Gili Islands
West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Daily Budget
~US$30
per day
Best Months
Climate
Dry Season / Winter
Vibe
Island paradise
Overview
The three Gili Islands — Trawangan (party), Air (balanced), and Meno (quiet) — sit off the northwest coast of Lombok. With no motorized vehicles, turquoise water, and easy snorkeling straight off the beach, they are a quintessential Southeast Asian backpacker stop. Sea turtles, cheap diving certifications, and sunset swings make this a spot people plan to stay two nights and end up staying a week.
Editor's Pick
Gili Islands stands out for: No cars or motorbikes — just bicycles and horse carts (cidomo) create a uniquely relaxed vibe; Some of the cheapest PADI Open Water certifications in the world; Sea turtles visible snorkeling right off the beach.
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 4 hostels
Hostels
4 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Gili Islands?
- Budget around US$30 per day in Gili Islands, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Gili Islands?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Gili Islands are Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Gili Islands?
- Top-rated hostels in Gili Islands include Captain Coconuts (Gili Air), Rabbit Tree Hostel (Gili Meno), Panda Hostel (Gili Trawangan). Prices for a dorm bed typically start from US$20 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Gili Islands?
- Must-do activities in Gili Islands include Bike around the full perimeter of any island, Get PADI Open Water certified, Party on the Gili T strip. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
