3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Maldives in November 2023

  1. Day 1: Malé
    10 minutes from Velana International Airport

    Begin your trip in Maldives' capital, Malé. This bustling city is home to a variety of mosques, markets, and restaurants. Take a walk around the colorful local fruit markets or visit the Hukuru Miskiy mosque, one of the oldest in the country. After a busy day of exploring, relax on the Sultan Park beach.

  2. Day 2: Guraidhoo
    1 hour 10 minutes by ferry from Malé

    Take a ferry to Guraidhoo, a pristine island known for its beautiful beaches. Rent a snorkeling kit and explore the house reef, where you can spot rays and reef sharks. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the island and visit the Our Lady of Victory Chapel, a quaint Catholic church.

  3. Day 3: Hulhumalé
    30 minutes by ferry from Guraidhoo, 10 minutes from Velana International Airport

    Spend your last day in Hulhumalé, a suburban island neighboring Malé. Rent a bike and explore the scenic Hulhumalé Central Park, which has a beautiful sunflower garden. Visit the Hulhumalé Mosque, which is lit up at night and beautifully reflects on the water. End your trip with a delicious meal at one of the local cafes.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hukuru Miskiy mosque (30 mins, free)
  • Sultan Park beach (30 mins, free)
  • Guraidhoo island ferry (1 hour 10 mins, 20 MVR/ $1.20 USD)
  • Snorkeling kit rental on Guraidhoo island (2 hours, 100 MVR/ $6 USD)
  • Our Lady of Victory Chapel (30 mins, free)
  • Hulhumalé Central Park (1 hour, free)
  • Hulhumalé Mosque (30 mins, free)
  • Meal in Hulhumalé cafe (1 hour, 50 MVR/ $3 USD)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 220 MVR/ $14 USD

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, visit Ukulhas, a small island known for its white sand beaches and whale shark diving. For travelers with less time, skip the snorkeling in Guraidhoo and spend more time exploring Malé's mosques and markets. Remember to dress conservatively when visiting mosques or religious sites.

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