Maldives Planning & Practical Guide

Passport Requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the Maldives, with at least two blank pages for entry stamps and visas.

Ensure it's in good condition, as damaged passports may lead to entry denial; children need their own passports even when traveling with parents.

Visa-Free Countries

Citizens of over 80 countries, including the US, UK, EU nations, Canada, Australia, and most Asian countries, are eligible for visa on arrival for up to 30 days without prior application.

This covers tourists only; business or work visas require advance approval from the Maldives Immigration Department.

Visa Applications

For nationalities requiring pre-approval or longer stays, apply online via the Maldives Immigration portal (fees around $50-100), submitting documents like invitation letters, financial proof, and health certificates.

Processing times vary from 3-14 days; tourist visas can be extended up to 90 days at immigration offices in Malé for an additional fee of about $20 per month.

Border Crossings

Entry is primarily via Velana International Airport in Malé, with seamless immigration for visa-on-arrival eligible travelers; seaplane or speedboat transfers to resorts follow immediately after.

Private islands have relaxed customs, but declare any items like alcohol (prohibited outside resorts) to avoid fines up to $500.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, comprehensive insurance covering medical evacuation (costs can exceed $50,000), dive accidents, and trip cancellations is highly recommended due to the remote island locations.

Policies from $10/day should include coverage for water sports and COVID-19 related issues; many resorts require proof upon check-in.

Extensions Possible

Visa extensions for tourists are available at the Immigration Department in Malé, allowing up to 90 days total stay with proof of funds and accommodation.

Apply at least one week before expiration; fees are $20 per month, and overstay fines are $10/day, so plan accordingly for longer honeymoons or dives.

Book Flights Early

Find the best deals to Malé by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.

Booking 3-6 months in advance can save you 40-60% on international flights, especially during peak dry season.

Eat Like a Local

Opt for guesthouses on local islands for meals under $15, focusing on fresh seafood and curries instead of resort buffets that can cost $50+ per meal.

Habitas markets and street food stalls offer authentic Maldivian dishes at 50-70% less than resort prices, enhancing cultural immersion.

Public Transport Passes

Use ferries between islands for $5-20 per trip instead of speedboats, saving up to 80% on inter-atoll travel; no passes needed but schedules are reliable.

Combine with dhoni boat tours for snorkeling at group rates of $25-40, avoiding private charters that exceed $200.

Free Attractions

Explore bikini beaches on local islands, bioluminescent plankton shows at night, and public sandbanks, all accessible without fees for stunning natural beauty.

Many atolls offer free sunset views and village walks; avoid paid excursions for basic relaxation to cut costs by 100%.

Card vs Cash

Cards are accepted in resorts but carry USD cash for local islands and tips; ATMs in Malé dispense both MVR and USD with low fees.

Avoid airport exchanges for poor rates; use Wise cards to minimize international transaction fees up to 3%.

Resort Packages

Book all-inclusive deals that bundle meals, transfers, and activities for $50-100 savings per day; look for shoulder season promotions.

Groupon-style sites or resort websites offer dive packages that pay off after 3-4 sessions, ideal for underwater enthusiasts.

Clothing Essentials

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothes like linen shirts, shorts, and cover-ups for the tropical heat; include modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) for visits to local islands respecting Islamic customs.

Swimwear is fine on resort beaches but prohibited in public areas; add a sarong for versatility and sun protection during boat trips.

Electronics

Bring waterproof cases for phones and cameras, a universal adapter (Type D/G), solar charger for remote islands, and underwater housing for snorkeling photos.

Download offline maps of atolls and dive apps; power banks are essential as outlets may be limited on overwater bungalows.

Health & Safety

Carry reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), high-deet insect repellent for evenings, and a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness meds for boat rides.

Include prescriptions, allergy meds, and water purification tablets; travel insurance docs are crucial for potential medevac from isolated resorts.

Travel Gear

Pack a waterproof daypack for island hopping, reusable reef-safe water bottle, snorkel gear (if not provided), and dry bags for valuables during water activities.

Include passport copies, dive certification cards, and a money pouch; lightweight luggage helps with seaplane weight limits of 20kg per person.

Footwear Strategy

Footwear Strategy

Opt for water shoes or reef walkers to protect feet from coral, flip-flops for resort paths, and sturdy sandals for local island explorations.

Avoid heavy shoes; barefoot is common on beaches, but add non-slip grips for wet decks on dhonis and speedboats to prevent slips.

Personal Care

Include travel-sized biodegradable toiletries, aloe vera for sunburns, and a wide-brim hat; lip balm with SPF is vital in the intense sun.

Pack eco-friendly items to protect marine life; compact fans or cooling towels help manage humidity levels up to 90% during the day.

Dry Season Peak (December-March)

Best time for crystal-clear waters and sunny skies with temperatures 28-32°C, ideal for snorkeling, diving, and weddings with minimal rain.

High season means crowds and premium prices, but perfect visibility for spotting manta rays and whale sharks in the atolls.

Shoulder Dry (April & November)

Milder weather with 27-30°C temps and occasional showers, offering fewer tourists and 20-30% lower resort rates for relaxed beach stays.

Great for yoga retreats and spa escapes; south atolls like Addu see calmer seas for beginner divers transitioning seasons.

Wet Season Low (May-September)

Budget-friendly with heavy but short rains and 26-29°C humidity, still viable for indoor spa days and discounted dive packages up to 50% off.

Fewer crowds mean intimate experiences; manta cleaning stations are active, and waves attract surfers to breaks like Sultans.

Transition Wet (October)

Variable weather with increasing sun and 27-31°C, bridging seasons for value deals on overwater villas and emerging marine life sightings.

Ideal for honeymooners seeking balance; north atolls offer protected lagoons for safe swimming amid light winds.