Joanna James
The fact that the Maldives is a scenic paradise is no surprise, given its reputation for captivating beaches with powdery white sands, exciting watersport activities, and iconic overwater villas. However, contrary to what many travellers think, the Maldives can be experienced without draining your bank account. By planning smartly and following practical travel tips, your next trip to the Maldives can be affordable and enjoyable. Here’s how to make it happen:
From December to April, many tourists arrive in the Maldives for the peak season. The weather is dry, and many resorts are in full swing. Consider travelling during the off-season, when you can save money on flights and accommodation. If you wish to stay at a Maldives family resort, chances are high that you'll find special deals.
Keep in mind that it’s the rainy season; however, the showers are often brief, so you can expect fewer tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere. This means you’ll have most beaches to yourself, where you can enjoy the laid-back vibes.
When people think of the Maldives, luxury resorts often come to mind. However, what many travellers don’t realise is that there are budget-friendly accommodation options that offer the same experience for an affordable price.
Consider staying at Kurumba Maldives, which offers a range of experiences, dreamy ocean views, and exceptional service at an affordable cost. You’ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in authentic Maldivian culture by visiting local markets, and cafes, and experiencing a slower, more genuine pace of life — something you won’t find during peak seasons
One of the biggest expenses when travelling to the Maldives is the airfare, but there are definitely ways to make it affordable. You can start by setting up price alerts and tracking flight prices months in advance through apps or websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Airlines may also have special sales or deals that can reduce your ticket price by a significant margin if you book at the right time.
Being flexible with your dates can also help you score the best deals. If you’re willing to travel mid-week or take longer layovers, you can sometimes find better rates. Also, consider flying to nearby cities such as Colombo, Sri Lanka, or Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and taking a budget airline to the Maldives from there. You may find it more cost-effective to book flights in this way than to fly directly from your home country.
Tip: Travel light. Many budget airlines charge extra for checked luggage, so packing only the most important items in a carry-on could save you money. Plus, with the Maldives’ laid-back vibe, you won’t need much more than swimsuits, light clothing, and sunscreen!
Eating at resort restaurants can drain your wallet. However, you can find plenty of local meals that are not only delicious but also affordable. Try dishes like the fan-favourite Mas Huni (a traditional tuna and coconut salad), Garudhiya (a fragrant fish soup), or Roshi (flatbread) at local cafés known as Hotaas. For just a few dollars, you can enjoy fresh, home-cooked meals that provide a real taste of the Maldives.
What’s more, many of the best things to do in the Maldives are free or low-cost. You don’t need to spend much on expensive day trips to enjoy what this island nation has to offer. Simply relaxing on the beach, swimming, and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters are fantastic experiences. If you’re staying on a local island, you’ll find affordable snorkelling excursions, sandbank picnics, and dolphin-watching tours.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
