Gili Trawangan Snorkeling with Turtles & Underwater Statue

If you’re planning a trip to Lombok and looking for a memorable underwater adventure, the Gili Trawangan Snorkeling with Turtles & Underwater Statue tour could be just what you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience stand out are its stunning coral reefs, the unique underwater sculptures, and the chance to observe sea turtles in their sanctuary. We love that the tour offers multiple activities in one day, providing a well-rounded glimpse into Gili’s vibrant marine environment.

The only potential hiccup? Since it’s a day trip, it’s quite packed—so if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. But for most travelers, the balance of snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxation makes this tour highly appealing.

This experience suits adventurous travelers, families, or anyone eager to explore Gili’s underwater world without breaking the bank. If you’re after easy accessibility and a variety of sights, this tour ticks those boxes.

• Affordable value at just over $11 per person, including most equipment and activities.
• Multiple stops across the Gili Islands, offering diverse marine environments and sights.
• Underwater sculptures that combine art with marine habitat, a unique feature not found everywhere.
• Conservation focus with visits to turtle sanctuaries, supporting awareness and protection.
• Plus activities like glass-bottom boat rides and underwater photography, enhancing the experience.
• Group size is limited to 30 travelers, balancing intimacy with social vibe.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am at Lucky Trips on the main road in Gili Trawangan. This central location means easy access, and most travelers will find it convenient to meet there. The tour features a mobile ticket, so you can keep your booking handy. Expect a friendly crew to greet you—many reviews mention staff members like “very helpful” and “knowledgeable,” eager to ensure everyone feels comfortable in the water.

The trip lasts approximately 4 hours, which feels perfect for tackling a good number of sites without feeling overly rushed. Given the group size cap of 30, you’ll likely find it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention.

First Stop: Pristine Coral Reefs

Our journey begins at Gili Trawangan’s well-maintained coral reefs. Here, the water is calm, and the visibility tends to be excellent, making it ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The reefs are teeming with marine life, providing vibrant sights of colorful fish and lush coral formations. One reviewer mentioned, “The reefs were full of life, and I loved how easy it was to swim around without feeling overwhelmed.”

You can expect to use snorkeling gear and a life jacket, which are included. For those who enjoy photography, many participants appreciated the chance to capture bright fish swimming among coral, especially with the underwater camera provided during the tour.

Underwater Sculptures: Art Meets Marine Habitat

Next, the tour visits a set of underwater sculptures arranged in a circular pattern. Created by local artists, these sculptures serve dual purposes: beautiful underwater art and a habitat for marine life. As one guest noted, “Swimming around the sculptures was surreal—like diving into an underwater art exhibit. The fish swim right through the statues, making it a fascinating mix of creativity and nature.”

This stop is particularly appealing for those interested in underwater photography or simply wanting a unique experience beyond standard coral reefs. The sculptures are designed to attract fish and other marine creatures, adding an extra dimension to your snorkeling.

Turtle Sanctuary: Close Encounters

Perhaps the most iconic part of this tour is a visit to the turtle sanctuary. Here, you’ll get a chance to observe these gentle creatures in a safe environment, where conservation efforts are actively supported. The sanctuary’s goal is to protect turtles from extinction, and many reviews commend the tour for highlighting the importance of marine conservation.

Guests often mention how turtles are thriving in the sanctuary, and some even get the chance to see them up close. One reviewer said, “Seeing the turtles so close and knowing they’re protected made me appreciate the work done here.” This stop is a highlight for nature lovers and families alike.

Break Time at Gili Air or Gili Meno

After the sanctuary, the tour takes a break on Gili Air or Gili Meno for around an hour. This is an excellent opportunity to relax on quiet beaches, grab a bite, or simply soak up the laid-back island vibe. Although lunch isn’t included, many travelers found local cafes and stalls perfectly suited for a quick refreshment.

One frequent comment is how peaceful and uncrowded these islands feel—ideal for unwinding after the morning’s activities. The relaxed atmosphere allows you to reflect on the morning’s sights and perhaps snap some candid photos.

Fish Garden: A Colorful Reef

The last snorkeling stop at the fish garden is a riot of color. Here, you’ll swim alongside countless friendly fish, often curious and unafraid. Many reviewers loved how easy it was to observe marine life in its natural habitat, with one mentioning, “The fish here come so close; it’s like swimming in an aquarium, but better because it’s real.”

This site provides a perfect ending to the underwater exploration, giving you a chance to appreciate the biodiversity of the Gili Islands.

Return and Optional Extras

After the fish garden, the group heads back to Gili Trawangan, with the trip wrapping up around 1:30 pm. Extras like riding a glass-bottom boat or taking underwater photos add fun touches that many travelers mention as memorable. The crew is friendly and eager to help you capture the moments, making sure you leave with plenty of photos and stories.

Pricing and Value: At just $11.03 per person, this tour is affordable for most travelers. While lunch isn’t included, the overall cost covers equipment, boat rides, and entry to protected sites. This makes it a great value for those looking to see plenty without overspending.

Group Size and Atmosphere: With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour strikes a balance between social interaction and personal space. Many reviews highlight the friendly, helpful crew who assist both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

Timing and Duration: Starting at 9:30 am and lasting roughly 4 hours, the tour fits well into a full day of exploring Gili Islands. Be prepared for a busy schedule, but also for plenty of underwater fun.

Accessibility: Using provided snorkeling gear and life jackets makes the experience accessible for most, including beginners. However, physical ability to swim confidently is encouraged.

This snorkeling trip offers a fantastic introduction to the marine wonders of Gili Islands. Its affordable price point combined with diverse stops makes it ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager to see as much as possible in a short time.

Families and first-time snorkelers will appreciate the safe environment and friendly staff, while seasoned snorkelers will enjoy the chance to see artistic underwater sculptures and active turtle conservation efforts.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging, and value-packed day out that showcases Gili’s underwater beauty, this tour deserves serious consideration.

However, if your ideal trip involves spending more time at fewer sites or more leisurely-paced exploration, you might find this tour slightly rushed, but still worthwhile for its variety and affordability.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling equipment and life jackets, making it accessible for beginners. The calm waters and friendly crew help ensure a comfortable experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a glass-bottom boat, and the services of a friendly crew. Lunch is not included.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, from start at 9:30 am until about 1:30 pm, including breaks and snorkeling stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lucky Trips on Gili Trawangan’s main road and concludes back at the same location.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for all ages. However, children should be comfortable in the water and accompanied by an adult.

Can I take photos underwater?
Absolutely. An underwater camera is provided during the trip, and many travelers find this a highlight, capturing vibrant marine life and artful sculptures.

This snorkeling adventure in Gili Trawangan offers a lively, colorful, and engaging way to explore some of Indonesia’s most beautiful underwater sights. Whether you’re into marine life, underwater art, or just looking for a fun, budget-friendly activity, this tour is worth considering.