Fees · Destination Guide
Gaafu Atolls Maldives
Deep South Maldives diving: big channels, quieter reefs, and equator-side adventure
Updated Feb 13, 2026 • 13 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Green Tax - USD $12 per person per day (tourist resorts and many tourist establishments, from 1 Jan 2025)
- Tourism GST (TGST) - Typically 17% on tourist services (verify current rate on your invoice)
- Typical payment pattern: Budget beyond room rates for Maldiveswide taxes and for longdistance transfers.
What people usually pay
Budget beyond room rates for Maldives-wide taxes and for long-distance transfers. Most costs are bundled into resort invoices, but it helps to know what each line item means so you can compare packages (room-only vs full board vs all-inclusive) and understand how diving is priced.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Tax | USD $12 per person per day (tourist resorts and many tourist establishments, from 1 Jan 2025) per night / per day of stay | Most tourists staying in registered tourist accommodation or vessels | Collected by your resort, hotel, guesthouse, or tourist vessel and shown on the bill | Children under two years old are exempt (from 1 Jan 2025). Rates differ for smaller hotels/guesthouses on inhabited islands, so check your invoice breakdown. |
| Tourism GST (TGST) | Typically 17% on tourist services (verify current rate on your invoice) applies to taxable goods and services | Tourist services (accommodation, many activities, and often diving packages) | Added by hotels, resorts, and dive centers where applicable | TGST policy can change. When comparing offers, compare total price including tax rather than base rates. |
| Service charge | Often 10% (check property policy) applies per invoice | Most resort and restaurant bills | Added by the resort or hotel | Even with a service charge, tipping is common for exceptional service (especially guides, boat crew, and housekeeping). |
| Protected area / excursion fees (if applicable) | Varies by site and operator per trip | Certain protected-area visits and special excursions | Through your resort or tour operator | If your itinerary includes a protected area visit (for example in Gaafu Dhaalu), confirm any access rules and fees with your operator in advance. |
| Domestic flight + speedboat transfers | Varies widely (often one of the biggest trip costs) round-trip transfer package | Most Gaafu resort stays | Booked through the resort as part of your reservation | Transfers are usually mandatory and scheduled by the resort. Ask for total transfer cost before booking, and confirm baggage allowances for dive and camera gear. |