Getting To The Maldives

Almost all visitors get to the Maldives by airplane. Typically, they arrive in Male, the capital, and from there will transfer to their resort usually via seaplane or speedboat. If you opt for seaplane, you will be treated to spectacular views of the islands stunning scenery. You need to be alert that when you are researching resorts and prices that some packages will be quoted with transfers built into the price while others will not. Just be warned that transfers can be expensive.

Some resorts are located quite close to the airport in Male, so transfer times can be under 20 minutes. Other resorts might be further away and may take an hour or even two to reach depending on the type of transfer. When selecting your resort destination, keep in mind that after travelling a long distance on a flight, the last thing that you’ll want to do is spend a further couple of hours on a speedboat. So take that into consideration when making your resort selection.

If your transfer is not by seaplane you should really try to ride in a seaplane during your stay. You will get some stunning photos of the islands and atolls from high above and give you a different perspective on the beauty of the islands.

A ferry service is available between airport island and Male. A special dhoni ferry leaves from the airport jetty to the capital every few minutes and fares for the ferry are very, very reasonable. 

Maldivian Air Taxi and Trans Maldivian Airways operate special air transfer trips to most of the resorts. Normally resort operators have arrangements for chartered flights to their resorts with either of these parties or they have their own speed boats to transfer their guests.

Island Hopping is one of the most memorable trips available in the Maldives. Island hopping allows guests to experience life in an isolated Maldivian island. You can imagine how it feels to be Robinson Caruso or lost to civilization. Spend the day naked; there will be no one to see you. Meditate on the sounds of the waves and birds. It can be a moving experience. Most of the resorts offer island half or full day island excursions.

Sometimes, the island hopping excursion may be included in your package although this is an optional extra in many resorts. Typically, the visitors are transported to certain uninhabited islands to laze away on the beaches, perhaps enjoy a beach barbeque and do some snorkelling.

Are Visas Needed to Enter the Maldives?

Usually, a visa is not required to visit the Maldives as long as the traveller has a valid passport and sufficient funds to last their stay. All tourists from all the countries in are granted free 30 day visa upon arrival. If a passport expires within 30 days of the visitor’s arrival, visitors cannot extend their stay beyond the passport expiration date. You should check with your travel agent prior to booking to make sure as rules and regulations for visas can change. It’s also possible to get visas for visits to India and Sri Lanka from the High Commission in Male.