Fantastic Maldives Itinerary

Upon arrival in Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, proceed to the ferry station near the airport exit and take the ferry to Male (the main island). The ferry to the main island leaves every 15 minutes and is approximately 20 minutes away from the airport

From Male, ride a cab that will take you to the main ferry station to access the other islands (10 minutes). The cheapest option to get to the local islands, like Maafushi, would be to take a public ferry (90 minutes). In the Maldives, everything is accessible by ferry, boat or domestic flight so if you are looking into visiting islands away from Male, you have to consider which option suits your preference and budget.

There are plenty of budget hotels and guesthouses providing friendly island hospitality in Maafushi. Instead of spending that extra dollars on an exclusive island resort, you may stay in cheaper lodges or inns and just go on a day excursion to see the other islands. You may explore Maafushi Beach, shops and neighborhood in the afternoon.

On your second day, you can check off the next thing on your wanderlust wish list, which is to see the manta rays, whale sharks and other marine species in Maldives. You can either go on a snorkeling day excursion or go on a diving adventure. Staying in a smaller guesthouses will give you flexibility on day excursions. Your tour guide will take you to the best spots for snorkeling away from the larger group snorkeling tours.

Discover the beauty and diversity of the underwater world or just get away from it all in South Ari Atoll. South Ari Atoll officially called, as Alif Dhaal Atoll is one of the two administrative divisions of the Maldives. It hosts to some of the world’s best resorts and hotels ranging from diving resorts to exclusive luxury hotels. It is also one of the best places in the world to spot whale sharks and hammerhead sharks. If you fail to spot manta rays or whale sharks the day prior, then your best bet is to go on a diving adventure.

On your fourth day in the Maldives, avail a day excursion to the uninhabited Maadhoo Finolhu also known as Picnic Island. Set on its own island with postcard perfect beaches, Picnic Island provides great swimming, snorkeling and beach experience plus greater privacy. The island has all the necessary facilities like comfort room, bar, eating and dining facilities which will surely give you a fantastic beach holiday.

Start early and wait for the sun to rise at Maafushi Beach. Then enjoy your Maldivian breakfast back to the guest house. Take the ferry in the morning so you could do a little sightseeing in Male before your departure. You can also do a little souvenir shopping in Male. Most of the souvenir shops are located in Majeedi Magu and Chandani Magu, you can explore both so you can compare the price.