What Does a Vacation in the Maldives Cost and More?

The most fabled archipelagic nation of South Asia, the Maldives, hardly needs any introduction, with the tropical paradise known for stunning turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and luxurious island resorts galore. Be it a romantic getaway, a trip with the besties or a family vacation with kids, the Maldives is a destination for everyone. Here is everything on what an average Maldives vacation costs and more to help you craft the perfect island getaway of your dreams.

Mind the Costs

Expenses are an integral aspect when planning any holiday. When it comes to the Maldives — a destination that is widely known for its reputation for being “top-shelf” — it becomes even more important. Given below is a breakdown of the primary cost factors that can affect your holiday in the islands. It is important to note that the following is only a presentation of average costs to help you gain a rough idea of the costs involved and may vary from actual costs.

Flights

Travellers heading from the US and Europe may expect to pay $700 to $1,500 per person (economy, round trip) while it can be $300 to $800 per person (economy, round trip) for those heading from Asia and the Middle East.

Accommodation

If you are looking at something high-end that is very characteristic of the Maldives, such as overwater bungalows, beachfront villas, resort islands etc, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000+ per night. Those looking at mid-range resorts can expect to pay $200 to $500 per night.

Food and Drink

Unless on an all-inclusive package, travellers to the Maldives can expect to pay for meals at resorts as follows on average.

Breakfast: $20 to $50

Lunch: $30 to $60

Dinner: $50 to $100+

Prices at local restaurants on inhabited islands are much less in the range of $5 to $15 per meal.

Additional Costs

Many resorts add a 10% service charge and a 12% goods and services tax (GST) to bills. Furthermore, all tourists staying at tourist resorts, integrated tourist resorts, tourist hotels, resort hotels, tourist vessels and tourist guest houses are required to pay a green tax of $6 per person per day.

Other Costs to Take into Account

Transfers and activities are two other factors that affect the cost of your trip. As these costs can vary at large based on your choices, it is important to take them into consideration as well when budgeting for your Maldives getaway.

Choose the Best Time to Visit

The Maldives is arguably a year-round destination, but the majority opinion may have that the best time to visit the islands are from November to April, during the dry season, when the skies are all sunshine and the seas are calm — perfect for snorkelling, diving and enjoying the archipelago’s world-class sandy shores and turquoise waters.

The low season is from May to October. Both crowds and prices are low, and while you may experience occasional rain, a holiday during this time of the year may still be a good idea.

Plan Your Activities

Travellers heading to the Maldives are absolutely spoiled for choice as the tropical islands offer a plethora of fun and exciting activities. Snorkelling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities. Many villas in Maldives, including the likes of Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, help arrange guided snorkelling and diving excursions. Other activities to look forward to include sea kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, windsurfing and island hopping.

Aside from water sports, your time in the Maldives wouldn’t be complete without some exquisite dining experiences and rejuvenating spa days, which the tropical islands are renowned for.