Beaches. Impossibly white palm-fringed beaches. But you already knew that. There’s a lot in those blog posts that will probably surprise you though. The fact that we spent only $130 per day for the two of us. That here in these tropical stunning waters, you can swim with sharks, snorkel through clouds of tropical fish you never knew existed, and watch Whale Sharks sink into the deepest depths of the Indian Ocean. The Maldives can be an adventure. Bumpy boat rides, the romantic wailing of a call to prayer, and lots of tuna fried rice.
The Maldives won its spot as one of our favorite destinations for both luxury and budget travel. But we’re island people. Let us show you everything that the Maldives has to offer.
Maldives Travel Guide
Recommended Islands: Gulhi, Omadhoo, Dhigurah, Thulusdhoo
Recommended Minimum Trip Length: 2 weeks for a quick trip.
One Bucketlist Item You Cannot Miss: Swim with sharks. My favorite was the nurse kind. But you can also swim with Whale Sharks and Reef Sharks.
Things to Consider Before You Go: The most difficult part of traveling in the Maldives on a budget is transportation. Be sure to read my blog covering all the local ferries before you plan your trip. Also, keep in mind the Maldives is a strict Muslim country. Alcohol is illegal on inhabited islands. You will also only be allowed to wear a bikini on a specific beach deemed “bikini beach”. There is one on each island.
Expected Backpacker Budget (For Two)
The Maldives is a unique destination because it’s very difficult for solo travelers. The only accommodations are usually guesthouse rooms priced and sized for two. Solo travel is rare. That’s why this budget is done for two travelers.
On a Shoestring: $50/day per person
Flashpacker: $70/day per person
Backpacker Luxury: $100/day per person
Keep in mind these are backpacker budgets. On a shoestring expect to be eating cheap meals, sleeping in the cheapest rooms, & skipping the more expensive tourist attractions. Backpacker Luxury opts for private rooms, eats mostly in restaurants, and splurges on activities. Flashpackers are the middle ground & often do a mixture of both.
The Maldives is perfect for travelers looking for underwater wildlife experiences, relaxation, & tropical beaches.
Maldives Blog Posts
11 Cheap Hotels in the Maldives Under $100 Per Night
These are my favorite budget-friendly hotels in the Maldives. Stay in these lovely guesthouses…
Visit Ukulhas Island: Snorkel with Manta Rays in the Maldives!
This is the island you want to visit if Manta Rays are on your…
Lux* Resort: The Best All-Inclusive to Spot Whale Sharks in the Maldives
Lux* South Ari Atoll is one of the best resorts in the Maldives for…
Your Budget-Friendly Omadhoo Guide: My Favorite Maldives Island
Omadhoo is exactly the island that you picture when you think about the Maldives.…
Maldives Local Ferry Guide: How to Island Hop for Cheap (2023)
The most expensive cost in the Maldives is transportation. There’s sea planes and speed…
Kuramathi Overwater Bungalows: A 100% Locally-Owned Luxury Stay
I’ve always wanted to sleep in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives. Kuramathi was…
Island Hopping Maldives Itinerary for DIY Budget Travelers
Here’s how to travel the Maldives for cheap. It’s one epic island hopping itinerary…
The Most Epic Maldives Excursions For Budget-Travelers
These excursions were the absolute highlight of our trip to the Maldives. Here are…
Is Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in the Maldives Worth the Hype?
This is a major bucketlist experience. But does it live up to the hype?…
Your Budget-Friendly Guide to Gulhi, Maldives (2023)
Gulhi exemplifies all that is exceptional about the Maldives. And it’s one of the…