The Maldives are tropical islands located southwest of Sri Lanka and India. There are around 1,100 islands, of which 200 are inhabited. Twenty-six coral atolls attract visitors from all over the world. By choosing affordable accommodations and activities, you can explore the Maldives on a budget.
The majority of the islands are available for vacation rentals. However, this doesn't mean that you need a big budget to afford a holiday in the Maldives. You can travel around this island in many ways without spending lavishly.
The Maldives has two types of islands: public islands and private islands. The public islands are inhabited by locals, while the private islands are home to expensive resorts with ostentatious price tags.
The government has allowed the construction of guesthouses on the local islands, making booking a room in a resort relatively easy. These guesthouses and bed and breakfasts have made it possible for an average vacationer to plan a budget-friendly holiday in the Maldives.
In addition to the guesthouses, the food is tasty and inexpensive compared to the multinational resorts, which can charge $200 per person for one meal.
The government's new laws have also decreased the cost of accommodation and created a valuable income source for the locals.
You can now find and book your accommodation online through property portals such as Booking.com. Many guesthouses are listed on it, offering rooms with AC, wifi, snorkeling gear, breakfast, hot showers, and water for about $60/night.
You can also search through Airbnb, which has a list of guesthouses ranging from $50 to $100 per night.
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Experiencing the Maldives Islands for Less
Although the country is home to thousands of islands, here are some excellent options narrowed down exclusively for tourists on a budget.
Maafushi, situated on the South Male atoll, is among the most popular islands. You can reach it in half an hour by speedboat from the international airport.
The island offers several cheap accommodations and food options, making it perfect for anyone who wants to explore it on a budget.
Fulidhoo on the Vaavu atoll is another good option. This island is best for scuba divers or anyone who wants to explore underwater marine life. It is thinly populated and quiet, making it a relaxed vacation destination.
It includes accommodation options up to $100 per night with perfect beachfront views at Kinan Retreat and Ukulhas in the North Ari Atoll. You can experience manta rays and hammerhead sharks if you're there in the right season.
Things To Do in the Maldives
Vacation in the Maldives is not about tasting exotic drinks and experiencing fancy resorts. There are various activities that you can indulge in at a reasonable price.
The Maldives is home to some of the best surfing spots in the world. Some famous spots include Cokes, Sultan, Chicken, and Pasta Point, which make surfing fun and possible for beginners and professionals alike.
In addition to surfing spots, the Maldives also has scuba diving spots. Scuba diving is one of the most popular sports in the country.
South Ari Atoll and Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll are some of the most well-known spots. You can also experience manta rays during the annual migration at these points. Look for sharks by diving at the mud range of the Cinnamon Resort on the local Fulidhoo island.
Stand-up paddleboarding has also become quite popular. Non-motorized water sports are available for free in most of the resorts, except scuba diving. In saying that, you can still get some good deals by booking your scuba dives in advance.
Tourists staying in small guest houses can wait for guesthouse operators to recommend boat trips and watersports at affordable rates.
Day Trips
The Maldives, usually known for its pristine beaches, offers many other activities for those who don't want to spend all their time bathing in the sun.
Male, the capital, offers several unique sightseeing options, including the golden domes of the Islamic center, the surroundings of Sultan Park, and the market.
There are colorful corals, home to more than 2,000 species of tropical fish, sea turtles, whale sharks, stingrays, etc.
Some of the great day trips include:
- Snorkeling tours
- Island-hopping trips
- Dolphin-watching tours
- Snorkeling with manta rays
- Snorkeling with whale sharks
- Picnic trips on the sandbanks
Tip: Try to book your trip through the guesthouse where you are staying. This will help you get the best deals.
Getting Around
Transportation to the resort islands is only possible by seaplane or speedboat, both of which are expensive—$300 to $500 for a short ride.
If you want to visit a resort, try doing it through a fishing boat by inquiring with the locals. This can cost you ten times less than the cost of a speedboat.
Food
Food and dining options are all dependent on the accommodation. Opt for packages as they help you enjoy food while saving money.
The 4-star option, such as Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, hosts some packages, including meals at specific restaurants, afternoon tea daily, and other activities.
Most guesthouses serve classic Maldivian dishes for less than $12. However, fish, curry, and rice are still served in every restaurant.
You can also dine at the local restaurants in Maafushi, which have a price structure similar to the guesthouse restaurants but offer a lot more variety.
The Maldives isn't a cheap Asian destination; however, with planning and research, you can still visit on a backpacker-friendly budget.
As an insider tip, try sticking to the local islands for accommodation, day trips, and food. You can surely enjoy your time in the Maldives without breaking the bank.
