The best time to visit the Maldives for whale watching is between October and April. Like travel to many tropical destinations, deciding when to book a trip to the Maldives requires prioritizing weather, prices and crowds. WebBest time: May to October Nesting season: Late October to February Hatching season: Late December to April Find a Liveaboard in the Great Barrier Reef 3. The holiday is usually celebrated for about a month in the spring. From the idyllic dry season with highs in the 70F-80F range to the much cheaper and less-crowded wet season with brief cloudbursts, youll find the best time to visit Maldives below. Jul. Storms and big swells dominate the month of July, and August is known for ample (but short) heavy downpours and poor water visibility. Baby sea turtles tend to hatch around 45 days after their egg has been laid and then they make their way into the ocean to begin their life. To reach their nesting grounds, sea turtles migrate long distances every 2-4 years, traveling back to the very same beaches where they were born. WebBiyadhoo does have a couple of turtles but you have to be in the right place at the right time - we have usually seen them at least once on each visit typically early in the morning before everyone hit the reef snorkelling. Pack light! A warmer nest temperature will give more females and cooler will favour males. Whale watching aside, spotting turtles is a fun activity to experience out at sea; it can even be enjoyed on a Whale Submarine adventure that can be organised while staying at resorts such as Adaaran Prestige Vadoo. Resorts and organisations are getting involved in protecting turtle nesting sites, rehabilitating injured turtles, initiating satellite tracking and more which are helping in their protection. Enrollment required. Its worth it, just to see the fine lacquer work and elaborate wood carvings. The best place to see them in the Maldives if not the world is the South Ari Atoll, where these majestic giants dwell year round. Later, hatchlings emerge and scramble into the water. Pack lightweight clothes that are comfortable for warm weather and also quick-drying items in case of rain showers. Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. The southernmost of the Maldives atolls, heart-shaped Addu has its own distinct character (and dialect) with a range of activities and sightseeing spots you wont find elsewhere. When youre ready to make a splash, take to the ocean in a boat, jet ski, kayak, paddleboard, or fly over the water with futuristic hydroflight jet blades for a new perspective. Jun. If being the only dive boat in view is a priority, head south to Komandoo. $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. If youre looking for the ideal time to go with great weather and the most options for activities, the overall best time to visit Maldives is January through April. The good news is that conservation efforts are being carried out to save sea turtles in the Maldives which is vital for the preservation of the marine ecosystem too. The capital city, Mal, is one of the best places to experience the holiday. Angaga island is mostly known for its rich marine life with some epic diving spots. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost. Weather This is the best season to visit Maldives. Stay at the stunning 5* Komandoo Island Resort & Spa for the ultimate luxury experience. Choosing where to goin the Maldivesis a big decision. Youll see the greatest number of them in the channel to the south of the atoll from May through to December. Its the perfect season for beach days, snorkelling trips, or simply lounging around in an infinity pool with a fruity cocktail. Kuredu. During this time, the island boasts a dry climate making it easier for the visitors to enjoy here. During the Maldives dry season, you can expect sunny skies for most of November through April. Most active nesting time for turtles lies in the months of May and June and their hatching falls from July to August. There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks. Check out the video below which shows a turtle spotted whilst snorkeling in Maafushi: One of the best places to see sea turtles in the Maldives is on Kuredu island. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. These reefs are hard to access on your own so youll need to book a tour. Visiting here will give you a unique look at the colorful Maldivian culture. Or theres upmarket Cokes Surf Camp, whosebreak is where intermediate and advanced surfers catch their biggest waves. Whilst out snorkeling or diving youll be able to see sea turtles, sharks, octopuses and a range of vibrant tropical fish. Youll be taken in small groups to the best reefs which are teeming with marine life. Its more expensive and crowded at this time of year due to the idyllic weather and water. Take the opportunity to island-hop via boat or seaplane to see the relatively untouched atolls off the beaten path. WebThere are resident (full time) turtles all year round in Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay. Average airfare from New York is $642, $710 from Chicago and $739 from Miami. There have even been sightings of baby turtles hatching on the beach in Mirihi! Kureda island is considered the best place to see turtles in Maldives apart from seagrass rich lagoons. 7 mins ago Follow 202.8k Images 5.6k Followers Source. While they have natural predators, humans are to be blamed the most; be it being hunted for meat, eggs or shells, traded as pets, getting entangled in fishing gear or losing natural habitats, turtles in the Maldives face a tough road to survival. Each island is a ring-like atoll that creates a truly incredible aerial view of the archipelago. Start with Muleeaage Palace, the official residence of the President of the Maldives and a dazzling example of dak bungalow architecture. This is a traditional folk dance and song that will make you feel connected to the ancient cultural roots of Maldives. Rainfall is fairly consistent (and on the higher side) throughout the year. Maldives is known for its white sand beaches, diverse wildlife and tropical plants, and stunningly blue waters that surround the 200 inhabited islands. Between these months you will not be facing any sightseeing issues because the humidity level will also If youre looking for reasons to visit Maldives, a shorter list would be the reasons not to go (and were coming up empty-handed on that one). This is actually one of the smallest resort islands in the Maldives which allows guests to feel like they are on their own private island. Its an experience that youll never forget. Planning a memorable trip to Maldives will be easy when you keep these travel tips in mind. For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. WebKuredu is lucky to be known as one of the Maldives top locations for green sea turtles, with dozens of individuals known to live in the lagoons and on the reefs around the island. Other islands we have seen the odd turtle are Kuredu ,Angaga, Embudu,vilamendhoo and so on. WebWe also saw lots if turtles at Komandoo. In short, the best time to travel to the Maldives is between November and April, when the weather is sunny and dry (which is why its known as the Dry Season). So where, exactly, should you include in your dream itinerary? They have been around for the last 100 million years. According to travel search site Kayak, average hotel prices are at their lowest in May, when you can expect to pay $369 per night. Some good news is that in 1995, The Maldivian Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture banned the catching or killing of sea turtle species, as well as the importation and sale of turtles and turtle products. The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway. People interested. Green Sea Turtles (pictured above) are one of the largest sea turtles and the only herbivore among the species. What species of sea turtles can you find in The Maldives? Sea Turtle Hatching. Why not use these fun Maldives Instagram captions, puns & quotes for any photos you post to Instagram from your stay in the Maldives? But what the Maldives is best known for is its luxury resorts with overwater bungalows and impossibly clear blue waters. These are the Leatherback, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Green, and Olive-Ridley Turtle. The least busy time to go is from October to December, which includes the end of the wet season and the start of the dry season. Hawksbill turtles are mainly carnivorous and appear to be opportunistic predators, using their narrow beaks to extract invertebrate prey from crevices on the reef. Its dry, warm, and less humid at this time of year with excellent water visibility to enjoy the world-class diving and snorkeling around the islands. With the exception of November, when prices are in the mid-$500 range, expect to pay in the mid-$600 range the rest of the year. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Learn more. WebBiyadhoo does have a couple of turtles but you have to be in the right place at the right time - we have usually seen them at least once on each visit typically early in the morning before everyone hit the reef snorkelling. Tourists and locals often assist baby turtles in their struggle for survival by helping them go in the right direction. During peak season, locals gather to dance the Bodu Beru on the beaches in the evenings. Whale watching aside, spotting turtles is a fun activity to experience out at sea; it can even be enjoyed on a Whale Submarine adventure that can be organised while staying at resorts such as Adaaran Prestige Vadoo. There are also certain times of year when you can actually see baby turtles hatching from their eggs and making their first run towards the ocean. Mother turtles lay up to 100 eggs in each nest. During Ramadan, locals fast during the day, but restaurants and resorts operate as normal. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world can be found in The Maldives, and there are two species that are seen far more frequently than the others the Green Sea Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. Its truly a divers paradise! This means that from May to June you will actually be able to see the turtles nesting. Re: Maui - best month to see turtles. The gender of a baby turtle is determined by the temperature of the nest warmer temperatures tend to lead to females whereas cooler temperatures tend to lead to males. Other islands we have seen the odd turtle are Kuredu ,Angaga, Embudu,vilamendhoo and so on. The best place to see them in the Maldives if not the world is the South Ari Atoll, where these majestic giants dwell year round. 3. This helps them to program their built-in GPS systems that will ensure any female turtles that survive will make their way back to the beach one day to lay eggs, completing this incredible tale of survival. Maafushi. Prices peak at around $705 per night in December. If you get super lucky you might even spot some baby turtles hatching and making their first run towards the ocean! 35 helpful votes. Let's plan you dream trip there! Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. This small to medium-sized marine turtle has a beautifully coloured golden and brown oval shell, with a striking pattern, which serves as an effective camouflage in coral reefs. To ensure the turtles remain safe, theres a few key things to bear in mind when swimming with them in the Maldives. Frusci. It is perfect for sightseeing, enjoying cultural activities, water sports and savouring the local cuisine. Turtles can be spotted on many islands in the Maldives. The temperature remains fairly consistent year-round, ranging only from the low- to mid-80's (Fahrenheit). Hilton also expanded its presence in the Maldives when it opened the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and SAii Lagoon Maldives, a Curio Collection resort, last summer, available from 120,000 and 85,000 points, respectively, for a standard-room reward. If you plan to try surfing, July is perfect and priced low enough to be appealing. In November, Marriott debuted its five-star JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa (with rooms available from 70,000 points per night on off-peak dates). Those that reach maturity may live to 80 years in the wild. A large concentration of breaks in a short distance means the best way to surf this region is by boat charter. Frusci. Time to Discover: Cool Rooftop Bars in Madrid, Best Hotels in Cairo: Beautiful Accommodation in Egypts Capital City. WebBest time: May to October Nesting season: Late October to February Hatching season: Late December to April Find a Liveaboard in the Great Barrier Reef 3. But there are big crowds of happy tourists arriving daily as this is the peak season! With its crystal clear turquoise waters, abundant sea life, and gorgeous coral reefs, its no wonder why. 35 helpful votes. Jun. March. Apr. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. This idyllic island has a resident population of sea turtles that can often be seen all around the island. Officially, its a no-go for non-Muslims, but if youre modestly dressed and visit outside of prayer time, youre likely to be welcomed in. WebBest Places To See Turtles In The Maldives. Instead of passing through capital Mal to your paradise island, spend a day taking in this micro citys historic spots. This small island is surrounded by white powdery sand and a crystal clear water lagoon, its the stuff of dreams. Now that would be a sight you wouldnt forget in a hurry. Five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world can be found in The Maldives, and there are two species that are seen far more frequently than the others the Green Sea Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. Check out the video below which shows some baby turtles hatching on Kuredu island: Another great place where you can swim with turtles is on the island of Maafushivaru. Many of the islands have healthy reefs with rich seagrass beds the perfect habitat for sea turtles! American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. If you love the ocean then swimming with turtles is truly one of those bucket list activities. The wet season generally tends to be the slow season. Addu City is a place to experience proper island life, where youll hear the daily call to prayer as local fishers return with their catch. From fresh tuna curries and smoked fish pastries to flavorful fish soups and banana flower salad, Maldivian food blends tropical tastes with Indian flavors in a delicious way. Its dry, warm, and less humid at this time of year with excellent water visibility to enjoy the world-class diving and snorkeling around the islands. This species is the largest hard-shelled turtle in the world and have skin that ranges from yellow to brown, shells that are typically reddish brown with darker streaks, and front flippers that possess two claws. Jul. While the residents may be smaller in size, there are nesting seasons as well. Looking for a luxury stay while youre there? Athuruga. 3. Ahhh bliss! Look for lagoons that are rich with seagrass as this is a favourite food of the Green turtles. Start Here Asia Maldives The Best Time to Visit Maldives in 2023, Written by: Author Debra Carpenter |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. The correct word for a baby turtle is a hatchling. Many island resorts host events throughout these peak months, such as beach parties and seafood barbecues. Im slowly working my way around the world and sharing my journey as I go. It is perfect for sightseeing, enjoying cultural activities, water sports and savouring the local cuisine. Heres how to make the most of your stay in this archipelago nation! Another great place where you can see turtles in the Maldives is on Kandolhu island. Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. This Unesco protected biosphere reserve is home to the largest gathering of manta rays found anywhere in the world. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. WebMaldives in Dry Season (December to April) Temperature ~31 degrees celsius by day and ~ 24 degrees Celsius by night. Planning to visit Maldives soon? Nowadays, it's rather difficult for them to find their way to the sea. Surfing, swimming with marine life, and cheaper prices make the rainy months worth it for many tourists. WebTurtles in the Maldives are endangered and so they are protected. Experiences Every Traveler Should Have in the Maldives, Swimming with Whale Sharks in the Maldives, Dolphin watching in the Maldives A few handy tips, Unique Activities and Experiences in the Maldives, The Maldives Top Diving Spot: Hanifaru Bay, Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences in the Maldives. Fly-and-flop newlyweds looking for desert-island seclusion cant really go wrong: pick your budget, find your paradise. There are also large populations of hawksbill turtles too. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. Did you know you can also see turtles in Greece? Since the group of islands spans across the equator, theres little variation in the weather here and only 2 seasons each year: The wet season (when the most rainfall and storms occur) and dry season (when the weather is dry and calm). This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. WebWe also saw lots if turtles at Komandoo. Insider travel tips and guides. Lets not forget the top-notch dining options from globally acclaimed chefs who fly in for the season. Because of its location among important maritime trading routes, the Maldives maintains a rich culture influenced by Arabs, North Africans, Sri Lankans and Indians. High season rumbles on, with accommodation booked out across the country. The best part is that the island has a beautiful reef filled with marine life. Visiting the Maldives from November to April is a no-brainer as its when youll get the most sunshine and warmest temperatures. Dont worry these types of sharks are harmless but it is a great way to impress your friends and family when you get home. Why not try it for yourself. Report inappropriate content. The weather is wrapping up the rainfall around October, with surfing season coming to a close and rainfall reaching the highest levels of the year. The temperature of the sand surrounding the eggs determines the sex of the baby turtles. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. We saw them much more often on both Angaga and Vakarufalhi. You dont hear much about this part of the Maldives, which is surprising considering how good the diving is. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. If yours is a big-budget trip then the place to stay is the atolls newest resort, Seaside Finolhu Sandbank. Backpackers looking for a lively atmosphere will find it on Bikini Beach, with booze boats and floating bars just off shore if you insist on a drink (note: alcohol is prohibited on all public islands). We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Save. Our opinions are our own, and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by our advertising partners. This post will tell you all of the best places to see turtles in the Maldives including where you can swim with turtles and where you can see baby turtles hatching in the Maldives! They even let you name a sea turtle if its a new one theyve never seen before so make sure you snap some photos if you see one. Sea turtles never get to meet their babies as after laying their eggs, the mothers return to the ocean. Start with a guided tour of Addu Nature Park or canoe in the Bedhi bay area to wend through red mangroves teeming with stingrays and sharks. Maafushivaru is a great place to see sea turtles and there are many spots across the island where they love to hang out. This is best part of the dry season among the Maldivian islands and it makes for the perfect trip to paradise. The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. Built around four dainty islets, the resort is home to 1.25 miles (2km) of pristine beaches and a show-stopping 1.1-mile (1.8km) sandbank the longest of any Maldivian resort. These are the best places to visit in the Maldives. JulyAugust (all year round) Feb. Mar. TPG values it at $1,600. All rights reserved. Visitors pick up around Thanksgiving and at the end of December for the holidays. Thanks for reading this post on where to see turtles in the Maldives. There really isnt a bad time to go as long as you plan your activities around the season you visit! A threat to these ecosystems can make all life vulnerable. This turtle has a relatively small head with a distinctive hawk-like beak, and flippers with two claws. Nothing beats seeing these glorious turtles in their natural habitat. April is generally considered the best time to visit Maldives if youre looking for a combination of great weather and lower prices. WebThe best time to see turtles in Maldives would be from May to August. Walnut is an adult male turtle who has been seen swimming and eating in the lagoon for over 10 years. The best time of year to see turtles hatching in the Maldives is between May and August as this is when the turtles return to the Maldives to lay their eggs. Here's everything to know. The green sea turtles mostly eat seagrass, seaweed and algae. Sea turtles have been swimming in the oceans for much longer than humans have walked the earth. If you want to see the world, go see it! A trueyear-round destination with attractions and festivals every single month, there's never a bad time to visit Sri Lanka. Maafushi is one of the best places to see turtles in the Maldives. You can take advantage of the years lowest prices to travel to and stay in Maldives when you go between May and August. Yoga retreats are no longer just a luxury travel experience: here's how to find your moment this International Yoga Day. With its crystal clear turquoise waters, abundant sea life, and gorgeous coral reefs, its no wonder why. The resort itself has an impressive knowledge of the resident turtle population and is actively involved in conservation efforts. From Seattle and San Francisco, expect to pay around $710 and $700, respectively. Maafushivaru. December is arguably your best bet for those looking for a more stylish experience with plenty of nightlife options. While most of the population here lives in the capital, there are small towns and culturally rich villages scattered around the 200 inhabited islands of Maldives. If youre lucky, you will see these mesmerising creatures on both snorkelling and diving trips, or around the islands house reef. (Enrollment required for select benefits.). Learn more. Here's a little bit more about us, Maldives Secrets, and what we do: Ready to fly out to The Maldives? Something wrong? May. Web45 reviews. Kandolhu is the perfect place for a romantic vacation with the island itself being almost heart shaped. With more than 700 miles of coastline along the deep-blue Indian Ocean, you can choose the sunniest spot on the sugar sand beaches near your hotel and spend your day soaking up the sun. Here are some of the best places in the world to do it. Report inappropriate content. In 2020, Huravee Day was celebrated on Jan. 28. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. Lets dive into the optimal time to plan your trip. As Bhutan reopens to tourism on September 23, 2022, its daily tourist fees are increasing. Five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world can be found in The Maldives, and there are two species that are seen far more frequently than the others the Green Sea Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. Bustling fresh markets give you a chance to peruse everything from fresh seafood and produce to handmade crafts and clothing. Festivities include marching bands, parades, speeches, ceremonies and children walking the streets wearing their best clothes a true display of the countrys culture, heritage and pride.