The Maldives is a captivating chain of atolls set in a turquoise sea. The islands boast an extraordinary level of refinement and are home to some of the most beautiful, chic and relaxing hotels on Earth. Small wonder that they have come to epitomise pure escapism.
Altogether, the Maldives group consists of 1,200 islands stretching across the Indian Ocean all the way from the south-western tip of India to the Equator. Only 200 of the islands are inhabited and, until the arrival of tourism, the main occupation in this nation of seafarers was fishing.
Today the Maldives offers a wonderful selection of world class luxury resorts with sensational service. Choose between rustic hideaways that are the very definition of barefoot luxury, or international resorts with plenty of experiences. Many properties boast suites that are stilted above the lagoons, most include world-class scuba diving and spa treatments on their menus, and all serve a delightful blend of east-meets-west cuisine, enhanced by discreet but friendly service.
The Maldives enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, which means warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons, offering different experiences for travellers throughout the year.
The best time to travel to the Maldives largely depends on your interests and the type of experience you desire. The peak tourist season, which falls between November and April, aligns with the dry northeast monsoon season. During this time, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C. These conditions make it the perfect time for underwater activities such as snorkelling and diving, as the waters are clear, and visibility is excellent.
For those seeking better deals on accommodations, the shoulder seasons of May to July and September to October offer a fantastic alternative. While there may be some occasional rain showers during these months, the weather remains warm, and the Maldives’ natural beauty is still great.
The wet southwest monsoon season occurs from May to October, bringing higher humidity and more frequent rainfall. The rain often comes in short bursts, followed by sunny spells, allowing travellers to enjoy the islands’ beauty between showers. Additionally, the wet season offers opportunities for surfing and other water sports, making it attractive for adventure seekers.