Maldives in January

Dry, calm, excellent visibility; early January still peak-priced.

• Northern atolls · Haa Alif, Noonu, Raa, Baa, Lhaviyanibest weather

  Most pronounced monsoon swing; Hanifaru Bay mantas in Baa May–November.

• Central atolls · Malé (Kaafu), Ari, Vaavu, Meemubest weather

  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, Addufine

  Near the equator: rain spread through the year, fewer strong seasons; tiger sharks at Fuvahmulah all year.

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 · Maldives

High

Prices · Maldives

High

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

Nothing unusual for the weather this month.

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Rated best or good this month

• Northern atolls

  Best weather of the year (Haa Alif, Noonu, Raa, Baa, Lhaviyani)

• Central atolls

  Best weather of the year (Malé (Kaafu), Ari, Vaavu, Meemu)

• Malé

  Dry season, hot; book early.