Discover Malé: A full Day City Walking Tour

 Highlights of the Trip

Immerse yourself in the culture of Malé on our full day Malé city walking tour.

Explore the Maldivian capital with a knowledgeable and seasoned guide on this extensive group tour. Learn about the history and culture of the Maldives and get a firsthand look at the country. Go to famous attractions as well as lesser-known points of interest. Have a tour of Villimalé, indulge in a traditional evening tea ceremony, and get to know the distinct Maldivian habitat and the preservation struggles it faces, discovering how education and religion shape the Maldivian way of life, and how Villimalé is leading the way for conservation in the nation. All this while taking in the stunning scenery of white-sanded beaches, azure ocean, and the vibrant, tropical ambiance that the Maldives is known for.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Malé

• Hukuru Miskiiy (Old Friday Mosque): A revered historical and architectural landmark, dating back to the 17^th century, showcasing exquisite coral stone craftsmanship and serving as a symbol of Maldivian Islamic Heritage.
• The Tomb of Abu-al-Barakaath: A sacred site, honouring the memory of a prominent Islamic scholar and saint, drawing visitors seeking spiritual reflection in the heart of the Maldivian capital.
• November 3^rd Memorial: A poignant memorial commemorating a tragic day in 1988 when the Maldives faced an attempted coup, serving as a solemn reminder of the nation’s resilience and commitment to democracy.
• Sultan Park: A tranquil green oasis, once part of the Maldivian royal palace grounds, offering a peaceful retreat with flourishing gardens and historical artifacts.
• The Grand Friday Mosque: An architectural masterpiece, featuring an impressive golden dome and intricate Islamic design, serving as the largest mosque in the Maldives and a prominent symbol of religious significance.
• Jumhooree Maiden – Independence Square: A central public space and gathering point, hosting cultural events and political gatherings, symbolising the spirit of democracy in the Maldives.
• Fish Market and Local Market: Offering a bustling sensory experience, where vibrant stalls showcase an array of fresh seafood, fruits, and local products, providing a glimpse into the daily life and culinary delights of the Maldives.
• Villimalé: A charming local island near Malé, known for its laid-back atmosphere, picturesque beaches, and a glimpse into authentic Maldivian daily life, offering a serene escape from the bustling capital.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Visit the Oldest School in the City: As you pass by during your tour, learn about the education system and why the Maldives has such a high literacy rate of 98%.

Enjoy Black Tea and Betal Nuts Among Locals: During your tour, rest to enjoy a cup of traditional black tea, learn about betal nuts and try some for yourself!

Chat with Local Stallholders and Sample Local Produce: While visiting the fish market and local market, converse with the locals and sample tropical produce and homemade sweets. Choose something nice for lunch!

Learn about the NGO Save the Beach: Observe the local way of life and the incredible work of the NGO Save the Beach in safeguarding the environment here.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in the Maldives

During this day tour, opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals, visits to markets, or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. While in the Maldives, be sure to try the delectable mas huni, a traditional breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, onion, and chilli, typically enjoyed with flatbread. For seafood enthusiasts, the garudhiya, a fish soup served with rice, lime, chilli, and onions, is a savoury delight. Maldivian curries, such as as the mas riha (fish curry), or the fihunu mas (grilled fish) offer a perfect blend of local spices. Cap off your culinary adventure with hedikaa, Maldivian snacks like bajiya (fish or vegetable pastries)– a feast that captures the essence of Maldivian flavours against the stunning backdrop of paradise.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

You might like to extend your tour of Malé with some water-based activities or cruises:

Snorkelling: Explore the vibrant underwater world with guided snorkelling tours, witnessing colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life around Malé and Villimalé.

Scuba Diving: Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands to discover a world of fascinating marine ecosystems, including coral gardens and various fish species.

Dolphin Watching Cruises: Embark on a cruise to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoying a memorable experience in the Indian Ocean.

Fishing Excursions: Join local fishing trips to experience traditional Maldivian fishing methods, such as handline fishing, and perhaps catch your own dinner.

Watersports: Try thrilling watersports like jet-skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing, taking advantage of the calm lagoons and azure waters.

Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a romantic evening on a sunset cruise, witnessing breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vivid hues.

Local Island Tours: Explore the culture of Villimalé with further guided tours, discovering more about local life, historical sites, and enjoying the warm hospitality of the Maldivian people.

Island Hopping: Hop between nearby islands to experience the diversity of the Maldives, each offering its unique charm and attractions.

Catamaran or Yacht Charter: Luxuriate in a private catamaran or yacht charter, allowing you to cruise the turquoise waters at your leisure, accompanied by stunning panoramic views.

Underwater Submarine Tour: For a unique perspective, consider an underwater submarine tour, offering a window into the mesmerising underwater world without getting wet.

Itinerary

Day 1:

Your tour will begin with a look at the harbour area and Malé, a major element of any island nation. As you pass by the oldest school in the city, find out about the education system and why the Maldives has such a high literacy rate of 98%. Visit Hukuru Miskiiy – Old Friday Mosque and the tomb of Abu-al- Barakaath to discover why the Maldives converted to Islam and how it influences everyday life.

Afterwards, rest and enjoy a cup of traditional black tea at a local cafe, a favourite among the locals. Learn the importance of betal nuts and try them for yourself! Moving on, stop at the November 3rd Memorial to hear the story of 8 military servicemen who lost their lives in protecting their country from a terrorist attack in 1988. Then, explore Sultan Park, a reminder of the time when the Maldives was governed by a sultanate (entrance fee included), now developed into a peaceful oasis in the city.

On the way back to the harbour, take in the view of the Grand Friday Mosque and the Islamic Center, Malé’s iconic architecture. Finally, visit Jumhooree Maiden – Independence Square to find out the meaning of the Maldives national flag and identify the various government buildings. Head west along the harbour and check out the bustling fish market and the local market, where you can encounter the unique sights, sounds, and smells of the area. Chat with the local stallholders and sample some tropical produce and homemade sweets. Your guide will offer you lunch options depending on your preferences.

After lunch, take a taxi with your guide to the ferry terminal to Villimalé. The island, once a resort and a prison, was redeveloped to accommodate the huge population of Malé. It is the perfect escape from the busy capital city, with wide open streets, lush vegetation, two natural beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Exploring Villimalé by foot is the perfect way to gain insight into the city’s past before urban development took place. A 60-minute walking tour gives you the opportunity to observe the local way of life, as well as the work of NGO Save the Beach to safeguard the environment. Sample some of the local snacks, such as hedhika, and enjoy a cup of black tea to experience Maldivian flavors. Before heading back to the city, take the chance to relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the capital from a distance.

A Maldivian tour guide with extensive experience and professional training will join you for your activity. They have been certified in both First Aid and Lifeguard and have taken a COVID-19 safety awareness course.

Duration: 7 hours

Please bring a face mask, hand sanitiser, refillable water bottle, sun hat and sunglasses, insect repellent, snacks, a camera, and money for personal spending.

Departure Time

Daily from 10am – 5pm

Meeting Point

• Jetty 5, Malé (opposite the Bank of Ceylon).
• Collection free of charge from the airport, hotels in Malé, Hulhumale or the cruise tender jetty available upon request.

Before booking, please ensure you have permission from the resort to use their private jetty, as not all resorts in North and South Male Atolls will allow us to collect from them. A return transfer fee will be applied depending on the distance of the resort from Male.

Maximum group size: 8 people

Please note the following participation requirements

Female guests are kindly asked to dress with modesty when visiting Male, with shorts, skirts and dresses covering the upper thigh and shoulders and chests being fully covered.

Both male and female guests are required to wear long trousers or a sarong to cover legs when visiting mosques. The traditional Maldivian cuisine is based upon key ingredients of fish, coconut, and chili, served with either roshi (flat bread) or rice. Please let us know of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Day Tour Includes:

• Return transfers to and from Malé jetty
• Tour guide services
• Donation to NGO Save the Beach
• Entrance fee to Sultan Park (subject to opening times)
• Maldivian lunch at local café
• Hedhika experience
• Island tours
• Local Tax (10% service charge and 16% GST)

Day Tour Excludes:

• Personal expenses e.g., snacks and souvenirs

Price

Guide price per person.

£103

Group size on tour may vary and price may vary depending on number of travellers.

Tour Summary

Explore Malé’s rich history and cultural landmarks, including Hukuru Miskiiy and Independence Square. Enjoy local delicacies and a tranquil break at Villimalé, offering insight into Maldivian life before modernization. Guided by experienced locals, this 7-hour tour offers a blend of education and relaxation amidst stunning island scenery.

Departures daily from 10 am to 5 pm, meeting at Jetty 5, Malé.

FAQs

1. What landmarks and attractions will I visit during the tour?
   • You’ll explore Malé’s historic sites, including Hukuru Miskiiy and Independence Square, as well as experiencing the tranquil atmosphere of Villimalé.
2. What is included in the tour duration of 7 hours?
   • The 7-hour tour encompasses sightseeing in Malé, enjoying local delicacies, exploring Villimalé, and experiencing Maldivian culture guided by experienced locals.
3. How do I join the tour?
   • Simply meet at Jetty 5 in Malé, opposite the Bank of Ceylon, between 10 am and 5 pm. Collection from designated points in Malé, Hulhumale, or the cruise tender jetty is available upon request.
4. Is transportation provided during the tour?
   • Yes, transportation to Villimalé via taxi and ferry terminal is included in the tour. However, transportation to the meeting point at Jetty 5 is not provided.
5. Are there any COVID-19 safety measures in place?
   • Yes, our guides are certified in First Aid and Lifeguarding, and have undergone COVID-19 safety awareness training. Please ensure you bring a face mask and hand sanitiser and adhere to any additional safety guidelines provided during the tour.