Dreaming of turquoise waters, powdery sand beaches, and an endless horizon? Look no further than the breath-taking paradise of Maldives. This small island country in the Indian Ocean is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. If you're a first-time traveller to the Maldives, you might be overwhelmed with information and unsure of how to prepare, which is why we’ve compiled this handy guide that includes all the essential information you need to know – from travel tips, and bucket list experiences to resorts for the perfect Maldives getaway, and more.  

Essential Information:  

The Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean and is made up of over 1,000 coral islands. The official language spoken is Dhivehi. The currency used in the Maldives is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted. Getting a travel adapter is essential as their electrical sockets are different than what you may be using in South Africa – best to be prepared.  

Flights to the Maldives are available from many cities worldwide and therefore varies, but you can expect about a 10-hour flight from South Africa.  

BEST NEWS: South African passport holders do not need a visa for a stay of up to 30 days. 

Travel Tips: 

Maldives is a luxury destination and can be on the pricey side, but there are affordable Maldives holiday packages available that cater to different budgets. Keep an eye out for these packages when booking to ensure that you're getting what you want within your budget. A good way to do this is to subscribe to our newsletter, where we regularly keep you updated on the latest travel deals, exclusive offers and tips.  

If you're looking for budget-friendly holiday packages, consider staying at Kuredu Island Resort or keep an eye out on our Maldives deals. 

If you’re booking a Maldives package, it's also worth considering the pros of an all-inclusive Maldives package. While all-inclusive packages might seem expensive, they offer excellent value and can save you money in the long run. 

Consider holiday packages to Emerald Maldives Resorts, any of the Adaaran properties, or the Sun Siyam properties if you're wanting to splurge on a spoil. 

When is the best time to go? The Maldives has a tropical climate, and the best time to travel is from November to April. During this time, the weather is dry, sunny, and less humid. May to October is the monsoon season, and it may rain for long periods of time. 

What to Pack: 

Pack light as Maldives is hot and humid throughout the year. Comfortable shoes are key as the island is full of sand, so heels are not a good idea. Ensure you pack swimwear, beachwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat and your sunglasses for the beach to take great Instagram-worthy pictures.  

Bucket List Experiences: 

The Maldives is known for its reef diving and snorkelling so that should be on top of your list. Further exploration on a seaplane will offer a remarkable view of the 1190 small coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can also indulge in a luxurious spa session, or why not try snorkelling alongside manta rays? 

For a true ‘pinch me’ moment, indulge in one of the most iconic experiences by staying in an overwater bungalow, even just for a couple of nights. These luxurious villas built on stilts offer stunning ocean views and direct access to the water. 

Best Resorts in the Maldives: 

The Maldives is home to some of the world's most luxurious resorts, many that appear seamlessly out of the sea and offer overwater villas. The resorts you stay in during your Maldives trip play a significant role in your experience. The best resorts to check out are Heritance Aarah Maldives, Hurawalhi Island Resort Maldives, and Sun Siyam Maldives resorts. 

How much does a Maldives trip cost? 

The cost of a Maldives trip varies depending on several factors, including your travel dates, resort choices, and activities. Generally, a seven-day trip to the Maldives can cost anywhere from R30,000 to R80,000 per person. 

Is it worth booking all-inclusive in the Maldives? 

Absolutely! All-inclusive packages take away the stress of worrying about expenses, allowing you to enjoy your holiday to the fullest. Plus, with most resorts located on private islands, all-inclusive packages often include all meals, drinks, and activities. 

Is the Maldives a luxury destination? 

Yes, the Maldives is undoubtedly a luxury destination. But it doesn't have to break the bank. With proper planning, budgeting, and research, you can find affordable options while still experiencing the best of what the Maldives has to offer. 

The Maldives is every traveller's dream come true and undoubtedly a top travel destination with its stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and incredible activities. It’s well worth the journey and offers an unforgettable experience that's hard to replicate anywhere else in the world, making it truly magical.  

We hope this guide provided you with all the information you need to make your first Maldives adventure a breeze. So book your Maldives holiday package and get ready to pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and enjoy the trip of a lifetime!