How Much Does a Maldives Trip Cost? A Complete Budget Breakdown

The Maldives may conjure images of overwater villas and champagne breakfasts, but a range of options exists for nearly any budget. From local island guesthouses to ultra-luxury private-island resorts, costs vary dramatically based on style, season, and preferences. This guide breaks down every expense—from flights to transfers, from meals to marine adventures—so you can plan a Maldives trip that fits your wallet and your dreams.

Average Cost of a Maldives Holiday

Budget Level	Cost per Person per Day (USD)	Cost per Person per Day (GBP)
Budget	$70–120	£55–95
Mid-Range	$150–300	£115–230
Luxury	$600+	£460+

Prices vary by season, booking lead time, and specific locations.

Flights to the Maldives

From Asia (e.g., Delhi, Singapore): $180–400 round-trip; shoulder season deals can dip below $150.
From Europe/UK: £500–£900 return; off-peak (May–Oct) yields lower fares around £450.
From the USA: $800–1,500 round-trip; consider connecting via Middle East hubs for best value.

Peak vs. Off-Season: December–March fares typically 20–30% higher than May–October.

Accommodation Costs in the Maldives

Guesthouses (Budget): $50–100 per night (£40–80), breakfast often included, basic air-con rooms on local islands.
Mid-Range Resorts: $150–300 per night (£115–230), usually half-board or B&B with better amenities and house reefs.
Luxury Resorts & Overwater Villas: $600+ per night (£460+), frequently all-inclusive packages, private pools, and premium dining.

Inclusions: All-inclusive deals can bundle meals and select transfers, offering cost certainty but higher upfront rates.

Food and Drink Expenses

Local Island Cafés (Hotaa): $5–10 (£4–8) per meal for rice, fish curry, and fresh fruit juices.
Resort Dining: $50+ (£40+) per person at à la carte restaurants; buffets may be $30–50 (£25–40).
Alcohol: Heavily taxed—drinks can run $8–15 (£6–12) per drink at resorts; guesthouses do not serve alcohol on local islands.

Activities and Excursions

Diving/Snorkelling Day Trips: $50–200 (£40–150) per person, depending on group size and equipment hire.
Whale Shark/Manta Ray Excursions: $80–150 (£60–115) for half-day guided boat trips.
Spa Treatments: $100–300 (£80–230) for 60–90 minute massages or wellness packages.
Water Sports: Jet ski, paddleboard, or windsurf sessions often $25–75 (£20–60) per hour.

Transport Within the Maldives

Public Ferries: $5–10 (£4–8) per ride; fixed schedules, longer travel times.
Speedboats: $35–150 (£25–115) one-way; 30–90 minute trips to nearby islands.
Domestic Flights + Speedboat: $200–350 (£150–270) return to distant atolls.
Seaplane Transfers: $250–400 (£190–310) per person round-trip; scenic but daylight-only and baggage-limited.

Cost for Different Types of Travellers

Backpackers/Budget-Conscious: $70–120 per day; stay in guesthouses, eat local meals, use ferries, focus on free snorkelling.
Honeymoon Couples: $500–1,000+ per day; luxury resort stays, private transfers, special excursions and dinners.
Families: $250–500 per day; mid-range resorts with kids’ clubs, family villas, included meal plans, safe house reefs.

Tips to Save Money on Your Maldives Trip

Travel in Shoulder/Off-Season: May–October rates can be 30–50% lower.
Stay on Local Islands: Guesthouses offer authentic experiences at a fraction of resort prices.
Mix Guesthouse Stays with Resort Nights: Balance comfort and splurge nights.
Book Flights and Transfers Early: Secure the best deals 6–9 months in advance.
Bundle Packages: Look for flight + hotel bundles on metasearch platforms for extra savings.

Conclusion

With careful planning, the Maldives can fit nearly any budget—whether you’re a backpacker seeking corner-of-the-island adventure or a couple planning a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon in an overwater villa. For comprehensive guidance on islands, transfers, and seasonal planning, explore our ultimate Maldives travel guide.