Maldives Island Explorer

Maldives Island Explorer

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8 Days From

$1665

Maldives Island Explorer

8 Days Starting and ending in Male, Maldives

Visiting: Hulhumale, Rasdhoo Island, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, Ukulhas Island, Mathiveri, Male

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

396

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 14

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

8-95

Special diets catered:

Request dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1665

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Maldives Island Explorer tour and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the North Ari Atoll. This adventure takes you to the picturesque islands of Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, and Mathiveri, where you can enjoy guided snorkeling tours, island explorations, and the unique Hedika experience. With opportunities for sea-kayaking, paddle-boarding, and scuba diving, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy seamless travel with all transport and transfers included, and unwind in comfortable guesthouse accommodations. Delight in the local culture with a knowledgeable guide, and savor the tranquility of beach relaxation. Whether you're exploring vibrant marine life or engaging with friendly local communities, this tour promises an unforgettable Maldivian experience.

Highlights

  • Rasdhoo, Ukulhas & Mathiveri islands in the North Ari Atoll

  • Guided snorkelling tours

  • Hedika experience

  • Sea-kayaking or paddle-boarding

  • Scuba-diving opportunities

  • Sunset kayaking trip

  • Dolphin watching around Mathiveri Island

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Welcome To The Maldives! Transfer To Your Hotel.

Location: Hulhumale

Accommodation Name: Hulhumale Guesthouse

Upon arrival at Male International Airport you will be greeted by your guide and transferred by vehicle to your guesthouse on Hulhumale, just 15 minutes away. Settle in after your flight before taking your first steps on the sands of this suburban tropical paradise. The beach is 3 minute walk away, with several local cafes and local restaurants, plus a water sports centre. So, there is plenty to keep you busy! For those arriving on early flights today, there is the option of joining a eco-walking tour of the island of Vilimale, generally considered the quieter side of Male, situation on the west side of the capital.

Day 2 : Boat To Rasdhoo Island. Island Exploration.

Location: Rasdhoo Island

Accommodation Name: Rasdhoo Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning your tour leader will assist you with your local ferry or speedboat transfer to the local island of Rasdhoo in North Ari Atoll. Upon arrival you will have time to settle in before taking lunch. As the afternoon cools down, accompanied by your guide, time is down spent exploring Rasdhoo with the opportunity to learn about the local way of life including a visit to the Mosque, stop and chat with children playing in the street and watch the ladies of the community begin their evening meal preparations. You'll also visit a local cafe to sample traditional ‘hedika’ - Maldivian savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea. Rasdhoo is close to some of the best dive sites in the Maldives so if you’re a diver, or would like to try out this magical experience, get yourself signed up at the local dive centre. Your guide and your hotel will be happy to assist with this as well. Divers may wish for an early start tomorrow and opt to join a dive to Hammerhead Point. During the manta season (November to April) there are opportunities for spectacular close encounters with these majestic large rays.

Day 3 : Snorkelling On Rasdhoo Reef, Sunset Kayaking

Location: Rasdhoo

Accommodation Name: Rasdhoo Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast accompanied by your guide you'll explore the Rasdhoo house reef for your first underwater encounters. Your guide will provide a safety briefing on responsible snorkeling, providing information about any local currents and tides, and act as your ‘spotter’ pointing out marine life that may not have caught your eye. They will assist less confident or inexperienced snorkelers, ensuring your equipment is comfortable and you feel safe in the water. Once you have your confidence there are irregular snorkeling excursions to nearby reefs giving non divers the opportunity to discover the colorful marine life and coral reefs in this area. Later in the afternoon you'll head out with your guide for a sunset kayaking trip. Here you can take a gentle kayak through the beautiful lagoon to a nearby sandbank, from where you can enjoy the sun set in the ocean.

Day 4 : Boat To Ukulhas. Island Exploration.

Location: Ukulhas

Accommodation Name: Ukulhas Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

We leave Rasdhoo today and transfer by ferry or speedboat to our next local island destination, Ukulhas. As the afternoon cools down explore the island with your guide and learn more about the tradition of fishing in the Maldives and discover why it was the island to lead the way for environmental practices. Not only does Ukulhas have some beautiful beaches, the local community here are particularly friendly and will be delighted to engage in conversation with you and show off their home island.

Day 5 : Free Day (Various Options Available)

Location: Ukulhas Island

Accommodation Name: Ukulhas Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is free for you to enjoy as you please. You can relax on the tourist 'bikini beach', choose to visit a resort for the day or for those feeling energetic participate in the various optional watersport activities on offer. Optional scuba-diving trips can be organised for certified divers. Other options include a picnic lunch on a deserted sandbank or uninhabited island, a visit to a local coral rehabilitation project or even visit the whale sharks in South Ari Atoll.

Day 6 : Ferry To Mathiveri, Afternoon Island Tour And Evening Dolphin Watching

Location: Mathiveri

Accommodation Name: Mathiveri Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

You'll have the morning free to explore Ukulhas further or spend time relaxing before boarding a lunch time ferry to our third island destination of Mathiveri. As with our previous visits, you'll be provided with a briefing on the island and the activities available whilst here. You'll spend the remainder of the day exploring the island with your guide which will include a workshop on how to weave a traditional joali seat, a visit to a local cafe and learn other interesting facts about the island. In the evening, before the sun sets, we'll head out in search of dolphins which are often found around the island, jumping, spinning and dancing - a perfect end to a perfect week!

Day 7 : House Reef Snorkelling, Optional Beach Clean Up

Location: Mathiveri

Accommodation Name: Mathiveri Island Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast today, a guided house reef snorkelling tour is available for those who wish to join. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of turtles or even Manta Rays. The afternoon is free, perhaps visit Mathiveri Finolhu, a private uninhabited island fringed with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. As this is an uninhabited island, swim wear is not a problem. As the afternoon cools down we offer the option of giving back to the local community by participating in a beach clean, after which our reward will be a refreshing glass of Kurumba (coconut water).

Day 8 : Return Boat Trip To Male And Transfer To The Airport

Location: Male

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following an early breakfast take the speedboat for the return journey to Male. Arriving back in Male at approximately 9am, you will be assisted with your transfer onto Male International Airport where your trip ends. If you have a flight departing earlier than 1pm then we recommend taking an earlier private speedboat transfer to the airport (at extra cost). If you have a late afternoon or evening flight departure and understandably do not want to spend a long time waiting at the airport, then day-use rooms are available at the Newtown Inn (price includes an airport departure transfer to meet your flight). There are also day package options at Hulhule Airport hotel to use the swimming pool, restaurant, bar etc. or an optional half day visit to Vilimale island which is 15 minutes from Male. Other snorkelling trips or other watersport activities are also available. For those passengers with an evening flight, a complimentary walking tour of Male is available today.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation across the Maldives, including stays at guesthouses in Hulhumale, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, and Mathiveri islands.

  • Transport and Transfers

    Experience seamless travel with all transport and transfers included, featuring local ferries and speedboats.

  • Airport Transfer

    A 24-hour airport arrival transfer service is provided for a hassle-free journey.

  • Meals

    Meals include 7 breakfasts, with no lunches or dinners provided.

  • Visa

    A free 30-day tourist visa on arrival is available to all nationalities.

  • Local Guide

    A local guide is provided throughout the tour to enhance your experience.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided snorkelling and island tours are included in the itinerary.

  • Water Sports Equipment

    Sea kayak or stand-up paddleboard hire is included for your enjoyment.

  • Cultural Experience

    The Hedika experience, a taste of Maldivian savoury and sweet short eats, is included.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included but can be arranged on request.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory and can be arranged on request.

  • Additional Meals

    Meals not indicated in the itinerary are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Drinks, snacks, tips, and other personal expenses such as laundry are not included.

  • Other Items

    Any other items not mentioned in the inclusions are not included.

More Info

Our Maldives on a Shoestring gives you the opportunity to explore the Maldives, without the high price tag. We'll start our time in the capital city of Male, where we'll spend the night in nearby Hulhumale. We'll then make use of local ferries or scheduled speedboats to explore the beautiful islands of Rasdhoo and Ukulhas where you'll get to experience the 'real Maldives'. We take time to explore the local communities, see the local fishermen and of course, you'll have diving and snorkelling opportunities where you can explore the house reefs. If you'd like to extend your time in the Maldives, speak to us about island resort extensions.

Mode of Transport

Experience seamless travel with all transport and transfers included, featuring local ferries and speedboats, along with a 24-hour airport arrival transfer service for a hassle-free journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation across the Maldives, including stays at guesthouses in Hulhumale, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, and Mathiveri islands, offering a blend of local charm and modern amenities.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the Maldives Island Explorer tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights of comfortable accommodation across the Maldives, with stays at guesthouses in Hulhumale, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, and Mathiveri islands. These guesthouses offer a blend of local charm and modern amenities.

  • Are meals included in the Maldives Island Explorer tour?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts, but no lunches or dinners are provided. Participants will need to arrange their own meals for lunch and dinner.

  • What kind of transport is included in the tour?

    All transport and transfers are included in the tour, featuring local ferries and speedboats. Additionally, a 24-hour airport arrival transfer service is provided for a hassle-free journey.

  • Is there a local guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, a local guide is provided throughout the tour to assist with activities and provide insights into the local culture and environment.

  • What activities are included in the Maldives Island Explorer tour?

    The tour includes guided snorkeling tours, island tours, a Hedika experience, and the hire of sea kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. There are also opportunities for scuba diving and beach relaxation.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    Travel insurance is not included in the tour package, but it is compulsory. It is available on request.

  • What is the visa requirement for the Maldives Island Explorer tour?

    A free 30-day tourist visa on arrival is provided to all nationalities participating in the tour.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews of this operator

Jasmine Montaque (Google Reviewer)  

We had a Great 9...

30-Aug-2023

We had a Great 9 day trip to Egypt ! Everyone we “encountered” were excellent! We absolutely loved our guide. We are Looking 👀 to book another trip with Encounters Travel!

sandra mooney (Google Reviewer)  

From the time we landed...

24-Aug-2024

From the time we landed in Cairo we were treated as VIP’s. Nadine our Tour leader kept on checking on us throughout the journey. We were fortunate to have Fayed and Hossam as the tour guides, they took their time to explain the sites throughout each excursion. Everyone made us feel safe and well looked after.

Miriam Huguet (Google Reviewer)  

I did the Discover Egypt...

06-Jan-2022

I did the Discover Egypt and I definetely recommend it. They take care of every detail (they manage to do our PCR with the stamp that we needed). They book quite comfortable hotels and the guide and the local guides are extremely good and passionate about their work. I would repeat it!! :)

Aries FFPro (Google Reviewer)  

Wish I could rate Encounters...

04-Dec-2021

Wish I could rate Encounters higher! From the onset, Anthony (Ant) was professional and extremely knowledgeable, and far more helpful than I had hoped. He always had time to respond to my inquiries and never showed any sign of frustration...no matter how many times I asked the same question. Meeting Saul at the Cairo airport shows just how valuable the RIGHT travel rep is: he had us go from the gate to getting our visas to picking up our luggage and out to the waiting van in 15 minutes! UNBELIEVABLE! Saul also checked in with us almost daily to make sure everything was to our satisfaction. Our guides Big Mu and Mahmoud were fantastic in their knowledge of the sites, the history of the area and where to get the best bargains. Encounters Travel made this trip of a lifetime 100x better than anything I had hoped for. I cannot recommend Encounters strongly enough...if you have Egypt on your bucket list, like we did, book safely and securely with Encounters!

Renee Hage (Google Reviewer)  

I so appreciated the care...

18-May-2024

I so appreciated the care taken by all the staff ensuring that we were well taken care of and had no problems. They were very responsive to all of our questions. The tour itself was incredible!

Erin Scott (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished a dreamy 9...

05-Dec-2019

Just finished a dreamy 9 day Discover Egypt Tour with our guide, Mohamed El-Maghrabi. I can’t say enough about this tour and Mohamed. Everything exceeded my expectations. Somehow each new day was better than the last. The tour was perfectly laid out and organized, and everything went super smoothly. Mohamed was attentive and thoughtful to each of our individual needs. From early check-ins, delicious pre-arranged restaurant excursions, and assisting with trip add-ons, Mohamed was a superstar. Not to mention his knowledge and passion for egyptology. The additional encounters support staff at each location was an added bonus that enhanced an already smooth operation. The trip went way too fast! I didn’t want it to end. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to see as much of egypt as possible in a short amount of time! I’ll never forget this whirlwind adventure!

Claire Carter (Google Reviewer)  

I was unsure what to...

25-Oct-2023

I was unsure what to expect but it was far better than I thought. Collected from the airport and thoroughly looked after until I was returned to the airport 10 days later. The times, travelling and food was as advertised. The guide and sights were beyond my expectations. Fantastic tour.

Mary Radoccia (Google Reviewer)  

Northern India solo trip. ...

09-May-2024

Northern India solo trip. Some of the hotels were past their prime as 4 star establishments. Paid a substantial amount for side trip to varanasi which was supposed to be 3 days, 2 nights. It turned out to be really 1 day, 2 nights. Plane left after 8pm and we didn't arrive at hotel until after 11pm. Had to leave at 5.30am the following day and we didn't get back to hotel until after 10pm. The following day we had to leave hotel at 8am for flight back to dehli. We could have left for varanasi in the afternoon as originally implied and left on a later flight back to dehli. Everyone not staying extra days then had to spend 6 to 10 hours waiting for their flight home.The one day in varanasi was great but I wouldn't have gone if I knew the time frame. Not worth money either. Also bus used on trip was old, bad suspension and rattled Window style was old so not very good for taking photos. My view was shared by most of the other travellers. I think the standard of travel via Encounter has dropped over the past years based on comments from some of the others.

Melissa Goodwin (Google Reviewer)  

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything...

17-Jun-2024

BUYER BEWARE Before you book anything with Encounters Travel, be SURE to read all of the fine print. This is especially important regarding their cancellation policy and the deposit you will forfeit. I didn't find that we'd completely lost our deposit until I contact the company to process a cancellation. I thought I could cancel for a full refund up until a certain point, but apparently I was mistaken. I booked a 3-night late-September boat trip at the end of May, and mid-June we realized we couldn't take it. It's been less than 3 weeks since I booked the trip and it's over 3 MONTHS until the trip will take place, so you know they will have no issue filling our two spots. Even so, we are out $250 each for our trip. They are within their rights to not refund the deposit - I should have waded through the fine print to find this buried detail. But they also have the choice to refund the deposit given the circumstances. Don't make the same mistake I did. READ EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU BOOK. Better yet, consider not booking with Encounters Travel.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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