maldives
a paradise on the water
White sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and an exceptionally rich seabed: the Maldives are an invitation to dream. Stay in a bungalow on stilts, explore colorful coral reefs, swim with manta rays and enjoy an idyllic setting for a timeless escape. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure or serenity, the Maldives are the promise of an unforgettable journey.
Maldives at a glance
Location: Situated southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the Maldives form an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Only around 200 islands are inhabited, of which more than 160 are dedicated to tourism.
Capital: Malé
Population: Approximately 500,000
Official language: Dhivehi (English is commonly used in tourist areas)
Currency: Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR), with an exchange rate of around 1 euro for 17 MVR. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and resorts.
Time difference: +4h in winter and +3h in summer compared with France and Belgium
Flight time: Approximately 10 to 12 hours from Europe with stopover
Entry formalities: Passport valid at least 6 months after date of return. A free 30-day tourist visa is issued on arrival, subject to proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
Health: No vaccinations are compulsory, but it is advisable to be up to date on current vaccinations. As tap water is not drinkable, bottled water is preferable.
In your suitcase: swimwear, light clothing, hat, sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. For snorkeling enthusiasts, a mask and snorkel may be useful.
Good to know: The Maldives is a Muslim country, and alcohol is prohibited outside the island hotels. When visiting Malé or the local islands, decent dress is required (shoulders and knees covered).
5 good reasons to visit the Maldives
Preparing your trip to the Maldives
How to get to the Maldives
The easiest way to reach the Maldives is by air. Velana International Airport (MLE), located on the island of Hulhulé near Malé, is the main gateway to the country. Several airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and Etihad Airways, offer flights with stopovers from Europe. The price of a return ticket generally varies between €500 and €1,200, depending on the season and the airline chosen.
When to go to the Maldives
The Maldives enjoy a warm tropical climate all year round, with an average temperature of 26°C to 31°C. However, two distinct seasons influence the weather and activities on site.
November to April: This is the dry season, with sunny weather, little rain and calm seas, ideal for diving, snorkeling and boat excursions. This period also corresponds to the high tourist season, particularly between December and March, with greater crowds and higher prices.
May to October: The south-west monsoon brings more rain, especially at the end of the day, and stronger winds. However, this period is ideal for surfers, as the waves are more impressive. It’s also the low season, with more attractive rates on hotels and flights.
To sum up: November to April is the ideal time to enjoy the sun and calm seas, while May to October is perfect for travelers looking for more tranquility or surfing enthusiasts.
Getting around the Maldives
Getting around the Maldives is a unique experience, as the archipelago is made up of almost 1,200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. The main means of transport vary according to your destination and the type of accommodation you choose.
Seaplane: This is the most spectacular option for reaching Malé’s remote island hotels. It offers breathtaking views of the atolls and quick access to resorts in the more remote atolls. Seaplane transfers are often organized by the hotels.
Speedboat: For the islands close to Malé, the speedboat is the most practical and economical way. Many resorts offer private or group transfers by speedboat.
Public ferry: This is the most affordable option for getting between the local islands. The network is limited and crossings can be long, but it’s a good choice for budget travelers wishing to explore the islands inhabited by Maldivians.
On foot or by bike: On the island hotels and local islands, you can generally get around on foot or by bike, as most of the islands are small and car-free.
Where to stay in the Maldives?
The Maldives is renowned for its luxury accommodations, but the archipelago offers a diverse range of options to suit all types of traveler, from exclusive resorts to more affordable local islands.
Luxury resorts: The Maldives are synonymous with luxury, with 5-star resorts nestled on private islands. These hotels offer bungalows on stilts with direct access to crystal-clear water, villas with private pools, spas, upscale restaurants and a variety of activities such as diving, snorkeling and dhoni cruises. Prestigious brands such as Conrad, Four Seasons, Anantara and Club Med are present, offering an unforgettable stay experience.
Hotels on local islands: For a more authentic experience at a lower cost, it’s possible to stay on local islands, where you’ll find human-scale hotels. These establishments offer a more convivial atmosphere, allowing you to discover Maldivian culture while remaining close to the beaches. This is an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in local life without breaking the bank.
Homestays and guesthouses: If you’re looking for more intimate, family-style accommodation, many local islands offer homestays and guesthouses, where you’ll be welcomed by locals and small teams of locals. These options allow you to discover another side of the Maldives, far from the luxury of resorts, while enjoying comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
What budget for a trip to the Maldives?
The budget for a trip to the Maldives can vary considerably depending on the type of stay you choose, the level of comfort you’re looking for and the activities you want to do. Here’s an estimate to help you plan your getaway to this tropical paradise.
Accommodation:
The Maldives is famous for its luxury resorts, with bungalows on stilts offering spectacular ocean views. Prices for top-of-the-range accommodation can range from €300 to €1,000 per night, or even more, depending on the luxury of the establishment. Guesthouses and hotels on local islands offer more economical options, ranging from €50 to €200 per night for a double room. For a more affordable stay, you can find homestays or simple hotels for around €30 to €70 per night.
Meals:
Food in the Maldives can be relatively affordable if you opt for meals in local restaurants or on the local islands. Expect to pay between €5 and €10 for a meal in a traditional restaurant. In luxury resorts, meals can be more expensive, with prices ranging from €20 to €50 per person for a full dinner. Some establishments offer all-inclusive packages, which may offer better value for money if you stay at a resort.
Transportation:
Travel between the islands is mainly by hydrofoil, private boat or internal plane. A boat transfer can cost between €50 and €150 per trip, depending on the distance between the islands. If you opt for an internal flight, expect prices of around €100 to €250 for a one-hour trip. Local transport (cabs and dhonis) remains affordable, with journeys starting from €3 to €10.
Activities and visits:
The Maldives offers a wide range of leisure activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling and boat trips. You can expect to pay between €50 and €150 for a day trip that includes diving, snorkeling or a sea outing. Sunset fishing excursions and cruises generally cost between €30 and €100 per person.
In summary:
The daily budget for a stay in the Maldives can vary between €80 and €250 per person, depending on the level of comfort and activities chosen. For a more economical trip, opt for local hotels and meals in non-touristy restaurants, which can reduce costs to around €50 to €80 per day. For a more luxurious stay, it’s possible to exceed €500 to €1000 per day.
Get inspired
Travel Journals
Discover our travel stories and sample itineraries to inspire you in the creation of your own 100% personalized trip.
