldives with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Maldives
Visit one of these nice places.
The capital city offers stunning views of the harbor and the colorful buildings lining the waterfront.
Known for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and overwater bungalows, perfect for capturing the beauty of the Maldives.
Home to a diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for underwater photography and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Famous for its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering opportunities to photograph manta rays, whale sharks, and tropical island landscapes.
Food in Maldives
Maldives Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish soup made with a variety of local fish, often served with rice, lime, chili, and onions. It is a staple dish in Maldivian cuisine and is commonly enjoyed for breakfast.
Must-Try!
A popular breakfast dish made with shredded smoked fish, grated coconut, onion, and chili, typically served with roshi (unleavened bread). It's a hearty and flavorful option for a traditional Maldivian breakfast.
Grilled fish, often marinated with a blend of spices and served with rice and a side of chili sauce. This dish highlights the fresh flavors of the local catch and is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Maldives better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
In Male, the capital city, the local market is a vibrant hub of activity offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Visitors can sample various traditional bites like Bajiya (fish pastries) and Hedhikaa (shorteats) sold by local vendors.
This bustling market provides an opportunity to witness the local fishing culture and offers an extensive selection of freshly caught seafood, including tuna, reef fish, and shellfish. Visitors can also savor grilled fish skewers and other seafood delicacies from the nearby street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting local islands and inhabited islands, it's important to dress modestly and respect the local Muslim culture. Swimwear and revealing clothing should be restricted to resort islands.
It's customary to greet people with a smile and a nod. Handshakes are also common, but it's important to use the right hand as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
The Maldives is renowned for its natural beauty, so it's important to show respect for the environment. Avoid littering and follow eco-friendly practices, especially when snorkeling or diving.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Maldives with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Maldives
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Maldives, tipping is not expected or required, as a service charge is usually included in the bill at hotels and resorts. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to leave a small tip as a gesture of gratitude.
Payment in the Maldives is commonly done through credit cards, especially at hotels, resorts, and larger establishments. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions, as some local shops and smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Maldives.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with clear, sunny skies and calm seas. Ideal for water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Expect occasional rain and higher humidity. Great for surfing and lower accommodation prices. Possible whale shark and manta ray sightings.
Maldives at Night
Hiking in Maldives
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and scenic trails, Kuredu Island offers hiking paths that provide stunning views of the Maldives' unique geography.
Thulusdhoo features various trails that visitors can explore, experiencing both local culture and the natural beauty of the island.
Maafushi offers a mix of beach walks and hiking trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints and secluded areas.
A relatively larger island with trails that allow hikers to explore the lush vegetation and beautiful coastal areas.
Himmafushi has routes that take you through local villages and along the coastline offering a glimpse of Maldivian life along with its natural allure.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Maldives through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Maldives by plane.
The main international airport in the Maldives, located on Hulhule Island near the capital, Malé.
Located in Sri Lanka, this is one of the nearest major international airports, approximately 1,000 km from the Maldives.
Situated in India, this airport is another nearby international gateway, about 600 km from the Maldives.
Also in India, this airport is around 800 km from the Maldives, serving as a major hub in the region.
Although it shares the same name as the capital, it's worth mentioning as it is the primary gateway to the Maldives.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Maldives, constituting the majority of the population.
A significant minority in the Maldives, particularly among migrant workers and expatriates.
Another group of expatriates, primarily working in various sectors such as tourism and construction.
This group mainly comprises migrant laborers working in the Maldives.
Includes various expatriates from diverse nations, contributing to the workforce primarily in tourism and hospitality.
The Soul of Maldives
Discover the essence of Maldives through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in the Maldives, with a significant following and various local leagues and tournaments.
Cricket is increasingly popular among the Maldivian youth, with more people taking up the sport and participating in local competitions.
Given the Maldives' stunning beaches and waves, surfing attracts both locals and tourists, with the islands being a popular destination for surf enthusiasts.
Bodu Beru is a traditional Maldivian music and dance that is often performed during sports events, particularly in connection to local football matches.
Beach volleyball is a common activity enjoyed by both locals and tourists due to the picturesque sandy beaches of the Maldives.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Maldivian cuisine predominantly revolves around seafood, most restaurants and resorts offer vegetarian and vegan menu options that highlight local produce, coconuts, and tropical fruits. Visitors can also enjoy plant-based variations of traditional dishes like mas huni with coconut instead of fish.
Many establishments are attentive to dietary needs and are capable of accommodating gluten-free requirements. Grilled fish, fresh fruit, and vegetable-based dishes can be enjoyed with peace of mind, and gluten-free bread or rice-based alternatives are often available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Maldives with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maldives.