Renowned for its breathtaking backdrops, idyllic beaches and glorious tropical weather, the Maldives is the perfect destination for a relaxing and luxurious holiday escape. Thanks to its close proximity to the equator, the Maldives experiences a tropical monsoon climate with year-round warm weather. Temperatures average between 26 °C and 29 °C throughout the year, with the warmest temperatures occurring between March and April. Winter is essentially non-existent in the Maldives with the lowest temperature sitting at a balmy 24 °C.
The Maldives dry season occurs from November to April where temperatures are hot and skies clear and sunny. The beautiful weather also makes for excellent beach going conditions and many visitors enjoy snorkelling, island hopping swimming during this season. The Maldives also enjoys beautiful tropical waters and the best month for swimming is April when the sea temperature is 30°C. Renowned as the most popular time to visit, the dry season is also the busiest and most expensive.
The rainy season occurs from May to October where the tropical monsoon brings increased rainfall. Generally, the monsoon season is quite mild, and much less intense than neighbouring countries. The south-west monsoon, (from May to September) is stronger on northern islands and causes winds and rough seas. During this time the Maldives also experiences high levels of humidity and frequent cloudiness. September is the wettest month with an average of 243mm of rain.
The northeast monsoon (from October to late November) is less intense and normally brings brief showers and afternoon thunderstorms, however these often pass quickly. Despite being monsoon season, cyclones are very uncommon in the Maldives and only 11 have occurred over the last century.
Diving enthusiasts can enjoy great conditions all year-round. During the dry season, visibility is outstanding, however the currents can be strong. Alternatively, the wet season brings cooler temperatures and an influx of hammerhead sharks as well as other diverse marine life.
Averages | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rainfall (mm) | 75 | 50 | 73 | 132 | 216 | 172 | 147 | 188 | 243 | 222 | 201 | 232 |
Temp (°C) | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
Min Temp (°C) | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 25 |
Max Temp (°C) | 29 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 |