Jurisdiction Guide

November to April is the driest period with sunny skies and calmer seas, making it the ideal time to visit. May to October brings more rain and rougher seas, but also lower prices and fewer crowds.

US dollars are accepted almost everywhere but carrying some local rufiyaa helps in small shops. Public ferries are cheap but run on limited schedules. Buy a local SIM card at the airport for best rates and coverage. English is widely spoken, but it helps to learn basic Dhivehi greetings. Tipping is not required but appreciated for good service.

Dress conservatively on local islands; swimwear is only for resorts or designated beaches. Public displays of affection can offend local sensibilities. Always ask before photographing people, especially women. During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during daylight is frowned upon. Respect mosque etiquette, remove shoes and dress modestly if entering.

Petty theft can occur in the capital Malé; keep valuables secure. Strong currents make some beaches unsafe for weak swimmers. Sunburn and dehydration are common, use sunscreen and drink water. There are few hospitals outside Malé, so bring basic medicines and travel insurance.

Take a ferry to Thulusdhoo, a local island known for surfing and its laid-back vibe. Visit Hulhumalé's Mosque of Hulhumalé and the local beach to see daily island life. Hanifaru Bay offers seasonal manta ray gatherings, rewarding those willing to seek it out.

Most nationalities receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival with proof of accommodation and onward travel. Extensions are possible for a fee. There are no digital nomad or long-term remote work visas as of 2024, and work permits are required for employment.

Speedboats and seaplanes connect most tourist islands to Malé. Public ferries link inhabited islands but schedules can be infrequent and weather-dependent. In Malé and Hulhumalé, taxis are cheap and rides are short. There are no trains and car rentals are uncommon.

Try mas huni for breakfast, a spicy tuna and coconut mash served with flatbread. Fish curry and fried snacks like bajiya are popular. Eating is often communal, using the hand, but resorts offer cutlery. Tap water is usually desalinated; stick to bottled water. Vegetarian options exist but are more limited outside major hotels.

Resorts range from $300 to over $2,000 per night, while local guesthouses start around $50 per night. Eating at cafés on local islands can cost $3-$10 per meal, while resorts charge far more. Malé is pricier than smaller islands for basic goods. A domestic ferry ride averages $2-$5.