Gili Air, Indonesia
Planning a trip to Gili Air? Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive.
Practical details to plan your trip.
How do I get to Gili Air?
You can reach Gili Air by daily fast boat from Bali or Lombok.
How do I get around the island?
Gili Air has no motor vehicles, so getting around is on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn cart (cidomo).
Where should I stay?
Guesthouses and bungalows near the dive center are the most convenient accommodation option.
Is there Wi-Fi on Gili Air?
Gili Air has Wi-Fi at most hotels, cafés, and dive centers. Speeds are basic but fine for email, messaging, and browsing.
Are there shops on Gili Air?
Gili Air has shops, including convenience stores, small supermarkets and local shops where you can buy essentials, snacks, and diving gear.
Are the Gili Islands safe to travel to?
The Gili Islands are generally very safe to travel to. As anywhere, keep valuables secure and respect local customs.
Are there ATMs on the Gili Islands?
ATMs are available on both Gili Air and Gili Trawangan. It’s best to carry some cash in Indonesian Rupiah in case machines are out of service.
Do I need a visa to visit the Gili Islands?
Most nationalities can enter Indonesia visa-free or with a Visa on Arrival for short tourist stays, though requirements vary by country. It’s worth checking the latest rules for your nationality before you travel.
What's the best time of year to dive?
May-October offers the best diving in the Gili Islands, but diving is possible year-round.
Should I book in advance?
It’s worth booking in advance, especially during May–October.
What's diving in Gili Air like compared to other destinations?
Diving in Gili Air offers relaxed drift dives, clear water, and reefs with varied coral and frequent turtle sightings.
Gili Air or Gili Trawangan: which is better for diving?
Gili Air is quieter and more low-key; Gili Trawangan is busier and more party-oriented. We dive sites across all three Gili Islands.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and sunscreen. Certified divers should also bring their certification card and logbook.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash (IDR) and credit card.
Is it still worth visiting the Gili Islands during rainy season?
Yes. The Gili Islands offer plenty beyond diving during rainy season, including yoga, spa treatments, and cooking classes, so there’s still lots to enjoy between showers. Diving remains possible too, though visibility is slightly reduced compared to peak season.
When is high season on Gili Air?
High season runs from May to October, with the peak in July and August, when demand for courses and accommodation is highest.