7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Maldives

  • Day 1: Hulhumale Beach
    20 minutes (6.2 miles) from Velana International Airport

    Start your trip with a relaxing day at Hulhumale Beach. The crystal-clear waters and soft sand are perfect for swimming, sunbathing or just lounging around. You can also try some delicious local food at the nearby cafes and restaurants within your budget.

  • Day 2: Maldives Fish Market
    30 minutes (7.6 miles) from Hulhumale Beach

    Get a glimpse of Maldives' culture and local cuisine at the Maldives Fish Market. Experience the sight of fresh seafood being sold and take a part in the local auction. You can also enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant with fresh-from-the-market dishes.

  • Day 3: Banana Reef
    30 minutes (7.8 miles) from Maldives Fish Market

    Go on a budget-friendly snorkeling adventure at the Banana Reef, one of the Maldives' most famous diving sites. Take in the stunning marine life and colorful coral reefs, and enjoy a picnic on the white sand beach.

  • Day 4: National Museum
    25 minutes (6.2 miles) from Banana Reef

    Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Maldives at the National Museum. It features a collection of artifacts and rare exhibits from the country's ancient past. You can also explore the nearby Sultan Park and the Presidential Palace.

  • Day 5: Maafushi Island
    45 minutes (16 miles) from National Museum

    Escape to the tropical paradise of Maafushi Island, known for its budget-friendly accommodation and world-class diving spots. You can also explore the island's vibrant community, sunbathe on the pristine beaches, and enjoy water sports.

  • Day 6: Villingili Island
    20 minutes (1.9 miles) by ferry from Male City

    Take a day trip to Villingili Island, a peaceful retreat in the heart of Maldives. It has lush greenery, scenic beaches, and a picturesque golf course. You can explore the island on foot or rent a bike, and enjoy local delicacies at the restaurants and cafes within budget.

  • Day 7: Maldives Victory
    30 minutes (8.3 miles) from Villingili Island

    End your Maldives adventure with a visit to the Maldives Victory, a popular diving spot featuring the shipwreck of an oil tanker. Witness the diverse marine life and underwater scenery, and take some Instagram-worthy shots. You can also snorkel, fish or just relax on the scenic beach nearby.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Hulhumale Beach (4 hours, Free)
  • Maldives Fish Market (2 hours, Free)
  • Banana Reef (5 hours, $25 for snorkeling gear)
  • National Museum (2 hours, $5 entrance fee)
  • Maafushi Island (8 hours, $100 for round trip ferry and accommodation)
  • Villingili Island (6 hours, $5 for ferry)
  • Maldives Victory (4 hours, $30 for snorkeling gear)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $165 per person

Transportation:

Consider taking local ferries, which are budget-friendly and a great way to travel between islands. Taxis and shared minibusses are available, but negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Cycling on smaller islands is another popular option. Estimated total travel time is approximately 4 hours, and the total cost should be no more than $50 per person including airport transfer.

Useful Tips:

Consider adding a day trip to the stunning sandbank islands for an unforgettable experience. If you have more days, visit the capital city Male for shopping and sightseeing. Subtract a day from Villingili Island if you feel tight on budget or time.

Airports:

Velana International Airport (MLE) is the main airport in Maldives and is situated in the capital city Male. It is located approximately 2 miles away from the city center, and it takes about 20 minutes to reach by taxi. Seaplane transfers are available to reach other islands from the airport at a higher cost.

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