When to go

Two seasons, one long summer

The Maldives runs on two monsoons, not four seasons. Here’s what each one actually means for your trip.

Dry season — Iruvai

December – April

Calm seas, clearer visibility, and the driest stretch of the year. Also the busiest and priciest — book well ahead if these are your dates.

  • Diving visibility
  • Calmer boat transfers
  • First-time visitors

Wet season — Hulhangu

May – November

More rain and wind, especially on the southwest side, but greener islands, better rates, and the Maldives' best-known wildlife season.

  • Manta ray season
  • Lower rates
  • Fewer crowds

Month by month

January

Peak

Peak season — driest skies, busiest islands.

February

Peak

Same calm conditions, still fully booked.

March

Peak

Last of the dry season before the shift.

April

Shoulder

Transition month — warm, occasional showers.

May

Manta season

Manta season begins in Baa Atoll.

June

Value

Wetter, greener, noticeably quieter.

July

Value

Good surf on some south-facing atolls.

August

Manta season

Manta and whale shark sightings continue.

September

Value

Rain eases slightly, still good value.

October

Whale sharks

Whale shark season builds in South Ari.

November

Manta season

Last of manta season, seas start calming.

December

Peak

Holiday peak — book atolls far ahead.

Not sure yet?

Choose “I’m flexible” on the dates step and we’ll suggest the best window for what you want to see.

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