Maldives Itinerary
The best islands for backpacking and also for more luxurious getaways
How to get to the Maldives
The best entry point is via Malé International Airport (Velana International Airport). There are connections from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East with layouts that make the journey much easier.
When to visit
The best time to travel to the Maldives It depends on your preferences:
- Dry season (November-April) The days are sunnier, with a lower chance of rain. It’s peak season, so prices tend to be higher.
- Wet season (May-October) You’ll find better prices, but the chance of rain increases and the sea might be a bit rougher. Even so, the temperature remains pleasant year-round.
We have been twice, both times in the wet season and on one occasion we had rain every day (thankfully we were on a liveaboard) but on the second occasion we enjoyed spectacular weather almost every day.
Either way, the Maldives is a paradise!
Types of Travel Plans
The Maldives offers a variety of travel plans to suit different budgets and tastes. Here we detail the main types of trips to the Maldives:
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Luxury resort trip
- Ideal for those seeking a dream experience without worrying too much about the budget.
- It usually includes full board either all inclusive.
- Activities such as water sports, spa treatments, special dinners on the beach, etc.
- In Kuramathi For example, we find private villas, overwater bungalows and countless amenities.
- In Kandolhu You’ll find true Maldivian paradise and luxury (if your budget allows it!)
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Local islands
- They allow one more trip authentic, with direct interaction with the local community.
- Accommodation in guesthouses or small hotels at reasonable prices.
- Local restaurants and cafes, where you can try typical food.
- Maafushi is one of the most popular islands in this category.
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Combination of local islands and resort
- This is the option we chose: spending a few days on a local island like Maafushi and then treating ourselves to a… luxury resort like Kuramathi.
- It allows you to reduce costs and, at the same time, experience a private resort.
- More and more travelers are choosing to spend a few days on local islands and then treat themselves to a stay at a resort. This way, they can experience the culture while enjoying the comfort and luxury of an all-inclusive experience.
Ultimately, the best type of plan depends on your preferences and budget.. We opted for the last option, combining the backpacker atmosphere with overwater accommodation (apartment on the water) at the end of the trip and it was quite an experience.
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Another option is… to take a diving trip to the Maldives
- Aimed at those who want to explore the great marine biodiversity of the Maldives.
- You can hire a liveaboard (a boat that travels through several atolls like the one we did, we wrote about it) here ) or stay on local islands with good access to dive centers: Maafushi offers very good dive sites at good prices (we’ll tell you more) here ) and, on the island of Kuramathi, we find Rasdhoo Divers, one of the centers we mentioned in our previous articles and enjoys a great reputation.
OUR BEST Maldives Itinerary FOR 7 days
4 days on Maafushi Island
The Maafushi Island In recent years, it has become a favorite destination for travelers looking to enjoy the Maldives without spending a fortune. It is an island local with a Maldivian population that lives there year-round, and a growing tourist infrastructure that includes multiple guesthouses hotels and restaurants.
3 days on Kuramathi Island
After spending a few days in Maafushi, we headed to the Kuramathi Island Kuramathi, one of the most renowned resorts in the Maldives, is located in the Rasdhoo Atoll , known for its crystal clear waters and reefs teeming with marine life.
If you’re looking for a more intimate island, we also recommend Kandolhu (we’ve included it at the end of the article).
Another option... Liveaboard 7 days
Aimed at those who want to explore the great marine biodiversity of the Maldives. It involves hiring a liveaboard (a boat that travels through several atolls like the one we did, we wrote about it ) here )
Stop 1. Maafushi Island
(4 Days)
For our first few days, we chose Maafushi, a local island Known for its lively atmosphere, its wide range of excursions and for being one of the most popular destinations for travelers with diverse budgets.
Did you know that Maafushi is one of the few destinations in the Maldives where you can sleep on the beach without paying thousands of euros a night? In a country dominated by luxury tourism, this small island has become the place for travelers seeking paradise... without breaking the bank.
Maafushi is much more than a beautiful island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. It’s a place where you can snorkel with sharks, visit luxury resorts for the day, enjoy water sports in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax with your toes in the white sand.
Unlike other destinations in the Maldives where activities are limited by the resorts, in Maafushi You can organize your own trip full of unforgettable experiences without spending a fortune. Here is a selection of essential activities to make the most of your stay.
What to do in Maafushi?
Snorkeling and diving excursions
Maafushi is a true paradise for sea lovers. There are several daily excursions that take you swimming alongside the beaches. Nurse sharks, manta rays, sea turtles and colorful coral reefs. Most guesthouses organize these tours, but you can also compare prices and quality among local agencies.
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Classic snorkel (Half-day): 3-4 snorkeling spots for about 20-30 USD.
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Snorkeling with nurse sharks at Banana Reef or Coral Garden.
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Luxury snorkel with lunch on a sandbank.
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Scuba diving There are several PADI-certified dive centers where you can do introductory dives or fun dives if you’re already certified. We definitely recommend Sinai Dive Club; you can find more information about the center and dive sites in Maafushi in this article: Explore the best diving spots in Maafushi
Local Council: Always ask about the number of people on the tour to avoid overly large groups.
Day trip to nearby resorts
Want to experience a luxury resort without paying €1,000 a night? From Maafushi you can access exclusive resorts such as Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Fihalhohi or Biyadhoo with a day pass.
Prices range from $90 to $150 USD including transportation, buffet meals and access to luxury facilities.
Perfect for enjoying a private beach, infinity pool or a massage.
Local Council: Book in advance and bring your own towel and sunscreen.
Relaxing at Bikini Beach
On the local islands of the Maldives, respect for Muslim culture prohibits the wearing of swimsuits on most beaches. But Maafushi has one. Area designated for tourists where you can sunbathe in a bikini or swimsuit without any problem: the famous Bikini Beach.
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Quiet beach with sun loungers, shade and easy access to the sea.
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Ideal for swimming or simply enjoying the sun with views of the endless turquoise waters.
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There are cafes and restaurants nearby where you can eat something without going too far.
Tip: We stayed at the Sunrise Beach Hotel And it was a great choice. Great views, spotless rooms, and the best value for money for a budget hotel.
Water sports and adventure
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Maafushi has you covered. The calm, clear waters are ideal for exciting activities such as:
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Jet ski (water scooter)
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Parasailing: incredible views of the island from the sky.
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Banana boat either flyfish
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Kayaking and paddle surfing (some hotels offer it for free)
These activities are usually available right on the beach or at local water parks. Ask your accommodation if they have any discounts with any companies.
Stop 2. The paradise of Kuramathi Island
(3 Days)
In a country where most islands offer luxury, but little variety, Kuramathi It breaks all the molds. Stretching 1.8 km, with white sand beaches and a sandbar that looks like it's straight out of a postcard, this island becomes a destination in itself. Here you don't just come to relax, but to live an experience that It combines relaxation, nature and adventure.. And the best part: all without having to leave the resort.
What’s fascinating about Kuramathi is its balance. You can walk barefoot all day, sip cocktails while watching the sunset, or explore marine life by snorkeling on a reef that surrounds the entire island. Do you enjoy diving? Exotic cuisine? Spas with ocean views? Kuramathi has it all.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kuramathi is ideal if you’re planning a honeymoon getaway, a slow travel experience, or simply a few days to disconnect from the noise of the world.
We often think that a holiday in the Maldives must be short and expensive, but the truth is that Kuramathi offers more affordable options than you might imagine. without sacrificing luxurious details. From overwater villas to bungalows nestled in the greenery, the variety of accommodations caters to different budgets without compromising quality.
THE EXPLORE TV RECOMMENDATION
Kuramathi: 3 Days of Relaxation in the Turquoise Paradise of the Maldives
#HOTEL EXPLORE
Want to know what our three dreamy days in this turquoise paradise were like?
We’ve prepared a detailed guide, with recommendations, spectacular photos, and practical tips to help you plan your trip. If you’re thinking of visiting Kuramathi Or perhaps you simply need inspiration for your next big getaway, this is the article for you.
Stop 3: KAndolhu (optional!) For the most demanding in the search for paradise
(3 Days)
We were recently on a new island, Kandolhu, We just got back, and we still can't believe such a place exists. A tiny island in size, but immense in its sensations. Beaches that look like they've just been drawn, the sea in every possible shade of blue, and a peace that envelops everything.
Imagine an island in the Maldives so small that you can walk across it in less than ten minutes. But with everything you need for a perfect getaway. That’s it. Kandolhu Maldives, an exclusive resort with only 30 private villas Surrounded by white sand beaches and tropical vegetation. Here there are no crowds or noise, just privacy, tranquility and discreet luxury.
Snorkeling in Kandolhu is simply spectacular. From the shore you can access one of the best house reefs in the Maldives It’s teeming with tropical fish, turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral. For diving enthusiasts, the island is within easy reach of iconic spots like Maaya Thila, Fish Head either Hafsa Thila internationally renowned for their marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or a certified diver, Kandolhu offers an incredible aquatic experience.
The culinary offerings at Kandolhu Maldives are surprising for such a small island. The resort features five à la carte restaurants Each with a distinct concept: Mediterranean cuisine, Japanese, grill, Peruvian flavors, and an international menu. Everything is prepared with fresh ingredients, meticulous technique, and impeccable service. Dining at Kandolhu It is an essential part of the experience.
We tell you more in the article we wrote about our trip:
#HOTEL EXPLORE
Want to know how our three dreamy days on this little dream island went?
We’ve prepared a detailed guide, with recommendations, spectacular photos, and practical tips to help you plan your trip. If you’re thinking of visiting Kandolhu Or perhaps you simply need inspiration for your next big getaway, this is the article for you.
