Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary to Maldives

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary to Maldives

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Friday, December 1, 2023

Explore Malé

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant capital city of Maldives, Malé. In the morning, visit the Grand Friday Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the country. Then, head to the Fish Market and Local Market to experience the local culture and taste some delicious local dishes. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the artificial beach and enjoy the turquoise waters. As the evening sets in, visit the bustling Majeedhee Magu street for shopping and exploring local shops.

  • Grand Friday Mosque: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Fish Market: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Local Market: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Artificial Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Majeedhee Magu: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Day 2: Saturday, December 2, 2023

Island Hopping in Kaafu Atoll

Embark on an exciting day of island hopping in Kaafu Atoll, located near Malé. Start with a visit to Maafushi Island, known for its pristine beaches and stunning coral reefs. Enjoy snorkeling and explore the underwater world. In the afternoon, visit Gulhi Island, a peaceful fishing village with beautiful sandy beaches. Witness the local way of life and interact with friendly locals. End the day with a visit to Biyadhoo Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

  • Maafushi Island: Cost: Ferry - $2-3, Snorkeling gear rental - $10-15, Time spent: Full day
  • Gulhi Island: Cost: Ferry - $2-3, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Biyadhoo Island: Cost: Ferry - $2-3, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Day 3: Sunday, December 3, 2023

Visit Hulhumalé and Banana Reef

Start your day by exploring the artificial island of Hulhumalé. Take a relaxing walk along the Hulhumalé Beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Banana Reef, one of the best diving spots in the Maldives. Witness the stunning coral formations and swim among colorful fish. End the day with a visit to Hulhumalé Central Park, a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset.

  • Hulhumalé Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Banana Reef: Cost: Boat trip - $40-60, Time spent: Half day
  • Hulhumalé Central Park: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Day 4: Monday, December 4, 2023

Discover the Underwater World in Baa Atoll

Embark on a snorkeling and diving adventure in Baa Atoll. Start with a visit to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its manta ray and whale shark sightings (seasonal). Marvel at these gentle giants and explore the vibrant coral gardens. In the afternoon, visit Fehendhoo Island and stroll along the pristine beach. Take a dip in the turquoise waters and relax under the swaying palm trees.

  • Hanifaru Bay: Cost: Snorkeling trip - $80-120, Time spent: Half day
  • Fehendhoo Island: Cost: Ferry - $15-20, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Day 5: Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Experience Local Culture in Addu City

Take a domestic flight to Addu City and immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Maldives' second-largest city and explore its historical sites. Start with a visit to Gan Island and explore the British Royal Air Force's former base. In the afternoon, visit the Heart-Shaped Island, also known as Hulhudhoo Beach, and relax in its picturesque surroundings. Continue to Maradhoo Island and stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the local architecture.

  • Gan Island: Cost: Domestic flight - $100-150, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Heart-Shaped Island: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Maradhoo Island: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Day 6: Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Relax on Viligili Beach

Take a ferry to Viligili Island, located near Malé, and spend a relaxing day on its stunning beach. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and sunbathe on the soft white sand. Indulge in water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and unwind before heading back to Malé in the evening.

  • Viligili Island: Cost: Ferry - $2-3, Time spent: Full day

Day 7: Thursday, December 7, 2023

Explore an Underwater Wonderland at Vaavu Atoll

Take a full-day snorkeling and diving trip to Vaavu Atoll. Start with a visit to Alimatha Island, famous for its vibrant house reef and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Explore the coral gardens and spot colorful fish. In the afternoon, visit Fotteyo Kandu, a popular dive site known for its magnificent underwater caves and diverse marine life. Get a chance to see blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, and turtles. End the day with a visit to Keyodhoo Island and experience the local village life.

  • Alimatha Island: Cost: Snorkeling trip - $80-120, Time spent: Full day
  • Fotteyo Kandu: Cost: Diving trip - $100-150, Time spent: Full day
  • Keyodhoo Island: Cost: Ferry - $5-10, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Thulusdhoo Island, known for its famous surf breaks and vibrant local culture. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local art scene and visit the Art Studio Maldives. Another hidden gem is the island of Dhigurah, where you can swim with whale sharks on a budget-friendly excursion. This breathtaking experience will leave you with unforgettable memories of your trip to Maldives.

Find the Best Hotel & Flight Deals

Check out the best hotel and flight deals for your trip to Maldives on KAYAK.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version