Best Time to Visit The Maldives

A destination that’s on just about every traveller’s bucket list, the Maldives is an idyllic island paradise. With 26 atolls ringed by brilliant blue, warm clear waters, postcard-perfect white sand beaches and nearly always bright blue skies. It offers plenty of ways to relax while enjoying the magnificent views, and lots of opportunity for outdoor adventures too.

The first thing you’ll want to do when planning your trip, is figure out when to go. In this island nation, there are really only two seasons, the dry season and the wet season. Making it a fairly simple decision, but you’ll want to keep a few things in mind before you book. Find out the best time to visit the Maldives.

High Season: November through April

Generally, the best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season. From November through April, when you’ll have plenty of sun and clear blue skies. While it’s sunny and warm throughout the year. There will be little worry about rainfall getting in the way of your plans if you come during this period. For sunbathers, it’s especially glorious between December and April. With temperatures in the 80s, never dipping below 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Divers and snorkelers will enjoy optimal visibility and outstanding sea conditions from January through April. However, November is a good time to spot manta rays and sharks. If you’re here on November 11, you can attend Republic Day festivities, with Male hosting parades in parks and throughout the streets. National Day is celebrated as the first day of Rabee-ul Awwal. Held during the third month of the Islamic calendar which falls in February or March, bringing marches and parades across the Maldives.

As the dry season is the high season, that means you can expect more tourists during this time. Especially around the Christmas holidays. By staying at one of the many private island resorts, however, you won’t encounter any thick crowds. Like you would during the peak season in most other destinations. Room rates at resorts will be at their highest of the year. You’ll need to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Low Season: May through October

During the wet season, which is also the low season, temperatures remain warm during the day. They are only slightly cooler at night, but the rain starts to kick in. The upside is that it leads to an even greater variety of marine life. And the islands will be greener, and more lush. Visibility for diving may be lower, but you can still expect fabulous views. If you want to scuba dive or surf, visit the Maldives between May and October. If don’t mind a little rain, the waves will be breaking during these months.

As there won’t be as many tourists, you can often find a better deal on accommodation. At least outside of the U.S. and European summer months (July and August). There will also be several celebrations to enjoy like Independence Day on July 26, which brings parades and parties.