4 Hour Highlights of Malé Walking Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Wander the roads of Male, the capital of the Maldives with TripAdvisors' leading Hulhumale tour company and discover the history, religion and culture of the city that rises from the Indian Ocean.
Accompanied by your Secret Paradise local guide experience a sensory overload at the fish market and local market. Hear historical stories of the President's Palace, Sultan Park, Victory Monument and Friday Mosque. Rest your legs at a local café, an oasis of tranquility within the hubbub of the city and take in the view from one of the city's tallest buildings.
Through education of both guests and locals we strive to protect the environment in which we operate and limit wherever possible any negative impact preserving this country's unique location for generations to come.
Please note that during Ramadan 22 March - 20 April 2023 we are unable to include the refreshment stop at a local cafe.
Private tours available upon request.
Available options
4 Hour Malé Walking Tour
Tea/Coffee at Local Cafe<br/>Secret Paradise Guide
What's included
Local snacks during market visit
All Local Tax
Secret Paradise Local Tour Leader
Coffee and/or Tea
What you'll see
Your tour starts with an overview of Male and the harbour area, a very important aspect of any island nation.
Passing by the oldest school in the city, learn about the education system and why the Maldives has a 98% literacy rate. Visit Hukuru Miskiiy - Old Friday Mosque and the tomb of Abu -al - Barakaath and learn why the Maldives converted to Islam and how the Islamic faith underpins everyday life.
Stop for a refreshing cup of traditional black tea at Royal Garden Café, a popular spot for locals. Housed in a rare example of a ‘ganduvaru’ a nobleman’s house, it provides a great example of traditional dark carved wood interiors.
Stopping at the November 3rd Memorial, hear the story of how 8 brave military servicemen died in the protection of their country from a terrorist attack in 1988. Wander through Sultan Park, a reference to the time the Maldives was governed by a sultanate with an optional visit to the National Museum. (Note: Entrance fee not included.)
Walking back towards the harbour area, pass by the Grand Friday Mosque and the Islamic Centre, Male's famous architectural landmark and onto Jumhooree Maiden - Independence Square. From here, learn the meaning of the Maldives national flag and pick out key government buildings.
Heading west along the harbour, visit the bustling fish market and the local market, where the sights, sounds and smells will fill your senses. Chat with the local stall holders and taste tropical produce and homemade sweets.
The tour finishes at the top of one of the city's tallest buildings, providing a great back drop to your final tour photo image!
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
36 reviews
5★
28
4★
5
3★
1
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1
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1
Tripadvisor
4.9
139 reviews
5★
129
4★
8
3★
1
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1
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
The Maldives is a Muslim country therefore we would request female guests to dress with modesty in mind.
Tour is not suitable if you are staying on a private island resort.
Safety has always been important to our business, this is why our guides are Emergency First Responders & Life Guard Certified. We are pleased to offer safe travel and hygiene standards as required by the World Travel & Tourism Council. Full details of our Travel Safely policy can be found on our website.
Meeting point
Jetty 5 us located opposite the Bank of Ceylon. Note this tour is not suitable if you are staying on a private island resort.
Important notes
Things to bring:
Re-fillable water bottle, insect repellent, camera, money for personal expenditure.
What to wear:
Loose lightweight clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, comfortable shoes for walking tours. We request female guests to dress with modesty (shorts/skirts/dresses should at the very least covering the upper thigh and shoulders/chests should be fully covered) when visiting local islands including Male and during Taste of Local where we will be visiting the local community and the home of a local family. Should you wish to enter the mosques particularly on the Male City Walking tour, long trousers are required by both male and female guests.
PLEASE TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.
• Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don’t waste water.
• The Maldives has far less efficient waste disposal systems than you will be used to. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
• Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally reef friendly (biodegradable) sun creams you can help reduce pollution.
• No matter how untidy or dirty an island may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment. As an island state, the Maldives has a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can.
• Refuse plastic straws at cafes and plastic bags when shopping.
• It’s important to follow dress and behavior guidelines especially when within the community and visiting mosques.
• Do not touch or feed marine life and follow the Green Fin Snorkeling Principals.
About Malé
Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is a vibrant and densely populated island city known for its bustling markets, historic mosques, and stunning architecture. Despite its small size, Malé offers a unique blend of urban life and tropical charm, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Hukuru Miskiiy (Friday Mosque)
A historic mosque known for its intricate coral stone carvings and beautiful architecture.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free
Malé Fish Market
One of the largest fish markets in the world, offering a glimpse into the local fishing industry.
Market
30-60 minutes
Free
Sultan Park
A small but beautiful park featuring the National Museum and the old Sultan's palace.
Park
1-2 hours
Free (Museum may have a small fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mas Huni
A spicy mix of smoked tuna, coconut, onions, and chili, often served with flatbread.
Breakfast
Contains fish and chili.
Garudhiya
A flavorful fish soup made with tuna, onions, and spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish.
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Visiting mosques and museums
Local markets
Island hopping
Fishing trips
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally warm and dry.
25-31°C
77-88°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dhivehi
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Time Zone
GMT+5
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Malé is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Getting there
By air
- Velana International Airport • 30 km from Malé
By bus
Malé Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable and frequent but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Maafannu
Henveiru
Day trips
Villingili Island
10 km from Malé • Half day
A small island known for its beautiful beaches and relaxation.
Maafushi Island
30 km from Malé • Full day
A popular island for snorkeling and diving.
Festivals
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Independence Day • July 26
Pro tips
- Visit the fish market early in the morning for the best experience.
- Use local transport to get around and save money.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Try local dishes like mas huni and garudhiya for an authentic culinary experience.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
