since 2024-06-28 · checked 2026-10-01 · Details ↗ This is the Korean government’s advisory — also check your own government’s travel advice.
An Indian Ocean nation of coral islands where you can choose between one-island-one-resort stays and guesthouses on inhabited local islands. Snorkel, dive and picnic on sandbanks in clear water, then see everyday life in the capital Malé, with its coral-stone mosque and fish market. Ideal for honeymooners, couples and divers looking for beaches and marine life.
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Check prices →November to April is the northeast monsoon, generally sunny. May to October brings the southwest monsoon with more rain and rougher seas. It is warm year-round, with average highs around 31°C.
Most visitors go straight from Velana International Airport (MLE) to their island on transport arranged by the resort. Speedboats are the norm for resorts near the airport, while farther ones use seaplanes or domestic flights, so confirm the transfer when you book.
From the airport island of Hulhulé, cross to the capital Malé by public ferry, or take a taxi or bus across the bridge. Check official local information for schedules and fares.
Hulhumalé is a new town island linked to the airport by road. It is a handy place to stay if you land late or head out to an island early the next day.
The cheapest way to travel between Malé, nearby local islands and islands within each atoll. Not every island is served and sailings run on set days and times, so check the official timetable.
Faster boats run to local islands from jetties such as the one near Republic Square in Malé. Guesthouses usually help arrange them, so ask your host first.
Used for distant atolls. Resorts and hosts usually book these around your international flight times, so share your arrival and departure times early.
Malé is small enough to explore on foot, and buses and taxis link Malé, Hulhumalé and the airport. Check official local information for fares.
Good for: Honeymoons, relaxation, private beaches
Each island holds a single resort, so it is quiet, swimwear is fine everywhere and alcohol is served. Island transfers follow the resort's schedule.
Good for: Budget travel, local culture
Stay with island communities and enjoy affordable snorkeling and sandbank trips. There is no alcohol, modest dress is expected, and swimwear is for designated bikini beaches.
Good for: Layovers, first or last night
A reclaimed new town linked to the airport by road, with wide streets, beaches, cafés and a large park. Convenient for short stays and transits.
Good for: City sights, local life
The capital, with mosques, a museum and the fish market. It is a small, very crowded island, and alcohol is not sold.
Good for: Whale sharks and manta rays
South Ari offers year-round chances to see whale sharks, and Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll draws mantas from May to November. Nearby local islands make good bases.
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Built in 1658 from interlocking coral-stone blocks, it and its minaret are among the oldest structures in Malé. It is still a place of worship, so dress modestly, visit quietly and follow on-site guidance about entry.
Opened in 1984 with a golden dome, it houses the country's largest mosque. Avoid prayer times and follow the dress code.
The museum shows pre-Islamic and Islamic-era artifacts, royal dress and crafts, and Sultan Park next door is one of Malé's leafiest public spaces. Check official information for hours and fees.
Malé's oldest fish market comes alive in the afternoon when fishing boats bring in tuna. The nearby markets give a glimpse of daily life.
Republic Square on the north shore is a local gathering spot, and Malé's artificial beach is pleasant for an evening stroll.
Popular boat trips stop at coral reef spots for snorkeling and land on a sandbank in the open sea. Book through your guesthouse or resort.
South Ari Atoll offers year-round chances to see whale sharks. Follow the code of conduct and keep your distance with a guide.
A protected bay in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where manta rays and whale sharks gather during the May-November plankton season. Visiting rules are strict, so go only on an authorized trip.
The classic breakfast of tuna mixed with grated coconut, onion, chili and lime, wrapped in thin round roshi flatbread.
A clear tuna broth eaten with rice, lime and chili — everyday home cooking.
Savory snacks served with afternoon tea. Try a few at a local island teashop.
Kulhi boakibaa is a spicy fish cake and mas roshi a tuna-and-coconut-filled bread — both hedhikaa favorites.
Amounts are rough figures in local currency. Check exchange rates before you go.
Arrive at Velana International Airport, transfer to your island by speedboat or seaplane, then relax on the beach at sunset.
House reef snorkeling in the morning, a sandbank trip in the afternoon, then a quiet evening on the island.
A dive or a whale shark or manta trip (check season and weather), then free time.
Head to Malé for Hukuru Miskiy, the National Museum and the fish market, then on to the airport with plenty of time for island transfers.
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