Maldives
Maldives
Our notebook to help you plan your trip to the Maldives: the right season, where to stay and our ideas to make the most of it.
Over 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean: turquoise lagoons, overwater villas and some of the best diving in the world.
Best weatherDuring the dry season: calm sea and lots of sunshine. The wet season brings showers, but also manta rays.
A question?
Wéa answers about this destination: neighbourhoods, seasons, ideas.
When to go
Every season has its charm. Here's how to choose yours, depending on what you want to experience.
Dry season
Calm, crystal-clear sea and sunshine almost all the time: perfect for snorkelling and boat trips.
Manta ray season
The south-west monsoon mixes showers and sunshine, the sea stays at 29 °C and prices drop a lot. It's also manta ray season, with amazing gatherings at Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll).
Where to stay
The right neighbourhood depends on what you're after. Here are our favourite places to stay.
Local islands
Maafushi or Thulusdhoo: affordable guesthouses and real Maldivian life, near Malé.
Malé atolls
North and South: lots of resorts a few minutes by speedboat from the airport.
Ari Atoll
Famous for diving and whale sharks, and reachable by seaplane.
Remote atolls
Baa, Lhaviyani or Raa: more secluded resorts, for real peace and quiet.
Our favourites
What we love there: its history, its landscapes, its flavours and its festivals. Take your time, it's all there to enjoy.
A nation of atolls
The Maldives are almost 1,200 coral islands grouped into atolls in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Seen from a seaplane, the mosaic of turquoise lagoons is unforgettable.
Ideal for great views
Whale sharks and manta rays
Maldivian waters are among the richest in the world. Depending on the season and the atoll, you can swim with manta rays or spot whale sharks.
Ideal for sea lovers
The local islands
As well as resort islands, many inhabited islands welcome travellers in guesthouses. A lovely way to discover Maldivian life, often more affordable.
Ideal for living like a local
Malé and a Maldivian breakfast
The capital is home to the Old Friday Mosque, built from coral stone. Try mas huni, a mix of tuna, coconut and onion served with flatbread.
Ideal for the curious