Maldives travel guide
The Maldives is an island nation of coral atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean, and its appeal is the blend of water, light and reef. Most visitors picture resorts on single islands, but there is far more: snorkelling over house reefs, diving with mantas and sharks, sandbank picnics and sunset dhoni cruises. You can choose between a private resort, a guesthouse on a local island such as Maafushi, Rasdhoo or Dharavandhoo, or a surf stay at Thulusdhoo. Malé and Hulhumalé act as the gateway, while Addu City and Fuvahmulah in the far south feel entirely different from the northern atolls. The drier season runs roughly from November to April, with calm seas and clear skies, while the wetter months bring rain and fewer visitors. The mix of luxury, local-island stays and dive-focused atolls means honeymooners, families and divers will each find an island that fits, and you can plan the itinerary island by island with Zippy Trips.
Capital: Malé.
Before you go to Maldives
- Currency
- MVR ރ.
- Emergency number
- 119
- Plug type
- Type G, D, C
- Tap water
- Drink bottled water
- Tipping
- Optional
- Bargaining
- Not expected
- eSIM
- Available
- Card networks
- Visa, Mastercard, Amex
- ATM fees
- Varies; ATMs only in Male/inhabited islands
Cities in Maldives
- Malé The compact capital of the Maldives, Malé is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, packed with mosques, colourful markets,…
- Maafushi The most popular local island for budget travellers in the Maldives. Maafushi in Kaafu Atoll offers a genuine Maldivian experience with…
- Addu City The second largest city in the Maldives, Addu City spans several islands in Seenu Atoll connected by causeways. Famous for WWII RAF…
- Hulhumalé A planned city on a reclaimed island connected to Malé by the iconic Sinamalé Bridge. Hulhumalé offers wide boulevards, sandy beaches,…
- Fuvahmulah A single-island atoll and one of the most unique destinations in the Maldives. Famous for tiger shark diving, two freshwater crater lakes…
- Dharavandhoo A charming local island in Baa Atoll and the gateway to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Home to Hanifaru Bay — the world's single largest…
- Thulusdhoo A surf haven in North Kaafu Atoll, home to "Cokes" — one of the best right-hand reef breaks in the Indian Ocean. The island also hosts the…
- Rasdhoo A tiny, beautiful island in Alif Alif Atoll renowned for world-class diving, hammerhead shark aggregations at Madivaru Point, vibrant house…
Frequently asked questions about Maldives
- What currency is used in Maldives?
- The currency in Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa. ރ.1 is about ₹6.
- Can I use cards and ATMs in Maldives?
- Accepted card networks: Visa, Mastercard, Amex. Typical ATM fees: Varies; ATMs only in Male/inhabited islands. Decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs and card machines.
- Should I tip in Maldives?
- Tipping in Maldives: optional. Typically about 10% in restaurants.
- Is tap water safe to drink in Maldives?
- Drink bottled water.
- What plug type does Maldives use?
- Maldives uses Type G, D, C plugs.
- What is the emergency number in Maldives?
- Emergency: 119. Police: 119. Ambulance: 102. Tourist helpline: 1800.
- Can I get a SIM or eSIM in Maldives?
- SIM and eSIM available in Maldives.
- What is the capital of Maldives?
- The capital of Maldives is Malé. Time there: IST - 30 min.