Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions travellers ask about visiting the Maldives.
General Questions
What is the Maldives?
The Maldives is a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, made up of 26 natural atolls containing around 1,200 coral islands. Only about 200 islands are inhabited by local communities, and fewer than 170 operate as tourist resorts. It is the lowest-lying country on Earth, with an average ground level of just 1.5 metres above sea level. Learn more on our What Is the Maldives? page.
Where is the Maldives located?
The Maldives sits in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The atoll chain straddles the equator, stretching roughly 870 kilometres from north to south. Despite its vast ocean territory, the total land area is only about 300 square kilometres. See our Where Is the Maldives? guide for maps and details.
What language is spoken in the Maldives?
The official language is Dhivehi, an Indo-Aryan language written in its own script called Thaana. English is widely spoken in resorts, guesthouses, and tourist areas, so communication is rarely a problem for visitors. Read more about the Dhivehi language.
What is the capital of the Maldives?
The capital is Malé, one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It occupies an entire island and is home to roughly a third of the country's population. Malé is the main gateway for international flights and the hub for domestic travel. Explore our Malé city guide.
Travel and Entry
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
Most nationalities receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. You will need a valid passport with at least six months' remaining validity, a confirmed accommodation booking, and proof of sufficient funds. No advance visa application is needed for standard tourist visits. Check our practical information section for full entry requirements.
How do I get to the Maldives?
The main international airport is Velana International Airport (MLE), located on Hulhulé island next to Malé. Many international airlines fly direct from cities across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. From the airport, you can reach your resort or island by speedboat, domestic flight, or seaplane. See our How to Get There guide.
What is the best time to visit the Maldives?
The dry season from December to April (northeast monsoon) offers the most sunshine, calmest seas, and best visibility for snorkeling and diving. The wet season from May to November brings occasional rain and greener landscapes but also lower prices and fewer crowds. Marine life such as manta rays is often better during the wet season. Read our Best Time to Visit guide for a detailed breakdown.
How do I get around between islands?
Transport options include speedboats, public ferries, domestic flights, and seaplanes. Resorts typically arrange their own transfers. On local islands, guesthouses can help you book speedboats or ferries to nearby islands. For more details, see Getting Around the Maldives.
Budget and Costs
Is the Maldives expensive?
The Maldives can be as expensive or as affordable as you choose. Luxury resorts with overwater villas can cost thousands of dollars per night, but staying on local islands in guesthouses can cost as little as $50 to $100 per night including meals. Budget travellers can enjoy the same stunning beaches and snorkeling at a fraction of the resort price.
What currency is used in the Maldives?
The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted at resorts, guesthouses, and many shops. Credit cards are accepted at most resorts and an increasing number of local island businesses. It is handy to carry some small US dollar notes for tips and small purchases. See our Currency and Money guide.
Can I visit the Maldives on a budget?
Yes. The growth of guesthouses on local islands since 2009 has opened up affordable travel in the Maldives. Islands like Maafushi, Dhiffushi, and Fulidhoo offer budget-friendly accommodation with easy access to beaches, snorkeling, and excursions. Island hopping using public ferries keeps transport costs low.
Activities and Experiences
Can I visit local islands in the Maldives?
Absolutely. Since guesthouse tourism was introduced, dozens of inhabited islands welcome visitors. You can stay in locally run guesthouses, eat at local restaurants, and experience everyday Maldivian life. Popular local islands include Maafushi, Dhiffushi, and Fulidhoo. Read more about resort islands vs local islands.
What can I do in the Maldives besides relaxing on the beach?
There is far more to the Maldives than sunbathing. You can go snorkeling on vibrant house reefs, scuba diving with manta rays and sharks, dolphin watching at dawn, sunset cruising on a traditional dhoni, fishing, and visiting pristine sandbanks. On land, spa treatments and cultural tours add variety. Browse our full Things to Do section.
Is snorkeling or diving good for beginners?
The Maldives is one of the best places in the world for beginners. Many islands have house reefs just metres from the beach with calm, warm, crystal-clear water. You can see colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even small reef sharks in shallow water. Dive centres on resorts and local islands offer beginner courses and guided excursions.
Can I see whale sharks and manta rays?
Yes. Whale sharks can be spotted year-round in South Ari Atoll, making the Maldives one of the most reliable places on Earth to swim with them. Manta rays gather at cleaning stations across several atolls, with peak sightings during the southwest monsoon (May to November) at places like Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll.
Culture and Etiquette
Is the Maldives safe for tourists?
The Maldives is generally very safe for visitors. Resorts are private islands with controlled access, and local islands have low crime rates. The main safety considerations are ocean-related: always respect currents, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and follow local guidance when snorkeling or diving. See our safety guide for detailed advice.
What should I wear in the Maldives?
On resort islands, you can wear swimwear and casual clothing freely. On local islands, the Maldives is a Muslim country and modest dress is expected in public areas — cover shoulders and knees when walking through villages. Most local islands have designated "bikini beaches" where swimwear is fine. Read our What to Pack guide for full details.
Is alcohol available in the Maldives?
Alcohol is freely available at resorts and on liveaboard boats. However, it is strictly prohibited on local islands and in public areas outside of resorts. This is an important distinction to understand before you travel. If you plan to stay on local islands, your trip will be alcohol-free. Learn more about local customs and religion.
What is the food like in the Maldives?
Maldivian cuisine revolves around fresh fish, coconut, and rice. Signature dishes include mas huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut), garudhiya (a clear fish broth), and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Resorts serve international cuisine, while local islands offer authentic Maldivian meals and short eats (savoury snacks). Explore our full Food section.