If you’re looking to plan a trip to the Maldives, you may be wondering if it’s possible to travel there on a budget. While the majority of visitors opt for package holiday bookings, the Maldives is seeing a growing number of budget travelers thanks to an increase in scheduled airlines flying to the area.
As a solo budget traveler, you can expect some challenges and planning ahead to make the most of your trip. However, with a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a unique and exciting experience in the Maldives.
Be prepared to find getting around a bit trickier than in neighboring destinations, and expect day-to-day budgets to be higher. But with new public transport services and entrepreneurial locals launching more services and facilities for budget travelers, the Maldives is becoming more accessible for all types of travelers.
Key Takeaways
- The Maldives is seeing a growing number of budget travelers thanks to increased scheduled airlines flying to the area.
- While traveling on a budget may present some challenges, it’s possible to enjoy a unique and exciting experience in the Maldives.
- Be prepared to find getting around a bit trickier than in neighboring destinations, and expect day-to-day budgets to be higher, but new public transport services and entrepreneurial locals are making the Maldives more accessible for budget travelers.
Visas and Customs
As a tourist, you will receive a free 30-day visa upon arrival in the Maldives, regardless of your country of origin.
You may be asked to present a two-way air ticket and either a hotel / guest house reservation or proof of sufficient funds for your stay, calculated at USD $150 per day. However, a credit card is generally accepted as proof of funds.
It is important to note that customs regulations prohibit the import of pork products and alcohol into the country.
Getting to the Maldives
Although there are no international ferry services to the Maldives, there are plenty of airlines that offer flights to the Maldives. Many airlines offer competitive rates, which can be found by using price comparison websites, booking directly with the airlines, or through travel agents.
Carriers that operate flights to the Maldives include Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Qatar Airways, Oman Air, British Airways, Air Berlin, China Eastern, China Southern, Air India, Maldivian Airline, Condor, Edelweiss, and many more airlines.
For solo budget travelers, low-cost airlines such as AirAsia, SpiceJet, and IndiGo also offer flights to the Maldives.
Getting Around the Maldives
Navigating the Maldives can be a bit tricky, especially for budget travelers. While there are plenty of taxis available in Male’ and Hulhumale’, the lack of demand for budget transportation options means that pre-booked boat or seaplane transfers are the norm for many visitors.
But, there are still several options available for those looking to explore the islands and atolls on a budget.
Taxis
Taxis are available 24 hours a day and are a convenient option for traveling between Male’, the airport, and Hulhumale. The cost for a taxi from Male’ to the airport is MVR 65 (US $4), while the cost for a taxi from Male’ to Hulhumale is MVR 75 (US $5).
Public Transportation
Ferry service operates between many of the islands and atolls, making island hopping a possibility. The ferry service operates between Male’ and the neighboring islands of Hulhumale, Hulhule (the airport island), and Villingili.
Ferries for Hulhumale and the airport depart from Henveyru Ferry Terminal and cost 10 Rufiyaa for a 20-minute journey.
Public ferry service to Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Guraidhoo, and Gulhi also operates from the same ferry terminal.
The ferry to Villingili departs from Villingili Ferry Terminal on the west side of the island and costs 4 Rufiyaa for a five-minute journey.
Chartered Boats
Dhonis (boats) can be chartered from the Northeast harbor area in Male’ (Jetty 6 to 9), but they are larger and pricier than the longtail taxi boats of Thailand. Prices start at 2,000 Maldivian Rufiyaa per day (USD $133), depending on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Overall, while the lack of budget transportation options can make getting around the Maldives a bit more challenging, there are still several ways to explore the islands and atolls without breaking the bank.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation in the Maldives, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can find hotels, guesthouses, and resorts to fit your budget. Guesthouse prices typically starting from around US $40 per night. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation. Many local islands have hotels and guesthouses, so you can easily find a place to stay.
If you are looking for a luxury experience, you can book directly with a resort. While the prices may not be affordable, the four-star resorts offer a taste of what the Maldives has to offer.
You can also opt for a safari boat or liveaboard, which is an affordable option for dive or surf enthusiasts.
In Male’, the capital city, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses of various star ratings. However, there are no youth hostels available. The same goes for Hulhumale and local islands.
For those who want to explore further and experience local island life, guesthouse stays on local islands are a great option. You can find affordable accommodation and experience the local culture.
Booking.com, Airbnb, and Agoda are popular online booking platforms to find accommodation in the Maldives. However, it is always recommended to book directly with the accommodation provider for the best deals and offers.
The staff at hotels, guesthouses, and resorts are known for their hospitality and will ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. The internet is widely available in most accommodation options, so you can stay connected during your stay.
Activities
The Maldives offers a wide range of water-based activities for tourists to enjoy during their stay. Watersports activities are available at the resorts and local islands where there are guesthouses. Several dive schools operate in Male’, Hulhumale, and local islands. They go out to various dive sites around North and South Male’ atolls.
Snorkelling is also a popular activity, with many islands offering interesting house reefs to explore.
There are several inhabited islands within the vicinity of Male, including the former resort island of Villingili. It offers several pretty beaches and an interesting house reef for snorkellers. Female visitors should observe local customs by bathing in shorts and t-shirts since it is an inhabited island.
Male’ is the capital city and makes for an interesting day trip. There are several historical sites to explore, as well as countless restaurants, local cafes, and tea shops where you can soak up the local culture. It also has a sweet artificial beach as well, and it’s best to wear T-shirts and shorts to swim as it is an inhabited island.
The same goes for Hulhumale, but it offers a beautiful, long sandy beach and shallow turquoise lagoon. The green island and wide roads offer a welcome break from the buzz of Male’. Bicycles can be hired, providing opportunities for cycling around the island.
Maafushi, Gulhi, Guraidhoo and Thulusdhoo can be reached from Male by public ferry and offer a great insight into local island life. Guest houses are available on these islands, not to mention the sandy streets, welcoming inhabitants, and slow pace of life.
For those interested in history, the former RAF base of Gan in the southern Maldives is worth a visit. Budget travellers can tour the base and explore several inhabited islands nearby. Unusually for the Maldives, several of these islands are connected via the causeway, which provides opportunities for cycling as well as ease of access. Bicycles can be hired. The fascinating wreck of the British Loyalty is also in the area.
In terms of food, the Maldives offers a variety of options ranging from local restaurants to buffet-style meals at resorts. Seafood or tuna is a popular choice, with fresh catches available daily. Bottled water is recommended, and it is important to stay hydrated while participating in outdoor activities.
Alcohol
If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives, keep in mind that it’s illegal to bring alcohol into the country. Alcohol is not sold in the capital city or any of the inhabited islands, including guest houses. However, you can purchase alcoholic drinks at the Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) on the airport island of Hulhule. A shuttle bus is available to take you to the hotel from the airport.
Historical Sites
In the northern and southern atolls, numerous historical sites are currently being excavated. These sites consist of ancient Buddhist remains, as well as mosques and other structures that date back several centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some affordable islands in the Maldives for solo budget travelers?
Some of the best budget-friendly islands in the Maldives include Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, and Guraidhoo. These islands offer a range of accommodation options, from guesthouses to budget hotels, and also have plenty of activities for solo travelers to enjoy.
How can you plan an itinerary for a solo trip to the Maldives?
You can start by researching the different islands and their attractions, and then decide which ones you want to visit. You can also consider booking a package tour, which can include accommodation, transportation, and activities. Don’t forget to leave some time for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful beaches.
What are the safety considerations for a solo female traveler in the Maldives?
As with any destination, it’s important to take precautions as a solo female traveler in the Maldives. Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Be cautious when accepting invitations from strangers. It’s also a good idea to stay in accommodation that has good security measures in place.
Where can you find affordable accommodation in the Maldives?
It’s a good idea to book in advance to get the best deals, and to consider staying on local islands rather than resort islands.
Are there any budget travel packages specifically designed for solo travelers to the Maldives?
Yes, there are budget travel packages designed specifically for solo travelers to the Maldives. These packages can include accommodation, transportation, and activities, and are often a more affordable option than booking everything separately. Some travel companies also offer group tours for solo travelers.
What are some cost-effective alternatives to the Maldives for a solo traveler?
If the Maldives is out of your budget, there are still plenty of other destinations that offer beautiful beaches and a tropical atmosphere. Some cost-effective alternatives include Bali, Thailand, and the Philippines. These destinations offer a range of accommodation options and activities, and can be more affordable than the Maldives.