Gili Air

Travel Guide

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Gili Air is the closest to Lombok of the three Gili islands. In size, it lies between Meno and Trawangan, and has the largest "normal" community.

Unlike Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan, Gili Air actually does have its own water source and you'll notice immediately how much greener and overgrown it is compared to the other two far more arid islands. Much of the interior is given over to coconut cultivation, though tourists are proving themselves a more lucrative crop and slowly the palm plantations are either making way for places to stay or at least shading bungalows beneath.

The island is ringed by a very pretty beach with some quite respectable snorkelling offshore. We didn't have time to snorkel the entire island, but off the southwest coast there are some good intricate banks of coral, while the west coast (high tide only) can be a good spot for spotting turtles. We didn't snorkel the east coast, but we saw lots of others who did, so there must be something out there! All around the island there is evidence of beach being swept away, and again the west coast tended to be the less affected.

Bicycles are easily hired and there is a quite good (albeit confusing) network of sealed paths around and throughout the island, making it far easier to explore than Gili Meno.

As with the other islands, the majority of the population here is Muslim and there is a large mosque towards the south-central part of the island. Unlike on Gili Trawangan, there are few guesthouses close by so you're unlikely to hear the call to prayer.

Most of the accommodation is clustered at the southwest and west coast of the island, though there is a smattering of places the entire way around it. The northeast (sunset) area is the most isolated -- and in our opinion -- the best.

Orientation
As of August 2011, Gili Air had no ATM but the papers, we were told, had been signed and one is coming soon. Outside of doing an ATM run to Gili Trawangan, there are agents that will do a cash advance for a commission.

The east coast has an internet cafe and 7 Seas Backpackers sells internet coupons that will give you WiFi access in the southern part of Gili Air. 3G coverage is patchy.

There is a very basic clinic on Gili Air, but for anything serious you'd be wanting to get to at least Mataram if not Bali.

Snorkelling gear is widely available for rent and you shouldn't need to bring your own unless you have specialised needs.

Crime on Gili Air is very rare, but in the evening exercise care along the north and northwest coast of the island where there are long stretches of deserted areas with no lighting. Attacks, while rare, have happened and drinking to excess or munching on mushrooms then walking home alone in a diminished state in this area is a bit silly.

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Text and/or map last updated on 29th July, 2012.

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Gili Air reviews

Backchat from the Travelfish community

Where the locals say ''paradise'' with a beaming smile

I stayed on the north end, but really a short walk to the 'happening' south and over to the sunset side in the evenings. Everywhere I stopped I was greeted by wonderful people with fantastic humour (even those who lost 1/2 month salary on the Eurocup Final). The swimming isn't the greatest as you need to wear some flip-flops to avoid the coral remains - almost a plague on the east coast but much fewer on the west. That said, once you get some goggles on and get deeper there is a universe to explore around this beautiful island and its absolutely clear water. I easily spent four days here just milling about, swimming, and enjoying some delicious food with great company - even as an independent traveler. If you're planning to spend time in Senggigi, just add more nights here.

I'm going to give a 10 for Romance because I would love to bring my girlfriend here.
- Sights & activities
- History & culture
- Scenery & environment
- Eat & drink
- Traveller's scene
- Romance
- Value for money
- I'll be back (or not)
By caseyprich (dabbler)
Written on 7th July, 2012 after a visit to Gili Air in June, 2012

Also reviewed by caseyprich: Battambang, Can Tho, Champasak, China Beach, Da Nang, Don Dhet, Hoi An, Hue, Kampot, Kawah Ijen,
Gili Air ATM

I can confirm that Gili Air now has its own ATM. I even have a picture of it and can confirm it actually works.

The island continues to be developed as witnessed by the cement being offloaded from the boats by the hotels....

It is still beautiful and the diving and snorkelling are exceptional. I learnt to dive with one of the smaller outfits, where you get that personal attention. Highly Recommended. We stayed at Sunrise in their budget cottages, but they themselves are going under re-development to move more upmarket so may not be available for long.
- Sights & activities
- History & culture
- Scenery & environment
- Eat & drink
- Traveller's scene
- Romance
- Value for money
- I'll be back (or not)
By chickson1 (dabbler)
Written on 3rd March, 2012 after a visit to Gili Air in March, 2012

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