Dreaming of turquoise waters and powder-white beaches? The Maldives, a paradise of over 1,000 coral islands, beckons travelers year-round with its unparalleled beauty. However, finding the cheapest time to go to Maldives without breaking the bank can be a game-changer. Discovering the cheapest time to go requires a blend of savvy planning and understanding seasonal nuances.
In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of finding the cheapest time to visit the Maldives, uncovering tips for securing affordable accommodations and activities without compromising on the beauty and luxury this destination offers.
Cheapest Time to Visit Maldives in 2024/2025
The absolute cheapest time to visit the Maldives in 2024 is generally considered to be during the shoulder season, which falls between May and November. This is because it’s outside the peak tourist season (December to April) when perfect weather coincides with holiday periods and drives prices up.
Here’s a breakdown of the cheapest times to visit the Maldives in 2024:
- May to November (including shoulder season): This is the low season in the Maldives, so you can expect to find the best deals on flights and accommodation during this time. However, it’s also the wet season, so there’s a higher chance of rain showers.
- March or April (excluding Easter holidays): While not the absolute cheapest, these shoulder months at the tail end of the dry season can offer a good compromise between price and weather. You’ll still see decent weather with less rain and slightly lower prices compared to peak season.
Why Are These The Cheapest Times?
During the low season (May to November), resorts and airlines see a drop in demand due to the increased chance of rain. To keep business flowing, they offer lower prices to entice travelers. This can be a great opportunity to snag a good deal on your dream vacation, especially if you’re flexible with your travel dates and don’t mind the possibility of occasional showers.
Average Cost of Maldives Holiday & Vacation During the Shoulder Season in 2024
Here’s a range of what you might expect to pay for a budget-conscious Maldives tour during the shoulder season:
$1,500 – $3,000 per person: This could cover a 7-day tour with basic accommodation (guesthouse or standard hotel room), some meals, and potentially a few activities like snorkeling or day trips to local islands.
$3,000 – $5,000 per person: This range would allow for a more mid-range experience, with potentially better quality accommodation (3-star resort), a wider variety of meals included, and a few more activities or excursions.
Cheapest 10 Resorts & Hotels to Stay in the Maldives in 2024
The Maldives is known for its luxurious resorts, but there are also a good number of affordable options available, especially if you visit during the shoulder season (May to November). Here are some of the cheapest resorts to stay in the Maldives:
Crown Beach Hotel, Dhiffushi: This hotel offers streamlined rooms with a casual beachfront setting. They also offer dining options and diving & snorkeling trips. Prices start around $100 per night.
White Tern Maldives, Dhidhdhoo: This hotel boasts a 4.8-star rating on Google with glowing reviews. Prices here start around $120 per night.
Nihaali Maldives, Kudarikilu: With a near-perfect rating on Google, Nihaali Maldives offers affordable luxury. Budget around $150 per
Raalhu Fonu Maldives, Mahibadhoo: This resort offers a great location and comfortable accommodations for around $130 per night.
TME Retreats Dhigurah, Dhigurah: This laid-back resort is consistently rated well by guests for its affordability and delicious food. Expect to pay around $180 per night here.
Kandima Maldives, Dhaalu Atoll: This resort offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere with plenty of activities and entertainment options. Prices here start around $200 per night.
Fihalhohi Island Resort, Malé Atoll: This resort is a great option for families, with a kids’ club and a variety of water sports activities. Prices start at around $160 per night.
Cocoon Maldives, Lhaviyani Atoll: This adults-only resort offers a stylish and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for couples. Prices start at around $250 per night.
Paradise Island Resort & Spa, Malé Atoll: This classic Maldivian resort offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and activities. Prices start at around $220 per night.
Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, South Malé Atoll: This luxurious resort offers stunning villas and overwater bungalows, as well as a variety of world-class restaurants and bars. While on the pricier side of this list, with rates starting around $300 per night, it offers a taste of luxury for a bit less compared to other high-end resorts.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Time to Travel to Maldives in 2024/2025
Here are some additional tips for finding the cheapest time to travel to the Maldives:
Be Flexible with Travel Dates
Shoulder Seasons (May-June & October-November): As mentioned earlier, these offer the best balance between affordability and decent weather. Aim for the fringes of these seasons for potentially even lower prices.
Weekdays vs Weekends: Flights and accommodation tend to be cheaper during weekdays compared to weekends, especially during peak season.
Consider Alternative Accommodations
- Local Islands: Skip the private island resorts and stay on a local island. This provides a more authentic Maldivian experience and significantly lower costs. Guesthouses and budget hotels are readily available.
- Hostels: While not as common as resorts, some local islands offer hostels, which are the most budget-friendly option.
Track Flight Deals and Set Price Alerts
- Utilize Flight Comparison Websites: Use websites like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to compare prices across different airlines and dates. Set price alerts for your desired route to be notified of price drops.
- Consider Budget Airlines: If flying directly to Malé (the capital) is expensive, explore flying into nearby Sri Lanka or India and then catching a connecting flight or ferry to the Maldives. Budget airlines like GoAir or IndiGo (from India) might offer cheaper options.
Look for Deals and Discounts
- Early Booking Discounts: Many resorts offer discounts for booking well in advance (3-6 months).
Last Minute Deals: While less likely, some resorts might offer last-minute deals to fill vacancies, especially during shoulder seasons. - Package Deals: Look for package deals that combine flights and accommodation, which can sometimes be cheaper than booking them separately, especially during off-peak times.
Additional Money-Saving Strategies
- Travel During Ramadan: Traveling during Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar) can lead to lower prices as tourist numbers may dip. However, be aware that some restaurants and shops may have adjusted hours during this time.
- Eat Local: Opt for local Maldivian cuisine instead of fancy resort restaurants. Explore local markets and street food stalls for delicious and budget-friendly options.
- Minimize Transportation Costs: Opt for local ferries or public transportation instead of seaplanes or private speedboats for transfers between islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
The off-peak season in the Maldives, spanning from May to October, presents cheaper travel opportunities due to lower demand. During this time, accommodation rates drop, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers to explore the islands without breaking the bank.
Cheap accommodation options in the Maldives include guesthouses on local islands, which offer comfortable stays at reasonable prices. Additionally, some budget resorts provide affordable packages, particularly during the off-peak season, making it easier for travelers to find economical lodging options without compromising on comfort or amenities.
Budget travelers in the Maldives can enjoy a range of affordable activities, such as snorkeling at local reefs, exploring uninhabited islands, and indulging in authentic local cuisine at affordable eateries. These experiences provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and culture of the Maldives without overspending.
