5 Days Maldives Itinerary
Experience the ultimate tropical escape in the Maldives with this 5-day itinerary. Indulge in luxurious accommodations, explore vibrant coral reefs, and savor exquisite cuisine, all while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this island paradise.
Duration
5 days
Budget
$1500-2500
Best Time
November to April is the best time to visit the Maldives, as it's the dry season with low humidity and sunny skies
Activities
26
Daily Avg
$400/day
Pace
Fast
The Maldives offers unparalleled luxury and natural beauty. It's a perfect destination for relaxation, water activities, and enjoying pristine beaches in overwater bungalows.
Your itinerary covers 9 of 11 must-have experiences
Overwater Bungalow
Day 1: Check-in at Resort
Snorkeling/Diving
Day 1: Snorkeling in the House Reef
Sunset Cruise
Day 1: Sunset Cocktails and Dinner
Local Island Visit
Day 3: Island Hopping Tour
Maldivian Cuisine
Day 3: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Spa Treatment
Day 2: Spa Treatment
Water Sports
Day 3: Water Sports Activities
Manta Ray/Whale Shark Encounter
Day 4: Manta Ray or Whale Shark Snorkeling Trip (Seasonal)
Seaplane Transfer
Day 5: Seaplane Transfer to Velana International Airport (MLE)
Private Beach Dinner
Day 1: Relax on the Beach
House Reef Exploration
Day 1: Snorkeling in the House Reef
Maldivian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors influenced by its geographical location. Fresh seafood, coconut, and spices are staples, creating a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Expect a lot of dishes featuring tuna, rice, and various curries.
Must-Try Dishes
A fragrant fish soup, typically made with tuna, water, salt, and chili. A simple yet flavorful staple often eaten with rice, lime, and onions.
📍 Local restaurants and cafes in Male' or on inhabited islands
A popular breakfast dish consisting of shredded smoked tuna, grated coconut, onion, and chili. Eaten with roshi (flatbread).
📍 Local cafes and guesthouses
Grilled fish (usually tuna or reef fish) marinated in chili, garlic, ginger, and spices. A delicious and flavorful way to enjoy fresh seafood.
📍 Restaurants and resorts offering Maldivian cuisine
A rice pudding made with coconut milk, cardamom, and rosewater. A sweet and aromatic dessert.
📍 Local restaurants and dessert shops
Food Neighborhoods
Wide variety of restaurants catering to tourists and locals, including international cuisine and local specialties.
Modern restaurants and cafes with diverse options, from fast food to fine dining.
Authentic Maldivian cuisine at affordable prices, providing a genuine culinary experience.
High-end dining with a focus on seafood and international flavors, offering a luxurious culinary experience.
Many dishes contain fish, so vegetarians and vegans may have limited options. Coconut milk is frequently used, so be aware of allergies. Halal food is widely available. Specify dietary requirements clearly when ordering.
Maldivians often eat with their right hand, especially in local settings. However, cutlery is usually available. It's polite to accept food and drinks offered to you. Avoid wasting food.
National Day
NovemberCelebrates the victory of Muhammad Thakurufaanu over the Portuguese in the 16th century. Expect some local celebrations.
Republic Day
JulyCelebrates the establishment of the Republic of Maldives. Expect parades and cultural events.
Eid al-Fitr
Varies each year (end of Ramadan)Marks the end of Ramadan. Many businesses may have altered hours.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) and take a seaplane transfer to your resort in North Male Atoll.$150-300 (roundtrip)
10:00 AM - Arrival at Velana International Airport (MLE) and Seaplane Transfer
Arrive at Male airport and transfer to your resort via seaplane. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the atolls during the journey.
- 🚶Arrive at your resort and check in.$50
12:00 PM - Check-in and Lunch at Resort
Check into your overwater bungalow or beach villa. Have a leisurely lunch at one of the resort's restaurants. Try fresh seafood.
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- 🚶The beach is a short walk from your villa.FREE
2:00 PM - Relax on the Beach
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine white sand beach. Swim in the turquoise waters and soak up the sun.
- 🚶The house reef is accessible directly from the beach.$20 (rental)
4:00 PM - Snorkeling in the House Reef
Explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding your resort. Rent snorkeling gear and discover colorful fish and marine life.
Book on Klook - 🚶The resort restaurant/bar is a short walk from the beach.$70
7:00 PM - Sunset Cocktails and Dinner
Enjoy sunset cocktails at the beach bar. Indulge in a delicious dinner at the resort's fine-dining restaurant. Consider booking in advance.
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North Male Atoll
Close proximity to the airport, variety of luxury resorts, and excellent snorkeling/diving sites.
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to April is the best time to visit the Maldives, as it's the dry season with low humidity and sunny skies.
The weather in the Maldives during the peak season is typically sunny and dry, with warm temperatures and clear skies. Sea temperatures are also ideal for swimming and water activities. There is very little rainfall during this period.
November to April is the dry season in the Maldives, characterized by low humidity, sunny skies, and minimal rainfall. It's the most popular time to visit.
Ramadan (Islamic fasting month) can affect restaurant hours and availability. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are major Islamic holidays with public celebrations.
Getting Around
Speedboats and seaplanes between islands
Book resort transfers in advance. Local ferries are the cheapest way between islands.
Travel
$500-800 (Flights and inter-island transfers)Accommodation
$500-1000Food
$300-500Activities
$200-300Opt for guesthouses on local islands instead of luxury resorts. This significantly reduces accommodation costs and allows for a more authentic cultural experience. Utilize local public ferries for inter-island travel, which are much cheaper than private speedboats or seaplanes, though slower.
Eat at local cafes and restaurants on inhabited islands. The food is delicious, authentic Maldivian cuisine, and considerably more affordable than dining at resort restaurants.
Treat yourself to an overwater villa experience. While pricey, waking up to direct ocean access from your room and stunning lagoon views is a quintessential Maldivian luxury worth splurging on at least for a few nights.
Invest in a dedicated diving or snorkeling excursion with a reputable center. The Maldives offers some of the world's best marine life, and a guided tour ensures you experience the most vibrant reefs and encounters.
Bargain respectfully when shopping at local markets for souvenirs, but be aware that prices for everyday items in small shops are often fixed. Ask for 'short eats' (hedhikaa) at local tea houses for inexpensive and tasty traditional snacks.
Always carry small denominations of USD for tips and minor purchases on local islands. While major cards are accepted at resorts, cash is king for smaller transactions in local communities.
- Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Bring insect repellent, especially for evenings.
- Respect local customs when visiting local islands.
- Learn a few basic Dhivehi phrases.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping at local markets.
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
- Be aware of the strong sun and wear sunscreen regularly.
- 1Swimwear (2-3 sets)
- 2Light clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses)
- 3Sunscreen (high SPF)
- 4Hat
- 5Sunglasses
- 6Insect repellent
- 7Flip-flops or sandals
- 8Beach towel
- 9Underwater camera (optional)
- 10Reusable water bottle
International Flights
Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season (November-April), to secure better prices and preferred routes.
Resort/Guesthouse Accommodation
Book 6-12 months ahead for luxury resorts or specific overwater villas, particularly for peak season. For guesthouses on local islands, 3-6 months is usually sufficient.
Airport Transfers (Seaplane/Speedboat/Domestic Flight)
Crucial to pre-arrange this directly with your chosen accommodation after booking. Transfers operate on schedules and must align with your international flight arrival/departure times.
Travel Insurance
Purchase immediately after booking your flights and accommodation. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, especially given the remote nature of some islands.
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities receive a free 30-day visa on arrival. Confirm current requirements based on your nationality well in advance of travel.
Diving/Snorkeling Excursions
While often bookable on arrival, popular dive sites or specific courses (e.g., PADI certification) can be booked 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak season.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app (download before arrival)
📍 Ooredoo store at Velana International Airport (MLE) or in Male'
📍 Dhiraagu store at Velana International Airport (MLE) or in Male'
📍 Online rental services, often delivered to your hotel/airport
WiFi is widely available in resorts, hotels, and guesthouses, often free of charge. Cafes and restaurants in Male' and Hulhumale' usually offer free WiFi. Connection speeds can vary.
Useful Apps
Purchase a SIM card or eSIM upon arrival at Velana International Airport (MLE) for convenient and affordable data. Check the data coverage of your chosen provider in the specific islands you plan to visit. Consider downloading offline maps for areas with limited connectivity. WiFi in resorts is generally reliable, but speeds may be slower on local islands.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three large round pins in triangle
Three rectangular pins (UK style)
Three round pins (Swiss)
Three round pins (Danish)
Three round pins in a row
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% service charge usually included
Not applicable (mainly boat transfers)
$5–10/day for housekeeping; $10–20 for dive instructors
Tips are appreciated at resorts. Service charge is usually included.
Safety & Travel Advisories
The Maldives is generally a safe destination. Exercise normal precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Respect local customs and laws.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
119
102
118
Resorts have their own medical facilities
Payments
USD widely accepted at resorts; MVR in Malé
Universally accepted at resorts
Available at major resorts
Resorts typically charge to your room. Carry USD for tips and local island visits.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers the most sunshine, lowest humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for water activities and relaxation.
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