If you are also dreaming about traveling to the Maldives but are unsure how to prepare, you have come to the right place!
Known for white sandy beaches, overwater villas, and clear ocean water, the Maldives is nothing short of a paradise.
This is why I have always had this place on my bucket list and recommend it to others, especially if you love adventure and water activities.
However, the Maldives is quite different from most of the other countries I have visited.
So, one has to be aware of a few rules when traveling to the Maldives.
In this article, I am covering how to visit the Maldives, the best time to visit, beaches to explore in the Maldives, and more.
Excited to plan your amazing trip to the Maldives?
Keep reading my article below on the 20 Top Things to Know When Traveling to the Maldives.
Traveling to the Maldives: 20 Things You Need to Know
Check On Your Country’s Visa Entry/Exit Requirements
Traveling to the Maldives is incredibly easy.
Citizens of most countries, including India, the US, the UK, and EU nations, receive a free 30-day visa on arrival.
All you need is a passport valid for at least six months, proof of onward or return travel, and a confirmed accommodation booking.
You also need to fill out a Traveller declaration form online within 96 hours of your arrival in the Maldives. This can be found on the government IMUGA site.
Read my tips on how to survive a long international flight because the Maldives are worth it.
Book Here: Hulhumale: Full Day Boat Tour and Snorkeling
Make Sure To Check Your Passport Before Traveling To The Maldives
To enter the Maldives, you need to have a valid passport with an expiry date at least 6 months from the expected departure date.
Plus, your passport must have at least one fully blank page.
If you don’t fit either of these categories, then you need to apply for a new passport before your trip to the Maldives.
Since it can take a while to renew your passport in the USA, I would recommend getting it expedited for a fee if necessary.
Also, if you are an American with a Global Entry membership, then download their app to access your mobile account and save time upon your return to the USA.
Book Here: Maafushi: Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Sand Bank and Dolphins
Purchase a SIM Card/eSIM For The Maldives
In terms of the network, you will find Wi-Fi in most resorts and guesthouses, but signal strength can vary, especially on remote islands.
This is why I recommend purchasing a local SIM as soon as you land from the Malé airport.
You can easily find affordable packages with 4G coverage on many islands.
However, for this option, you will need an unlocked phone.
If you don’t have one, consider purchasing an e-SIM or enabling international roaming on your domestic operator.
My cell phone carrier is T-Mobile, and my plan comes with a reasonable international plan, which is all I need when traveling.
Book Here: Maafushi: Boat Tour with Coral Garden Snorkeling and Lunch
Cash Or Credit Cards? What Is Best To Have?
Coming to the age-old question of whether you should carry cash or credit cards when you travel to Maldives.
Well, good news, as credit cards are accepted at most places.
However, I would recommend carrying a little cash for tips, ferries, and small cafes, especially if you are exploring the local islands.
Although the local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), US dollars are accepted at most resorts and even some local islands.
So, you can carry US dollars and a smaller amount of local currency when you visit the Maldives.
For local currency, you can use the ATMs or get it from your local bank at home before your trip.
Book Here: Explore Maldives Capital City Male
Notify Your Credit Card Company When Traveling To The Maldives
If you are going to use your credit card in the Maldives, then make sure that you inform your bank in advance so that they don’t block your card while you are on the trip.
Although most banks don’t do this, and you have the option of changing the settings from the bank mobile app, it is better to be safe than sorry.
So, do check with your bank and notify them of your upcoming trip to avoid any unpleasant situations when in the Maldives.
Book Here: Maldives Sunset Fishing Trip: A Tranquil Angling Experience
The Maldives Is A Muslim Country
Now, this is very important to note.
The Maldives is a 100% Islamic nation.
This means you will be expected to wear modest clothing, especially on the local islands.
Also, alcohol, pork, and public displays of affection are prohibited outside private resorts. So, be aware of that.
Another important thing to remember is that Friday is a holy day in the Maldives.
As a result, some of the shops, ferries, and services close or operate for a shorter time. So, plan accordingly.
Book Here: Maldives : Private Male’ City walking tour with options
Get Travel Insurance For Medical Emergencies
When you are traveling to the Maldives, do carry travel insurance with you.
This is because the Maldives is quite remote, and the cost of healthcare is high here.
So, if there are medical emergencies, especially if you are planning scuba diving, you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on emergency medical care.
Look for insurance that covers medical evacuations, emergencies, trip cancellations, and even water sports.
Book Here: Malé: Dhangethi Island 6-Day Tour with 4-Star Hotel
Choose Between Local And Resort Islands
One of the most important questions to ask yourself when planning a Maldives vacation is whether you should stay on a local island or a resort island.
Local Islands like Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, or Dhigurah offer affordable guesthouses, authentic Maldivian culture, and budget-friendly excursions.
On the other hand, resort Islands like Baros, Soneva, etc. are exclusive, private islands with luxurious villas, overwater bungalows, and full-service pampering.
Each island has just one resort, creating a private world for you.
To make it a little easier for you, it is illegal to bring alcohol into the Maldives, and there won’t be alcohol on the local islands.
So, if having cocktails is important to you, stay at a private resort or take a day trip on a ‘party boat’ or a resort nearby.
Book Here: Dhiffushi: Snorkeling with Turtles in the Maldives
Wear Appropriate Clothes In The Maldives
As I said before, the Maldives are a Muslim country, so you must be careful when dressing up here.
Resort islands are chill, so you can wear bikinis and swimwear without worrying about anything.
There are a few bikini beaches on local islands too.
However, in the public areas on the local islands, you should also keep your shoulders and knees covered.
Book Here: Velana Airport: Thulusdhoo Island Surfing Paradise Day Trip
The Best Time to Visit the Maldives Is The Dry Season
Technically, there is only one best time to go to the Maldives, i.e., the dry season from November to April.
During this time, the sky is clear with calm seas, making it perfect for water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
However, if you want to save up on money a bit, then you can plan a trip to the Maldives in late October and the beginning of May.
This is the shoulder season when you get the best of everything, but at affordable prices.
Book Here: Addu City – Highlights tour of 4 islands by vehicle
Traveling To The Maldives: Is Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Short answer – No, especially if you are staying on a local island.
Most resorts desalinate and purify the water so you can drink it from the tap, but it has a strong taste because of the processing.
This is why most people prefer bottled water instead of tap water in the Maldives.
Book Here: Fuvahmulah: Beginner Surf Lesson with ISA-Certified
Traveling To The Maldives: Bring a Travel Adapter
Another important thing to pack for your trip to the Maldives is a travel adapter.
You don’t want to be stranded in a new country with no charge in your phone or other devices, with no way to charge them.
Maldivian outlets accept plug type D or G and run on 230V voltage, whereas in the U.S., the voltage is 110- 120V.
Make sure to bring a travel adaptor to fit these outlets a voltage converter if your electronics don’t have a built-in transformer.
Book Here: Fuvahmulah: Tiger Shark Diving Experience
Save Money By Getting Snacks And Packaged Foods, Or Choose All-Inclusive Resorts
Now, if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, you might have a hard time finding food here. The Maldives is famous for its seafood, so you will find it easily on all islands.
Apart from that, expect to eat a lot of coconut milk dishes and spicy curries.
However, at resorts, you will find an international buffet that would cater better to your taste if you are a vegetarian or a vegan.
So, if you are unsure about the food here, then make sure to carry some snacks and packaged foods.
Please be advised that eating out when visiting the Maldives (except for all-inclusive resorts) is extremely expensive. Plan to budget $300/$400 per person per day.
Book an all-inclusive resort and let them know your dietary preferences to avoid all the stress of finding an appropriate place to eat in the Maldives. And budget-wise, you could come out ahead.
Book Here: 8 Days Fuvahmulah Tiger Shark Diving
Traveling To The Maldives: Is There a Language Barrier?
Although Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, you don’t have to worry about communicating with the locals here.
Most tourist-related shops and restaurants have staff who can speak English, and in some resorts, they can also speak French, German, and Mandarin to accommodate their guests better.
Book Here: Fuvahmulah: 7 Day SurfCoaching Trip Maldives Local Island
Tipping Culture In The Maldives
Another thing to remember when traveling to the Maldives is that tipping isn’t mandatory here.
But it is still greatly appreciated, especially by the hotel staff, dive guides, and boat captains.
At resorts, a 10% service charge is often included, so you don’t have to pay anything extra.
However, small tips to housekeepers or boat crews can make your vacation better.
Book Here: Maldives : 4-Hours Private Deep Sea Fishing Huvadhoo
Maldives Public Transportation Can Be Tricky
Okay, so the Maldives is not the easiest country to travel around.
The quickest way to travel between islands is by seaplane, but they can be quite expensive, costing around $200 – $600+ round-trip per person.
Moreover, they operate only during the day, so you need to plan accordingly.
For budget travelers, speedboats and local ferries are the best option. They are slower than seaplanes but quite affordable.
If you are staying at a resort, they can arrange a private speedboat transfer for you as well.
For faraway atolls, you can always book domestic flights. They cost less than a seaplane but more than ferries.
Maldives Is More Than a Honeymoon Destination
A lot of people think that the Maldives is only a honeymoon destination, but this is far from the truth.
This country is also great for families, friends, and solo travelers.
Local islands like Maafushi have guesthouses that cater to budget travelers as well.
On your Maldives vacation, you can not only explore the beautiful beaches in the Maldives but also indulge in adventure activities.
From snorkeling off the beach to scuba diving with manta rays and whale sharks, there is a lot to do in the Maldives.
Traveling To The Maldives: Be Careful While Swimming Here
The Indian Ocean is rougher than most oceans you may have encountered, so you must stay vigilant while swimming.
Currents can be strong even near shorelines.
This is why it is always better to check with locals or hotel staff about safe swimming areas, especially if you’re staying on a local island.
Book Activities With Reputed Tour Operators
Most importantly, book activities with reputed tour operators that are within your budget.
Resort excursions are the most reliable but can also be super expensive.
To enjoy budget-friendly day trips and water activities such as dolphin cruises, sandbank picnics, and whale shark snorkeling, find a local tour operator.
This is possible on the local islands with the help of your guesthouses.
But be sure to always check the reviews of the tour operator before you book any excursion with them.
Traveling To Maldives: Essentials Packing List
Here are my tips on how to pack lightly when traveling to the Maldives.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for exploring.
And the replacement carbon filter ensures fresh, clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would also work well for you.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.
These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful when heading to the Maldives beaches..
These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.
For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.
Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.
This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.
If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.
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Where To Stay In The Maldives
Kaani Village & Spa, Maafushi – If you want a luxurious experience in the Maldives while not spending a lot, then Kaani Village & Spa is a great choice.
This charming guesthouse on Maafushi Island features an on-site spa, a small pool, and the option to book organized tours.
Royal Island Resort & Spa, Baa Atoll – For a more luxurious and private experience, plan your stay at the Royal Island Resort & Spa in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll.
Here, you have beachfront villas, a house reef for snorkeling, and an exclusive island experience without paying a lot like other luxury resorts in the Maldives.
Soneva Fushi, Baa Atoll – One of the Maldives’ most exclusive eco-luxury resorts, Soneva Fushi is perfect for a king/queen type experience on your vacation.
With huge beachfront villas, incredible food, personalized service, and a “barefoot luxury” atmosphere, this stay is perfect for those looking to splurge on a special occasion.
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