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The Maldives is often only thought of as a place to holiday in expensive all-inclusive resorts and honeymoons, however, that is not the case and the Maldives are accessible to the budget-minded traveller too! Whilst this tiny nation doesn't have the diversity of some other larger countries, it is pure paradise and each atoll has its own feel.
What’s better than one paradise island? Hundreds of them! Set sail across a bright turquoise ocean, arriving at beaches softer than clouds. Dip into the clearest waters and kick back on powder white sands that belong in a dream. Not to mention all the local cultures you can experience on our Maldives trips… Take us there already!
There’s plenty of fish in the sea, plus manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, sea turtles… You get the picture! Swim alongside tropical ocean life inside a crystal-clear ocean teeming with coral reefs. Because if snorkelling in the Maldives isn’t at the top of your bucket list, it seriously should be!
Experience the Maldives’ local way of life on Fulidhoo. You’re just minutes from the ocean on this tiny stretch of coastline, perfect for lazy beach days. When sunset hits, everyone heads west. Celebrate late into the night with a traditional performance of Bodu Beru, where you can sing and dance to the rhythm of the drumming.
Some of the favourite memories made on our Maldives trips go beyond the paradise islands. The journey is the destination here, as you cruise between beaches. Chill out on the sundeck, soaking in the golden rays and sharing your favourite stories with new mates, as bright blue skies transform into rosy pink hues and glistening stars.
Food in the Maldives features dishes with fresh fish, local meat and fresh fruit and vegetables.
Some specialities include Mas Huni which is a tuna salad with coconut, served with chapati bread. Bandukeylu harissa is a curry with steamed breadfruit and Raa which is a drink made from palm trees and often left to ferment so it is slightly alcoholic.
One of the main attractions of the Maldives is that the temperature is warm all year round, averaging 25-30 degrees. The driest months are December to April.
Visas may be required depending on your nationality, travel plans, and length of stay. Below are the FCDO travel advice for British travellers. Entry rules can change at any time, so always check with the relevant embassy before travelling.
To make things easier, we’ve partnered with The Travel Visa Company, a UK-based visa specialist. Their team can guide you on requirements and, for a fee, apply for visas on your behalf.
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Maldives’ current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Maldives set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Maldivian High Commission in the UK.
Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least one month after the date you arrive in Maldives. Make sure your passport is not damaged or you may be stopped by immigration.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
You will get a 30-day visa on arrival if you enter Maldives as a tourist.
If you intend to work in Maldives, you must get a work visa before you travel.
For further information on entry requirements and visas, contact the Maldives immigration department.
You must complete a traveller declaration form (IMUGA) within 96 hours before your flight arrives in the Maldives.
To enter Maldives, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Maldives guide.
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Maldives. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
It is illegal to bring in anything deemed contrary to Islam, including ‘idols for worship’, bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol.
The Maldives is an Islamic country and you should respect local laws and traditions at all times, which includes dressing conservatively when away from resorts.
Whilst alcohol can be bought in resorts, alcohol is not consumed by locals and it is forbidden to import alcohol and pork products.
Same-sex relations are illegal and public displays of affection are not well received.
Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere in the Maldives.
If you need urgent medical assistance during your time in the Maldives you can dial 102 for an ambulance. Always contact your travel insurance provider promptly when seeking medical treatment. Due to the island nature of the Maldives, medically equipped hospitals are only found in the main towns of Male and Hulhumale and therefore medical facilities are limited.
There have been cases of dengue and Zika virus in the Maldives. Please ensure you speak with your doctor or travel nurse regarding travel vaccinations before travel.
The Maldives is great for swimming and snorkelling, however, currents can be strong. Always exercise caution when swimming and never swim under the influence of alcohol.
We do not recommend hiring motorbikes, scooters, ATV vehicles, quad bikes or other types of motorised vehicles whilst abroad. Safety and quality of vehicles vary considerably and the traffic conditions can be much more dangerous than what UK travellers are used to. Should you wish to go against this advice, you should ensure you are hiring from a reputable company and that your travel insurance covers you for such activities.