How to arrive?

Arriving in the Maldives

1. Flights to Malé

   • Booking Flights: Book your flight to Velana International Airport (Malé) well in advance to secure the best deals. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak to find affordable options. Consider flying mid-week and during off-peak seasons (May to October) for lower prices - but get ready to get some rain.

2. Visa Requirements

   • Visa on Arrival: Most nationalities receive a 30-day visa on arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.

Traveling on a Budget to the Islands

1. Public Ferries

   • Inter-Island Travel: Use public ferries to travel between islands. They are significantly cheaper than private speedboats (literally 2-3$ compared to 20-100$!!!). Check the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) website for schedules and routes. Note that public ferries do not run daily, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

2. Domestic Flights

   • Regional Airports: For longer distances, consider domestic flights operated by Maldivian Airlines or FlyMe. These are more expensive than ferries but can save time when traveling to distant atolls.

3. Speedboats

   • Shared Speedboats: For a faster option, use shared speedboat transfers. These are more expensive than ferries but cheaper than private hires. Many guesthouses arrange shared speedboats for their guests.