top of page

Maldives on Any Budget: Luxury vs. Backpacker Breakdown

hotel-gallery-image-1.jpeg
Guest House.jpg
🏝️ Maldives Isn’t Just for Millionaires

 

The Maldives is often pictured as an exclusive destination for honeymooners and celebrities. But here’s the truth: you can experience the Maldives from $30/day to $1,000+/night, depending on your travel style.

This guide breaks down the real cost of visiting the Maldives — whether you're backpacking local islands or living large in an overwater villa.

​​​

​✈️ Cost Breakdown by Budget Type
🏡 Accommodation Options

🟩 Backpacker / Budget: Local Guesthouses

  • Found on public islands like Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, and Dhiffushi

  • Basic rooms with A/C, Wi-Fi, and private bathroom

  • Prices: $30–$60 per night

  • Often includes free breakfast and snorkel gear

Tip: Use MTCC public ferries or shared speedboats to keep costs down.

🟨 Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels & Local Resorts

  • Located on both local and private islands

  • More comfort: pools, in-house dining, organized excursions

  • Prices: $100–$300 per night

🟦 Luxury: Overwater Villas & 5-Star Resorts

  • Private island resorts like Soneva Fushi, Baros, and Anantara

  • Private pools, butlers, fine dining, and spas

  • Prices: $600–$2,000+/night

  • Transfers via seaplane or private yacht

🍛 Food & Drink Costs

🐠 Activities & Excursions
  • Free or Low Cost:

    • Snorkeling from the beach

    • Local village walks

    • Public beach time

  • Affordable Paid Tours:

    • Sandbank trips: $20–$40

    • Local snorkeling tours: $15–$30

    • Diving (1 tank): $40–$60

  • Luxury Experiences:

    • Private sunset cruise: $300+

    • Fine-dining underwater restaurant: $250–$500

    • Spa treatments: $150+

💡 Final Tips for Budget Travelers
  • Travel off-season (May–Oct) for discounts up to 40%

  • Use public ferries for inter-island travel

  • Book guesthouses with free breakfast

  • Pack reef shoes & snorkeling gear to save on rentals

|| Note: Alcohol is only served on resort islands and safari boats. None is available on local (public) islands.

About Us

About Maldives Online Guide

The most comprehensive digital travel resource for the Maldives. We provide curated guides, tips, and insights for luxury and local travel, helping you plan your perfect, unbiased Maldivian escape.

© 2023 by Maldives Online Guide. All rights reserved.

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
bottom of page