Spending 07 Days in the Maldives for Under $7000

If you have done any research about the Maldives, you will know the Maldives is definitely not a cheap destination. This island archipelago is renowned for its luxury resorts and the incredible turquoise waters.

A budget of $7000 USD will however allow you to enjoy most of what the Maldives has to offer. With a budget of this size, you can stay in the famous overwater villas the Maldives is known for. You will also be able to afford an all-inclusive meal plan. Plus, you can enjoy some of the activities in paradise.

If your budget is smaller than this however, you will have to make some compromises such as staying in a beach villa. Or you can opt to stay on a local island. Read our budget travel guide to the Maldives to find more on that.

What 7 Days in the Maldives for $7000 Will Look Like

If you are curious about what your money will get you, here is a sample itinerary so you have an idea of what to expect in paradise. Despite this itinerary, I would recommend you spend your time in the Maldives just chilling and relaxing. That's just the kind of destination the Maldives is; a place to relax and unwind.

However, that doesn't mean you don't have to do any activities at all. In addition to being a destination known for its luxury resorts, the Maldives is also one of the world's best destinations for surfing and diving.

If you're unsure about your budget or need personalised assistance with your booking, contact our experienced travel planners for expert guidance.

Day 01: Your Arrival in the Maldives

On your first day, you will arrive at the Velana International Airport (VIA) in the capital of the Maldives. I would argue that VIA is one of the easiest airports in the world to get around. Before you arrive in the Maldives, remember that all tourists visiting the Maldives will need proof of accommodation and a return ticket or onward flight booking. Plus, no matter your nationality, you will get a 30-day visa on arrival. You can find out more about the visa requirements here.

Once you are done with the formalities at the airport and walk out, you will be greeted by a representative from the resort or your travel agency. From here, you will be guided to the transfer to your resort. Resorts that are closer to the capital/airport will have speedboat transfers. For resorts further away you will be taking either a seaplane for a domestic flight.

Upon arrival at your resort, you are welcome to do as you please and start your vacation. Expect arrival drinks, hot towels, and more throughout your journey to the resort. You are sure to be pampered.

From here, you can spend your first day in paradise relaxing in your villa. You can also get straight to the sunbathing. Remember to try the amazing foods at the resorts. Resorts in the Maldives emphasize using sustainably sourced ingredients.

Day 02: Exploring Your Resort and a Touch of Water Activities

Wake up to the sound of gentle waves and step out onto your overwater villa's deck! Today is perfect for exploring your resort's facilities and trying some water activities. Most luxury resorts offer snorkelling gear for rent, so take advantage of the house reef at your resort. The marine life in the Maldives is spectacular, with colourful fish, rays, and harmless reef sharks.

Spend the afternoon lounging by the infinity pool. Many resorts also offer sunset fishing trips, which is a perfect way to end your second day while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Day 03: Diving Adventure

The Maldives is world-famous for diving, so dedicate this day to this incredible experience. If you're a certified diver, book a diving excursion to explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter manta rays, whale sharks, and schools of tropical fish. All the resorts have their own dive centers with experienced instructors.

PS: In case you like surfing, the Maldives offers some of the most consistent waves in the Indian Ocean. The surf season typically runs from March to October, with the best swells during the southwest monsoon.

Day 04: Visit a Desert Island or Go on a Dolphin Watching Excursion

Many tours include visits to uninhabited islands where you can enjoy pristine beaches with no crowds. Some excursions also include dolphin watching, as the waters around the Maldives are home to several dolphin species.

Day 05: Relaxation and Spa Day

After several days of activities, dedicate this day to pure relaxation. Book a couples massage at a spa. You can enjoy treatments that incorporate local ingredients like coconut oil and sea salt. Many resort spas offer unique experiences like massage pavilions suspended over the lagoon.

Spend the rest of the day reading a book in a hammock, taking a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear lagoon, or simply enjoying the incredible views from your villa. This is what the Maldives does best – providing the perfect environment for complete relaxation.

Day 06: Culinary Experiences and Sunset Cruise

The Maldives has evolved into a culinary destination, with many resorts featuring world-class restaurants. Today, indulge in the resort's specialty dining experiences. You can find underwater restaurants, overwater dining pavilions, or private beach dinners under the stars with your partner.

In the evening, take a sunset cruise on a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat. These cruises often include champagne service and the chance to spot dolphins. Trust me, the Maldivian sunset is truly spectacular, with the sky turning brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple.

Day 07: Final Moments and Departure

On your final day, make the most of your last few hours in paradise. Take one final swim in the lagoon, capture some last photos of the incredible scenery, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs from the resort's boutique shops.

If your international flight is departing in the evening, you'll likely have time for a breakfast and some final relaxation before your transfer back to Velana International Airport. As you fly over the atolls one last time, you'll already be planning your return to this incredible destination.

Making the Most of Your $7000 Budget

With a budget of $7000 for seven days, you can expect to stay in a premium overwater villa with full board or all-inclusive dining. This budget typically covers your accommodation, meals, airport transfers, and some activities. However, premium experiences like spa treatments, specialty dining, and excursions may cost extra.

The Maldives truly is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, and with proper planning, your $7000 budget will create memories that will last forever!