Logistics · Destination Guide
Equator-side mantas, a legendary wreck, and Maldives island-hopping by road
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Most visitors route through Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male, then connect to Gan International Airport (GAN) in Addu City. Gan is the practical air gateway for Addu Atoll stays. Build buffer time for domestic connections, especially if you arrive late in Male.
Gan International Airport
GAN • VRMG
10 km • 10 km drive
International airport on Gan Island serving Addu City and Addu Atoll resort and local-island stays.
Transport: Resort pickup, Taxi, Pre-booked transfer
Velana International Airport
MLE • VRMM
545 km • 545 km flight to Gan
Main international gateway airport in Male for most Maldives itineraries.
Transport: Domestic flight connection to GAN
Addu City is road-connected across several islands by causeways. Taxis, scooters, bicycles, and local buses are practical. Ride conservatively in rain during the southwest monsoon.
Maldives Immigration states tourist visa is granted on arrival and visitors must satisfy basic entry requirements for clearance. Submit the Traveller Declaration via IMUGA within 96 hours before flight time for arrival. Note: Maldives Immigration notes that effective 15 April 2025, entry is not granted on Israeli passports.
Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
MVR is the official currency. USD is widely accepted in the tourism industry and resorts often bill in USD, while local-island purchases and transport may prefer MVR cash.
ATMs are common in Male and are also available in Addu City. Plan one larger withdrawal early for taxis and small shops.
230V • 50Hz • G
Type G adapters (UK-style) cover most sockets. Many resorts also provide universal outlets.
Communications
Tourist SIMs are available and most resorts have Wi-Fi. Coverage is generally good in Addu City, but speeds vary. Bring offline maps for biking the causeways.
Language
Dhivehi is the official language. English is widely used in tourism and many local services.
Insurance
Carry travel insurance that covers scuba or freediving if you plan to dive. Choose a policy that covers evacuation from remote atolls.
Packing list
External Booking Partner
Compare liveaboard routes, boats and dates with LiveAboard.com. Boarding points vary by itinerary.