5-Day Adventure Itinerary in the Maldives

  • Day 1: Scuba Diving at Maafushi Island
    1 hour (15 miles) from Velana International Airport

    Maafushi Island is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Maldives. The island boasts an array of marine life, such as manta rays and sea turtles. It is also surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that create an unforgettable underwater experience.

  • Day 2: Surfing at Thulusdhoo Island
    1 hour 30 minutes (25 miles) from Maafushi Island

    Thulusdhoo is known to have some of the best surfing spots in the Maldives, such as The Cokes and The Chicken. The island is also famous for its local architecture, which includes the Thulusdhoo Mosque and the Old Mosque.

  • Day 3: Snorkeling at Hanifaru Bay
    2 hours (65 miles) from Thulusdhoo Island

    Hanifaru Bay is a protected marine area that is home to a vast number of whale sharks and manta rays. Its crystal clear waters make it excellent for snorkeling and experiencing the beauty of these amazing creatures.

  • Day 4: Island Hopping in Hulhumale
    1 hour (14 miles) from Hanifaru Bay

    Hulhumale is a man-made island that offers various exciting activities such as beach volleyball, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Its scenic views and serene beaches make it an ideal place for island hopping and relaxation.

  • Day 5: Visit the Maldives Victory
    1 hour (12 miles) from Hulhumale

    The Maldives Victory is a 101-meter long cargo ship that ran aground in 1981. It has since turned into a popular dive site, featuring vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. It is a must-see for both divers and non-divers.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Scuba Diving at Maafushi Island (3 hours, $100)
  • Surfing at Thulusdhoo Island (3 hours, $50)
  • Snorkeling at Hanifaru Bay (4 hours, $150)
  • Island Hopping in Hulhumale (5 hours, $80)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $380

Transportation

Transportation in the Maldives can be tricky, as the majority of travel between islands is done by seaplanes or speedboats. It's recommended to book transportation in advance during peak seasons, and always check for schedule changes or cancellations due to weather conditions. Seaplanes can cost around $400-$600 per person, and speedboats can cost around $80-$100 per person depending on the distance.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding activities such as parasailing in Male, exploring the colorful local markets, or visiting the National Museum. If you have less time, you can shorten the duration of the activities or skip Hanifaru Bay. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and comfortable clothes for water activities.

Airports

The primary airport in the Maldives is the Velana International Airport (MLE), also known as Male International Airport. It is located in Hulhule Island, about 2 miles from the capital city of Male. The airport serves several domestic and international flights daily, and there are seaplanes and speedboats available for transportation to other islands.

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