Exploring Lombok’s Hidden Gili Islands: A Complete Review of the Private Snorkeling Day Trip
When considering a day full of sun, sea, and vibrant marine life, this Lombok private snorkeling tour to Gili Nanggu, Kedis, and Sudak promises just that. Although I haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what to expect. From crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish to intimate, uninhabited islands perfect for unwinding, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of Lombok’s maritime charm.
What immediately appeals are the expert guides and smooth transportation, the diverse snorkeling opportunities, and the secluded island stops that add a sense of exclusivity. The inclusion of lunch with a view and private boat transfers make this a hassle-free escape. One potential consideration is the timing and duration—with around 10 hours scheduled, it’s a full day that might be a bit long for some, especially if you prefer a slower pace.
This tour suits travelers who love marine life, enjoy intimate island experiences, and appreciate having all logistics handled for them. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned marine explorer, this trip offers a chance to see Lombok’s underwater wonders while enjoying the tranquility of small islands.
- Key Points
- A Deep Dive into the Lombok Snorkeling Adventure
- The Convenience of Private Transportation and Pickup
- The Boat Ride: A Key Highlight
- Gili Nanggu: The Calm, Coral-Covered Paradise
- Gili Sudak: Savoring Lunch and More Snorkeling
- Gili Kedis: The Tiny, Romantic Island
- What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
- Value for Money
- Expert Guides and Seamless Logistics
- Authentic Marine Experiences
- Relaxed and Private Atmosphere
- Practical Details and Considerations
- Duration and Pace
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Suitability
- The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQs
- More Snorkeling Tours in Lombok
- More Tours in Lombok
- More Tour Reviews in Lombok
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Key Points

- Private, all-inclusive experience with transportation, boat trips, and snorkel gear
- Uninhabited islands like Gili Kedis offer exclusive, romantic, and quiet beaches
- Expert guides and smooth logistics make the day seamless and enjoyable
- Snorkeling opportunities include vibrant coral, colorful fish, and sometimes turtles
- Authentic local lunch with stunning views adds to the relaxing vibe
- Duration of around 10 hours means full immersion but might be lengthy for some travelers
A Deep Dive into the Lombok Snorkeling Adventure

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The Convenience of Private Transportation and Pickup
Starting your day with a hotel pickup, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, sets the tone for a stress-free experience. The private transfer ensures you skip the crowded tour buses and get a personalized touch, which many reviewers appreciate. The drive from your hotel to Sekotong port takes you through scenic Lombok landscapes, building anticipation for the aquatic exploration ahead. As one reviewer mentioned, “Danny was a great driver and tour guide,” highlighting the importance of friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep the day flowing smoothly.
The Boat Ride: A Key Highlight
The boat ride from Sekotong port to the islands is about as scenic as it gets—crystal waters, gentle waves, and the anticipation of snorkeling. The private boat is well-equipped for comfort and safety, allowing your group to relax and enjoy the views. The tour’s flexible approach ensures you avoid large crowds, offering a more intimate experience with Lombok’s marine environment.
Gili Nanggu: The Calm, Coral-Covered Paradise
Our first stop is Gili Nanggu, often described as a “secret” and uninhabited island. The white sandy beaches and coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, with many colorful fish darting around the coral structures. Expect to spend around 3 hours here, giving plenty of time to snorkel, swim, and soak up the peaceful surroundings. The shallow reefs are accessible and ideal for all skill levels, making it a favorite spot for families and beginners.
A real highlight, based on reviews, is the chance to see vibrant coral and fish, with some lucky visitors spotting turtles. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to observe the underwater scenery, which is often described as “beautiful” and “teeming with life”. The island itself is free of crowds, making it an ideal retreat for quiet reflection or romantic moments.
Gili Sudak: Savoring Lunch and More Snorkeling
Next, you’ll visit Gili Sudak for about three hours that combine a hearty local lunch with more snorkeling. The meal features freshly barbecued fish, squid, soups, and local rice—simple but delicious, and served with a view. As one traveler noted, “The seafood lunch was fantastic, with fresh fish and squid barbecued right on the beach.” It’s a fantastic way to experience Lombok’s local flavors in a stunning setting.
After lunch, you can snorkel again, with chances to see starfish, larger coral formations, and maybe even a turtle if luck is on your side. The waters here are rich in marine life, and the guide’s expertise helps ensure you get the most out of your underwater adventure.
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Gili Kedis: The Tiny, Romantic Island
The final stop, Gili Kedis, is the smallest of the three—roughly the size of your garage—and often called Lombok’s honeymoon island. It’s uninhabited and offers a perfect little sanctuary for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. Expect around two hours here, giving enough time to unwind on the soft sand and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Many travelers, including one reviewer, found Gili Kedis to be a highlight for its intimacy and beauty. The island’s tiny size keeps it uncrowded, and the shallow waters are perfect for swimming and floating. It’s a sweet end to a full day of adventure and relaxation.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money
At $75 per person, this private tour packs in a lot—transport, boat trips, snorkeling gear, and a delicious local lunch—all tailored for your group. The private aspect means fewer strangers and more personalized service, which many find enhances the overall experience. The inclusion of the entrance fee and snorkeling equipment adds to the convenience, reducing hidden costs.
Expert Guides and Seamless Logistics
The positive review mentioning “Danny” as a “great driver and tour guide” underscores how vital knowledgeable guides are. They not only navigate efficiently but also provide insights into the islands, marine life, and local culture. This human touch turns what could be a simple sightseeing trip into an engaging adventure.
Authentic Marine Experiences
The snorkeling spots promise vibrant coral reefs, a variety of fish, and the potential to spot turtles—an exciting draw for marine life lovers. The reviews indicate many had successful encounters with starfish and colorful fish, and some were lucky enough to see turtles, adding a memorable element.
Relaxed and Private Atmosphere
The small island stops provide a level of intimacy and tranquility that larger tours often lack. Gili Kedis, in particular, is noted for its romantic, honeymoon vibe, making it perfect for couples or anyone seeking peace away from busy tourist spots.
Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Pace
With approximately 10 hours from pickup to return, this is a full-day commitment. It’s ideal if you want an immersive experience but might feel a bit long if you’re not used to long tours. The flexible timing at each stop, however, allows you to enjoy the islands at your own pace.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included are the transportation, snorkeling gear, boat transfer, and entrance fees. The main expense not covered is the lunch, which is often considered part of the authentic experience. Traveler reviews praise the seafood meal, emphasizing its freshness and flavor. Personal expenses and tips are not included, so budget accordingly.
Suitability
This tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, couples, and solo explorers. The snorkel gear is provided, and the shallow reefs are accessible for beginners. The private setup makes it flexible for different needs, but beware of the long day if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “The boat trip and snorkeling were excellent,” highlighting the quality of the marine experience. The guide’s friendliness and expertise also left a positive impression, making the day both fun and informative. The quiet, uninhabited islands, especially Gili Kedis, make for memorable photo opportunities and peaceful moments away from crowds.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love marine life, enjoy discovering secluded islands, and prefer a personalized, hassle-free experience, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a full-day adventure that combines snorkeling, local culture, and island relaxation. Those on a tight schedule or looking for a more leisurely pace might need to consider the overall length, but most will find it a worthwhile way to explore Lombok’s underwater and island scenery.
The Sum Up

This private Lombok snorkeling tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to explore the island’s best underwater sights and uninhabited islands. The combination of expert guides, stunning scenery, and hassle-free logistics makes it particularly appealing for those who value comfort and authenticity.
Perfect for marine lovers, couples seeking romantic escapes, or anyone eager to experience Lombok’s calmer, hidden side, this trip delivers value at a reasonable price. The full-day format may suit travelers wanting an immersive experience, but those looking for a quick splash might find it a bit lengthy.
The tour’s focus on genuine experiences and personal touches makes it a top choice for discovering Lombok’s underwater magic while enjoying some peaceful island time.
FAQs

- What is the price of the tour? The tour costs $75 per person, which includes transportation, snorkeling gear, boat transfers, and entrance fees.
- Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making the start of your day seamless.
- How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to return.
- What islands are visited? Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis.
- Are meals included? No, lunch is not included but is available at Gili Sudak, featuring fresh local seafood.
- Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the price.
- Can beginners snorkel? Absolutely, the shallow reefs and guided assistance make it suitable for beginners.
- What should I bring? Sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, towel, and personal essentials.
- Are there age restrictions? The tour is open to most travelers; however, specifics aren’t provided, so check with the provider if traveling with young children.
- What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
More Snorkeling Tours in Lombok
- Lombok Day Trip – Privat Snorkeling Gili Nanggu,Gili Kedis,Sudak
- Private 3 Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour from Kuta Lombok
- Private Snorkeling Tour of Gili Islands in Air Meno and Trawangan
- Gili Trawangan Snorkeling with Turtles & Underwater Statue
- Private Guided Snorkeling Tour in Gili Nanggu Sudak and Kedis
- Snorkeling Trip Gili Gede, Asahan, Rengit, Layar and Goleng
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