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Maldives Island Explorer Tour

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Maldives Island Explorer OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

8 days

Male to Male

From

$1360 (p/p)

Country(ies): Maldives

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 14

Accommodation: Local Guesthouses

Meals:

Transport: Mini Vans & Speedboat transfers

Highlights: Rasdhoo, Ukulhas and Mathiveri local islands in the North Ari Atoll, guided snorkelling tours, island tours, Hedika experience, sea-kayaking or paddle-boarding, scuba-diving opportunities, beach relaxation

Escape to the enchanting paradise of the Maldives with our Maldives Island Explorer, an exclusive journey designed to immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of this tropical haven without breaking the bank. Delve into the heart of this mesmerizing archipelago as we embark on an unforgettable adventure starting from the vibrant capital city of Male.

As the sun sets over Male, we'll retreat to the tranquil shores of Hulhumale, a nearby island oasis where you'll unwind and recharge for the adventures ahead. Nestled amidst the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Hulhumale sets the stage for relaxation and exploration, offering a glimpse into the authentic Maldivian way of life.

From Hulhumale, our voyage continues as we set sail aboard local ferries or scheduled speedboats, traversing the crystalline waters to discover the hidden gems of Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, and Mathiveri. These pristine islands beckon with their untouched beauty, inviting you to experience the essence of the 'real Maldives' far away from the tourist crowds.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of local life as we explore the charming communities that call these islands home. Witness the age-old traditions of local fishermen as they ply their trade against the backdrop of stunning seascapes. Engage with the warm and welcoming locals, gaining insight into their rich culture and heritage that has thrived for generations.

But the adventure doesn't end there. Dive into the cerulean depths of the Indian Ocean, where a world of wonders awaits beneath the surface. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a novice snorkeler, our exploration of the house reefs promises awe-inspiring encounters with vibrant marine life, from colorful coral gardens to majestic sea turtles gliding gracefully through the waters.

For those yearning to prolong their Maldivian escapade, indulge in the option of extending your stay with our island resort extensions. Dive deeper into luxury and relaxation as you luxuriate in the lavish amenities and pristine beaches of exclusive resorts, where every whim is catered to amidst the unparalleled beauty of your surroundings.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our Maldives Island Explorer, where affordability meets adventure, and every moment is infused with the magic of this tropical paradise. Join us as we unlock the secrets of the Maldives, one captivating island at a time, creating memories to last a lifetime in this idyllic corner of the world.

ITINERARY

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Day 1:   Welcome to the Maldives! Transfer to your hotel.

Upon arrival at Male International Airport you will be greeted by your guide and transferred by vehicle to your guesthouse on Hulhumale, just 15 minutes away. Settle in after your flight before taking your first steps on the sands of this suburban tropical paradise. The beach is 3 minute walk away, with several local cafes and local restaurants, plus a water sports centre. So, there is plenty to keep you busy! For those arriving on early flights today, there is the option of joining a eco-walking tour of the island of Vilimale, generally considered the quieter side of Male, situation on the west side of the capital.

OVERNIGHT:

Hulhumale Guesthouse

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

None


Day 2:   Boat to Rasdhoo Island. Island Exploration.

This morning your tour leader will assist you with your local ferry or speedboat transfer to the local island of Rasdhoo in North Ari Atoll. Upon arrival you will have time to settle in before taking lunch. As the afternoon cools down, accompanied by your guide, time is down spent exploring Rasdhoo with the opportunity to learn about the local way of life including a visit to the Mosque, stop and chat with children playing in the street and watch the ladies of the community begin their evening meal preparations. You'll also visit a local cafe to sample traditional ‘hedika’ - Maldivian savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea.

Rasdhoo is close to some of the best dive sites in the Maldives so if you’re a diver, or would like to try out this magical experience, get yourself signed up at the local dive centre. Your guide and your hotel will be happy to assist with this as well. Divers may wish for an early start tomorrow and opt to join a dive to Hammerhead Point. During the manta season (November to April) there are opportunities for spectacular close encounters with these majestic large rays.

OVERNIGHT:

Rasdhoo Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Snorkelling on Rasdhoo reef, Sunset Kayaking

Following breakfast accompanied by your guide you'll explore the Rasdhoo house reef for your first underwater encounters. Your guide will provide a safety briefing on responsible snorkeling, providing information about any local currents and tides, and act as your ‘spotter’ pointing out marine life that may not have caught your eye. They will assist less confident or inexperienced snorkelers, ensuring your equipment is comfortable and you feel safe in the water. Once you have your confidence there are irregular snorkeling excursions to nearby reefs giving non divers the opportunity to discover the colorful marine life and coral reefs in this area.

Later in the afternoon you'll head out with your guide for a sunset kayaking trip. Here you can take a gentle kayak through the beautiful lagoon to a nearby sandbank, from where you can enjoy the sun set in the ocean.

OVERNIGHT:

Rasdhoo Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Boat to Ukulhas. Island exploration.

We leave Rasdhoo today and transfer by ferry or speedboat to our next local island destination, Ukulhas. As the afternoon cools down explore the island with your guide and learn more about the tradition of fishing in the Maldives and discover why it was the island to lead the way for environmental practices. Not only does Ukulhas have some beautiful beaches, the local community here are particularly friendly and will be delighted to engage in conversation with you and show off their home island.

OVERNIGHT:

Ukulhas Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   Free day (various options available)

Today is free for you to enjoy as you please. You can relax on the tourist 'bikini beach', choose to visit a resort for the day or for those feeling energetic participate in the various optional watersport activities on offer. Optional scuba-diving trips can be organised for certified divers. Other options include a picnic lunch on a deserted sandbank or uninhabited island, a visit to a local coral rehabilitation project or even visit the whale sharks in South Ari Atoll. 

OVERNIGHT:

Ukulhas Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Ferry to Mathiveri, afternoon island tour and evening dolphin watching

You'll have the morning free to explore Ukulhas further or spend time relaxing before boarding a lunch time ferry to our third island destination of Mathiveri. As with our previous visits, you'll be provided with a briefing on the island and the activities available whilst here. You'll spend the remainder of the day exploring the island with your guide which will include a workshop on how to weave a traditional joali seat, a visit to a local cafe and learn other interesting facts about the island. In the evening, before the sun sets, we'll head out in search of dolphins which are often found around the island, jumping, spinning and dancing - a perfect end to a perfect week!

OVERNIGHT:

Mathiveri Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   House reef snorkelling, optional beach clean up

Following breakfast today, a guided house reef snorkelling tour is available for those who wish to join. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of turtles or even Manta Rays. 
The afternoon is free, perhaps visit Mathiveri Finolhu, a private uninhabited island fringed with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. As this is an uninhabited island, swim wear is not a problem.
As the afternoon cools down we offer the option of giving back to the local community by participating in a beach clean, after which our reward will be a refreshing glass of Kurumba (coconut water).

OVERNIGHT:

Mathiveri Island Guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Return boat trip to Male and transfer to the airport

Following an early breakfast take the speedboat for the return journey to Male. Arriving back in Male at approximately 9am, you will be assisted with your transfer onto Male International Airport where your trip ends. 

If you have a flight departing earlier than 1pm then we recommend taking an earlier private speedboat transfer to the airport (at extra cost). If you have a late afternoon or evening flight departure and understandably do not want to spend a long time waiting at the airport, then day-use rooms are available at the Newtown Inn (price includes an airport departure transfer to meet your flight). There are also day package options at Hulhule Airport hotel to use the swimming pool, restaurant, bar etc. or an optional half day visit to Vilimale island which is 15 minutes from Male. Other snorkelling trips or other watersport activities are also available.

For those passengers with an evening flight, a complimentary walking tour of Male is available today.

OVERNIGHT:

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


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Included:
  • 7 nights accommodation: 1 night Hulhumale, 2 nights Rasdhoo, 2 nights Ukulhas, 2 nights Mathiveri
  • All transport and transfers
  • 24-hour airport arrival transfer service
  • Meals: 7 breakfasts, 0 lunches and 0 dinners
  • Free 30-day tourist visa on arrival to all nationalities
  • Local guide throughout
  • Guided snorkelling and island tours
  • Sea kayak or stand-up paddleboard hire
  • Hedika experience

Excluded:
  • International flights (available on request)
  • Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Dates and Prices

Scheduled group departure dates are given below. The tour is also available for booking privately for travel anytime through the year, and we can also customise the itinerary to fit your personal requirements. Please contact us for details and prices.&

Start Date
End Date
Price (P/P)
Offer price
Note

14th of Apr 2024

21st of Apr 2024

$1385.00

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12th of May 2024

19th of May 2024

$1360.00

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9th of Jun 2024

16th of Jun 2024

$1360.00

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14th of Jul 2024

21st of Jul 2024

$1360.00

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11th of Aug 2024

18th of Aug 2024

$1385.00

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8th of Sep 2024

15th of Sep 2024

$1385.00

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13th of Oct 2024

20th of Oct 2024

$1385.00

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

New Town Inn

New Town Inn

Hulhumale

Local rating

Our rating

 New Town Inn New Town Inn

The Newtown Inn, boasts an authentic Indian restaurant, Bombay Darbar, as well as a roof terrace where you can dine under the stars. With 10 well appointed en-suite deluxe rooms guests can experience a level of luxury at an affordable price. Nominated in the Leading Guesthouse category 2014 MATATO Awards and ranked number 1 on Trip Advisor, guests are already recognizing the point of difference Newtown Inn and its team offers.

FACILITIES & AMINITIES

* All rooms are ideal for two persons * Twin and double beds * En-suite bath rooms / Hot and cold shower * AC and ceiling fan * Wardrobe and writing table * Hair dryer upon request * Toiletries * In-room TV * Telephone * Tea and coffee making facilities * Internet access * WiFi * Room service * Restaurant * Laundry Service

TYPES OF ROOM

Rooms are designed with comfort and a good night's sleep in mind. Our beds are with extra bedding including feather and foam pillows, duvet and a down blanket to make it more comfortable for our guest to sleep.

The Newtown Inn, boasts an authentic Indian restaurant, Bombay Darbar, as well as a roof terrace where you can dine under the stars. With 10 well appointed en-suite deluxe rooms guests can experience a level of luxury at an affordable price. Nominated in the Leading Guesthouse category 2014 MATATO Awards and ranked number 1 on Trip Advisor, guests are already recognizing the point of difference Newtown Inn and its team offers.

FACILITIES & AMINITIES

* All rooms are ideal for two persons * Twin and double beds * En-suite bath rooms / Hot and cold shower * AC and ceiling fan * Wardrobe and writing table * Hair dryer upon request * Toiletries * In-room TV * Telephone * Tea and coffee making facilities * Internet access * WiFi * Room service * Restaurant * Laundry Service

TYPES OF ROOM

Rooms are designed with comfort and a good night's sleep in mind. Our beds are with extra bedding including feather and foam pillows, duvet and a down blanket to make it more comfortable for our guest to sleep.

Ukulhas Inn

Ukulhas Inn

Ukulhas

Local rating

Our rating

 Ukulhas Inn Ukulhas Inn

The Ukulhas Inn is a friendly small hotel on Ukulhas Island located just a minute or two's walk from the beach.

The rooms are large and clean with a fresh modern design. Facilities include air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, LCD TVs with satellite channels, CD/DVD players, free WiFi and a minibar.

The friendly front desk staff are happy to assist with arranging scuba-diving and snorkelling trips, Manta Ray safaris as well as other excursions around the island. Snorkelling equipment is available to borrow.

Breakfast is served in the hotel with lunches and dinners available at a nearby restaurant a couple of minutes walk away where you can enjoy a wide variety of local Maldivian dishes as well as Indian Thai and Continental cuisine.

The Ukulhas Inn is a friendly small hotel on Ukulhas Island located just a minute or two's walk from the beach.

The rooms are large and clean with a fresh modern design. Facilities include air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, LCD TVs with satellite channels, CD/DVD players, free WiFi and a minibar.

The friendly front desk staff are happy to assist with arranging scuba-diving and snorkelling trips, Manta Ray safaris as well as other excursions around the island. Snorkelling equipment is available to borrow.

Breakfast is served in the hotel with lunches and dinners available at a nearby restaurant a couple of minutes walk away where you can enjoy a wide variety of local Maldivian dishes as well as Indian Thai and Continental cuisine.

Rasdhoo Dive Lodge

Rasdhoo Dive Lodge

Rasdhoo

Local rating

Our rating

 Rasdhoo Dive Lodge Rasdhoo Dive Lodge

The Rasdhoo Dive Lodge provides guests with comfortable 3-star accommodaton and is located right on the beach, with easy access nearby dive sites such as Adivaru Thila and Madivaru Corner. 

GUEST ROOMS

Rooms at the Dive Lodge have free WiFi, air conditioning, dressing gowns, private terrace, kettle and ceiling fan. The en-suite bathrooms which feature rainfall showers.

FACILITIES

The Dive Lodge offers guests continental breakfasts, scuba diving, windsurfing and other watersports. Meals are served in the on-site international restaurant. 

The Rasdhoo Dive Lodge provides guests with comfortable 3-star accommodaton and is located right on the beach, with easy access nearby dive sites such as Adivaru Thila and Madivaru Corner. 

GUEST ROOMS

Rooms at the Dive Lodge have free WiFi, air conditioning, dressing gowns, private terrace, kettle and ceiling fan. The en-suite bathrooms which feature rainfall showers.

FACILITIES

The Dive Lodge offers guests continental breakfasts, scuba diving, windsurfing and other watersports. Meals are served in the on-site international restaurant. 

Royal Reef Stay

Royal Reef Stay

Mathiveri

Local rating

Our rating

 Royal Reef Stay Royal Reef Stay

Royal Reef Stay, located on Mathiveri island, Maldives, is a beach front villa with a minimalistic, modern architecture and a providence of eco-friendly aspects. A garden restaurant buffet boasts both Maldivian and Western cuisines.

GUEST ROOMS

The comfortable rooms are decorated in a simple style, with air-conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, terrace and en-suite bathroom featuring a shower and hairdryer. 

FACILITIES

The property offers sea views, on-site restaurant, 24 hour front desk, free WiFi, and a coffee shop. Barbeque facilities are also available at the guesthouse. 

Royal Reef Stay, located on Mathiveri island, Maldives, is a beach front villa with a minimalistic, modern architecture and a providence of eco-friendly aspects. A garden restaurant buffet boasts both Maldivian and Western cuisines.

GUEST ROOMS

The comfortable rooms are decorated in a simple style, with air-conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, terrace and en-suite bathroom featuring a shower and hairdryer. 

FACILITIES

The property offers sea views, on-site restaurant, 24 hour front desk, free WiFi, and a coffee shop. Barbeque facilities are also available at the guesthouse. 

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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  1. Accommodation

The guesthouse accommodation on this tour is designed to provide a balance of comfort, local atmosphere and value for money. These are not luxury properties, but are clean, comfortable, have friendly staff, and often provide some excellent local food. A range of mid-level and luxurious island resort stays are available as extensions at the end of the tour for those looking for some extra comfort and luxury.

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.


  2. Tour Leaders/Guides

We provide a fully trained local guide to escort you throughout this tour. Tour guiding in the Maldives is a fairly new concept but our guides are keen, friendly, speak good English, and are delighted to be able to provide tourists with a different experience of the Maldives to the normal resort island holiday. A range of boat crews are also used for the various water-based activities. A permanent rep is based in Hulhumalé to assist at the start and finish of the tour.

At Encounters Travel we aim to only use local tour guides as we feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing as well as supporting the local population.


  3. International Flights

We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to book your flights for you, and our ATOL (UK flight sales license) covers all holidays booked together with a flight from the UK.

Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from. Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour whether you book your flights independently or through us.

On our local island tours we generally finish with a transfer by local ferry from your island back to Male and on to the main airport island on the last day of the tour. If your international flight departs before around 1pm you will require a speedboat transfer to the airport at extra cost & see the Options section for details.

Some resort islands may require an extra sea-plane transfer to be taken if you have an early departure flight from Male. This will also be at an extra cost - please ask for details.


  4. Dates & Prices

We run limited small-group departures on this tour, normally starting on a Saturday. Departure dates and prices are listed on our website and in our brochures. Please check the website for the most up-to-date prices and any special offers available.


  5. Group Size

We are committed to working with small numbers in the Maldives as we feel it is appropriate for the country and the activities included on our tours. Our Maldives small-group departures are set to have a minimum of 2 and maximum of 14 travellers. Private tours and boat charters are also available from 1 to 14 people. If you have a larger party please contact us for more information about the best way to arrange activities for your group.


  6. Transport and Transfers

Local island tours:
Private vehicles are used for sightseeing tours and airport transfers. Public ferries or scheduled speedboat services are used for crossings between Male/Hulumale, and the various inhabited local islands visited on our tours. Domestic flights are used between Male and Gan. Speedboat transfers or sea-planes are used for transfers to and from island resorts. A range of motor boats and Dhonis may also be used for the water based activities included in our tours. All boats carry sufficient life jackets for our travelers. Safety/emergency procedure briefings will be provided by your guide or the boat crew at the start of each journey.

Marine Conservation Cruise:
This cruise departs from Male on day 1, between 12 and 1pm, therefore an early morning arrival is recommended. On day 8, a group departure transfer is provided to Male Airport, which will arrive by 9am. If you have an earlier departure, a private transfer can be arranged at an additional cost. 

Arrival arrangements:
All our tours include an airport meet and greet and transfer service on the first day of your tour. Our rep. will be holding an Encounters Travel signboard with your name displayed for easy identification. If you can't find our representative, our emergency contact numbers are given on your tour confirmation voucher. No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to incorrect flight details being provided or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.

Departure arrangements:
Our local island tour itineraries will return you to Malé airport from Maafushi Island in time for flight departures after about midday. If you have an earlier flight departure, please let us know as soon as possible as you may need to book an extra speedboat transfer (at extra cost). If you have a late afternoon/evening flight departure, then we offer a range of options to help fill your day. Please see the tour itinerary and options section for details.
If your tour includes a domestic flight back to Male at the end of the tour (for example from Gan) then this flight will be timed to ensure you catch your international flight.
Most of the resort extension options that we offer are based close enough to Malé airport that the resort’s own standard boat transfer service will be able to get you to the airport in time for flights departing at any time of day. However some resorts may charge extra for very early departures, especially if sea plane transfers are required. Please contact us for details and any extra costs if you have an early flight departure before confirming your flight arrangements.
Sailing safari tours will be customised to ensure you are at the airport in plenty of time for your departure flight(s).

There is currently a departure tax in place at Malé airport. Please ensure you have US$13 p/p in cash on you to pay this tax when you leave.

If your flights arrive/depart before/after the tour starts/ends then we will be very happy to arrange additional accommodation and airport transfers for you. We will aim to book these in the same hotel as the main tour, though this will be subject to availability (upgraded hotels are also available on request). If you do not book your additional accommodation through us, then our arrival/departure service is not included and you will need to make your own airport transfer arrangements.


  7. Entrance Fees

All relevant entry fees, island landing fees and permits are included in your tour price.


  8. Tipping

While an accepted part of the culture and customs in the Maldives, tipping is always optional, and any amounts paid should reflect excellent service.

It is normal and accepted for people to tip differently, and you should not feel under any pressure to tip any particular amount.

We are often asked for advice on common amounts however, and suggest that up to approx. 5% of the tour price would be a suitable budget for this tour. More information will be provided in your pre-departure information.


  9. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination.  You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.

In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are: Hepatitis A and Tetanus. Malaria is not generally present unless it has been contracted abroad; you do not need to take malaria prophylactics. You are required to carry a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a destination with a Yellow Fever risk. You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements.

Personal health:
Sensible precautions should be taken to avoid sunburn and dehydration. On arrival and when travelling in the Maldives, we recommend that you stick to drinking bottled mineral water or to help the environment bring water purification tablets or a water filter and a re-usable bottle. Please ensure you have appropriate travel insurance, which includes health cover. If you require prescription medicines, please bring them with you, and include the appropriate documentation.
There are two hospitals on the main island, Malé. The Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital is the biggest hospital in the country providing sophisticated medical care. Some resorts have in-house doctors. A decompression chamber is within easy reach of most resorts in case of emergency.


  10. Passports and Visas

No prior visa arrangements are required. Tourists are issued a 30-day visa on arrival. A passport valid for 6 months and travel documents (flight tickets) are necessary. You will need to present a landing card which should be distributed by the crew of your flight. Alternatively you can find cards immediately before the immigration booths. You will given back part of the landing card to present again when you leave, so please look after this and try not to lose it. To obtain immigration clearance it is a requirement to indicate on the landing card an address or provide proof that you have a booking at a resort, guest house or safari boat. We will provide the address of your initial Male accommodation on your tour confirmation voucher.

Importing goods such as alcohol, pork items, pornography (very broadly defined), religious materials offensive to Islam, idols of worship, narcotics and psychotropic substances, explosives and weapons into the Maldives is strictly forbidden. Alcohol and pork products under a special license are available in resort islands. On the way out, note that exporting sand, turtle shells, seashells and a range of marine products is also forbidden unless you have bought them from a legitimate souvenir shop and can show the receipt.

All baggage including hand baggage is screened as part of the custom’s process before you leave the airports baggage collection area.


  11. When to Visit

You can visit the Maldives all year round, and be pretty sure of getting great weather. There are rains from time to time, but it is hard to predict exactly when they will come, and you'll be unlucky to get more than a couple of rainy days in succession.

Scuba diving is good all year round. Wind can obviously impact water based activities like sea kayaking and paddle boarding, and if this is the case we will aim to move these to a day later in the tour.

The winter season (December till April) is definitively not great for surfing. Generally it is also less windy, however, there is usually wind strong enough for trying sailing and even for windsurfing.


  12. Food, drink and alcohol

Maldivians, being Muslims, are prohibited by law from consuming alcohol; hence there is a total restriction on alcohol being available on inhabited local islands, this includes the capital Malé. Alcohol is available at Hulhule Island Hotel which is located at the airport. Arrangements to visit can be made through our local rep. We have tried where possible to take this into account on our local island tours by providing opportunities to visit picnic islands and resorts where alcohol can be made available. However please bear in mind that is difficult to get hold of and even where alcohol is available, it is very expensive!

All tourist island resorts and safari yachts stock alcohol for guest consumption. Traditional beverages include “toddy” – aged coconut sap and plain coconut sap.

Please don’t bring alcohol through the airport as it will be confiscated.

The traditional food of the Maldivians is based around fish, (tuna to be more specific) and coconuts. White rice and “roshi” (a flour based flat-bread) are staple items. Fish is normally smoked, fired, barbequed or roasted. Pork products are strictly prohibited.


  13. Clothing & Climate

Visiting the Maldives is the chance for you to break out the brightly coloured summer clothes that are so often out of place in colder climates. The higher temperatures and ever-present sunshine means that locals and visitors alike prefer dressing in lightweight materials. T-shirts, cotton clothing, skirts and shorts would be the best option to stay cool. The ideal footwear would be sandals and flip-flops. Whether to pack only the more casual options like shorts and khakis or the newest Gucci number depends on what you plan to do, or where you plan to stay. Casual clothing is fine on the local islands and in guesthouses, smart casual clothing is usually enough for Malé or resorts, but the more up-market resorts may require that you dress up for dinner. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hats are all necessary for a comfortable holiday, but they are available widely for purchase in resorts and around Malé.

With a tropical climate, plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 30°C throughout the year, there is never a bad time to visit the Maldives. Maldives has two distinct seasons; dry season (northeast monsoon) and wet season (southwest monsoon), with the former extending from January to March and the latter from mid-May to November. The rare thunderstorm in the Maldives (especially around the southwest monsoon months) can be a welcome respite from the sun. Cloudy skies and slate grey seas, and crashing thunder makes for lovely reading weather. The warm temperatures will allow you to go for a walk in the rain, a verdant, wet, thoroughly enjoyable experience. For extra exhilaration, take a swim in the rain - the sea will be extra warm.

There can be heavy rain showers pretty much any time of year, but they tend to be short and cannot be accurately predicted seasonally (in other words – don’t worry too much about them – you will quite possibly experience some rain showers, but the majority of the weather should be great, and you will be unlucky to get several consecutive days of heavy rain). Diving is good all year-round, although a basic rule is that reef life is more varied and visibility is better on the western side of any atoll from May to November and on the eastern side of any atoll from December to April.

The Maldives is a Muslim country and care needs to be taken in relation to the dress code on local islands. Whilst it is acceptable for men to wear T Shirts and shorts or swim shorts; females should avoid causing offence by maintaining a more conservative approach to clothes by wearing T Shirts, loose shorts or sarongs. Whilst the islands we visit are more tolerant of guests wearing traditional beachwear, females should avoid wearing bikinis and swimwear unless on an un-inhabited island, picnic island, sandbank, screened off local beach (Maafushi for example), dive boat or resort island. Whilst the law restricts the wearing of bikinis on local islands, some guesthouses (eg. Reveries Guest House on Gan Island) do provide a private sunbathing area on the beach or on the terrace of the guesthouse, our local rep will advise when and where this is possible. It is common practice by both locals and visitors for females to swim from local beaches wearing a t-shirt and shorts. When visiting the home of a local family or during the island tours where we may have access to mosques and family homes, shoulders and thighs should be covered out of respect of local customs.


  14. What to take

The Maldives is a place where you don’t require much in order to be comfortable. It is tropical, sunny and very relaxed, so you only really need to bring a few essentials:

  • Valid Passport – with at least 6 months left before expiry.
  • Light weight, casual, non-synthetic clothing (cottons and natural fibres are best) which appropriately cover the body, when in company of the local communities. (Please understand local customs and religious requirements relating to dress codes. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it needs to be respectful)
  • Cool footwear (sandals are best). If you are interested in exploring the reefs, a pair of reef shoes is recommended to avoid injuries.
  • Swimming costumes – rash-guards/t-shirts are recommended for snorkelling to avoid sunburn.
  • Sunscreens, after sun lotions and personal hygiene products – Please adhere to 100ml restrictions for anything you wish to carry on hand-luggage on flights.
  • Prescription medications (if required) – please bring supporting documents.
  • Power adapter for phones, laptops etc – The Maldives uses mostly UK style sockets.
  • Underwater camera – The Maldives below sea level is worth a few photos.
  • Sunglasses and hats
  • Dive certification card and log book if you intend to participate in SCUBA diving.

Luggage allowances:
Most international airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 23kg per person of luggage to go in the hold of the plane. Domestic flights often have smaller allowances around 15kg. As airline rules vary we recommend that you take no more than 20kg of luggage if your tour just includes international flights, and no more than 15kg if there are any domestic flights included in your itinerary. Please ask us for details if you are unsure about luggage allowances on your tour. Any excess baggage fees will be your responsibility to cover.
Most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage so we suggest that you take no more than 5kg unless you have confirmed that your airline(s) will allow more than this.


  15. Money

The Maldives has a non-convertible currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa – this cannot be purchased beforehand. One Rufiyaa is 100 Laari and is available in 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 Rufiyaa notes.
One US Dollar is equivalent to 15.42 Rufiyaa. Major international currencies can be changed easily at the airport on arrival. It is advised not to exchange currency in Male where bank queues are common and waiting time lengthy. The US Dollar is accepted as legal tender. All major credit cards can be used (and are preferred) at resorts, hotels, shops, etc., however, on local islands it is usually only guesthouses that accept credit cards and cash is generally preferred.
The national bank, Bank of Maldives has several branches in Male’ as well as other major population hubs such as the Male’ International Airport. Several other regional banks also operate in central city, Male’, including the State Bank of India, Bank of Ceylon, and HSBC. There are no banks on resort islands or on local islands visited in our tours.

ATMs: Most banks represented in Malé provide automatic teller machine (ATM) services and credit card services at several key points in Malé and Hulhumale. Only local currency MRF will be dispensed. Whilst there is an ATM at the Male branch of the Bank of Maldives dispensing USD$, it only dispenses to Bank of Maldives cardholders. There are no ATMs on resort islands or on the local islands visited on our tours. All major credit cards can be used at resorts, hotels and many shops in Male. Most restaurants and shops in Male will accept USD$ in payment providing change in local currency.

Bank Notes: The banks in the Maldives are very particular about the condition of bank notes and will refuse deposits of old style US Dollars; any damaged notes, badly creased or well-worn notes will also be rejected. Therefore, if presenting such a note as form of payment you may be requested to change to a note of better condition. Please do not take offence, it is purely that the note will have no worth to the individual to whom you are paying. Also, note that small bills .i.e. $1 and $5 have a lower exchange value, as the Bank of Maldives charges for small notes to be deposited.

Spending money and budgeting: It is impossible to say exactly what you will need during your local island visit as this varies depending on personal preferences, the number of extra optional activities and souvenirs you may like to purchase. While on the local islands, approximate prices are as follows:

  • Snack lunch: $5-$10
  • Evening meal in guesthouse or local restaurant: $10-$20
  • Tea / Coffee: $1
  • Soft drinks: $1
  • Water 500m: $1

You should expect prices on resort islands to be considerably more expensive than this.


  16. Voltage
Sockets are mostly three pronged (British style) and 220 volts, however some are European 2 pronged style. Adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don’t have one. All electrical devices running on 110/120 V must have power converters / step-up transformers. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc.

  17. Time
Maldives Standard Time is GMT/UTC + 5. Daylight saving time is not applied.

  18. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  19. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  20. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  21. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  22. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK  to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.
Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

Note - to comply with insurance sales regulations, our travel insurance policies are only available to customers booking directly with us. If you have booked through a travel agent you will need to arrange your own insurance.

If your tour includes car hire, ior if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable. Details about our own policies cover levels are given on our website


  23. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign


  24. Scuba Diving in the Maldives

The Maldives is rightly famous for the huge variety of different marine life you can see around the various islands, lagoons, coral reefs and shipwrecks. Much can be seen from the surface and just below on snorkelling trips. However, going scuba-diving opens up a whole new range of opportunities to see different species, corals and environments. There are many different types of dives available, from high coral walls, to shallow reefs, wrecks, lagoons and some decent shore dives. 

You can scuba-dive all year round in the Maldives though during the rainier season of May to November the visibility can be poorer with stronger south westerley winds. Visibility tends to be best between December and April with lower wind speeds from the north east. The water temperature all year round averages a comfortable 28C. Currents are affected by both the tides and winds and can be unpredictable. It is important to listen to your diving guides carefully about this and take particular care if you are diving in an area where strong currents can be expected. The maximum depth allowed for leisure diving in the Maldives is 30m. 

Virtually all islands have their own dive centre offering boat trips around that island as well as further afield. 

If you are already a qualified diver you should ensure you bring along your log-book to prove your qualification and recent experience. We recommend also bringing your own mask and snorkel for comfort. You can bring further equipment as well but please check with your airline first for any excess baggage costs. 

If you are a novice diver and have not got a PADI Open Water or equivalent (or higher) qualification, you can still enjoy scuba-diving in the Maldives and see a wealth of different fish and corals. All dive centres will offer a 'Discover Scuba' experience where you are introduced to the equipment and accompanied underwater one to one with a Dive Master or Instructor. You can do this at many different dive sites, though ones with strong currents will not be available. 

Reviews

POSTS FROM OUR BLOG Maldives Island Explorer

Need some travel inspiration or looking for some handy travel tips? Our blog provides excellent insight into our travel destinations - from tour updates to country guides, packing lists to little known things to do, you'll find it all in our travel blog.

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A checklist for every sight you have to see in the Maldives

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https://ucarecdn.com/a9343fad-36e3-4125-8af8-38176c0262d1/ By: Kelly Anne Ellis 2019-12-13 18:59:29

Best time to visit the Maldives

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Use this informative guide to help you decide on the best time to book your relaxing Maldives tour.

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https://ucarecdn.com/371e1b76-4214-44ca-88bf-9aa5616277ec/ By: Martin Hosie 2014-05-05 16:00:00

A Taste of the Maldives

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The sun dipped down below the horizon and the beautiful white sand turned a golden yellow. This was the picture-perfect start to my Maldives trip with Encounters Travel.