Weather & climate

The Maldives has a hot, tropical climate year round. November to April is the dry season and is perfect for travel with hot weather, clear skies, and little rain. Temperatures in the dry season average in the mid to high 20s Celsius. May to October is the Monsoon season, which brings heavy rains, rough seas, and strong winds. Sea temperatures in the Maldives are warm and pleasant year round, averaging in the high 20s Celsius.

Passports & visas

Australian and New Zealand passport holders don’t require a pre-arranged visa. A free 30-day visa will be issued on arrival. You will, however, need a current passport with two blank pages and six months’ validity from the date you return home, along with a return air ticket.

Health

Consult your GP or a travel doctor at least six weeks before you travel. You may be required or recommended to get vaccinations for measles, yellow fever, rabies, typhoid and hepatitis A & B, among others. Malaria is not an issue in the Maldives, however Dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Zika virus may be present, and mosquito nets and insect repellent should be used. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for anyone entering the Maldives from a yellow fever endemic country.

Getting there

The Maldives has four international airports, with the main service hub being Malé International Airport, also know as Velena International Airport.

Arrivals into Malé International Airport can continue on to their island destinations by speedboat or seaplane transfer. There are also a number of domestic airport throughout the Maldives catering to domestic flights and charter flights.

Getting around

Getting around the Maldives is a fun and scenic adventure, with transfers to and from and airport and between islands usually done by seaplane, domestic flight, or water taxi/speedboat.

While on the island you will mostly explore on foot, or occasionally by bicycle, as there are few roads or vehicles on the islands. To explore the Maldives stunning waters head out scuba diving, jet skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding and more.

Currency & language

The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), which is made up of 100 laari. ATMs and exchange services are available in Malé and some of the larger islands. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and major tourist facilities, while cash is best for visiting smaller islands.

Dhivehi is the official language in the Maldives, and English is widely spoken. French, German, Italian, Russian, and Chinese are also spoken in the resorts.