

Garonga – Little Garonga
Intimate and private safaris
Little Garonga Safari Lodge is an intimate property nestled within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve.
With only three suites set around communal indoor and outdoor lounge areas, this small camp is all about a tranquil safari experience. In-between thrilling game drives out in the private reserve, you can retire to some peace and quiet in the lounge or relax by the swimming pool. Every need is thoughtfully attended to by the team of staff who are at the heart of this intimate camp, making it a brilliant option for families and small groups looking to book the camp exclusively. Meals are served out on open-air decks, at the braai (barbecue) area or in the Main Lounge. There’s also a Boma at Garonga Safari Camp where you can have a traditional bush dinner by a firepit. It’s just two minutes’ to Garonga Safari Camp where guests are welcome to use the facilities such as the massage sala with far-reaching bush views.
Intimate and private safaris
Why our experts like it
We've done the exploring, asked the locals, made the mistakes, and found the gems... so you don't have to start from scratch! These are the bits we think you'll love the most. Think of it as travel advice from a friend who just got back and can't wait to tell you everything.

If you love French cuisine, look no further than La Belle Vie

An incredible way to kick off your Maldives holiday
“There's something pretty special about travelling by seaplane. The view from the sky is extraordinary - tiny specs of island and shades of blue that barely look real.”


The iconic, mile-long sandbank
Perfect for isolated sunbathing, dramatic photoshoots, and watching breathtaking Maldivian sunsets.

Snorkelling and diving isn't the only way to catch sight of the underwater world
“If snorkelling and diving isn't for you, it's possible to catch a glimpse of the reef from a glass-bottomed boat instead.”


Kids club at Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Supervised activities through the day, so younger guests get their own adventure while you get a quiet hour by the water.
Intimate and private safaris
We book this hotel the way you want it
This Maldives hotel is perfect on its own, but add Sri Lanka, Dubai or the Seychelles and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.
Intimate and private safaris
Rooms and suites
A rare find in safari accommodation, the air-conditioning found in the three Suites adds a level of comfort that makes all the difference. There are canopied four-poster beds or twin beds, en suites with bath tubs, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck area. Each suite features earthy colours, textured walls and tribal influences to reflect the indigenous, natural environment. For your own private pool, opt for the two-bedroomed Hambleden Suite which comfortably sleeps a family of four.

Beach Bungalow
Sleeps 4Nestled in abundant vegetation but close to the beach, featuring a garden bathroom and deck with hot tub.

Superior Beach Villa
Sleeps 2Contemporary and round in shape. These villas feature a minimalist bedroom with low-slung king-sized bed and an open air bathroom with a hot tub for unwinding.
Available from December 2026Beach Villa
Sleeps 2Nestled in abundant vegetation but close to the beach, featuring a garden bathroom and deck with hot tub.

Garden Villa
Sleeps 4Simply designed villas in groups of four.

Water Villa
Sleeps 2Perched over the lagoon with steps straight into the water, a sun deck and an outdoor rain shower.
Available from December 2026Deluxe Water Villa
Sleeps 3A larger overwater retreat with a private plunge pool and uninterrupted ocean views from the bed.

Two-Bedroom Beach House
Sleeps 6A spacious family house steps from the sand, with two bedrooms, a shared deck and a garden bathroom.
Eat, drink, unwind.
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Haruge, Malaafaiy and Farivalhu are the three main buffet style restaurants, and you'll automatically be allocated one of these depending on where your villa is located.
For authentic Thai cuisine and lush views, look no further than Siam Garden. Or perhaps French food is more your thing? At the heart of the island, La Belle Vie serves up a curated menu with an array of traditional bistro style French food accompanied by a laidback atmosphere.






Intimate and private safaris
Things to do nearby
Curated experiences to help you do more, see more, or simply switch off while you're here.

Spend a night under the stars on Garonga’s sleep out deck
Behind the scenes, it takes about two hours to set up everything for guests, preparing the table for the evening meal and getting the four-poster bed ready. The guest’s room at the camp is kept for them in case the weather should change. Guests are driven to the sleep out area before sun set for an orientation of their night’s setting. They are given a safety briefing and once they know how to contact the camp, the magical atmosphere starts to take over. As the sun starts to set, enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal. A few glasses of your favourite tipple will calm any nerves. From its elevated position, the deck overlooks a busy waterhole so there is often plenty of animal activity throughout the night, such as elephants making a splash or a leopard coming in for a drink. As you sink into the comfort of your bed, the atmosphere can be quite magical listening to the sounds of nature as you fall asleep under a glittery African night sky. Safari dreaming at its best. Awaken the next morning to the sounds of the dawn chorus and watch as the sun rises. The start of a new day on safari begins.
Intimate and private safaris
There is more than one way to do this trip



Our expert's story
I've been fortunate enough to visit the Maldives several times throughout my career, but one particular evening at Niva Kuramathi remains my favourite memory. After a day spent exploring the island and learning more about the experiences available to guests, I found myself walking along the shoreline just before sunset. The resort had begun to quieten as people gathered at the water's edge, waiting for the day's final display.
What stands out to me wasn't just the scenery, but the atmosphere. There was a sense of calm that seemed to settle across the island as the sky changed colour and the lagoon reflected the fading light. For a few moments, everyone appeared to pause and simply appreciate where they were.
As travel experts, we're always looking for the moments that truly define a destination. For me, that evening captured everything that makes the Maldives so special: natural beauty, tranquillity and the opportunity to disconnect from everyday life. Years later, it's still the first memory that comes to mind whenever someone asks me why I love this part of the world.
A match made in paradise
This hotel is perfect on its own, but add a second destination and it becomes something even better. Discover our multi-centre holidays and make paradise last longer.

Customer quote
We booked a 12-night honeymoon in the South Malé Atoll — overwater villa, transfers, excursions, the lot. Everything was arranged in advance so there were no surprises on arrival, which made a real difference after a long-haul flight. The villa itself was exactly as described and the resort staff were excellent throughout.

Intimate and private safaris
In the area
Everything you need is right on your doorstep. From local restaurants and hidden gems to well-known landmarks and everyday conveniences, explore what makes this area worth discovering.
5 of 5 places shown
Adaaran Club Rannalhi, Maldives
Adaaran Club Rannalhi is a laid-back island resort set in the South Malé Atoll, ringed by a vibrant house reef perfect for snorkelling right off the beach, diving, water sports, and stunning sunset views.
Watersports in Guraidhoo, South Malé Atoll
Dive into the Maldives' warm lagoon waters with jet skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding right off the beach.
Mini golf, Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort
The Dive School, Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Traditional Bodu Beru Show, Malé
Experience the pulse of Maldivian culture with a live Bodu Beru drumming performance. This energetic traditional dance is a highlight of island heritage, passed down through generations.

Intimate and private safaris
Trip ideas
You've come this far - and the world has more to offer. Why not pair Niva Kuramathi with another island, add a stopover in Dubai on the way for city lights and desert skies, or extend to Sri Lanka for tea, temples and safari? Below you'll find our recommendations for maximising your time away...




Intimate and private safaris
When to visit
Whether you're chasing guaranteed sunshine or don't mind a little rain with your relaxation, here's how the weather stacks up throughout the year. Use the chart below to find your perfect window, or just pick whenever suits you best, paradise doesn't really have a bad season.
| Measurement | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temp | 28°C | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C | 28°C |
| Average rainfall | 110mm | 60mm | 75mm | 125mm | 220mm | 175mm | 150mm | 175mm | 200mm | 195mm | 210mm | 215mm |
| Average price | £4,746pp | £4,992pp | £4,149pp | £4,222pp | £4,827pp | £4,835pp | £5,104pp | £5,176pp | £5,176pp | £5,129pp | £3,958pp | £3,958pp |
Intimate and private safaris
Current offers
Savings worth having on the departures we think are worth taking. Every offer below applies to this hotel — check each one for the dates and conditions that come with it.

Save up to £300pp
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 25% when you book by 6th July
Based on selected departures in September 2026

Save up to 35% + complimentary meal upgrade
Based on 20th July 2026 departure

Free half-board upgrade
Based on selected departures in October 2026

Stay 7 nights, pay for 6
Based on selected departures in November 2026

Save up to £200pp on honeymoons
Based on selected departures in January 2027

Complimentary spa treatment for two
Based on stays of 7 nights or more

Free kids' places
Based on selected departures in August 2026
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Build your trip
Pick your airport, then choose a departure date to see how the price moves across the year. Everything you change here updates the summary alongside.
Select holiday details
Departure details
Prices shown are per person, and based on the cheapest flight available that day.
May 2026
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June 2026
| Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa | Su |
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Great offers on Niva Kuramathi Maldives
Escape to Niva Kuramathi and enjoy exclusive savings on your Maldives getaway.
View offersHave you considered a multi-centre?
Maldives pairs really well with other destinations, from Dubai to Sri Lanka.
View multi-centresGood to know
- Includes flights, baggage, and private transfers to and from your hotel
- Total flight time ~ 7 hrs
- Total transfer time ~ 2 hrs
- Overnight in Malé may apply (subject to flights & transfers)
Intimate and private safaris
Questions? Sorted.
Do I need a visa to visit the Maldives?
British passport holders are issued a free 30-day visitor visa on arrival. You'll need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a confirmed onward ticket and proof of your accommodation booking.
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
November to April is the dry season, with the most reliable sunshine and calmest seas. May to October brings shorter rain showers, lower prices and better surf.
What currency is used in the Maldives, and do I need cash?
The local currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, but resorts price and bill in US dollars and take major cards. Most guests never need cash — a small amount is handy for tipping.
Is the Maldives good for honeymoons outside peak season?
Yes. Off-peak brings noticeably lower rates and quieter islands, and rain tends to come in short bursts rather than all day. Many resorts add honeymoon extras during these months.
What activities are there for older kids and teens in the Maldives?
Most resorts run watersports centres with windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding, plus PADI dive courses from around age ten. Snorkelling safaris, sandbank trips and night fishing all suit older children.
Intimate and private safaris
Guest reviews
Tripadvisor reviews will appear here once the feed is connected.
Intimate and private safaris
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