How expensive is it to go to the Maldives?

How much does a trip to the Maldives cost?

In order to answer this question about how much does a trip to the Maldives cost, it is important to cut it in 3 different sections.

1) The flights

2) The accommodation

3) The extras on at the resorts

So let's get going to find out how much a trip to the Maldives can cost. This is obviously an average estimation and we'll be more than happy to give you way more precise information and share our best offers with you if you contact us.

1) Flight Costs: The First Step in Your Maldives Adventure

When planning a trip to the Maldives from the UK for instance, understanding flight costs is crucial, as these expenses form the foundation of your overall travel budget.

Travelers can generally expect to pay between $900 and $1500 for round-trip economy class tickets. However, this price range can fluctuate significantly based on various factors, making it important to consider the timing and specifics of your trip.

One major influence on flight costs is seasonality. The Maldives experiences its peak tourist season from November to April, during which flight prices can reach their highest due to increased demand.

Conversely, traveling during the off-peak months, typically May to October, may yield cheaper fares, often as low as $900 for a round-trip ticket. This pricing dynamics are driven by fluctuating seat availability and airlines promoting deals to attract travelers during slower periods.

Another significant factor is the time of booking. It is advisable for potential travelers to book their flights well in advance—typically three to six months prior to departure— to secure the best deals. Last-minute bookings can lead to inflated flight costs, especially during busy travel seasons. Utilizing flight comparison websites can help you monitor price trends and identify the most affordable options available. Additionally, the choice of airline can affect ticket prices.

Overall, let's say that in average, you will expect to pay already $1000 per person before stepping a foot in the Maldives. This is already quite a serious cost, but the rest is yet to come.

Accommodation Costs: Choosing the Right Resort for Your Budget

When planning a trip to the Maldives, one of the primary concerns for travelers is accommodation costs. As a super high-end destination, the Maldives is not what can be considered as a cheap destination...at all!

The Maldives offers a wide array of resort options that cater to various budgets, making it crucial for visitors to understand the different categories and their associated expenses. Depending on your financial resources and personal preferences, there are several choices available, each offering unique experiences.

Entry-category (200-700 USD per night)

For travelers on a tighter budget, entry-level hotels range from approximately $200 to $700 per night. These accommodations often provide essential amenities and offer a comfortable base for those looking to explore the beauty of the islands without breaking the bank. Although these resorts may lack some of the opulence found in higher-end options, they still present excellent opportunities for enjoying the serene surroundings and access to stunning beaches.

Medium-tier resorts (700-1000 USD per night)

Moving up the scale, medium-tier resorts in the Maldives typically range from $700 to $1,000 per night. These properties generally provide more luxurious accommodations, better location and higher level of service. Guests can expect better dining options and additional activities, which contribute to a more enjoyable and fulfilling holiday experience. This tier caters to those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability.

The luxury resorts (1000-2000 USD per night)

For those willing to splurge a bit more, luxury resorts are available in the range of $1,000 to $2,000 per night. Often characterized by stunning natural surroundings, exceptional service, and high-end dining experiences, these accommodations are ideal for travelers looking to indulge in opulence while enjoying the beauty of the Maldives. In this category, we can for instance put Anantara Kihavah or Ozen Reserve Bolifushi, which are amazing properties.

The ultra-luxury and super exclusive resorts (2000-5000+ USD per night)

Lastly, for the affluent traveler, ultra-luxury resorts demand $2,000 to $5,000+ per night. Offering unparalleled service, incredible amenities, and exclusive experiences, these resorts aim to provide an unforgettable escape. If you want to aim for such kind of properties, you can check out our article about the best and most exclusive resorts in the Maldives with less than 30 villas.

Choosing the right resort is essential and will definitely impact the global cost of your trip to the Maldives. If you do not know which one to choose, we are here to help, of course!

Additional Costs: Extras That Can Add Up Quickly

When planning a trip to the Maldives, travelers often budget for the essentials such as accommodation and airfare.

However, it is crucial to consider the additional costs that can arise during a stay in this beautiful tropical paradise. Aside from the well-known expenses, various activities and experiences can significantly increase the overall cost of a holiday.

For instance, spa treatments are a popular indulgence in the Maldives, with many resorts offering luxurious wellness facilities. A typical massage can range from $100 to $300, depending on the duration and type of treatment. In other words, if you want to have a nice couple massage, you'll increase the total cost of your stay in the Maldives really quick.

Therefore, for those wishing to experience relaxation at its finest, allocating a portion of the budget for spa services is advisable.

Diving excursions also pose an additional expense that travelers should bear in mind. The Maldives is renowned for its exceptional underwater biodiversity, making it a prime destination for diving enthusiasts. Prices for diving trips can range from $70 to $200 per person. If you plan to experience multiple dives, these costs can accumulate rapidly.

Dining experiences in the Maldives can also present a financial challenge. While some resorts offer all-inclusive packages (you can see the best all-inclusive adults only resorts in the Maldives here), à la carte dining can be quite pricey, with meals frequently costing upwards of $150-200 per person.

Unique dining options, such as underwater restaurants or private beach dinners, may further elevate the cost. When it comes to food, make sure to get at least a half board meal plan, which includes breakfast and dinner, to have a better budget control. All-inclusive is worth it when you plan on drinking a lot of alcohol.

Conclusion: how much a trip to the Maldives will cost YOU?

There is no simple answer to this quesiton. While some travelers will do 1 week for $4000, some will spend more than $30,000 for the same amount of time. It of course depends a lot on your budget and on your expectations.

Planning a trip to the Maldives can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting for various expenses. To make your dream vacation a reality, it is essential to create a comprehensive travel budget that accounts for flights, accommodations, and additional activities.

If you need any assistance, feel free to contact us and we will be able to assist you into choosing the right place and getting the best possible rates for your stay. Note that as we specialize in luxury/ultra luxury resorts for the Maldives, we will only be able to assist you if your budget is superior to $900 / night.