Money & payments

The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR), held at about 15.4 MVR to 1 US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted on Maafushi for hotels, trips and most restaurants, while small shops and cafés are often easier in rufiyaa.

Bank of Maldives has ATMs in the main tourist areas, including Maafushi, but foreign cards usually pay a withdrawal fee (around MVR 100). Card payments are common, though some places add a 2-3% surcharge.

If a card machine offers to charge you in your home currency, choose the local currency instead - the conversion rate is usually worse.

• Bring some small US dollar notes for tips, ferries and small purchases. Our activities and speedboat transfers are priced in US dollars.
• Don't change large amounts into rufiyaa - it's hard to change back after you leave.
• Keep a little cash in case a card machine is down.