Gili Island Snorkeling Trip – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, & Gili Air, From Lombok

If you’re dreaming of floating above coral reefs, swimming alongside turtles, and snapping underwater photos of legendary statues, this Gili Islands snorkeling trip might be your perfect escape. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers an authentic, well-organized adventure tailored for active travelers and marine life lovers alike.

What we love about this experience? First, the variety of snorkeling stops—each with its unique charm, from colorful reefs to famous underwater statues. Second, the personalized vibe created by the private guide and small group setting—making it intimate, flexible, and friendly. Third, the value for money, which includes transfers, gear, and professional photos. The one thing to consider? The tour’s duration is around 7 to 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full day of aquatic fun. If you’re after a relaxed beach day, this might be a bit packed, but for those craving adventure, it’s a winner. Mostly, this trip appeals to snorkeling enthusiasts, active explorers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive Gili Islands experience without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Transfers, snorkeling gear, underwater photos, and guided tours make it easy to just enjoy.
• Multiple Island Stops: Explore Gili Air, Meno, and Trawangan with different snorkeling spots, each offering a unique marine scene.
• Expert Guidance: Local guides like Kiki, Arman, and Ujay are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge.
• Memorable Underwater Highlights: Turtles, colorful reefs, and underwater statues provide picture-perfect moments.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Great Value: At $88 per person, the tour offers substantial quality and variety for the price.

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the pickup service. It includes hotel transfers from select areas around Lombok, like Kuta, Mataram, and Senggigi. This is especially convenient if you’re staying in those regions, removing the need to navigate unfamiliar roads or arrange transport on your own. Several reviews highlight how punctual and friendly the drivers are, with some mentioning engaging conversations about Lombok’s culture and history which add a personal touch before the adventure begins.

The private transportation continues throughout the day, taking you comfortably to the boat and between the islands. The boat itself is a glass-bottomed vessel, designed to maximize marine views even when you’re not snorkeling. This detail is especially appreciated by reviewers who loved catching glimpses of fish and coral even during transit.

A Well-Rounded Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary is thoughtfully designed, spanning roughly 7 to 8 hours. It hits five main snorkeling stops, each offering something special:

Stop 1: Gili Air – Fish Garden

This spot, located on Gili Air, is described as a “magnificent natural water park” by one reviewer, with vibrant coral and schools of fish. It’s also where you might spot turtles, according to reviews, making it an exciting first stop. The 40-minute session here gives enough time to explore and snap photos, with the admission ticket included in the package.

Stop 2: Gili Meno – Turtle Point

Next, the trip moves to Gili Meno’s Turtle Point, a favorite among travelers. Many reviews emphasize the abundance of turtles, with some calling it a highlight of the day. The location offers a chance to swim alongside these gentle creatures, with the added benefit that the guide’s attentiveness helps even inexperienced snorkelers feel safe and engaged.

Stop 3: Coral Spot of Gili Meno

This stop takes you to Gili Meno’s Coral Spot, where the reef is teeming with colorful fish and vibrant corals. A reviewer noted seeing “the most living corals” they had encountered, which is a testament to the health and vibrancy of this area. With 40 minutes allocated, you’ll have time for a thorough underwater exploration.

Stop 4: Statue Ring Point

The underwater statues off Gili Meno are a famous attraction, creating a surreal snorkeling experience. Although some reviews mention crowds at the statues, guides like Ryan manage to capture great photos and videos, making sure you don’t miss out on this iconic site. The statues add an element of artistry and mystery, making this stop a memorable highlight.

Stop 5: Gili Trawangan – Vespa Underwater Point

For the final stop, snorkelers are taken to Gili Trawangan’s Vespa Underwater Point. This playful site features submerged scooters, creating fantastic photo opportunities and a fun vibe. A review highlights how the guide’s professionalism and the boat crew’s safety emphasis made this stop a highlight, and the one-hour duration allows plenty of time to enjoy the spectacle.

The Experience on the Water

Throughout the day, the glass-bottom boat acts as a visual feast, keeping marine life within reach even before you dive in. The boat crew and guides receive consistent praise for their professionalism, attentiveness, and friendliness. Many reviewers mention how guides like Johnny, Kiki, and Arman went above and beyond, taking photos and videos with GoPro cameras, which means you get stunning underwater shots without the hassle.

The snorkeling equipment is provided, and many travelers cite the quality of gear as being good, making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers. Bottled water is available throughout, ensuring hydration during the warm, active day.

The Marine Life and Underwater Sightings

Based on reviews, you’ll likely see turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs in abundance. Several reviewers describe swimming with multiple turtles, which seem to be a common highlight. One visitor mentions feeding fish, and others rave about the vibrant coral and the variety of marine species.

The underwater statues, including the famous Gili Meno statues and the Vespa scooters, add an unexpected artistic dimension to your snorkeling experience. Although some reviews note crowds at the statue site, guides try to make the best of it, capturing great footage and ensuring everyone gets a good view.

Photos and Videos: An Underwater Photo Experience

Guides provide underwater photos and videos via GoPro, which seems to be a big hit. Several reviews mention how good these images are, often describing them as “excellent” or “fabulous.” Having these memories captured professionally is a huge plus, especially since many travelers don’t own waterproof cameras.

Timing and Group Size

This tour is billed as private, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the sense of personalization. The daily schedule is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences, with balanced time at each stop—around 40 minutes—giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The total duration of 7-8 hours makes it a full-day adventure, perfect for active travelers who want to maximize their time in the Gili Islands.

Price and Overall Value

At $88 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusions: transfers, snorkeling gear, boat rides, underwater photos, and guides. Given the multiple stops, expert assistance, and professional photos, many reviews consider it worth every penny. Travelers often highlight the quality of the experience relative to the cost, especially since some tours don’t include such comprehensive features.

Final Thoughts: Who Is It Perfect For?

This snorkeling trip is ideal for adventurous travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and those who want a hassle-free, personalized experience exploring Gili’s underwater world. It suits both beginners and experienced snorkelers, thanks to attentive guides and quality gear. If you’re looking for a full-day, all-inclusive, and flexible tour with a friendly vibe, this trip will tick all those boxes.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less active day or aren’t comfortable in the water, you might want to consider other options or shorter activities. But for anyone eager to see turtles, vibrant reefs, and underwater art, this tour offers an authentic and memorable experience.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from select locations around Lombok, such as Kuta, Mataram, and Senggigi.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transfers, boat rides, and snorkeling stops.

Are snorkeling gear and photos included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, along with underwater photos and videos taken with GoPro cameras.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced swimmer?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are attentive and supportive, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but bottled water and snacks are available on the boat. Travelers often find the scenic stops and marine encounters more than enough to fill their day.

This Gili Islands snorkeling tour from Lombok offers a well-rounded, immersive experience with multiple highlight spots, professional guides, and excellent value. Whether you’re chasing turtles, underwater statues, or vibrant reefs, it’s designed to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s perfect for active travelers who love to explore the ocean’s wonders and want a hassle-free day of adventure. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity and an appetite for underwater discovery.