Getting There
BY PLANE
The best way to access Gili Air is to fly to Lombok and ferry across to the island.
BY FAST BOAT FROM BALI
Numerous fast boat services depart from Bali to Gili Islands with one or two stops in Senggigi, Lombok, and then in Gili Trawangan. Boats depart from the major Bali seaports – Benoa, Padang Bai and Serangan – and it takes between 2 to 2.5 hours to get to Gili Air. However, during the big swell (July-August) and monsoon (January-February) seasons delays and even cancellations can occur. The ticket price vary as it depends on the travel agent and season, and usually include the land transfer from/to your accomodation in Bali.
BY FAST BOAT FROM LOMBOK
The island hopper boats leaving Bangsal harbour at irregular intervals is the preferred mode of getting to Gili Air from Lombok among both locals and tourists. Even though these vessels are not as comfortable as fast boats, the trip takes less than 20 minutes. Public boats depart from Bangsal seaports, and the ticket price ranges from IDR25,000 per person to more than IDR200,000 for the whole chartered boat.
BY FAST BOAT FROM OTHER GIL ISLANDS
The public boat cruising between three islands departs at 9 am from Gili Trawangan and stops in Gili Meno (at 9.15 am approximate), and Gili Air at 9.30 am on the way to Lombok mainland. Another boat leaving in the afternoon has a reverse route.
Getting Around
Due to the fact that Gili islands do not have motorised transport, there are only a few options to get around the tiny island:
ON FOOT
Gili Air features with the small sizes, and you can easily circumnavigate it around the perimeter in around 1.5 hours on foot. The footpath runs along the beach and links the main attractions and tourist infrastructure. Walking around the island on foot is a great way to explore the island and find your favourite beach.
BICYCLE
Renting a bike on Gili Air is widely available for IDR50,000 per day. Riding the bicycle is a fast and convenient way to see more of Gili Air, however, there are a few places with deeper sand so better to avoid riding along these paths. Also, check your cycle on malfunctions as some of them are rather old and pretty used.
HORSE CARTS
Horse carts or ‘cidomo’ are available on the island if you are travelling with heavy bags and staying away from the departure area. The flat rate of IDR170,000 is now charged notwithstanding the distance.