Gili Kapal is a fantastic spot for tours and experiences because it offers a combination of pristine waters, unspoiled beaches, and underwater wonders that appeal to both casual swimmers and seasoned snorkelers. Unlike busy tourist-heavy spots, Gili Kapal and its neighboring islands provide peaceful, crowd-free environments perfect for exploring Indonesia’s underwater world and hidden islands. Among the many options, we especially like the Full-Day Hidden Gili Kondo with Snorkeling and Beach BBQ for its comprehensive itinerary and stunning scenery, and the Lombok: East Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour with BBQ Lunch for its longer, immersive experience.
Each tour on our list offers something distinct—whether it’s a full-day exploration, a private snorkel trip, or a comprehensive island-hopping journey—that helps you choose based on your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. Full-Day Hidden Gili Kondo with Snorkeling and Beach BBQ
At number 1, the Full-Day Hidden Gili Kondo with Snorkeling and Beach BBQ is a great way to uncover some of the more secluded parts of East Lombok. This tour is designed for those who want a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on untouched beaches, all while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The day begins with pickup from your hotel—either in Mataram City or Senggigi—then guides you through a series of stops at small islands like Gili Petagan and Gili Kondo, each offering unique snorkeling spots and tranquil scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on exploring peaceful, crowd-free islands, with highlights including snorkeling around vibrant coral reefs, walking on the famous disappearing sandbar of Gili Kapal, and finishing with a delicious beach BBQ overlooking Mount Rinjani. Plus, you get scenic views from the water, making this tour perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time to snorkel, photograph, and enjoy the beaches without feeling rushed.
Guests praise the experience for its “beautiful, untouched beaches” and the chance to swim in clear waters away from tourist crowds. Priced for value, it’s ideal for travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines snorkeling, scenic views, and good food.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive day exploring East Lombok’s islands, with excellent snorkeling and a beach BBQ, this tour is a top choice.
2. Lombok: East Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour with BBQ Lunch
At number 2, the Lombok: East Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour with BBQ Lunch offers a longer, more immersive experience that’s perfect for snorkelers who want to see multiple islands and their underwater life. Starting from various pickup locations including Senggigi and Kuta, this 12-hour trip takes you to explore Gili Petagan’s mangrove forests, Gili Kondo, Gili Bidara, and Gili Kapal.
The tour’s highlight is exploring the mangrove forests of Gili Petagan by small boat, giving you a different perspective of the region’s ecology. You’ll also snorkel around the coral reefs of Gili Kondo and Gili Bidara, with time to relax and swim on each island. The beach BBQ on Gili Bidara is a standout, filling the air with the aroma of grilled seafood, and providing a satisfying local-style lunch.
Reviews note that the tour offers excellent value for the longer hours and varied activities. The ability to customize stops and the chance to see white sand islands that appear at low tide makes it appealing for anyone wanting an authentic, multi-island adventure. The tour is best suited for those with a full day to spare who enjoy snorkeling and exploring multiple islands.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a full-day, in-depth snorkel tour with options to relax on different beaches, this offers fantastic diversity and value.
3. Lombok: Exclusive Snorkeling at Gili Kondo & Visit 3 Gili
Number 3 on our list is the Lombok: Exclusive Snorkeling at Gili Kondo & Visit 3 Gili. This tour is especially popular among those who prefer a more private, flexible experience. It’s a 10-hour trip centered around private snorkeling on Gili Kondo, with visits to Gili Bidara, Gili Kapal, and Gili Petagan.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on personalized exploration and the chance to visit multiple islands with fewer people. Starting from Padak Guar Harbor, the boat takes you to snorkel at Gili Kondo, renowned for its clear waters and lush coral reefs. Then, you’ll visit Gili Petagan’s mangrove island, Gili Bidara, known for its peaceful beaches, and Gili Kapal, famous for its beach and scenic views.
While reviews highlight the flexibility and exclusive nature of this tour, some travelers note it’s best suited for those who prioritize privacy and tailored experiences over larger group tours. The trip offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and a chance to relax in less crowded environments.
Bottom Line: If you seek a more intimate, customizable boat trip with plenty of snorkeling, this tour is an ideal pick.
How to Choose the Right Gili Kapal Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: do you want a full day exploring multiple islands with snorkeling and a BBQ? Or perhaps a more private, tailored experience appeals more? If your time is limited, the Full-Day Hidden Gili Kondo offers a balanced mix of activities and relaxation. For those with a full day and a love of underwater exploration, the East Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour provides a longer, more diverse journey. Meanwhile, for travelers who prefer a more intimate setting or are traveling with a smaller group, the Exclusive Snorkeling tour is the way to go.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season. Also, check the inclusion of hotel pickup, and whether lunch and snorkeling gear are provided—most tours include these, but it’s worth confirming.
To sum it up, Gili Kapal and its surrounding islands are a treasure for anyone interested in snorkeling, beach relaxation, or island-hopping. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure, a private experience, or a longer exploration, there’s a tour that fits your style. The best way to enjoy these pristine waters is to plan ahead and reserve your spot early—these tours fill up fast when the weather’s perfect. Happy snorkeling!