Maldives

The Maldives: Paradise in the Indian Ocean

Crystal-clear turquoise water, powder-white sand and overwater villas perched above coral reefs. The Maldives is the dream tropical escape, and it lives up to every picture you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family holiday or a once-in-a-lifetime treat, this island nation offers a slice of paradise that’s hard to beat.

A Nation of Islands

The Maldives lies in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It’s made up of around 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 natural atolls, stretching across roughly 90,000 km² of ocean. Only about 200 of these islands are inhabited by locals, while many others are home to a single resort.

It’s also the lowest-lying country in the world, with most islands sitting just a metre or two above sea level. The capital, Malé, is one of the most densely populated cities on earth, packed onto a tiny island just a short boat ride from the main international airport.

Life Under the Water

The real magic of the Maldives is beneath the surface. The reefs here are among the richest in the world, home to colourful coral, turtles, reef sharks, rays and more than a thousand species of fish.

Two of the biggest highlights are manta rays and whale sharks. Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is famous for gatherings of manta rays during the wet season. South Ari Atoll is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be spotted all year round.

Things to Do

Snorkel straight from your villa. Many resorts have house reefs just steps from the beach, so you can see turtles and tropical fish without even getting on a boat.

Go scuba diving. With warm water, excellent visibility and incredible marine life, the Maldives is one of the world’s top dive destinations for beginners and experts alike.

Stay in an overwater villa. Wake up above the lagoon, dive into the water from your deck and watch fish swim beneath the glass floor.

Take a sunset dolphin cruise. Head out on a traditional dhoni boat as the sun sets and watch dolphins play in the waves.

Enjoy a sandbank picnic. Many resorts offer private trips to tiny sandbanks in the middle of the ocean for a picnic or romantic dinner.

Dine underwater. A handful of resorts have underwater restaurants where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by marine life.

Catch a wave. The Maldives has excellent surf breaks, especially in the North Malé and southern atolls during the wet season.

Look for glowing beaches. On some islands, bioluminescent plankton light up the shoreline at night with a magical blue glow.

Visit a local island. Experience everyday Maldivian life, try local food and explore small villages and markets.

Where to Stay

Luxury resorts. Most visitors stay at private island resorts, where one island is home to just one resort. Options range from comfortable four-star stays to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, many with all-inclusive packages.

Local island guesthouses. For a more affordable trip, stay in a guesthouse on an inhabited island. You’ll pay far less and still enjoy beautiful beaches, snorkelling and day trips, with the chance to experience local culture.

When to Go

The Maldives is warm all year, with temperatures usually between 26°C and 32°C. The seasons are shaped by two monsoons.

Dry season (December to April). This is the peak season, with sunny skies, calm seas and great visibility for snorkelling and diving. It’s also the most expensive time to visit, especially over Christmas and New Year.

Wet season (May to November). Expect more rain, wind and occasional storms, but also lower prices and fewer crowds. Showers often pass quickly, and this is the best time for surfing and seeing manta rays in Baa Atoll.

Getting There From Durban

By air: There are no direct flights from Durban to the Maldives. Most travellers connect through Dubai, Doha or Johannesburg, with total travel time usually between 12 and 16 hours, depending on the route and layover.

You’ll arrive at Velana International Airport near Malé.

Getting to your resort: From the airport, transfers are by speedboat for nearby islands, seaplane for more distant atolls, or a domestic flight followed by a boat ride. Seaplanes only fly during daylight, so if you land late, you may need to spend a night near Malé. Your resort will usually arrange your transfer for you.

Handy Tips for Your Visit

Check entry requirements. Visitors usually receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, but you’ll need a valid passport, a return ticket and confirmed accommodation. You’ll also need to complete an online traveller declaration before you arrive. Always confirm the latest rules before you travel.
Budget for transfers. Seaplane and speedboat transfers can be expensive, so include them when comparing resorts.
Carry US dollars. Dollars are widely accepted at resorts, though the local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa.
Respect local customs. The Maldives is a Muslim country. On local islands, dress modestly, and only wear swimwear on designated tourist beaches. Alcohol is available at resorts but not on local islands.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or stand on coral.
Pack light, with swimwear, light clothing, a hat, sunglasses and a cover-up for visiting local islands.
Stay at least five nights to make the long journey worth it and give yourself time to truly relax.
Book early for peak season, especially over December and Easter holidays.

Plan Your Maldives Escape

The Maldives is the kind of place that feels like a dream long after you’ve left. Whether you’re drifting over a coral reef, watching the sunset from your overwater villa or sharing a picnic on a sandbank in the middle of the ocean, every moment feels special. Pack your swimsuit, leave your worries behind and get ready for the island holiday of a lifetime.