Traveling to Malé, Maldives
Welcome to the sunny side of life! Malé, the capital city of Maldives, is situated on the southern edge of North Malé Atoll. It's the throbbing heart of the nation and the hub for international travel to and from this idylpredestiaolic island nation.
By Air
Reaching Malé, Maldives is predominantly done by air. Your journey will likely begin at Velana International Airport (MLE), located on Hulhule Island near the capital city. Here's how you can fly into Maldives:
- International Flights: Many international carriers operate direct or connecting flights to Velana International Airport from major cities across the globe including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines offer regular flights to Malé.
- Regional Carriers: Services from nearby countries like Sri Lanka (Colombo), India (major cities like Mumbai and Bangalore), and other regional airports connect to Maldives with airlines such as SriLankan Airlines and IndiGo.
- Charter Flights occasionally operate, especially during the tourist season, offering additional connectivity.
By Sea
While less common, Malé can also be reached by sea. Some travelers opt to arrive via:
- Cruise Liners: Malé is a popular stop for cruise ships touring the Indian Ocean.
- Private Yachts/Boats: Entry into Malé by private sea vessel is possible but requires prior arrangement and adherence to local maritime laws and regulations.
Getting to the City from the Airport
Once you land at Velana International:
- Airport Ferries: Regular airport ferry services take passengers directly to Malé from the airport island. The trip typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
- Speedboats: Speedboat transfers are another quick option for reaching Malé or any other resorts located in the North Malé Atoll.
- Taxis: Readily available at the airport, taxis can take you across the connected islands via the Sinamalé Bridge.
Visa Information
Maldives offers a 30-day free visa on arrival to all tourists provided they meet the necessary immigration requirements. Ensure your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry.
Tips for Travelers
- Most visitors spend a brief time in Malé before heading out to their resort or liveaboard. A short stay can be worthwhile to explore the city's attractions.
- Maldives operates on the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
- When traveling to your resort, transfer arrangements are usually pre-made, so check with your resort prior to arrival.
We hope you have a seamless journey to Malé, and wish you an unforgettable stay in the Maldives!
