When to go · Maldives
Maldives in December
Good month. Dry season begins; 20 December onward is the most expensive time of year.
Key facts
- Verdict
- Good
- Crowds
- High
- Maldives
- Prices
- High
- Maldives
Verdict
Dry season begins; 20 December onward is the most expensive time of year.
Weather in December
- Northern atolls · Haa Alif, Noonu, Raa, Baa, Lhaviyanifine
Most pronounced monsoon swing; Hanifaru Bay mantas in Baa May–November.
- Central atolls · Malé (Kaafu), Ari, Vaavu, Meemufine
The north-east monsoon (Iruvai) brings dry, calm weather December–April; south-west (Hulhangu) squalls May–November, with sunny spells between.
- Southern atolls · Laamu, Huvadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Addurainy
Near the equator: rain spread through the year, fewer strong seasons; tiger sharks at Fuvahmulah all year.
Festivals and holidays
Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.
National Day, Victory Day, Republic Day, Islam Day
Varies (lunar)
Public holidays; government offices closed.
Christmas and New Year peak big impact
20 Dec – 10 Jan
Resort rates at their highest, minimum stays, seaplanes full.
Crowds and prices
- Crowds · Maldives
- High
- Prices · Maldives
- High
High-price month: see what to book ahead.
What to pack
- A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast
Where to go in December
Rated best or good this month
Peak season; book seaplane seats months ahead.