Backpacking The Gili Islands, Indonesia - The Ultimate Travel Guide
Last Updated: November 27, 2025
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HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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Swings, Sunsets, Scuba... And the Sesh!
Is your liver feeling too healthy? Try backpacking the Gili Islands! We'll have that sorted in a jiffy!
'Gili' means small island, and these three are green-hearted tropical gems, each ringed with white sands and turquoise waters.
Ask anyone to draw their perfect dream island, and they'd draw the Gilis. It's all swaying palm trees, saturated sunsets, and endless beaches. Fill the seas with turtles, and the land with beach huts, and you've got the idea.
Each island is different, but all three are magnetic.
I ran back-to-back tours in Bali for seven months, and each one stopped in the Gilis. I got to know the locals, and, with their help, put together the best damn tour of the Gilis ever!
Tour guests must have agreed, because I was voted the company's best guide on Tourradar!
And now I'm passing it on all to you, right here! This guide will show you the inside info on how to get the very best out of these paradise islands.
Let's get cracking!
What're The Gilis Like?
Well, which one?
There's three, and each has a very different energy.
Gili Meno
Gili Meno is the Honeymoon Island, and this picture-perfect lover's retreat has one aim: relaxation.
Meno is the unspoiled paradise island. It's shallows only allow in the smallest boats, and when you step ashore, there's... nothing but nature. There's no big buildings, no transport, and no worries.
Instead, your sole duty is to sit on the beach and soak up the sun. If that gets too much, a cooling dip in the crystal waters provides welcome relief from your day's chores.
If you decide to take the plunge, Meno's underwater world is packed with vibrant fish, and turtles swarm the east coast. To the west, the famous ring of embracing statues lies on the seabed.
And that's about it for Meno. It's all about escape.
Gili Air
Gili Air is the Harmony Island. Goldilocks would be all over this one; it's just right!
Not too busy, not too slow.
On Air, nature, beauty, and simplicity has become more intertwined with people. It's the island for when you don't just want to sit around, like on Meno, but also have some stuff to tear you away from your sunbed.
If you're after balance when backpacking the Gili Islands, Gili Air is the place. Daytimes on Air are honestly very similar to Meno; you chill on the beach, you snorkel in the shallows, and you relax.
The difference comes in the evenings. There's more people, and that brings more bars, more restaurants, and more community. There's more life about it.
If you had to actually live on one of the Gili Islands, this'd be it.
And then...
Well, then there's Gili T.
Gili Trawangan
Gili T is the Party Island. The destroyer of livers, and producer of confusing memories. It's hard nights and hangovers, cured only by the cool salt water hitting your face the next morning. Then you do it all again.
Eat, beach, rave, repeat.
It's the biggest of the three, and by far the busiest. On paper, it has everything the other two have, but served with an utterly electric atmosphere. Where the other two gently massage your senses, Gili T batters them.
It's not modern at all. It's what an old dock must've been like, with the unrelenting sounds, smells and stimulation of vibrant life everywhere. But there's no engines, no traffic, none of the things we associate with 'busy' life today. It's industrious, but without the industry.
In the day, there's the percussive tap of horseshoes drawing carts over bumpy roads. This is joined by the chatter of people, all thrilled to have survived another night, meandering towards either the beach or the water for a lazy recovery day. The occasional smell of weed punctuates, as someone works off a particularly brutal hangover. It's never still, with people and bikes weaving by, and the day only gets busier as the energy builds.
Until, in the evening, there's a lull. It's the quiet before the storm.
People take their last photos on the swings, silhouetted against the dipping sun, and float back east to gear up for the night ahead.
It starts with dinner. The bustling night markets pound your senses with the smell of fresh fish, chicken, noodles, herbs, and spices, with the occasional bursts of flame and steam leaping into the darkness. The sizzle of oil joins the building excitement of freshly-recovered people, flirting with ideas of the night ahead.
As the plates empty and the night takes over, the mayhem begins.
An easy start bathed in the long drinks and reggae tunes of Sama Sama soon gives way to messy drinking games at Evo. This, in turn, leads to a full-blown, full-bore riot of free shots, dance floors and pandemonium at Jiggys and Jungle. The night becomes a joyous blur, until, before you know it, you're crawling down the beach alongside those that never made it any further.
And you wake up, and do it all again.
Remember: no-one walks off Gili T saying, "I think I won that one!". It will take something from you. Good luck!
How to Get To The Gili Islands
Most people arrive here from Bali, and almost all the rest from Lombok. One thing you all have in common is everyone will be coming by boat!
There are no 'ports' as such on the Gilis, so it's beach landings all round! Each island has a designated drop off and pick-up point and all the boats will come and go from there. You can see where these are on the map.
If you're coming from Bali, your best bet is to aim for the port at Padang Bai here. From Padang Bai, you'll catch a passenger boat, known as a 'fast boat', to the islands. The best company to use is Eka Jaya - their schedule is here, and a one-way will set you back around 450k IDR (£22.50-ish). You can also go with BlueWater from Serangan, but it's slower and more expensive.
The fast boats from Bali all follow this route:
Bali > Gili T > Gili Meno > Gili Air > Bangsal (Lombok) > Back to Bali
For a more detailed breakdown of available routes, check out Gili Transfers.
If you're planning on backpacking the Gili Islands from Lombok, you're not using fast boats. Instead, you're either on speedboats, or the small local ferries.
These leave from Bangsal here, or from Teluk Nare here. A one-way ferry will set you back around 80k IDR (£4). As for speedboats, get haggling!
Teluk Nare is the port the locals use, and it's cheaper, so I'd aim there. You'll also find, shall we say, 'local entrepreneurs' willing to shuttle you across in their private boats, if you want.
Heads up, the passenger ferries seat 40, and they only leave when they're full. If you're early or late in the day, you could have a long wait!
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Backpacking The Gili Islands
That, my friend, depends on why you're here!
If you're looking to do nothing more than sunbathe and read a book someplace where the only noise is that of lapping seas, for the love of God avoid Gili T! You need to spend a week or so split between Gili Air and Meno.
If you're here for the sesh, aim for Trawangan! I'll be amazed if you last more than four nights on Gili T. Most people can only manage two or three before they collapse onto a beanbag, panting like a knackered dog. Four days lets you cover everything on Gili T at an easy pace.
But you'll still want a couple days on Gili Detox or Gili Rehab after!
The Best Time Of The Year For Backpacking The Gili Islands
As with most of Indonesia, you want to avoid monsoon season (November - March).
In addition, as part of Lombok, the Gilis are majority-Muslim, and the islands grind to a halt during the month of Ramadam. The dates for Ramadam differ every year, as the Islamic calendar follows the moon cycle, but it usually falls during April and May.
What that means for you is the islands are quiet, and the clubs and bars all kick out early. If you're here to get banjaxed, you're shit outta luck.
Aside from that, you're pretty much golden!
The season peaks around July-August, and it gets busy, as everyone and their mum is backpacking the Gili Islands!
But from March through November, the weather is solid, and, Ramadam aside, the parties are still rocking!
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking The Gili Islands
By now, you've picked your Gili!
Each island is small enough that there's not any 'good' or 'bad' areas to stay, but Gili T is busier towards the south east. If you want peace, avoid!
If you're in Gili T for the diving, most dive schools provide their own, very decent, accommodation, so check that out before you book.
Next, if you're after a warm shower in the Gilis, you'll need to go hunting for it. Check beforehand if your accommodation offers this luxury, because there's no fresh water supply to the islands, and many places don't. All of our suggestions have hot showers!
Finally, contrary to usual Far Out advice, staying in cheap homestays is a squarely shit idea when backpacking the Gili Islands. They're grim, dirty, mosquito-infested cesspits, with cold, saltwater showers and staff who couldn't give a fuck. And when you're hungover and wake up there, that's just soul-crushing.
In particular, avoid the shithole that is Gili Sapontanoya - ask for clean bedsheets here, and they'll look at you like you just killed their gran. And then there's Ani Bungalows, which makes Sapontanoya look like a spa.
Honestly, just save yourself the pain. If you're backpacking the Gili Islands on a tight budget, hostels are the way to go.
Enough of the shit places! Let's look at where you should stay:
OYO 1363 Gili Indah Resort - Gili Air
- What: Small, all-wood resort with a great pool and restaurant.
- Where: South end of Gili Air, a 3-minute walk from the 'harbour'. (Map)
- Why: Beautiful spot tucked in the trees, great staff, amazing pool.
- Why Not: You don't like wood. Plus the outdoor bathrooms are tiny.
Oyo's is just a really, really pleasant place to be.
Once upon a time, Oyo's was a down and out cafe that wasn't worth a visit. But, whilst I was here, it completely transformed into a chilled tropical retreat, with wicker sunbeds, beanbags, and slow reggae beats in the background.
Nothing's overpowering, and you could easily lose days here with your feet in the water, and a cocktail in hand.
Each room is its own separate, stilted hut, and they're all large, airy and completely made of wood. The building, the furniture, everything.
In honesty, Oyo's is never going to be a world-beater, but it's enough. It's an easy walk to the beach, it's run by a small, super-sweet family who live on-site, and it's affordable. It's just... nice.
You could do a lot, lot worse!
Trawangan Nirvana - Gili T
- What: Two-tier hotel with balconies, cute kitchen area, and pool.
- Where: Northeast of Gili T, roughly 20 minutes from the main strip. (Map)
- Why: Away from the action, but still has that backpacker, hostelly vibe.
- Why Not: Away from the action. Pro or con? Your call.
Colette, the owner, has shut the doors due to Covid. I'm in touch and will keep you posted if this changes. Stand by for updates!
Trawangan Oasis, Gili T
- What: Breathtaking rural resort, with huge rooms and pool, and the all-important swim-up bar!
- Where: In the greener north of Gili T, half-hour walk from the main strip. (map)
- Why: That gorgeous pool, free cake, exceptional staff, bikes to rent, I'm running out of space... but lots!
- Why Not: It's a fair walk to the action, and hostels are cheaper. That's it.
Next time I'm backpacking the Gili Islands, I'm coming back here!
I'll say now it's not the cheapest, but it's such a step-up in quality it's worth every extra penny!
To get here, you walk up a sandy track through the trees that has you convinced you've gone wrong, until the trees give way to low wall. When you enter, you find a half-ring of cabins surrounding a pristine... oasis. They couldn't have named it better! Your first thought is, "...okay, this is epic!"
It feels luxurious. There's only around 15 rooms, and a lot of space in the middle. There's two pools, one with a swim-up bar, and all surrounded by straw-roofed huts, beanbags, sun loungers and plants everywhere, all for your comfort! The only things you hear are gentle background tunes, and laughter. It's all very zen.
In fact, it's so fantastic it feels way out of your price range. But it isn't!
It's the details that get you. A perfect example is this: every afternoon at 3pm, fresh tea, coffee and cake are served, and it's all free. You wouldn't miss it if they didn't bother, but you love that they did.
The rooms are basic, but all are light, bright and spacious. You get a comfy bed, a wardrobe, a hot shower, and that's all it needs to be. They know you'll be outside as much as you can.
The owner, Mark, his family, and his staff are incredible. If you need anything, ask, and they'll sort you out.
Further Accommodation
There's always a trade-off between price and quality. For some reason, when you're backpacking the Gili Islands, that trade-off is not easy!
A lot of the cheap places are pretty dire. If you're on a shoestring, make sure you brush up on how to pick the best accommodation before you go.
If you're saving money, we say again: aim for hostels!
Being a party island, Gili T's hostels are always packed, always crazy, and you'll be surrounded with other like-minded, alcohol-addled souls!
However, the craziest hostel on the Gilis, surprisingly, sits in the heart of the Honeymoon Island: Gili Meno.
Whilst we haven't stayed here, we've heard... stories. Stories of a hostel direct from the dreams of the Mad Hatter himself. Tunnels you have to crawl through to your dorm, half-submerged dining tables, floating bamboo rooms, dorms in a ball pit... Interested? Check out The Rabbit Tree.
Whatever you fancy, if we haven't found it for you already, you'll find it in the holy trinity below!
Things to do when Backpacking The Gili Islands
I'll level with you: Gili Meno and Air are mostly beaches and snorkelling.
Therefore, this itinerary is based on Gili T.
A couple of these apply to Meno and Air as well, and we'll flag them up when this is the case.
As for getting between stops, the Gilis have no cars or motobikes, which leaves you three options:
- Horse and cart. You'll see these around, but don't do it. The horses are overworked, whipped, and often mistreated. It's a cultural hangover; the locals are taught the more the animals work, the more profit they make. The only way to change this is to, literally, vote with your feet.
- Your feet. Tried and tested, this one. The islands are flat, but the 'roads' are pretty crap and can be a bit awkward in flip-flops. Gili T, in particular, is just big enough to make you want faster transport. For example...
- Bikes! I swear to God, it's like fucking Amsterdam. Because there's no roads, this is the fastest way around, and they come at you from all directions! You can't beat them, so you'd better join them! Therefore, our first stop is to pick one up.
There's plenty to keep you occupied when backpacking the Gili Islands! Here's the full list:
- Hire Bikes and Cycle the Island
- Shoot a Round of Gili Golf
- Behold the Sunset at the Window Bar (or Exile!)
- Snorkel with the Sea Turtles
- Try Stand Up Paddleboarding
- Kick Back and Relax on the Beach
- Paddle in a Glass-Bottom Boat
- Hire Snorkelling Gear and Dive the Shallows
- Honourable Mention: Learn to SCUBA Dive
And that's not even including the biggest thing that draws people to the Gilis - getting absolutely wrecked in the evenings!
Although you'll (probably) be pleased to know, we've factored that into our day-by-day Gili T itinerary too.
Speaking of itineraries, let's get cracking!
Backpacking The Gili Islands: Day One
On today's itinerary:
- Hire Bikes and Cycle the Island
- Lunch: Grab a Bite to Eat at the Banyan Tree
- Shoot a Round of Gili Golf (with a beer in hand!)
- Behold the Sunset at the Window Bar
- Dinner: Feast at Tiki Grove
- Survive Night One
Day one starts at around midday. That's because you're either hungover after arriving late last night and heading straight out, or you've come from Bali on the morning boat, which arrives just before 11am.
Gili T can be quite daunting when you step off the boat. There's just so much going on, and you need to find where you're staying through it all!
Therefore, today is all about easing you in. It's not the most thrilling of afternoons, but after an early start and a long boat crossing (or a hangover!), we're just gonna get our bearings, and get you built up for a heavy night tonight. The pace picks up tomorrow, but two days of that would do most people in!
So, here's the first day of the best things to do in the Gili Islands. And, as promised, we're starting by sorting your transport!
One: Hire Bikes and cycle the island
- Why: It's quicker, easier, and more fun, plus Gili T is juuuust a bit too big to want to walk everywhere.
- Where: They're all over, you can't miss 'em! Check if your hotel has some. You can also do this in Gili Meno and Air!
- How long: Just get one for however long you're staying, it makes life easier.
- How much: 50k IDR (~£2.50) a day, less if you book multiple days, and even less if you haggle well.
We're gonna start by getting our bearings.
There's bikes on offer everywhere, and they're all at least a bit broken. This is all part of the Gili experience! Who wanted to go straight anyway?
Once you get to grips with your bike's particular foibles, set off and explore! Find out where the bars are, find some beaches, and generally get a feel for how long it'll take to get around. The island is so small, you won't get too lost. If you somehow manage it, just ask a local where your hotel is, and they'll point you in the right direction.
The ideal scenario is biking around the circumference. You'll find where the swings, bars and sunset spots are, and figure out your routes for the next few days. It's a win-win.
Also, your bike hire will include a lock, but check it works before you set off! If you lose your bike, they'll charge you if they can't find it. Having a lock means you can happily come and go without a worry! If there's a railing, tree, or passed-out drunk nearby, lock the bike to that, and you're set!
Whilst you're on your way round, make sure you stop off and book tomorrow's snorkel tour! Once that's done, we're going to finish our ride at The Banyan Tree, on the main strip.
Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at the Banyan Tree
We're giving your immune system a fighting chance for the next few days, and loading up on some healthy smoothie bowls (or whatever you fancy) here at the Banyan Tree. Pick a spot on the balcony or the beach, and watch the world go by.
Two: Shoot a Round of Gili Golf (with a Beer in Hand!)
- Why: Because how often do you get to play crazy (sorry, 'Gili') golf in the sun with a beer or three?
- Where: Northeast of Gili T. Take the main coast road north, and turn left on the second street after Mango Dive. (map)
- How long: I'll call it an hour, but you can draw this out and relax at the bar for a few after, if you wish.
- How much: 50K IDR (£2.50) per person, plus beer money.
If you're on your own, maybe just head straight to the bar!
It's not exactly 'crazy', nor is it likely to host the Ryder Cup anytime soon. What it is is a fun, cheap welcome to the Gilis, and an easy way to get your first few drinks in!
Have a few drinks, have a laugh with your mates in the Indonesian sun, play a bit of golf, and then head to the bar for a few more drinks!
The bar has a few screens, some pool and darts, and, if someone's feeling brave after a few, those bungee trampoline things to shake things up!
Kill a few hours here, then it's time to go catch the sunset.
Three: Behold the Sunset at the Window Bar
- Why: Just look at that pic. I can't promise bikini-clad women will always be there too, but it's still picture-perfect without!
- Where: This particular one is to the northwest of Gili T (map) Swings are dotted along the west coast of all the Gili Islands.
- How long: Arrive an hour before sunset, get your spot, and settle in for the duration.
- How much: Free! However, you'll want a few Bintangs or cocktails, so budget according to your pre-drinking ability.
You'll find loads of sunset swings when backpacking the Gili Islands. So why this one?
Well, Window Bar is a great starter for a night out, and I talk more about it later.
For now, I'll stick with the swing - it's, quite simply, one of the prettiest on the island. Plus, having Window Bar behind you means you have somewhere to grab a few cheap cocktails, crash on some beanbags, and watch the sun go down over Bali's volcanic east coast.
Enjoy the sunset. Now, the night begins.
Dinner: Feast at Tiki Grove
Ah, Tiki Grove, my lifeline of tacos and fries.
These remain the best tacos I've ever had, served amid a quirky tiki bar. I love this place, and, for me, a trip to Gili T wouldn't be complete without it. Moreover, the staff are fantastic, and the rum and coke is dirt cheap!
If you're on the sesh tonight, why not line the stomach with something worth eating?
Four: Survive Night One
Ready to take on Gili T?
Step forward. Many have tried.
We've hammed up the idea that this is party central, and now you can find out for yourself.
By now, we've had a few beers at golf, a couple rounds of two-for-one cocktails at Windows, and sunk a few rum-cokes at Tiki. It's time to split. Now the real work begins.
From Tiki's, start walking south on the coast road to the main strip (where you were dropped this morning). You're aiming for Sama Sama.
This is a big beach hut punching out live reggae vibes and ice-cold drinks. If you want to drink it, Sama's will have it, so load up on a few here. When the reggae stops, head out back to the big stage for a few crowd-pleasers, before moving on.
Now you've warmed up your beer-pong elbow, wander back up a few doors to Evolution, and prove your worth. There's tables as far as the eye can see, and the competition is fierce. As things start to heat up, you're gonna start losing count; but don't die on us just yet, because, once you're crowned Gili T Beer Pong Champion, you're off to start the night proper!
And here's where you're doing it. Welcome to Jiggys.
You're about to get fucked up.
When you're greeted at the door, simply ask for 'the wristband'. This is your ticket to bottomless shots of rum, vodka, whisky, and tequila. Head in, rack up the drinks, hit the dancefloor, and let the bar swallow you into its ultraviolet haze.
Good luck, soldier. See you in the morning.
Backpacking The Gili Islands: Day Two
On today's itinerary:
- Snorkel with the Sea Turtles
- Try Stand Up Paddleboarding
- Kick Back and Relax on the Beach
- Marvel at the Sunset at Exile
- Dinner: Taste the Night Markets
- Survive Night Two
Morning trooper! How's the head?
Told you we were easing you in gently yesterday. Today, the real party starts!
So get up! You got shit to do.
We're gonna sober you up by sending you into the sea to breathe through a big straw, and see some lovely fishies. Isn't that nice?
We'll keep it water-based for the rest of the day, and then you're up for round two. Don't let us down.
One: Snorkel with Sea Turtles
- Why: I like turtles, and seeing a wild turtle is just breathtaking. But seeing five or six within touching distance? That's out of this world.
- Where: Tours are everywhere. I always did a half-day with Ulum at Sea Star Tours (map). You can also do this on Meno and Air.
- How long: Most companies follow the same route, with three dives and a lunch break - bank on 4-5 hours.
- How much: If you're solo, expect around 100-150k IDR (£5 to £7.50) to join a tour. If there's a few of you, you might want a private tour, which is around 1,000,000 (£50).
First off, this really should be booked in advance, even if it's just the day before.
Getting on a boat with a crippling hangover might sound like an idiot's idea, and it is. But trust me on this one, it's worth it! Get your swim gear on, bring some cash, sunnies and suncream, and hit the road.
When you arrive, you'll sign in, be given a mask, snorkel and flippers, and be pointed down the beach towards one of those skinny passenger boats that are all over the place. Only this one has windows on the floor.
Once your whole squad is there, you'll set off! You'll be glad to know the waters are almost always calm, so you can take your tired, hungover ass to the front (or sometimes the roof) to bask in the sun, and soak in the tunes.
Dive One - The Statues
Soon, the call will come to kit up, and this means you've arrived at the underwater statues, just off Meno's west coast. There's no better hangover cure than the sea, so get in there!
You'll find colourful fish, a bit of coral, and the famous, beautiful, and very eerie ring of embracing statues that everyone who's been backpacking the Gili Islands has put on their Insta. What you can't see on the 'gram is the mega current that drags you away and makes it a nightmare to keep level, nor the dozens of panicky, never-learned-to-swim tourists flapping around on the surface. Looking up from below, it's like the end scene of Titanic.
Back on board, you'll find your hangover has eased up, and the memories are starting to come back. And where better to remember them than sunbathing on your way to the next dropoff?
It's time to see the turtles!
Dive Two - The Turtles
You'll be on the northeast of Meno, which any Gili Islands travel guide will tell you is the best spot to find them. Once again, you'll get the call to kit up, and throw yourself into the water.
Now, there's no guarantees, but I did about 15 of these trips, and never failed to see turtles here. You put your head under, and they're just lazily gliding around underneath you, completely not bothered by a bunch of people pitching up in their home and waving GoPros at them.
This time, your guide will likely come in with you, and dive down to point out the turtles resting on the seabed. Turns out they're pretty well camouflaged!
How much you get out of this largely depends on how long you can hold your breath, so grab a few lungfuls, and take the plunge! These guys move deceptively quick, and you'll have to put some work in to get close, but you can get within touching distance, and that's sensational.
Now, this is the moment to hit this home: don't touch the fucking turtles!
They're wild animals, and we have alien bacteria on us that could seriously harm, or even kill them. So don't be a dick! Travel ethically. Being this close to these majestic creatures is enough.
Lunch
Whilst you're still reeling from this encounter, and everyone's reviewing their GoPro footage, you'll be whisked off to Gili Air for lunch.
Where you stop largely depends on who the skipper knows on Air, and who's giving him the best free food.
Lunch isn't included, so this is why we packed some cash. Wherever you stop, it'll be a little beach cafe thing, and you can kick back on the sand to tuck in.
Heads up: I know you're hungover, but no one on Gili Air can cook fries properly. Eat local instead. It's just better.
Final Dive - The Fish
You've had lunch and a couple of dives by this point. If that hasn't sorted your hangover... fair play, you obviously went for it! Promote yourself to sergeant, trooper!
The final dive is off the south of Gili Air, and you're stopping at a reef.
You'll find cracked ridges that rise from the seafloor, with deep channels big enough to swim in. It all looks like a rocky, underwater city. There's a few bits of coral dotted around, but the main event is the absolute shitload of vibrant, tropical fish of all sizes, swarming above, around and below you as soon as you drop in.
It's spectacular, but honestly, it's not the highlight of the tour. A lot of people opt to sit this one out, and soak in the Indonesian sun aboard the boat instead. I recommend going in, but it's up to you.
Finally, you'll cruise back to land, and we're gonna be taking it even easier now.
Two: Try Stand Up Paddleboarding
- Why: Because I like it, so you're reading it. What's not to like chilling on a board in the perfect shallow seas?
- Where: Again, you'll find this all over the coast. You can also do this on Meno and Air.
- How long: Spend an hour. Maybe an hour and a half if there's two of you sharing a board.
- How much: Get your haggle on! I'd say 100k IDR (£5) is a good shout for an hour.
This one's fairly self-explanatory. If you're gonna paddleboard, why not do it on a paradise island?
Stacks of the things just sit on the beaches on the east coast of Gili T, so get negotiating and get yourself out there!
There's a simple, peaceful beauty to taking a board and paddling just out of earshot of the island to be alone with the sealife. Alternatively, take a mate (if you have one), and hang out on the water together, peering down on the fish, turtles, and other critters.
The current is fairly strong, so you can either get a bit of a workout fighting it, or just walk your board back up the beach later on. If things get a bit warm, you can jump in the waters to cool off!
It's all about finding joy in the simple things.
Oh, and a tip: take goggles out with you, and lie on your board with your face in the water - you'll see tons.
Three: Kick Back and Relax on the Beach
- Why: You're in paradise. Time to appreciate where you are.
- Where: Well, all three islands have perfect white sands and turquoise waters, so take your pick.
- How long: The day is yours. You lay back for as long as you like mate.
- How much: 100% free!
You've had a fairly energetic, watery day, so it's time to dry off on those crisp white sands you've been admiring from afar.
This is the calm before the storm. And God knows water won't be featuring tonight!
Back when you took a bike ride around the island (you did do that, didn't you?), you probably found a beach that made your jaw drop. This is your moment to head there!
Kick back with a drink, and take it all in.
Four: Marvel at the Sunset at Exile
- Why: Exile has the best swing on the Gilis, and they put together a great vibe for you.
- Where: On the southwest of Gili T. (map)
- How long: Stay for as long as you please - remember, we still gotta grab dinner after though!
- How much: Free. Although you may want to grab a drink or two.
If you want 'that' photo - Exile is the spot to get it.
Sunset is the same across the west coast, but Exile nails the extras that make it special. Live music, lights in the trees, and that gorgeous swing, for all your sunset silhouette needs!
Come here, get a few drinks down you (Team Pre-Drink all the way!) as you watch the sky become an inferno of colours, silhouetting Mount Agung across the water along the way.
You can hang back and soak up the vibes - the live drummers are a winner - until you get hungry.
Head back to where you're staying, drop off your shit and get kitted up for the night. Then it's off for dinner!
Dinner: Taste the Night Markets
Time to carb-load for tonight!
You're heading back to the main strip, and into the night markets. You'll smell it before you see it. It's lively, vibrant, and one of the best food markets I've ever been to. Find what looks good, load up a plate and a few cheap beers, and get on it!
Five: Survive Night Two
Seconds out... round two!
We've already warmed the palate with a few drinks, and lined the stomach. All that's left is to knacker the liver.
You hit up some of the best bars in Gili T in round one, and if you want to head back, go for it.
For a gentler start, consider checking out some of the dive school bars around the night market. Turns out SCUBA divers are alcoholics, and these bars usually have a great atmosphere. I recommend Manta Dive and Blue Marlin - both are by the night market, and both are very welcoming of anyone in search of the golden nectar.
I know I'm biased, but if the reggae is kicking at Sama Sama again, you ain't getting me out of there. Feel free to join!
Otherwise, you can aim for your faves from last night, or follow the noise to new bars. Ombak Bar is very nearby, and with fire dancers and neon lights, you can't go too far wrong.
Because I love it, I'd head back to Jiggys after this, and lose yourself in the waterfall of booze there. But tonight, instead of crawling home afterwards, you're crawling to the next bar!
For tonight, Jungle is our final destination. Enter the huge, warehouse-y party via the tiger's jaws, and sink into oblivion as the tunes are pounded out and the drinks are poured straight into your mouth. Just let it swallow you in. Don't forget to go on the pole.
God speed.
Backpacking The Gili Islands: Best Of The Rest
Morning! Feeling it after last night?
Well, as Tyrion Lannister once said: It's not easy being drunk all the time. Everyone would do it if it were easy.
Words to live by. Although he's obviously never been backpacking the Gili Islands.
The good news is this is the end of our scheduled shenanigans! So now you can curl up in the foetal position all you like, or fall face-first into the nearest bath/pool/ocean.
If you're looking for more to do, we have more to offer you! But, to be honest, it's all variations on the theme. But if some of our picks didn't sound right for you, switch 'em up with these instead!
- Paddle in a Glass-Bottom Boat
- Hire Snorkelling Gear and Dive the Shallows
- Honourable Mention: Learn To SCUBA Dive
Also, there was a turtle hatchery on the main strip of Gili T, but when I was here in 2018 it closed. Probably something to do with the earthquake, and ensuing tsunami. Keep an eye out and see if it's opened up again, because they're adorable!
One: Paddle in a Glass-Bottom Boat
- Why: Because everyone loves a well-crafted bottom, and who knows what you might see beneath you?
- Where: You'll find a couple of places dotted along the east coast of Gili T.
- How long: Book an hour, much more and it stops being fun, and more like a gym session.
- How much: 300-450k IDR (£15-£22.50) for four people, depending on your haggling skills and how busy they are.
This is basically paddleboarding for people who don't want to get wet.
You'll want a few of you for this one, because paddling on your own is just gonna spin you round in circles. It's harder than it looks!
So gather your elite team (or settle for those who never made it further than the beach last night), and hit the water!
Paddle off the coast, fight the current, and your reward will be views through the boat of reefs, fish, and possibly even turtles.
Sun on your face, a laugh with some mates, and a bit of novelty value? Why not.
Two: Hire Snorkelling Gear and Dive the Shallows
- Why: Honestly? Probably because you're on a budget and don't want to do the boat tour. Or you prefer being alone.
- Where: You'll find hire places on all three islands. Dare I say your accommodation will also rent them out?
- How long: An hour should be plenty.
- How much: Aim for 50-80k IDR (£2.50-£4) for the hour. It depends on your haggling skills, and how busy they are.
This is a nice way to break up the day, and way cheaper than a tour.
You'll find huts, bars, and everywhere else has snorkel gear to hire, and if you can't hire it, you'll be able to buy it (and make back your money selling it on before you leave!).
There's a sense of the unknown doing this, as you're not aiming for anything in particular, you're just exploring. If you're a lone wolf, this is the one for you.
No tourists, no schedule, and no one telling you what to do. You have your freedom. It's an adventure.
If you're backpacking Gili Meno, you're laughing! You have the turtles to the east, the statues to the west, and if you time it right (early morning is a winner), you'll have them to yourself. And they're not far offshore.
Take back your independence!
Three: Honourable Mention: Learn to SCUBA Dive
- Why: Get your Open Water ticket on the cheap at a dive spot called Shark Point. What's not to love?!
- Where: I'd go with Manta Dive every time! Great team, great skills, and great accommodation, right in the action on Gili T. (map)
- How long: You doing a sample dive, or getting a certificate? Could be a few hours, or a few days.
- How much: Again, depends on what you're doing. But Manta Dive will discount your accommodation if you dive and stay with them!
Let me start with a disclaimer - I never actually did this.
However, it gets an honourable mention for two reasons:
- Diving in the Gilis is a cheap, beautiful way to get your dive ticket, and no guide to backpacking the Gili Islands would be complete without mentioning SCUBA; and
- I was going to do this after my final tour as a reward to myself, but then an earthquake happened.
The Gilis sit in the middle of the Indonesian archipelago, and offer some of the world's best dive sites, with crystal waters and incredible wildlife. From the Gilis you could dive with mantas, turtles, sharks, dolphins, and more!
The Gilis are home to many dive schools, but having weighed up my options, I was gonna go with Manta Dive. I got to know Ben, the owner, whilst I was running tours, and they just have everything. Their team are vastly experienced and happily cater to all levels, and their dive school has a great bar, private rooms, and a gorgeous pool out back, so you'll be well looked after. Pretty much the entire team are master divers, so you're in the best of hands. I'm gutted I didn't make it, really.
Next time...
Where to Eat When Backpacking The Gili Islands
Right! The number one bit of advice for anyone backpacking the Gili Islands is to eat local.
Western foods are pretty poor on the Gilis, with a few exceptions (*cough*TikiGrove*cough*), and ordering something like fries or a sandwich is usually a good way to spend over the odds, just to feel disappointed.
Look around you. Where are these ingredients coming from? There's only one bakery on Gili T, and they can't supply all the island's sandwiches! So eat fresh, local stuff instead.
That said, they do banging doughnuts!
Instead, get to the night markets or the cafes, and demolish some local delicacies! On the Gilis, they cook what they can get locally, and it's fresh, and usually pretty damn healthy! Smoothie bowls are a winner!
Most of the restaurants that are on beachfront cater to tourists, and a tourist-y palate. A lot of them are excellent, but you'll pay extra for the views.
To keep costs down, we always suggest eating where the locals eat, as those places are almost always cheaper, and usually better. This is the case with the night market, and also a handful of cafes in the middle of the islands, away from the crowds.
Also remember, the Gilis have a Muslim majority, so some foods might be hard to come by, for example, pork.
Finally, you should know that, whilst 'Bali Belly' is a thing, the Gilis actually have a pretty solid record for food hygiene in my experience. I can't remember anyone getting food poisoning here. You're more likely to barf from last night's 20 tequila shots than today's rendang.
So let's look at where's good!
Biba Beach Cafe, Gili Air
- What: A beachfront, open-air cafe specialising in Italian, but also serving top quality Indonesian classics.
- Where: Gili Air's east coast, with spectacular views to Lombok. (map)
- How much: Cheap! Ballpark 50K IDR (£2.50) for a local main.
This cafe is the perfect embodiment of 'Keep it simple, stupid.'
There's nothing too fancy going on here. Instead, they absolutely nail the basics, and let the food do the talking.
Biba specialises in Italian, and I gotta say, their pizzas look great! But I've never had one.
Instead, I stuck to the local dishes, and every single meal I had was authentic and delicious. When you've tried the same dish several times across Indonesia, you know how it should taste. These taste like they should. The beef rendang is epic!
Ultimately, this place will never blow your cock off. But, particularly considering how much you're paying, it punches well above its weight. If you're backpacking Gili Air, go here.
Tiki Grove, Gili T
- What: A Tiki-themed, Mexican restaurant, run by Canadians, in Indonesia. Obviously.
- Where: 20 minutes walk from the main strip, on the northeast of Gili T, next to Trawangan Nirvana Hotel. (map)
- How much: 75k IDR (nearly £4) for a decent main. Add 15k (£0.75) for a side of fries. And you should.
Ah, Tiki Grove: home of the almighty taco!
We told you there were exceptions to the 'eat local' rule, and this is why.
This was my Mecca on Gili T. I made the pilgrimage every time I came back to the island, and, on the boat over, I always called ahead to make sure there was a table that night for me and the team.
Why's it so good? Well, it comes down to the fact that they just care.
The design alone is incredible, with huge tiki masks and coloured lights glowing down, outrageous novelty cocktails served from tiki cups spitting flames... It's nuts.
The kitchen is right in the middle of the joint, and you can watch the theatre from your table as your own personal heaven is loaded into a tortilla. And the food is heaven. Best fries on the Gilis too!
Catherine and Tommy have created an exceptional atmosphere here, and put together a team who really give a shit. No one is phoning it in, they all really enjoy what they do, and want you to love it as well.
In fact, I ran over a dozen tours across Bali and the Gilis, and not one person ever complained about Tiki Grove. Which is unheard of.
You'll love it too.
The Night Market, Gili T
- What: An open-air, nighttime food market with an electric atmosphere.
- Where: In Gili T's southeast corner, where the fast boats arrive. (map)
- How much: How much you scoffing down? Super cheap though - 50K IDR (£2.50) for 3 meat skewers and a load of sides.
This place is sensory overload, and I love it!
If Tiki Grove is Mecca, this is Jerusalem. I was here every time I was on the island, and it's a foodie's paradise.
The night market is the perfect spot to load up before a night out, as it's dead in the action. It's always manically busy, and, if you're walking down the main drag after dark, you can't miss it! The sound of bustling excitement and sizzle of cooking flow down the strip, and it draws folks in like pensioners to a bingo hall.
Heading in, you'll find wall-to-wall stalls punching out all kinds of fresh, Indonesian delights on the cheap. Wander round, size up your options, have some banter with the guys selling, and pick your target.
The food is all incredible, but my recommendation is walk in from the main strip, take the first left, and head to the guys in the corner cooking food fresh to order - those are my guys! They'll sort you out, and give you some good craic on the way!
You can also pick up ridiculously cheap Bintang (beer), 15k IDR (£0.75!) for a large bottle. Careful, or you'll be smashed before you leave.
The Banyan Tree, Gili T
- What: Hipster-y beachside cafe putting out healthy smoothie, juicy, vegan-friendly delights.
- Where: On the main drag, right where the fast boats arrive on Gili T. (map)
- How much: Put aside 60k IDR (£3) for a smoothie bowl or some smashed avo.
If you're more interested in taking photos of your food than actually eating it: welcome home!
This is a haunt of the 'digital nomads' and other assorted pretentious wankers that I normally hate to be around - an attitude summed up by the owner. But there must be something in the air in Indonesia, because, even despite that woman, I love this place.
Normally, being served something in an old jar makes me think they've run out of bowls. But it works here! It's a pretty spot, and they have tables out on the beach for maximum flashpacker vibes.
Without great food, The Banyan Tree would have died long ago, but tucking into a smoothie bowl is a lesson in what potent freshness tastes like.
If you need a healthy shot in the arm after a big night, aim here.
Laguna Gili Beach Resort, Gili T
- What: Yet another beachfront restaurant serving traditional Indonesian grub, really well.
- Where: It actually is part of a dive school on the main road north of the strip. (map)
- How much: 60-85k IDR (~£3-4) for a main.
This is here for one reason: it's the best damn beef rendang on the Gilis!
It's not the best for service, or location, or speed, or... really anything other than the food. But the food is so good that I kept coming back.
A lot of this is explained by the fact the restaurant is actually part of one of Gili T's many dive schools, and isn't a restaurant in its own right. But as far as side hustles go, it's one of the tastiest I've ever come across! If Benji is here the service does pick up a lot, so keep an eye out for him.
If you can stomach the fact it's not a world-class dining experience, you'll be rewarded with one of the best meals you'll have backpacking the Gili Islands.
Egoiste
- What: A somewhat touristy, French-owned beachfront restaurant specialising in seafood.
- Where: Another east coast delight, their gigantic banner basically marks the start of Gili T's strip. (map)
- How much: A shade more pricey - expect 75-100k (~£4-5) for a main. However, their flagship seafood platter is nearly 2 mill. Feeling fancy?
Egoiste stands out. It's a huge, two-storey beach hut, and you'll see its hordes of tables as you're walking down the strip.
Oh, and it's always busy. Which is a good sign.
The reason for that is it's one of the best spots on Gili T for western food - if you just need a pizza, this is the place to go! Personally, I love it because they don't mess you around on the portions; it's go big, or go home!
Whilst their Italian food is great, they also put out some seriously good Indonesian classics. They also made a song and dance about their fresh seafood, but I've heard too many mixed reviews from friends to want to try it, especially at the prices they charge. It'll easily triple the cost of your meal... and for that price, it needs to be perfect. And, apparently, it isn't.
Seafood is also available across the island. I love the night market for it, and it's a damn sight cheaper there!
I will say that the atmosphere is great! It's busy enough to have a buzz, but it's absolutely carried by their amazing staff! If you see a big Indonesian guy prancing flamboyantly towards your table, that's Didi, and he's about to take the piss out of someone. And you'll love it.
Where to Party Whilst Backpacking The Gili Islands
If you jumped straight here from the top of the page, you've got the idea!
For proper nightlife, we're looking squarely at Gili T. And you'd better buckle the fuck up!
There's an absolute shitload of bars, and whatever kind of night you're looking for, there's about 20 places that have something for you. Pounding music whilst free drinks rain from above? You got it. Live DJ sets? Live bands? Beer pong? Mahoossive dance floors? Check, check, check. It's all on Gili T.
Conversely, if you want a quieter drink, a chat with some mates, and some background tunes, you're covered there as well.
Most of the action is centred around the main strip to the southeast, and there's always a happy hour somewhere. If it's not on land, it's on Tequila sunrise boat party!
You may see a few bar crawls advertised, but you really don't need 'em. They tend to be full of pricks, and the bars are free to get in anyway. You won't struggle to get drunk without their help!
If you're drinking on the cheap, I'd do precisely two things: drink Bintang, the local beer, as it's dirt cheap and delicious; and get a wristband for unlimited booze at Jiggys. Job done, and you can get a gnarly hangover for under a tenner.
Finally, there's an absolute ton of bars on the island, and these are my picks for the absolute best of the best. But it's not a full list by any means. If you want something different, let us know what you're looking for by shooting us a message on Insta, and we'll throw you into the right firepit!
This list starts gentle, and gears up as we go. Kinda like your night should! Let's go!
The Window Bar
- What: Beachfront home of beanbags, cocktails, sunsets, and an epic swing.
- Where: Northwest of Gili T, away from the bustle. (map)
I'll keep this one simple: it's just a really nice spot to watch the sunset. All Window Bar have done is add some beanbags, a small bar, and some chilled tropical house tunes to up the vibe as you crash back and enjoy.
Window's is home one of the best swings on Gili T. The atmosphere builds towards sunset, as everyone's here to get that photo, and then hang around for a few drinks.
So, good news! 2-4-1 cocktails are dished out faster than viagra at the Playboy mansion, and they're really damn good! I suspect they're also pretty punchy, as the cycle back is always a lot more dicey than the cycle there.
The staff are friendly and love the beach vibes themselves, so you can lap up the beautiful views (and cocktails!) with them, before heading back for dinner and a big night.
The Exile
- What: Bohemian, Caribbean-style vibes, with drummers and fire dancers livening things up. Oh, and that swing!
- Where: Southwest corner of Gili T. (map)
Same sorta thing, really! Head down here before sunset, rack up a few beers, and watch the sky turn crimson.
It's a prettier spot than Window, with a few trees twinkling with fairy lights, drummers putting out some soft, catchy beats, and the best swing you'll find anywhere backpacking the Gili islands. It's got a kinda festival vibe to it, with light and sound complemented by details such as hand-painted, washed-out wood signs, driftwood sculptures, and a random flying bike marking the entrance.
Exile is best described by people's reaction when they first see it; they stop, look around, and go, "Wow..."
And I can't say it better than that. Pull up a beanbag.
Evolution
- What: The necessary infrastructure needed to support Gili T's biggest beer pong tournaments!
- Where: Next to Sama Sama, on Gili T's main strip. (map)
This is a huge warehouse, stuffed to the nines with beer pong tables, and two bars to provide the beer!
There's not much to it aside from that. This is where you'd go to ramp up your night, and it's always buzzing after 10. Balls are flying everywhere, drinks are spilled, and mayhem ensues! If you think you're a beer pong pro, you come to Evo's to prove it. You can shoot a few rounds with mates, strangers, or compete in the tournaments.
You could easily lose hours in here, it's really, really good fun. It's the perfect pre-drink venue before you graduate to the big daddies of drinking on Gili T: Tequila Sunrise and Jungle.
Just don't get caught up here so long you miss the unlimited drinks at Jiggys!
Sama Sama
- What: A reggae bar! You know 'em, you love 'em, and it's where you'll find me!
- Where: A few doors up from the Night Market, Gili T. (map)
The crowd Sama Sama draws overflows onto the strip. You can't miss it.
The tiny stage faces pretty much straight out onto the street, and where the stage finishes, the bar begins. What more do you want?! Reggae and ice-cold beer is a great night on it's own.
How a bunch of Indonesian dudes can sound utterly authentic performing reggae I don't know, but they nail it. When they wrap up at around 9, there's a half-hour lull, and then the bigger stage out back kicks into life, smashing out modern westernised chart-toppers. And the dude is amazing.
It's just a really enjoyable, vibrant place to be, and it's the best live music on the island. It's so good, you can get swept up in it all, singing along and knocking back beers, and not realise how drunk you've gotten until you stand to leave and one of your legs doesn't work.
The drinks aren't the cheapest (cocktails are around 80k, or £4, a go), but, that aside, I'd happily say this is my number one reggae bar of all time.
Also, shoutout to the best dreads I've ever seen! I'm not shitting you here, the dude's are touching the floor!
You wouldn't finish the night up here - but as a warm-up for the chaos of Jiggys or Jungle, it's perfect. Speaking of...
Tequila sunrise
- What: Pure chaos.
- Where: South end of the main strip, a few minutes walk from the Night Market, Gili T. (map)
You can stay relatively sober at Tequila sunrise. Quietly walk in, buy a beer from the bar to the left, and chill on the beach outside.
But that's not why you're here.
You're here to see just how quick things can go from, "respectable" to, "Ohhh shit, what just happened?! Ooh, a whisky coke!".
That's Tequila sunrise.
This Gili T icon will do an all-you-can-drink for 150k (£7.50), and if you can muster 10 of you, that's down to 100k. You'll get a wristband that's good until around 11pm. Which, if you've done it right, is more than enough.
How it work is this: the bar on the right has 5 bottles. One whisky, two vodkas, one rum, and one tequila. They'll keep refilling them all night, but there's a catch. All five bottles have to be empty before the next are racked up. This leads to a standoff as everyone waits for a grizzled war-hero to emerge to down the tequila (it's always the tequila...), and then the next round starts.
It's lawless, but in the best way. Watching the poor woman try and wrangle the next beer pong contenders and drag them to the table, when all they want to do is steal her clipboard and shout, "BEEEEEEER!", and try and catch the free drinks flowing from above the DJ decks, is crazy. It's like an alcoholic version of the opening of Saving Private Ryan.
If it all gets a bit too much, head to the outside bar and dance floor. It's much cooler and you get a bit of the sea breeze, just try not to be mown down by the bikes crossing the main road! Don't expect to sober up out here either, just because you're outside doesn't mean the drinking stops.
It's rare that the cheapest night out is also the best, but Tequila sunrise is. After an evening of predrinks, it's like the end of level boss. Great staff, great music, great atmosphere.
When the unlimited drinks stop, you can either stay here, or head to Jungle. Both will finish you.
Tequila sunrise also run a boat party, so ask inside for tickets.
Jungle Bar
- What: Wild, warehouse bar, with poles, DJs, and all the other trimmings to get you tapping out.
- Where: Sandwiched between Jiggys and the Night Market on the southeast coast of Gili T. (map)
If Jiggy's is the end-of-level boss, this is the endgame.
Expect a brawl of madness, drunkenness and debauchery. Enter through the tiger's gaping mouth (you'll know when you see it!), and you'll be confronted with a large, dark warehouse, with the floor shaking under your feet. The sole aim seems to be to get as shitfaced as possible, and, when you do, you're still one of the sober ones. It's mad.
To help you out, the staff regularly jump onto the bar and rain down free drinks on the crowds. When this happens, like clockwork the bodies surge forwards, tongues out to catch it. Sound sexy? It's not. It's more like watching a mother bird feed her bald, hungry chicks. But you're so mashed by this point that you go flying in with the rest of the animals in the Jungle.
The power of free booze, eh?
After enough Dutch courage, you can head onto the main stage and dazzle the room with your undiscovered pole-dancing talents. You may have to fight Tash from Derby off first, mind!
At the end of the day, Jungle is just a warehouse of wankered wanderers, having the time of their fucking lives. Join the party!
Is Backpacking The Gili Islands Safe?
Despite the absolute carnage, never once did I see anything kick off in a bad way in seven months of drunken adventures. I've never known anything like it! It's like there's a mutual agreement that everyone backpacking the Gili Islands is here just to have a good time, and we can all just be cool.
And we can all get on board with that!
This might well be down to the fact there's no bouncers for any of the clubs or bars, and also no police stationed on the Gili islands.
They do occasionally come over, but you'll see them a mile off, in full uniform and carrying bastard-massive guns.
In regards to theft, I took hundreds of people backpacking the Gili Islands, and not one of them had any issues with money going missing, or their stuff being nicked. Which, again, is pretty remarkable.
So, no real perils! By far and away the biggest risk to you is... you! Particularly when drunk.
This applies particularly when using the roads, which have horse-drawn carts and drunken cyclists flying up and down them. Keep an ear out for the bells of both, and you should be fine. If you're a little worse for wear, there's not much I can say to stop you swaying around, but try and do it to one side of the road! If you're riding a bike drunk, then... try not to hit anyone?
On a similar note, remember the water currents off the coast of the Gilis are no joke. It's manageable when sober, but a late-night, drunken swim is a really fucking stupid idea. Don't do it. Being swept away from your mates in the dark, with your shouts lost in the nightlife, would be a shitty evening for anyone. Use the swimming pool instead.
On the topic of getting wrecked, this doesn't just apply to booze when backpacking the Gili Islands. Especially on Gili T, there's a ready supply of drugs, particularly weed, but also ecstasy and mushrooms. We're not here to tell you not to do it - we're not your mother - but just be aware that Indonesia's drug laws are brutal. The odds of you getting caught are slim to none (again, no police are regularly on the Gilis!), but be aware of the laws and make up your own mind on the risks.
And no, they don't have to tell you if they're undercover cops!
Now, some female-specific advice. Unlike Bali, the majority religion of the Gilis is Islam, and this unfortunately brings a slightly more awkward atmosphere between female tourists and the local men, particularly young ones. It's not extreme; in fact, it usually manifests more in stares, and occasional approaches. I'm not aware of any sinsister incidents from any of our solo backpacker friends, or anyone on my tours, but one or two have mentioned feeling uneasy, particularly when walking home drunk. It's always shit to have to write this, but just keep your wits about you, and there's strength in numbers.
Finally, natural disasters.
Indonesia exists because of volcanic activity, and it's still ongoing. Every now and then, there's a major eruption or earthquake, which can trigger tsunamis.
I was running a tour when the 2018 earthquake and tsunami happened, so I can talk first hand about this.
First off, this isn't a reason not to go. In fact, I'm looking forward to going back to Indonesia again!
If something happens when you're there, here's what to do: Be calm, head inland and (if you're on Gili T) uphill, and stay away from buildings.
Ultimately, you can't odds it (but a major incident is unlikely - people wouldn't be here if it wasn't!), so just enjoy your time, and worry about it if it happens.
Leave a comment
Thanks for sticking with us! This has been a long one, particularly if you're just looking to get blotto'd.
Backpacking the Gili islands is a fun time, and in particular, Gili T is nuts! Whether you're here for sunsets, SCUBA, or the sesh, you're in for an epic time!
If you're planning a trip, let us know if you need a hand or any pointers beyond this! If you've already been... well, I'm glad you survived! We'd love to hear your war stories, and any spots we've missed, so shoot us a message or drop 'em in the comments!
And after all that, all that's left to say is, quite literally, cheers!
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