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The Ultimate 5-Day Maldives Budget Travel Plan You Need, Fly There From RM249!
Since welcoming tourists in 1972, the Maldives has grown into a world-renowned luxury destination, famed for its pristine beaches and picturesque views. Thanks to recent developments and improvements in the country, this once-unattainable paradise is now within many Malaysians’ reach!
Jom bust that “luxury holiday” myth, because our five-day travel itinerary proves that your dream Maldives escape is closer than you think. 💁🏻
Marvellous Maldives
Paradise escape on Earth
Beyond its famous powder-soft beaches and crystal waters, a more adventurous side of the Maldives is emerging, inviting travellers to explore its vibrant reefs and untamed marine life.
As a premier location for world-class diving and snorkelling, get up close and personal with majestic marine life, like manta rays and whale sharks, at one of the largest coral reef systems in the world.
It’s not just a tropical getaway. From seafood-oriented delicacies to traditional arts and performances, the Maldives is also a hub for authentic Maldivian cultural experiences that’ll broaden your horizons of the world, amidst ultimate relaxation.
Ready to relax in the Maldives without the fancy filter?
Check out our five-day trip itinerary for inspiration:
An enchanting five-day Maldivian holiday awaits
With the rise of local guesthouses, affordable excursions and food, and public ferries, you can finally check out this tropical paradise without breaking your bank account AND keep the magic of the Maldives alive. Plus, Malaysians can enjoy a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival
Day 1
Welcome to Malé + transfer to Maafushi
- Head to Malé Villingili Terminal and ferry to Maafushi, either by:
- Public ferry (1.5 hours): ~USD2–USD5 (~RM8.44–RM21.10)
- Speedboat (30 minutes): ~USD20–USD30 (~RM84.40–RM126.60)
- Check in at your guesthouse. Budget guesthouse rooms in Maafushi typically cost USD35–USD60 per night (~RM147.70–RM253.20).
- Breathe in your new ‘home’ with an evening walk along Maafushi Beach Bikini Beach.
- Feast on local Maldivian delicacies for dinner at Melon Restaurant, priced at approximately USD5–USD10 per person (~RM21.10–RM42.20).
Day 2
Of sandbanks & snorkelling
- Head on an excursion with half-day sandbank and snorkelling tours; includes equipment and light lunch! Ranges between USD25–USD40 per person (~RM105.50–RM168.80).
- Swim with colourful reef fishes and, if you’re lucky, majestic turtles!
- Budget Tip: Save more by opting for shared group tours at local dive shops, which means lower individual costs.
Day 3
Into Malé city & local culture
- Take a public ferry to Malé, with rates ranging from ~USD2–USD5 (~RM8.44–RM21.10).
- Explore local culture and life at Malé Local Market, with local eateries serving the iconic mas huni breakfast (~USD2 or ~RM8.44).
- Visit Hukuru Miskiy (Malé Friday Mosque), the oldest, most exquisite mosque in the country, before taking a tea break with addictive hedhikaa (Maldivian snacks) for ~USD1 (~RM4.22) each.
- Take a stroll in the local favourite Republic Square, then get ready for a stunning sunset along the harbourfront.
Day 4
Island Hopping
- Embark on the Maldives’ most quintessential activity (island hopping!) by visiting islands like:
- Fulidhoo: Be inspired by traditional drumming (boduberu) and cultural feels like musical performances (Langiri and Thaara).
- Gulhi Island: Unwind with calm beaches, snorkelling, and small island vibes.
- For transport, opt between:
- Public ferry: ~USD3–USD5 (~RM12.66–RM21.10) between islands.
- Shared speedboats: USD20–USD30 (~RM84.40–RM126.60) for shorter travel times
- Budget Tip: Use public ferries for the cheapest inter-island transfers. Be sure to check the schedule because there will be fewer ferries on Fridays!
Day 5
Sunrise & departure
- Early birds can enjoy a beautiful sunrise at Arena Beach. Throw in a leisurely swim or beach walk, and it’s perfect.
- Sink your feet into the sand, enjoying a refreshing cone of premium gelato at Maafushi Beach Club for USD3 (~RM12.63).
- Take a public ferry to Malé and prep for your flight home: ~USD2–USD5 (~RM8.44–RM21.10).
More ways to budget in the Maldives!
Want to minimise your budget as much as humanly possible while keeping your Maldivian holiday fun and rejuvenating? Here are even more tips to help minimise your budget:
- Keep it local: Opt for budget guesthouses at Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Dhigurah, and Ukulhas that cost a fraction of resort villas.
- Eat like a local: Dining at local cafés can get you tasty meals for less than USD5 (~RM21.10)
- Travel off-season between May and November for cheaper accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Can finally fly to the Maldives, from only RM249!
From exciting excursions to its many islands and beaches to awe-inspiring cultural experiences, this is a sign for you to sit back and relax amidst the famed seas of the Maldives, all while keeping everything in budget. In fact, now is the perfect time for you to save on DIRECT flights to the Maldives!
Enjoy direct flights to the Maldives from KL with all-in one-way fares from only RM249* with AirAsia.
This awesome rate is only available until 31 October 2025, so don’t wait too long to book your flight and enjoy this amazing deal! But don’t stress, because you can fly anytime between 28 October 2025 and 13 March 2026, so you’d still have time to pack your bags.
Ready to book your flight to the Maldives? Download the AirAsia MOVE app for free or visit their website to get your flight tickets.
For more info on AirAsia, check out their socials: