Lombok : Snorkeling Trip (Gili Trawangan, Meno & Gili Air)

Exploring Lombok’s Gili Islands: A Snorkeling Adventure Worth Your Time

Our review of the Lombok: Snorkeling Trip (Gili Trawangan, Meno & Gili Air) highlights an experience that promises vivid marine life, stunning scenery, and a taste of island life. This tour is designed for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic taste of the Gili Islands’ underwater world while enjoying some downtime on white sandy beaches.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the mix of guided snorkeling at three top spots, including the famed underwater sculpture “The Nest,” and the chance to swim alongside turtles—an experience that can truly stay with you. Plus, the opportunity to relax on Gili Trawangan’s beautiful beaches and enjoy panoramic views from Malimbu Hill adds a well-rounded touch.

A potential consideration? The day’s schedule involves a fair amount of travel and water activity, so it may not be ideal if you’re seeking a leisurely, less structured day or have limited mobility. Still, if you’re after a jam-packed day of marine adventure and island exploration, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience suits travelers who value professional guides, lively marine environments, and authentic island vibes. It’s perfect for those staying in Bali or Lombok who want a comprehensive, value-packed day on the water without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive snorkeling across three islands with diverse coral reefs and marine life
• Includes guided visits to underwater sculptures and turtle sanctuaries
• Private boat transport offers a comfortable, personalized experience
• Relaxing beach time on Gili Trawangan with options to explore by bike or horse cart
• Panoramic views from Malimbu Hill add a scenic finish
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later options

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Gili Islands: What You Can Expect

This one-day trip offers a well-rounded peek into the beauty of the Gili Islands, starting from your hotel pickup early in the morning. The journey begins with a scenic drive to the Sea-Port Teluk Nare, where a private, slow-moving boat awaits—an ideal way to travel between Bali and Lombok without feeling rushed. This boat ride is part of the charm, giving you a relaxed start to your day on the water.

What makes snorkeling here special? The Gili Islands are renowned for their vibrant coral reefs, which host an astonishing variety of fish, sea turtles, and even the iconic underwater sculptures. Our favorite stop was “The Nest,” an underwater sculpture that’s become a must-see for snorkelers. The sculptures are positioned to be both artistic and a habitat for marine life, creating a surreal backdrop as you swim nearby.

Next, you’ll visit the Turtle Spot at Gili Trawangan, a dedicated sanctuary where you can paddle alongside these gentle creatures. Several reviews mention how memorable and close-up this experience can be, with one traveler noting, “We managed to swim with many turtles and see the old ruins underwater while snorkeling.” The marine environment here is lively, filled with colorful fish and coral, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

After two snorkeling stops, the boat anchors at Gili Trawangan for lunch and free time. You can relax, sunbathe on the white sandy beach, or explore the island using rental bikes or horse carts. The tour includes approximately 1.5 hours here, giving you a chance to soak in the lively yet laid-back island atmosphere.

The final scenic stop is Malimbu Hill, where you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the three Gilis and, in the distance, Mount Agung Bali. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the natural beauty from above.

What about logistics? The tour lasts around 8 hours, including hotel pickup, boat transfers, snorkeling, and scenic stops. The group size is private, ensuring a personalized experience, and the guide speaks English to help you navigate and understand each site.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Hotel Pickup
Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in East Lombok. The driver is friendly and speaks English, providing a smooth start to what promises to be an exciting day.

Stop 2: Gili Air – Snorkeling
The first snorkeling spot, Gili Air, is a smaller, quieter island known for its clear waters and vibrant coral. Expect about 30 minutes here, enough to see the coral reefs and colorful marine life. Travelers often comment on how peaceful and picturesque this island feels—an ideal introduction to the day’s underwater adventures.

Stop 3: Gili Meno Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Next, the tour takes you to Gili Meno at the Turtle Sanctuary, a conservation-focused site. Here, you’ll snorkel for around 30 minutes, swimming with turtles and observing their natural habitat. Reviewers often mention how close they got to these gentle giants, with one saying, “Swim with turtles at the Turtle spot was amazing — so peaceful and close-up.” The sanctuary’s protected environment means you’re likely to see turtles in their natural surroundings.

Stop 4: Gili Trawangan – Lunch and Free Time
After the underwater sights, you arrive at Gili Trawangan for about 1.5 hours. This is your chance to relax on the beach, grab some local food, or rent a bike to explore the island’s lively streets. The tour includes a photo stop, and many visitors enjoy capturing the iconic views. The island has a lively vibe but also plenty of serene spots where you can unwind.

Stop 5: Return via Malimbu Hill
On your way back, you’ll pass Malimbu Hill, offering sweeping views of the Gilis and Mount Agung. The scenery here is stunning and makes for a perfect photo opportunity, especially with the setting sun if you time it right.

Return to Hotel
The day wraps up with the boat journey back to Lombok, followed by your driver dropping you off at your hotel. The entire experience is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, with bottled water provided throughout.

Value for Money and What’s Included

At $96 per person, this snorkeling trip offers good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, private boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and guided experience. You’re paying for convenience, safety, and expert guidance, which enhances the overall quality of the day.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, private boat, snorkeling gear, guided snorkeling, and bottled water. Not included are meals, so bringing some snacks or planning to buy lunch on Trawangan is recommended.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides are knowledgeable and caring, adding value to the trip. One traveler exclaimed, “Our guide Billy was so friendly and caring and really gave us the best tour!” That personal touch makes a difference when navigating busy boat rides and snorkeling spots.

Transport and Timing

The private boat and air-conditioned transfer make the day comfortable, while the timing allows for a full experience without feeling rushed. Check availability for specific start times, as the tour lasts approximately eight hours, making it a substantial but rewarding half-day adventure.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day of marine exploration and island relaxation. It suits active travelers eager to snorkel at multiple sites and see the turtles and sculptures firsthand. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate scenic views, with the Malimbu Hill stop providing a scenic break.

However, if your schedule is tight or you prefer a slower pace, this may feel a bit packed. Also, if you have mobility issues, the boat rides and beach walks might require some planning.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling tour around the Gili Islands offers a great balance of underwater adventure, scenic views, and island exploration. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see vibrant coral reefs, swim with turtles, and enjoy some beach downtime—all in a well-organized, private setting.

The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a straightforward itinerary. For approximately $96, you’re getting a full day of memorable moments, making it excellent value for travelers looking for an active, authentic day out.

Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or just looking to dip your toes into Indonesia’s underwater world, this tour delivers a genuine taste of the Gili Islands’ charm and natural beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who love guided experiences, appreciate scenic vistas, and want a hassle-free way to explore some of Lombok’s most iconic spots.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a car with an English-speaking driver, private boat transfers, snorkeling gear, a snorkeling guide, and bottled water.

How long is the snorkeling time?
You will snorkel at two main spots—Gili Air and Gili Meno—with about 30 minutes at each location. The stops are designed to give you a good look at the marine life and coral.

Can I rent bikes or explore Gili Trawangan on my own?
Yes, the tour provides free time on Gili Trawangan, and you can explore the island using rented bikes or horse carts during this period.

What scenic views will I see?
You’ll enjoy a photo stop at Gili Trawangan, relaxing on the beaches, and a scenic drive over Malimbu Hill with views of the Gilis and Mount Agung Bali in the distance.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, some cash for optional meals or souvenirs, and your own snorkeling mask if you prefer it over the provided gear.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour’s active nature and boat transfers may require some mobility, so it’s best suited for reasonably mobile travelers. Children who are comfortable in water and on boats will enjoy it too.

This well-organized, authentic experience showcases the best of Lombok’s marine beauty and island charm. It’s a day packed with colorful reefs, gentle turtles, and scenic vistas—perfect for making lasting memories in Indonesia.

You can check availability for your dates here: