The first resort in the Maldives, opened in 1972 and renamed Niva Kurumba in 2026: 180 rooms and villas only 10 minutes by speedboat from the airport. Here is what to know about rooms, packages, dining, location and booking.
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Kurumba Maldives at a Glance
| Address | Vihamanafushi, North Malé Atoll, Maldives |
| Category | 5-star island resort |
| Rooms | 180 rooms and villas |
| Signature features | First resort in the Maldives, 10-minute speedboat from Velana Airport, pool villas, family villas |
| Check-in / Check-out | 2:00 PM / 12:00 noon |
| Opened | 3 October 1972; renamed Niva Kurumba Maldives on 31 March 2026 |
Hotel Overview
Kurumba opened on 3 October 1972 as the first tourist resort in the Maldives, built by a group of young Maldivians on a coconut-plantation island. On 31 March 2026 it was renamed Niva Kurumba Maldives as its operator, formerly Universal Resorts, moved its hotels to the Niva brand; the location, facilities and ownership did not change.
Its biggest advantage is how close it is: the island is about 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, so there is no seaplane to pay for and late arrivals are easy. That makes it a popular choice for short stays, families and the first or last night of a longer trip.
Today the resort has 180 rooms and villas, from deluxe bungalows to pool villas and large family villas, plus several restaurants, pools, a spa and a dive centre.
Kurumba Maldives Rooms & Suites Compared
| Room type | Layout & size | Best for | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Bungalow | About 74 m², garden setting | Couples on a budget | Check live rate |
| Beach Villa | About 103 m² (1,109 sq ft), beach view, sleeps 4 | Beach lovers | Check live rate |
| Garden Pool Villa | About 124 m² with private pool | Honeymoons | Check live rate |
| Deluxe Pool Villa | About 160 m² with private pool | Extra space and privacy | Check live rate |
| Family Villa | About 306 m², sleeps 5 | Families | Check live rate |
Villa sizes differ slightly between booking sites; treat them as approximate. Expedia may list the resort under either name.
Packages & Kurumba Maldives Rates
Prices change with the date, season and room category, so we do not quote fixed prices. These are the rate types you will usually see on Expedia, and who each one suits.
Room only, flexible
Check live rate
Best for: Plans that might change
- Room for your dates; free cancellation up to the hotel's deadline on most refundable rates
Half board or full board
Check live rate
Best for: Most resort stays
- Breakfast plus dinner (half board) or all meals (full board); island restaurants are pricey, so this often saves money
Non-refundable saver
Check live rate
Best for: Fixed dates
- The lowest price for the same room, paid in advance and not changeable
All-inclusive
Check live rate
Best for: Families and longer stays
- All meals and selected drinks; check which bars and restaurants are included
Transfers
Check live rate
Best for: Every booking
- Return speedboat transfer is arranged by the resort; arrange it at least 72 hours before arrival
Dining, Pools & Spa
- Several restaurants and bars around the island
- Multiple pools, including family-friendly pools
- Spa and dive centre
- House reef and water sports
Location & Getting There
Kurumba is on Vihamanafushi island in North Malé Atoll, about 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Guests must arrive by boat and contact the resort at least 72 hours before arrival with flight details.
How to Book Kurumba Maldives
Book directly on Expedia through our partner link to see live availability and every room type for your dates. If you want a complete trip with flights from Dhaka, transfers and other hotels, message the TripsGent team on WhatsApp and we will quote it all together.
Tips for Your Stay
- Send your flight details at least 72 hours ahead so the boat is waiting.
- Great for a first or last night: no seaplane schedules to worry about.
- Compare half board and all-inclusive: island dining adds up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kurumba the same as Niva Kurumba Maldives?
Yes. Kurumba Maldives was renamed Niva Kurumba Maldives on 31 March 2026. It is the same resort on the same island.
How far is Kurumba from Malé airport?
About 10 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport.
Was Kurumba the first resort in the Maldives?
Yes. It opened on 3 October 1972 as the country's first tourist resort.
How many villas does Kurumba have?
180 rooms and villas, from deluxe bungalows to pool villas and family villas.
What time is check-in at Kurumba?
Check-in is from 2 PM and check-out is before 12 noon.
Featured photo: Beach next to the main bar at Kurumba Maldives. By otterboris, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0 (cropped).
