Maldives travel cost: Daily budget and expense guide

Quick answer

A budget trip to local islands like Maafushi costs approximately MVR 1,230 ($80) per day, while mid-range stays on islands like Dhigurah average MVR 3,850 ($250). Luxury resort stays typically start at MVR 10,780 ($700) per day, inclusive of seaplane transfers and full-board dining. Off-peak travel between May and October can reduce accommodation costs by 30% to 50%.

Daily travel budgets

These estimates cover accommodation, three meals, and basic transport. All prices are subject to 16% GST and a green tax of $3 per person per day at guest houses or $6 at resorts. Check the official site of your chosen provider before you go.

Accommodation costs

Local islands offer the most affordable entry point. A standard double room in a guest house on Thulusdhoo costs MVR 770–1,230 ($50–$80) per night. Mid-range hotels in Hulhumalé or on inhabited islands like Ukulhas range from MVR 2,310–3,850 ($150–$250). Private island resorts start at MVR 5,390 ($350) for garden villas and rise to over MVR 23,100 ($1,500) for overwater bungalows with private pools. Prices fluctuate based on seasonal demand.

Food and dining expenses

Local 'short eats' (hedhikaa) like bajiya or gulha cost MVR 5–10 ($0.30–$0.65) per piece at local cafes. A meal at a local restaurant on an inhabited island typically costs MVR 150–300 ($10–$20). Resort dining is significantly higher, with buffet dinners ranging from MVR 1,230–2,310 ($80–$150) per person, excluding alcohol. A bottle of water at a local shop is MVR 10 ($0.65), whereas resorts may charge MVR 75 ($5) or more.

Transport costs

Public ferries operated by MTCC are the cheapest way to move between islands, costing MVR 22–53 ($1.50–$3.50) for trips of 2–4 hours. Scheduled speedboats from Malé to nearby islands like Rasdhoo cost MVR 540–1,080 ($35–$70) per person. Seaplane transfers to remote resorts are the most expensive, priced between MVR 3,850–9,240 ($250–$600) for a round trip. Taxis within Malé or Hulhumalé have a flat rate of MVR 25–30 ($1.60–$2.00).

Activities and extras

• Snorkelling trips: MVR 460–925 ($30–$60) for a half-day excursion from a local island.
• Scuba diving: MVR 1,080–1,540 ($70–$100) per tank dive including equipment.
• Resort day pass: MVR 1,540–3,080 ($100–$200) for visitors staying on local islands who want to use resort facilities.
• Sandbank picnic: MVR 770–1,230 ($50–$80) per person.

Sample 5-day trip totals

These totals assume mid-range spending, including one excursion and speedboat transfers.

• Solo Traveller: MVR 17,710 ($1,150)
• Couple: MVR 28,490 ($1,850)
• Family of four: MVR 49,280 ($3,200)

Specific ways to cut costs

Stay on inhabited islands such as Maafushi, Dhiffushi, or Huraa to avoid high resort taxes and mandatory seaplane fees. Use the public ferry network instead of private speedboats; note that ferries do not operate on Fridays. Eat at local 'tea shops' where Mas Huni (tuna and coconut breakfast) is affordable. Book accommodation that includes breakfast to save MVR 150–230 ($10–$15) daily. Bring your own snorkelling gear to avoid daily rental fees of MVR 150 ($10).

Common mistakes

• Ignoring the Green Tax: Budget for the mandatory $3 or $6 per person, per night tax which is often not included in the initial booking price.
• Booking late speedboats: Arriving in Malé after 15:30 often means missing the last scheduled speedboat, forcing an expensive private hire or an unplanned night in Hulhumalé.
• Assuming alcohol is available everywhere: Alcohol is strictly prohibited on inhabited islands and only available on private resort islands or safari boats.
• Forgetting Friday closures: Public transport and many local services stop or reduce hours on Fridays for prayer times.
• Underestimating transfer costs: A 'cheap' resort room can become expensive if the only way to reach it is a $500 seaplane.

Plan your trip

Journey Planner creates a customised Maldives itinerary by calculating transit times between atolls via ferry or speedboat. It provides daily cost estimates based on your preferred island type and generates a packing list suited to the tropical climate and local dress codes. The tool also tracks seasonal weather patterns to help you choose between the dry Northeast Monsoon and the more affordable Southwest Monsoon periods.