Maldives Vacations

Maldives Vacations

Maldives Vacations evoke images of beautiful palm-fringed islands with pristine beaches, stunning coral reefs, and warm turquoise seas, often accompanied by high prices. However, we offer Maldives tours that provide a richer experience of this island nation at much more affordable rates. Our program includes visits to various local islands, staying in comfortable guesthouses or onboard safari boats, ensuring you experience more than most holidaymakers ever do. Our Maldives tours include a range of activities that showcase the best of the Maldives' classic attractions while offering insight into the local way of life. You will enjoy several snorkeling trips, day trips to picturesque picnic islands, beach BBQs, and a sunset picnic meal on a deserted sandbar. Additionally, you will dine with local families, try traditional hand and line fishing on evening fishing trips, and tour Male city and various inhabited local islands. You will also have plenty of free time to relax on the beach or engage in various watersports activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing. Extension options are available to add more days on local islands or visit one of the Maldives' luxurious resort islands. Our small group Maldives tour packages offer an interesting, fun, and exciting alternative to the average beach holiday at a much lower cost, while still providing ample time to unwind in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use credit/debit cards in the Maldives?
Yes, you can use credit and debit cards in the Maldives. Most hotels, resorts, and larger restaurants accept major credit and debit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for transactions on local islands or smaller establishments.
Are there ATMs available in the Maldives?
Yes, there are ATMs available in the Maldives. ATMs are present in Malé and at major resorts and islands. You can use international credit and debit cards to withdraw Maldivian Rufiyaa or USD.
What is the official language of the Maldives?
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi. Dhivehi is used for daily communication, government, and media. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and resorts, and is commonly used for business and education.
What languages are commonly spoken in the Maldives?
In addition to Dhivehi, English is commonly spoken in the Maldives, especially in tourist areas and resorts. Many Maldivians also speak other languages like Arabic and German, particularly in the tourism sector.
What is the time zone of the Maldives?
The Maldives operates on Maldives Time (MVT), which is UTC+5. There is no daylight saving time in the Maldives, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.

Still have questions?

Contact our travel team.

Contact our team

Traveler Reviews

4.7
Excellent
Based on 1,738 reviews
5
80.9%
4
12.6%
3
3%
2
2.2%
1
1.3%
92% of travelers recommend this tour
A
Andrea
Tour review
Apr 25, 2026
I love how this tour has a lot of free time cuz we get to see other places that wasn’t included on the tour package, but it’s totally fine. Our tour guide CheongAn is super nice, friendly, knowledgeable and so thoughtful!
M
Mypster
Egypt
Feb 01, 2026
We had such a fantastic vacation in Egypt! We couldn’t it have planned this ourselves - so many venues, all smoothly scheduled with all transfers arranged. There was always a guide to make sure things went well, and they did indeed make everything work. From the pyramids to Luxor and the new amazing Grand Egyptian Museum, we always had a knowledgeable local certified guide who added immensely to our understanding. The Nile cruise boat was excellent as well, comfortable and fun!
I had many questions prior to and after booking, and the company provided excellent communication and support. Highly recommend!!
a
ashleyblack1212
Egypt
Sep 01, 2025
My friend and I purchased the 'Egypt Express Tour' provided by Encounters Travel and I must say, it was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life! We were assigned an agent from the company by the name of 'Mariska Knoesen'. She was very professional, proficient, and answered all of my questions and concerns, via e-mail, in a timely fashion. Upon our arrival in Egypt, we were greeted by a friendly team from Encounters Travel, who were all fluent in English. They assisted us with getting Egyptian visas and made exiting the airport easy. In total, it ended up being 9 of us grouped together. Our main tour guide was a gentleman by the name of 'Ashrafbehairy', whom we all referred to as "Ash" for short. HE WAS AMAZING!! We could not have asked for a better tour guide for our trip. He was very humble, kind, and knowledgeable. He accompanied us from Cairo to Aswan and then to Luxor and back to Cairo, via train. We visited several attractions such as the Pyramids, Philae Temple, Edfu Temple, and the Valley of the Kings (just to name a few). While at each sight, Ash explained its history to us and was able to answer all questions. He assisted with translation (Arabic and English) when needed, got us snacks, provided water, and took me to the shop to get items I desperately needed (sunblock and aloe lol). He even gave everyone a souvenir keychain at the end of our trip. Most importantly, we all felt SAFE! There is so much more I could say about this trip, but I will end by saying that it was honestly a great experience! I highly recommend purchasing this tour from Encounters Travel.
I
Inspire15809026809
Bhutan
Aug 01, 2025
Encounters Travel, you did it again! We had an amazing and very memorable trip to Bhutan. It was very well organized. The tour company did a wonderful job. Our journey through Bhutan was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, the country's serene landscapes and deep-rooted culture wrapped us in a sense of peace and wonder. The hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery) was a breathtaking hike and an even more spiritual reward at the top. The view was surreal, and the monastery seemed to float on the cliffside. The trip leaves you with a calmer heart, a clearer mind, and memories that feel timeless!
K
Kim
Tour review
Jul 16, 2025
It was awhile ago that I took this tour but it was absolutely FANTASTIC! Wonderful guide and driver. He was AMAZING.. It was very well organized & I can’t say anything but great things about it.

Maldives Vacations Highlights and Tips

Highlights

Dining with Local Families: Experience authentic Maldivian hospitality with a unique dining experience shared with local families.
Hedika Experience: Savor traditional Maldivian snacks and tea during a delightful Hedika experience.
Scuba Diving Options: Explore the Maldives’ vibrant underwater world with a range of thrilling scuba diving options.
Visit Fulidhoo Island in the Vaavu Atoll: Discover the serene beauty and local charm of Fulidhoo Island in the picturesque Vaavu Atoll.
Rasdhoo: Dive into the clear waters of Rasdhoo Island to explore its stunning coral reefs and rich marine life.

Tips

Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting local islands.
Consider bringing a snorkel mask and fins for exploring the reefs.
Travel with a lightweight, waterproof bag for carrying essentials to the beach or on excursions.
Bring a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
Make sure to bring any necessary medications, as pharmacies may be limited.

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