4 NIGHT EXPERIENCE
Starting and finishing at Velana International Airport (MLE) our short stay holidays allow a mix of cultural experiences, beach and ocean activities as well as plenty of time for relaxation, because surely that is what holidays are all about! If the social vibe of Maafushi does not appeal we also offer the short stay package on the quieter local islands of Goidhoo and Felidhoo. Should the itinerary not entirely suit, we are happy to customize to meet your requirements. Since the introduction of local tourism Maafushi has proved itself to be a popular destination for those wishing to experience the Maldives without paying resort prices. Only 90 minutes away from Male by ferry boat or just 40 minutes by speedboat, Maafushi was the birthplace of the Maldives guesthouse industry. There are two beaches on opposite sides of the island, one of which is a tourist bikini beach. With over 70 guesthouses some with 8 floors there are plenty of accommodation options to meet all budget needs. Whilst our package ensures you experience a mix of cultural and ocean based activities, there is no shortage of optional watersports. With a variety of cafes and restaurants Maafushi provides the ideal destination to meet locals and tourists alike and discover the Maldives on a budget.
TOUR DETAILS
DAY 1: ARRIVAL & EXPLORE MAAFUSHI
Arrive Velana International Airport (MLE) where you will be greeted by your guide, who will assist you with your public ferry transfer to your local island in South Male Atoll. The ferry takes 90 minutes to journey across the Indian Ocean to Maafushi and you can choose to sit up top and view the beauty of the many Maldives islands that pass you by, keeping your eyes open for dolphins or sit inside and chat with the locals.
Upon arrival at your guesthouse you will have time to settle in before exploring the island with your guide to get yourself acquainted with the layout and to observe Maldives local life. Experience traditional ‘hedikaa’ – Maldivian savoury and sweet snacks served with black tea at a local cafe. Dinner will be served at your guesthouse.
DAY 2: SNORKEL TOUR & LOCAL FAMILY DINNER
Breakfast this morning is served at your guesthouse before being taken out by boat to enjoy a 90 minute guided snorkeling trip to nearby reefs to discover the underwater world of the Maldives.
The afternoon is yours to relax or for those feeling a little more energetic take advantage of the many water sport options available including kayaking and diving. This evening enjoy the unique experience of eating dinner with a local family allowing you to true access to Maldives home life.
DAY 3: SNORKELING, SANDBANK AND PICNIC LUNCH
Following breakfast you will be taken by speedboat to an idyllic sandbank just a short distance from Maafushi. Here you have the opportunity to swim, snorkel or just lie back and relax. A picnic lunch will be served before we head off to snorkel in search of turtles. The soft corals available on this reef usually mean its lunchtime all the time for turtles! On the return journey to Maafushi cruise the Indian Ocean and hopefully spot dolphins. This evening subject to weather conditions dinner will be served on the beach under the stars!
DAY 4: GULHI ISLAND VISIT
Following an early breakfast we take a short 20 minute public ferry journey to the quiet local island of Gulhi where your guide will accompany you on a tour of the island. Visit the boat yard to stand in awe at the size of the boats under renovation, chat with the ladies sweeping the streets and finally refresh yourself with a cool Kurumba (coconut) watching the comings and goings at the harbour. Ready for relaxation you can choose to head to the bikini beach or for the more energetic join your guide for a final snorkeling opportunity on the house reef of Gulhi.
DAY 5: MALE CITY TOUR & DEPARTURE
Following an early breakfast you will transfer on the early morning public ferry to Male where accompanied by your guide you will discover the history of the capital city and visit places including The Friday Mosque, The National Museum (entrance fee not included) and Sultan Park.
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Male, enjoy lunch, buy souvenirs or just watch the world go by from a local coffee house. Transfer to Velana International Airport (MLE) or your onward destination.
