Climate and seasons

Warm. That is the weather in the Maldives all year round. Daytime temperatures are around 30°C, nighttime around 25°C — whether it rains or not.

In general, there are two seasons: a drier one from January to March and a rainier one from May to November. But do not put too much faith in those statistics. In recent years, I have seen dry Julys and Augusts, as well as plenty of rainy winter days. Even so, January–March remains the period with the best chance of good weather.

Rain showers are often brief, and afterwards the sun takes very little time to turn the rain into a distant memory. Sometimes, though, it can rain for longer.

In the early years, I brought light tops and trousers just in case, but now I know I will not need them. That does not apply to UV-protective swim tops, though, whether short- or long-sleeved.

The sun is very strong, and for some skin types, even regularly applying sunscreen is not enough, especially during long exposure. There is a light breeze much of the time, so you do not notice how fiercely the sun is beating down on you. An error you discover that evening.

So respect the sun and protect yourself from it.