There’s no bad time to visit the Maldives, but few places offer such a perfect antidote to Europe’s long, dark winters. It really does have it all: upwards of eight hours of sun per day, average temperatures of around 28°C, an ocean teeming with wildlife, and some of the smartest hotels in the world.

For many, the best time to visit the Maldives is December to April, as that’s the dry season, with little rain and low humidity leading to bright blue skies, cloudless days, and still, balmy evenings. The wet season starts in May and ends in October, with considerably more rain and occasionally strong winds. For scuba divers and snorkellers, visibility is particularly good during the dry season, too, as a result of currents flowing from the northeast (the eastern atolls enjoy the best visibility, with whale sharks and manta rays most commonly spotted between August and November). November and April are considered ‘shoulder season’, when room rates and flight prices are lower, travelers can make serious savings and weather still average 31°C.

When is the cheapest time to visit the Maldives?

The cheapest time to visit the Maldives is during the low season, which is May to November. The low season sees hotel rates drop substantially, with free transfers, free nights, and room upgrades thrown in regularly. You risk some cloudy days and light showers, but temperatures remain in the high 20s, so you’re still in for a treat of a trip. If you’re looking for more tricks, then take a look at our guide on how to have a cheap holiday in the Maldives.