Where are the Maldives located?

Where is the Maldives located, is it a country of its own, and is it easy to travel to? We’ll answer your questions about the Maldives in this article.

Ask people which their dream destinations are, and the chances are high that the Maldives is part of their shortlist.

Not only is the country picturesque from the outside; beneath its waters lies another world of marine beauty that is one of the (if not the) best in the world.

To get to where the Maldives is, you have to board a flight that lands at the international airport in Hulhule’ located at the Kaafu Atoll.

This atoll is the busiest tourist zone in the area.  

Where is Maldives located?

You can find the Maldives in the south part of Asia.

It is a well-known romantic and laidback travel destination for couples and solo travelers alike.

Surrounding this place are the countries of Sri Lanka and India which can be found in the southwest. The Indian Ocean serves as the location of its numerous coral islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Maldives a country?

The Republic of Maldives is a country. It is composed of 26 atolls and about 1,200 islands. It belongs to the Asian continent and is found in the southern region.

Many people think that the Maldives is not an independent country and belongs to one of the nearby countries. Popular choices for this false statement include Zanzibar, India, Mauritius, and Seychelles.

However, the truth is that the United Nations and other major worldwide organizations recognize its independent sovereignty, including its respective land and water territories.

2. Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?

For you to travel to the Maldives for leisure, you need to have a visa. What’s good, though, is that this visa is free of charge and is issued upon arrival for all passport holders.

This means that you don’t have to apply for a visa before your trip. It is valid for 30 days. Should you wish to extend it, necessary fees apply.

To secure a visa to the Maldives, proceed to the immigration desk at the Male International Airport – now known as Ibrahim Nasir International Airport.

You must be ready to show your return or onwards ticket. Show your confirmed hotel booking as well upon application.

For specific regulations per country, it is best to contact the embassy in your local listing. 

3. When is the best time to travel to the Maldives?

The weather definitely determines the best time to travel to the Maldives.

While this travel destination enjoys a lot of sunshine throughout the year, there are specific months when the season is most favorable, and the visitor turnout is manageable.

Visit the Maldives between November and April.

Many people travel to the Maldives from December till March, so it is best to fly before or after the peak season. You get to enjoy the same comfortable warmth at the atolls without the crowd.

You might find the Maldives less interesting during the rainy season because your activities will be limited indoors, so it is best to book that peak season flight and accommodation. Prices will be higher, but it will be worth it.

4. How do I get around the Maldives?

Getting around the Maldives is dictated by the place where you intend to stay. In resorts, you will most likely be transported on land by golf buggies.

In water, especially if you want to do island hopping, the resort will provide boats.

In Male, roads are accessible, while there are dedicated strips for land travel on other islands. Taxis can be found in the area. 

From the airport going to Male, you will find ferries that leave every ten minutes.