Travel To Gili Islands: What's The Current Situation?

The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands off the northwest tip of Lombok, Indonesia. The islands are known for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Gili Trawangan, the most popular and developed island, offers a variety of accommodation, restaurants, and bars, with a mix of quiet and exotic beaches. Gili Meno is perfect for those seeking a quiet island escape, while Gili Air falls in between the two in terms of atmosphere and amenities. The best time to visit the Gili Islands is during the dry season (June to September) when sea conditions are favourable and visibility is high for snorkelling and diving.

Travel options to the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno – found in the Lombok Strait, northwest of the island of Lombok and about 35 kilometres from Bali. The islands are easily accessible from Bali and Lombok, making them a popular choice for tourists who want to try island-hopping.

By Boat

The most common way to get to the Gili Islands is by boat from Bali or Lombok. There are several options for boat travel, including:

• Fast boat services: These are the quickest and most direct way to travel to the Gili Islands from Bali. Fast boat services depart from Benoa, Serangan Island, Padang Bai, and Amed in Bali and take between 90 minutes and 2.5 hours.
• Public ferries: These ferries leave from Padang Bai in the southeast corner of Bali and take about 5 hours to reach Lembar in southwest Lombok. From there, you will need to take a 2-hour taxi ride to Bangsal Harbour and then another boat to the Gili Islands.
• Public boats from Bali: These are similar to the public ferries but depart from Serangan, Amed, or Padang Bai in Bali and take between 90 minutes and 2.5 hours.
• Slow ferry via Lombok: This option involves taking a ferry from Padang Bai in Bali to Lembar in Lombok, then travelling by road to Bangsal Harbour, and finally taking a local boat to the Gili Islands. This journey can take around 8 hours in total.
• Chartered boat: It is possible to charter a boat from Bangsal Harbour, Senggigi, or Teluk Nare in Lombok to reach the Gili Islands.

By Plane

While there are no direct flights to the Gili Islands, it is possible to fly into Lombok International Airport and then take a taxi to Bangsal Harbour, followed by a local boat to the islands. This option typically takes around 3-4 hours in total.

Island-Hopping

Once you have arrived at one of the Gili Islands, it is easy to travel between them by using one of the many local boat services. The "Island Hopper" public slow boat runs twice a day in each direction and costs between 40,000-45,000 IDR. There are also "leave when full" public shuttle boats that run more frequently but do not have set departure times. These boats cost between 18,000-23,000 IDR. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat, which offers more flexibility but may require negotiation on the price.

Within the Islands

On the islands themselves, there are no cars, lorries, or motorised vehicles of any kind. Instead, people typically get around by walking, cycling, or hiring a local horse cart (cidomo).

Best time to visit the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. They are known for their stunning natural beauty, white sand beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. When planning a trip to the Gili Islands, it's important to consider the weather, the tourist crowd, and your personal preferences for the ideal vacation.

The Gili Islands experience two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season, from June to September, offers sunny and dry weather with little rainfall. This period is considered the best time for outdoor activities such as diving, snorkelling, and sunbathing. It is also the peak tourist season, with the islands being most buzzing and energetic during this time. July and August, in particular, are the busiest months as they coincide with the summer vacations in the Northern Hemisphere. If you're looking for a lively and festive atmosphere, this is the time to visit. However, keep in mind that accommodation prices may be higher, and you might need to book well in advance.

On the other hand, the wet season in the Gili Islands runs from October to April, with heavier rainfall between December and February. During this period, you can expect afternoon showers, but the islands still experience sunny weather for most of the day. The wet season is the low season, so you'll find fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation options. If you prefer a more relaxed and quiet vacation, this might be the best time to visit. However, keep in mind that snorkelling and diving visibility might be slightly reduced during this period.

Overall, the Gili Islands offer a tropical escape with year-round warm temperatures ranging between 27°C and 32°C. The dry season is ideal for those seeking sunny beach days and outdoor adventures, while the wet season provides a quieter atmosphere and lush greenery. Choose the time of year that best suits your interests and budget to ensure you have the perfect getaway on these idyllic islands.

Things to do on the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands, located off the northwest tip of Lombok, Indonesia, are a group of three small islands: Trawangan, Meno, and Air. While each island has its own unique character and atmosphere, they all offer stunning natural beauty, a laid-back vibe, and a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do during your time on the Gili Islands:

Explore the Underwater World

The Gili Islands are renowned for their excellent diving and snorkelling spots. With warm and gorgeous waters teeming with abundant marine life, it's no wonder that many visitors flock to the islands for scuba diving and snorkelling. Gili Trawangan, in particular, has the most dive operators and is a great place to get your PADI or SSI certification. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try freediving or apnea diving on Gili Trawangan. For those who prefer snorkelling, glass-bottom boat tours are also available, offering a dry but no less captivating glimpse of the underwater world.

Circumnavigate the Islands

Each of the Gili Islands is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle. Gili Meno, with its quiet coral sand beaches and dirt village roads, is perfect for leisurely strolls. On Gili Trawangan, renting a bicycle is a great way to get around and see the island. Just remember to bring a lock for your bike and be mindful of the local culture when choosing your attire.

Indulge in Sunset Views

The Gili Islands offer breathtaking sunset vistas, especially from the western parts of the islands. Popular spots to watch the sunset include Ombak Sunset Hotel, The Exile, Malibu Beach, and Le Pirates Beach Club. Get there about an hour early to secure a good seat and don't be discouraged if the sun is hiding behind clouds – the vibrant hues of the sky are often just as stunning.

Party the Night Away

Gili Trawangan is the island that truly comes alive after dark. With hostels, restaurants, and bars aplenty, you'll find vibrant nightlife and exciting parties almost every night of the week. Mondays at Blue Marlin, Wednesdays at Tir Na Nog (the Irish Pub), and Fridays at Rudy's are known for their lively festivities. If you're looking for live music, head to Sama-Sama, where well-known Indonesian bands like Steven & Coconut Treez often perform. Gili Air also has its fair share of beach bars, including the Legend Bar and the Space Bar, ensuring that your nights on the Gili Islands are just as memorable as your days.

Relax and Unwind

If you're seeking a more tranquil experience, Gili Meno and Gili Air offer the perfect escape from the crowds. Gili Meno, the most barren of the three islands, is known for its quiet beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Gili Air, on the other hand, strikes a balance between relaxation and excitement, with cute hotels, beautiful sunsets, and a variety of dining options. All three islands boast an array of beach clubs where you can sip cocktails, savour delicious food, and simply unwind amidst breathtaking ocean views.

Accommodation options on the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxurious, ensuring that every traveller can find something suitable. Here is an overview of the accommodation choices on each of the three Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan, the most popular and developed island, boasts a wide range of options. You can find everything from cheap backpacker hostels to luxurious resorts and villas. The island's southeast shoreline is bustling with crowds and nightlife, while the northern and western coasts offer quieter and more exotic beaches. Gili Trawangan has the most hotels and restaurants out of the three islands, providing diverse choices for dining and accommodation.

Gili Meno

Gili Meno is ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat away from the crowds. It is the most barren of the islands, featuring quiet coral sand beaches and dirt village roads that showcase the local Sasak people's peaceful lives. Gili Meno upholds a ban on loud music and late-night partying, creating a serene atmosphere. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly to luxury resorts, and the island offers beautiful beachfront spots to relax and enjoy the sunset with a drink.

Gili Air

Gili Air, the closest island to the Lombok mainland, strikes a balance between tranquillity and vibrant nightlife. It offers a good variety of beach bars and restaurants, similar to Gili Trawangan but on a smaller scale. Gili Air caters to diverse interests, from those seeking dining and nightlife options to those interested in marine water sports. The island also serves as a convenient base for island-hopping, with easy ferry access to Bangsal Harbour in Lombok for further exploration.

Practical Information

When choosing accommodation on the Gili Islands, it is important to consider the differences between the islands and your specific preferences. Whether you desire lively nightlife, serene beaches, or a mix of both, each island has its unique atmosphere. Additionally, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons like July-August and December-January, to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.

Safety tips for the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a safe place to visit, but as with any destination, there are some precautions travellers should take to avoid problems. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while visiting the Gili Islands:

• Be aware of the drugs and alcohol—The Gili Islands, particularly Gili Trawangan, are known for their drugs, with magic mushrooms being sold openly in cafes and beach shacks. However, drug use is illegal in Indonesia and can carry severe penalties. Alcohol is also very cheap in Indonesia, but there have been multiple deaths due to methanol lacing, so it is important to be careful. Stick to pre-bottled drinks, and avoid unbottled spirits.
• Be cautious when swimming—The waters around the Gili Islands are generally calm, but the islands experience high volumes of water movement during high and low tides, which can cause strong swells. Always follow local advice and take extra caution when in the water. Go with a guide and do not venture into deeper waters alone.
• Stay in well-lit areas—While the crime rate on the Gili Islands is low, it is still recommended to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night off the main streets.
• Be respectful of local customs—Most residents of the Gili Islands are Muslim, so it is important to dress modestly when heading inland or passing through residential areas. Look out for signs saying "no swimwear in the village" and carry a big t-shirt and sarong with you.
• Be aware of mosquitoes—Mosquitoes are a year-round issue in the Gili Islands, and can carry dengue fever. Prepare yourself with bug spray, especially around dusk.
• Be careful with your belongings—Although petty theft is rare, it is still recommended to lock up your bicycle or other belongings when you're not using them. Insurance for bike theft is not common on the islands, so if your bike is stolen, you will have to cover the cost yourself.
• Drink purified water—Tap water is not safe to drink in Indonesia, so always drink purified or bottled water to stay hydrated.
• Be aware of local holidays—There are two holidays that may affect your visit: Ramadan, when some businesses will close earlier and parties are limited; and Nyepi, when Bali shuts down and many travellers head to the Gili Islands, making it very busy.
• Use a reputable boat transfer service—Book a boat transfer service that is reliable and has a good safety record.
• Practice general travel safety—Make use of your hotel room's safe deposit box and keep your door locked when you are out. Never leave your drinks unattended, and be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

Frequently asked questions