The short answer
When to go to South Malé Atoll
The dry north-east monsoon runs from about December to March, with the lowest rainfall in February and March and generally calmer seas, which suits snorkelling and boat transfers. April is the hottest month, with showers starting. From May to November the southwest monsoon brings more rain, wind and rougher seas, although showers are often short. Older travellers should plan reef time in the morning and rest through the midday heat in any season.
Month by month
South Malé Atoll weather by month
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31°C | 26°C | 87 mm | Dry season, calm seas, good visibility | |
| February | 31°C | 26°C | 38 mm | Driest month; ideal for snorkelling | |
| March | 32°C | 27°C | 49 mm | Dry and hot; calm seas | |
| April | 32°C | 27°C | 127 mm | Hottest month; showers start | |
| May | 32°C | 27°C | 238 mm | Southwest monsoon begins; wet and windy | |
| June | 31°C | 26°C | 146 mm | Rain and wind; resorts cheaper | |
| July | 31°C | 26°C | 198 mm | Showery; rougher seas | |
| August | 31°C | 26°C | 193 mm | Showery; rougher seas | |
| September | 31°C | 26°C | 214 mm | Rainy; fewer crowds | |
| October | 31°C | 26°C | 245 mm | Wettest of the monsoon months | |
| November | 30°C | 26°C | 236 mm | Transition to the dry season | |
| December | 30°C | 26°C | 212 mm | Dry season starts; rain still frequent |
Temperatures and rainfall are long-term monthly averages. Check the forecast a few days before you travel.
Seasons at a glance
South Malé Atoll seasons for families and seniors
The easiest months: January, February and March
- January: Dry season, calm seas, good visibility
- February: Driest month; ideal for snorkelling
- March: Dry and hot; calm seas
Good, with small trade-offs: April and December
- April: Hottest month; showers start
- December: Dry season starts; rain still frequent
Possible, with planning: May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- May: Southwest monsoon begins; wet and windy
- June: Rain and wind; resorts cheaper
- July: Showery; rougher seas
- August: Showery; rougher seas
- September: Rainy; fewer crowds
- October: Wettest of the monsoon months
- November: Transition to the dry season
Useful answers
Best time to visit South Malé Atoll: FAQs
What is the best month to visit South Malé Atoll?
January, February and March are the best months to visit South Malé Atoll, with April and December also good. The dry north-east monsoon runs from about December to March, with the lowest rainfall in February and March and generally calmer seas, which suits snorkelling and boat transfers. April is the hottest month, with showers starting. From May to November the southwest monsoon brings more rain, wind and rougher seas, although showers are often short. Older travellers should plan reef time in the morning and rest through the midday heat in any season.
When does it rain most in South Malé Atoll?
October is the wettest month, with about 245 mm of rain on average. The hottest month is April, with average highs around 32°C.