Maldives Travel Guide

Discover the untouched beauty of the Maldives

Discover the untouched beauty of the Maldives

Scattered across the Indian Ocean like a string of pearls, the Maldives is the definition of paradise: powder-white beaches, impossibly turquoise lagoons and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Overwater villas perched above crystal-clear water offer a level of seclusion and serenity rarely found elsewhere, while the warmth of Maldivian hospitality and the slow rhythm of island life make it easy to leave the outside world behind. When you travel with My Touring, you’ll go beyond the guidebook on our handcrafted Maldives tours. We take care of every detail, so you can enjoy the freedom to explore further.

Maldives quick facts

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Population

Approx. 526,000
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Time zone

UTC+5
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Best time to visit

November to April
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Capital city

Malé
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Electricity

230V; Type D and G plugs
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Flight time

Approx. 13-18 hours from Australia’s east coast with stopovers
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Currency

Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
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Visa requirements

Free 30-day visa available on arrival for Australian passport holders

Maldives tour packages

View all Maldives packages

View all Maldives packages

An island escape like no other

An island escape like no other

The Maldives is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands scattered across 26 natural atolls, each ringed by shallow lagoons and vibrant reef systems. Malé, the compact capital, offers a glimpse of everyday Maldivian life amid colourful markets, mosques and busy harbours, quite different from the tranquillity of the resort islands beyond. In the South Malé Atoll, the waters around Olhuveli are known for their calm lagoons and abundant marine life, ideal for snorkelling straight from the shore. Elsewhere, the Maldives is famous for its extraordinary marine biodiversity, from manta rays and whale sharks to the glowing bioluminescent plankton that lights up certain shorelines after dark. It’s a destination where the ocean is always the main event.

Colorful coral reef teeming with diverse fish species swimming in clear blue ocean water.

Things to do while touring the Maldives

There’s no better way to experience the Maldives than from your own overwater villa, suspended above a turquoise lagoon with direct access to the water below. Spend your days lounging on a private deck, watching reef fish dart beneath the surface or simply soaking in the uninterrupted ocean views. It’s a level of seclusion that’s hard to find anywhere else, and the slow pace of island life makes it easy to switch off entirely.

The Maldives’ reefs are among the most colourful in the world, home to parrotfish, reef sharks, turtles and vibrant coral gardens just steps from the shore. Many resorts offer easy lagoon access for snorkelling straight from the beach, while boat trips to nearby reefs open up even more marine life to discover. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeller or trying it for the first time, the clarity of the water makes for an unforgettable experience.

As the sun begins to dip towards the horizon, head out on the water in search of playful spinner dolphins, known for leaping and dancing alongside passing boats. Sailing across calm, glassy waters as the sky turns gold is one of the most memorable Maldivian experiences, and a wonderful way to end the day before returning to shore for dinner.

The Maldives’ calm, shallow lagoons are made for gentle water sports. Paddle out over the reef on a stand-up paddleboard or take a kayak for a leisurely explore along the shoreline, spotting fish and coral formations beneath the surface as you go. With no experience necessary, this is a relaxed way to take in the scenery at your own pace.

With powder-soft sand and shallow, warm water, the Maldives’ beaches are made for doing absolutely nothing. Settle in with a good book, take a slow walk along the shoreline as the tide rolls in, or simply watch the colours shift as the sun sets over the ocean.

Top destinations

A sunny tropical waterfront promenade with palm trees and a covered pavilion, beside a small moored boat and turquoise sea; a calm vacation scene.

Malé

The compact, bustling capital offers a rare glimpse of everyday Maldivian life, from its colourful fish market and mosques to narrow streets lined with shops and cafés. Malé is the gateway to the Maldives’ tranquil atolls.

A snorkeler glides above a vibrant coral reef teeming with small tropical fish in clear blue water, creating a peaceful underwater scene.

South Malé Atoll

Just a short speedboat ride from the capital, South Malé Atoll is home to some of the Maldives’ most accessible reefs and calm, sheltered lagoons. Resort islands here offer easy snorkelling straight from the beach alongside classic overwater villa living.

Maldives frequently asked questions

Australian passport holders do not need to arrange a visa in advance, with a free 30-day tourist visa issued on arrival, provided entry requirements such as an online Traveller Declaration are met. Entry conditions may change from time to time, so it’s best to check the latest information before you go. Stay up to date with Smartraveller.

November to April is generally considered the best time to visit the Maldives, offering drier weather, calmer seas and excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving.

In the Maldives, resort transfers are typically completed by speedboat, offering scenic views of the surrounding atolls along the way. With My Touring, you’ll enjoy the comfort of private transportation included in your package, allowing you to sit back, take in the extraordinary scenery and leave the logistics to your tour leader.

Although the Maldives can be considered an expensive destination, booking a perfectly packaged Maldives tour can help stretch your spend further. Led by Touring Experts, My Touring takes care of every detail, including full-service flights, handpicked accommodation, comfortable transport and unique sightseeing experiences with built-in free time.

The Maldives is a safe destination for tourists, particularly when visiting a private resort island with controlled access and very low crime. It is important to be mindful of water safety, as strong currents can catch out even confident swimmers. Staying within signed swimming areas and using licensed operators for diving or snorkelling trips is recommended. Visiting the Maldives on a guided tour adds an extra layer of comfort and local knowledge, with experienced guides ensuring seamless and secure travel throughout. As with any destination, it is important to stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, respect local customs and follow official travel advice during your visit.

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MY TOURING Led by Touring Experts

Delve deeper into the Maldives with My Touring, with handcrafted itineraries tried and tested by Touring Experts. Our guided Maldives tours blend tranquil island living, vibrant marine life and effortless relaxation into one unforgettable journey. Start planning your next adventure today.