Maldives 5 Day Itinerary

Maldives 5-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Version)

Day 1: Arrival & Settling In

  • Arrival at Velana International Airport (MLE): Upon arrival, complete the simple immigration and visa formalities. You don’t need a pre-arranged visa for most nationalities; instead, you will receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival.
  • Transfer to Resort Island (by Seaplane or Speedboat): Most resorts in the Maldives are located on individual islands and can only be reached by seaplane or speedboat. The transfer time depends on the resort’s location.
  • Orientation & Relaxation: Once settled, explore your resort, relax on the beautiful white sandy beaches, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
  • Things to Know about the Maldives: The official language is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken in resorts and tourist areas. Islamic law is strictly followed in local islands, so modest attire is recommended when visiting these areas.

Day 2: Island Hopping & Snorkeling

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your resort.
  • Island Hopping: If your resort offers island hopping tours, this can be an excellent way to explore the local island culture and marine life.
  • Snorkeling: Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel in the Maldives’ stunning coral reefs. Many resorts have snorkeling equipment available for guests.
  • Sunset Cruise (Optional): An evening sunset cruise can be a romantic and memorable experience, offering beautiful views of the island and its surrounding waters.

Day 3: Dive Sites & Marine Life Exploration

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
  • Scuba Diving: If you’re certified, explore the rich marine life at one of the many diving sites in the Maldives. For beginners, consider taking a Discover Scuba Diving course.
  • Marine Life Center (Optional): Some resorts have marine life centers where you can learn about various species found in the Maldives’ waters.
  • Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or by the pool, enjoying the tropical surroundings.

Day 4: Day Trip to Male City

  • Breakfast: Fuel up for the day with a tasty breakfast.
  • Transfer to Male City: Depending on your resort’s arrangements, you may take a ferry or speedboat to Male City.
  • Explore Male City (local markets, mosques, National Museum): The capital city offers a glimpse into Maldivian culture and history. Don’t forget to try traditional Maldivian cuisine!
  • Return to Resort: In the late afternoon, return to your resort for relaxation and dinner.

Day 5: Leisure & Departure

  • Leisure Time: Spend your final day in the Maldives relaxing on the beach or taking part in any activities offered by your resort that you haven’t yet tried.
  • Checkout & Departure: Complete checkout formalities at your resort and make your way to Velana International Airport for your departure.

Maldives 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Male City

  • Arrive at Velana International Airport (VIA). (Note: Tourist Visa is granted upon arrival for a maximum period of 30 days.)
  • Transfer to your hotel in Male City via speedboat or water taxi. (Transportation is usually included in the accommodation cost.)
  • Visit the National Museum to learn about Maldivian history and culture.
  • Explore the local markets, shops, and eateries in the bustling heart of Male.
  • Relax at the hotel’s beach area or swimming pool.

Day 2: Island Hopping

  • After breakfast, hire a speedboat for a day of island hopping.
  • Visit Hulhule Island, Home to the International Airport and the Maldives Monument.
  • Explore Vilingili Island with its beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
  • Visit the Biyadhoo Island for snorkeling, where you can witness a variety of marine life including sea turtles and tropical fish.
  • Return to Male in the evening.

Day 3: Overwater Bungalow Experience

  • Transfer to an overwater bungalow resort on a different island (usually requires a seaplane or domestic flight).
  • Spend the day relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling around the resort’s house reef.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach or at your water villa.

Day 4: Snorkeling & Dolphin Watching

  • Go for an early morning snorkeling trip to explore the rich marine life of the Maldives.
  • In the afternoon, join a dolphin watching tour. (Best done in the late afternoon when dolphins are most active.)
  • Spend the rest of the evening at leisure, perhaps trying some traditional Maldivian cuisine at your resort’s restaurant.

Day 5: Relaxation & Departure

  • Spend your last day relaxing on the beach or by the pool.
  • If time permits, indulge in a spa treatment or take a scuba diving lesson.
  • Transfer back to Velana International Airport for your departure flight.

Things to Note:

  • Alcohol is only served at licensed tourist establishments such as resorts and hotels.
  • The Maldives follows the Islamic calendar, so during Ramadan (dates change each year), food and drinks are not served publicly during daylight hours.
  • English is widely spoken in the Maldives.
  • The local currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa, but US Dollars are widely accepted at resorts and hotels.
  • Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear, sunscreen, and a good book for those relaxing beach days!