The Maldives — a travel guide for 2026
The Maldives at a glance
The Maldives is an archipelago of nearly 1,200 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, a byword for premium beach holidays. Most resorts occupy their own island, with guests staying in beachfront bungalows or the famous overwater villas.
People come for seclusion, white-sand beaches and the underwater world: diving and snorkelling here are among the best on the planet. This is a destination for honeymoons and calm, unhurried stays.
Visa and entry
No visa is needed in advance — a free 30-day tourist visa is issued on arrival at Male airport. You will need a confirmed resort booking and a return ticket.
- Passport valid for the duration of your stay
- Free 30-day visa on arrival
- Confirmed resort booking and return ticket required
When to go
The best time is the dry season from November to April: sunny, minimal rain, ideal for the beach and diving. This is high season with the highest prices, especially over the New Year holidays.
May to October is the wet season with short tropical showers and lower prices. Temperatures stay stable year-round at +28–31°C.
What to do in the Maldives
Overwater villas
Bungalows above the lagoon with direct ocean access — the Maldives’ signature and a honeymoon dream.
Snorkelling & diving
Coral reefs right off the shore, manta rays, stingrays and turtles. Many resorts have their own house reef.
Atoll safaris
Sea trips between islands, sunset fishing and dolphin watching.
Spa & seclusion
Resorts focus on privacy, spa programmes and fine dining.
Trip budget
Approximate 2026 prices for two people:
- Budget guesthouses on local islands — from €1,200 per week
- Mid-range resorts — €2,000–3,000
- Premium overwater villas — considerably more
The Maldives is a pricey destination, but local-island guesthouses make it more accessible than it first appears.
The Maldives for the sea, Georgia for the rest
If after the ocean you crave mountains, wine and lively cities, Georgia is the perfect complement to a beach holiday. We will build an authored route for your dates.
The Georgian part of your trip is on us: 7-day Georgia itinerary, Georgia on a budget and best time to visit.