Getting There
BY PLANE
Although it is possible to get to Gili Islands, Lombok over land or water, the best way is to fly.
BY FAST BOAT FROM BALI
Numerous fast boat services depart from Bali to Gilis with none or one stop in Senggigi, Lombok. 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 Islands. 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 hotel in Bali.
BY FAST BOAT FROM LOMBOK
It takes around 35 minutes by a public boat to get to Gili Trawangan, Air or Meno from Lombok. Public boats depart from either Senggigi or Teluk Nara seaports and ranges from IDR85,000 per person to more than IDR500,000 for the whole chartered boat. Charter boats will coats around IDR200,000 one way for the entire vessel that carries up to 12 persons. Charter boats also leave from Bangsal harbour on the west coast of Lombok mainland.
BY FAST BOAT FROM OTHER GIL ISLANDS
There is an official island hopping boat service with a couple of boats carrying passengers between three Gili Islands. Boats depart according to the official schedule, and the ticket price starts from IDR20,000 for a one-way boat trip. The chartered boats are also available to hire and the price averages between IDR 170,000 to IDR200,000 depending on the timing and season.
Getting Around
Due to the fact that Gili islands do not have motorised transport, there are only a few options to get around these tiny islets:
ON FOOT
Gili Islands feature with small sizes, hence, you can easily circumnavigate any of them around the perimeter in around two hours on foot. The footpaths run along the beach and link the main attractions and tourist infrastructure. Walking around the island on foot is a great way to explore the island and find your own favourite beach.
BICYCLE
Renting a bike on Gilis is widely available for IDR30,000-50,000 per day. Riding the cycle is fast and convenient way to move about the island, however, there are a few places with deeper sand so better to avoid riding along these tracks. Also, check your bike on malfunctions as some of them can be rather old and pretty used.
HORSE CARTS
Horse carts or ‘cidomo’ are available on Gili islands catering to visitors travelling with heavy bags and staying away from the departure area. The flat rate of IDR100,000 is now charged, notwithstanding, the distance on Gili Meno and Gili Air, however, you can try to negotiate on the price on Gili Trawangan.