7-Day Itinerary for Maldives in December 2023

1. Day 1: Malé
   10 minutes (1.5km) from Velana International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Maldives' capital city of Malé and explore the bustling local markets. In the afternoon, take a 15-minute boat ride to Villimale for some water sports and beach activities. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Maldivian dinner at one of the many local restaurants.

2. Day 2: Fihalhohi Island
   1 hour and 15 minutes (36km) from Malé

   Start your day by taking a 45-minute speedboat ride to Fihalhohi Island, where you can relax on the beautiful beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, go scuba diving to see the stunning coral reefs and marine life. End your day with a romantic beach dinner as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

3. Day 3: Maafushi Island
   1 hour and 30 minutes (28km) from Fihalhohi Island

   Spend your morning snorkelling in Maafushi's turquoise lagoons and exploring the island's stunning white sandy beaches. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the quaint streets of the island and indulge in some local cuisine. In the evening, watch the sunset from a traditional Maldivian fishing boat.

4. Day 4: Vaavu Atoll
   2 hours and 30 minutes (62km) from Maafushi Island

   Embark on a full-day excursion to Vaavu Atoll where you can swim among the whale sharks, snorkel with manta rays and explore the atoll's vibrant coral reefs. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a deserted island before heading back to Maafushi Island for a relaxing evening.

5. Day 5: Guraidhoo Island
   2 hours (44km) from Maafushi Island

   Spend your morning enjoying the water sports on offer in Guraidhoo Island. In the afternoon, check out the island's traditional handicrafts and indulge in some shopping. End your day with a sunset cocktail and dinner at one of the island's many beach bars and restaurants.

6. Day 6: Banana Reef
   1 hour and 30 minutes (20km) from Guraidhoo Island

   Take a morning dive into the waters of Banana Reef, one of the Maldives' most famous dive sites. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Dhigurah Island to witness the spectacular sunset and take a leisurely stroll on the beach. End your day with a delicious dinner at one of the island's top restaurants.

7. Day 7: Hulhumalé
   10 minutes (6km) from Velana International Airport

   Spend your final day on Hulhumalé, a reclaimed island that is home to stunning beaches and modern architecture. In the morning, take a bike ride around the island and explore its many hidden gems. In the afternoon, relax on the beach before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the chance to visit the Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where you can swim with the manta rays and whale sharks. Also, consider taking a seaplane tour for a bird's eye view of the stunning Maldives islands.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Speedboat transfer from Malé to Fihalhohi Island (45 minutes, £90)
• Scuba diving excursion in Fihalhohi Island (3 hours, £150)
• Speedboat transfer from Fihalhohi Island to Maafushi Island (1 hour and 30 minutes, £120)
• Full-day excursion to Vaavu Atoll (6 hours, £300)
• Speedboat transfer from Maafushi Island to Guraidhoo Island (2 hours, £150)
• Dive excursion to Banana Reef (3 hours, £180)
• Bike rental on Hulhumalé (4 hours, £20)
• Total Estimated Costs: £1,110