Malé, Maldives: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Malé, Maldives? If you're planning to go to Malé, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Malé, Maldives

Based on the climate and weather in Malé, Maldives, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Malé, Maldives

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Malé, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Malé, Maldives by month

January

January in Malé is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in this region is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Malé is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Be sure to find the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you go to Malé in April, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, Malé is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Malé, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Malé can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Malé during July, you might notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Malé is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Be sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you visit Malé during September, you might notice that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

In October, Malé is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Malé, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Check that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you are traveling to Malé in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Maldives has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Malé. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, G, J, K and L. Ensure that you get the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the must-see Friday Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Malé tourism authority.

If you go to Sultan Park and National Museum, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Malé, Maldives

The Maldives is world-renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. But beyond the beach, the capital city of the Maldives, Malé, is a bustling metropolis filled with history, culture, and unique experiences. Below are the top tourist attractions in Malé that you shouldn't miss.

1. Grand Friday Mosque

The Grand Friday Mosque is undoubtedly the most significant landmark in Malé. This stunning structure is the largest mosque in the Maldives and features a golden dome and exquisite Islamic architectural details. Visitors can marvel at its beauty and learn more about Islam at the adjacent Islamic Centre.

2. Maldives National Museum

The Maldives National Museum is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. The museum features exhibits on the history, art, and culture of the Maldives, with artifacts dating back to the pre-Islamic era. Visitors can explore ancient weapons, traditional costumes, and other exhibits that showcase the Maldives' unique history.

3. Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace, also known as Mulee-aage, is a historic building that served as the official residence of the President of the Maldives. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can admire its beautiful architecture and snap photos with the guard at the entrance.

4. Fish Market

The Maldives is renowned for its fresh seafood, and the Fish Market in Malé is the best place to experience it. Visitors can watch as local fishermen bring in their catch of the day, including tuna, octopus, and prawns. There are also several local restaurants in the area that serve up delicious seafood meals.

5. Hukuru Miskiy

Hukuru Miskiy, also known as the Old Friday Mosque, is a historic Islamic mosque that dates back to 1656. This stunning mosque features intricate coral stone carvings and is one of the few remaining examples of the traditional Maldivian mosque architecture.

6. Sultan Park

Sultan Park is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Malé. This tranquil park is home to several historic monuments, including the remains of the palace that once stood on the site. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the sculptures, and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

7. Artificial Beach

While Malé may not have the pristine beaches of the Maldives' remote islands, it does have an artificial beach that offers a great place to relax and soak up the sun. This man-made beach features white sand and turquoise water, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

In Conclusion, Malé is a cultural and historical gem that offers a unique perspective on the Maldives. With its stunning landmarks, fascinating museums, and delicious cuisine, it's a destination that should be on every traveler's list when visiting the Maldives.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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