Lombok : Snorkeling Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis

This comprehensive review looks into a popular snorkeling tour from Lombok that takes you to the Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis Islands. While we haven’t personally experienced it, many travelers find this trip a fantastic way to enjoy Indonesia’s marine wonders and scenic views in just one day.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the chance to swim among vibrant coral reefs and starfish at Gili Nanggu is often praised. Second, the delightful local lunch on Gili Sudak, featuring Lombok specialties and fresh seafood, stands out as a highlight. Third, the quick visit to Gili Kedis, with its heart-shaped outline and stunning sunset views, offers a perfect photo opportunity.

One potential consideration is the duration—a full nine hours might feel long for some, especially if you’re not an early riser or prone to seasickness. The tour is best suited for those who love both marine life and scenic relaxation, and who are comfortable with a full day of activity. Overall, if you’re seeking an authentic, affordable, and well-organized way to see some of Lombok’s most iconic islands, this experience could be just what you need.

Good To Know

• Crystal-clear waters make snorkelers happy and reveal diverse marine life.
• A tasty local lunch provides a real taste of Lombok’s culinary scene.
• Visiting Gili Kedis, the heart-shaped island, offers unique photo opportunities.
• The tour includes multiple islands in a single day, maximizing your time.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics.
• The experience is ideal for non-swimmers and families with older children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Gili Islands Snorkeling Tour

This 9-hour guided adventure from Lombok offers a well-rounded experience, combining snorkeling, local cuisine, and scenic island visits. It’s designed for travelers looking for a full day of activity without the hassle of organizing individual transportation or boat trips.

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in either Senggigi or Kuta Mandalika, which are popular bases for visitors exploring Lombok. The guide ensures you’re comfortably transported to Sekotong harbor, where the boat adventure begins. Many reviews highlight how smooth and punctual the pickup process is, making the start of your day stress-free.

The boat itself is shared but well-equipped, with snorkeling gear provided—though you’re encouraged to bring your own if you prefer familiar equipment. The boat ride offers scenic views, often commented on by travelers as a relaxing way to start the day, with many noting the breeze and the chance to snap a few photos of Lombok’s coastline.

Gili Nanggu: Snorkeling in a Marine Wonderland

The first major stop is Gili Nanggu, a small island renowned for its pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs. Here, you’ll spend about 4 hours snorkeling and relaxing. The marine life is highly praised, with travelers describing the water as crystal-clear, filled with colorful fish and coral.

One reviewer shared that they loved the chance to swim among starfish, a highlight for many nature lovers. The shallow waters make it accessible for non-experienced snorkelers, and the guides are attentive in sharing marine insights. Many comment that this is a great spot for photos and relaxing walks along the soft sandy beaches.

Gili Sudak: A Feast for the Senses

Next, the group heads to Gili Sudak, where a local restaurant sets the stage for a delicious lunch. The meal typically features Lombok specialties and fresh seafood, with many saying the food exceeded their expectations for a tour meal.

Post-lunch, travelers often take the opportunity to dip back into the water or simply lounge on the island’s quiet beaches. The calm, laid-back atmosphere here makes it a perfect break from the morning’s snorkeling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gili Kedis: The Heart-Shaped Island at Sunset

The last stop is Gili Kedis, a tiny island only about 10 square meters in size, famous for its heart-shaped outline and postcard-perfect scenery. The timing coincides with late afternoon, so you’ll be able to witness a stunning sunset—a favorite among visitors.

Many reviews mention how special it is to see the island glow amidst the vibrant colors of dusk. Travelers often describe sitting with a warm cup of coffee and soaking in the view, feeling a quiet sense of awe at this small but mighty piece of paradise.

Returning to Lombok

After Gili Kedis, the boat heads back to the harbor, where you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The entire experience is paced to avoid rushing, though some mention that the long day requires stamina. The tour concludes with a sense of fulfillment, having explored three unique islands with diverse offerings.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

• Pickups occur from Senggigi or Kuta Mandalika, with timing arranged in advance. Be ready in the hotel lobby 15 minutes early.
• Gili Nanggu gets approximately 4 hours of snorkeling, giving ample time to explore marine life and relax.
• Gili Sudak includes a 2-hour lunch stop, with offerings that often receive praise for their authenticity and freshness.
• Gili Kedis is visited for around 2 hours, with the sunset views making it a memorable end to the day.
• The return trip wraps up the day, with drop-offs back at the starting points.

What You’ll Need

Bring essentials like hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The tour advises avoiding touching marine life, littering, and smoking to protect the fragile environment.

Tour Experience and Group Size

This experience is conducted with a live English-speaking guide and is designed for private groups, making it more personalized. Many reviewers appreciated the small group atmosphere, allowing for better interaction and flexibility.

Value Analysis

While it is a full-day commitment, the price includes everything from transportation, snorkeling gear, and a hearty lunch. Compared to arranging all these elements independently, the tour offers good value for money and saves travelers the stress of planning every detail.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is best suited for non-swimmers and older children (over 9 years), due to the water activities involved. It isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For travelers seeking a comprehensive day of snorkeling, scenic island visits, and authentic local cuisine, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a balanced blend of adventure and relaxation, with enough time on each island to truly soak in the surroundings. The inclusion of local food and sunset views adds a cultural dimension that many other tours lack.

The well-organized logistics—from pickup to drop-off—make the experience smooth, while the small group size ensures personal attention from guides like Made or Putu, who are often mentioned for their friendly professionalism.

If you’re a nature lover, foodie, or photographer eager to capture memorable moments on Lombok’s nearby islands, this trip has a lot to offer. Its emphasis on environmental responsibility—like avoiding coral contact—also makes it a responsible choice for eco-conscious travelers.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling tour around Gili Nanggu, Sudak, and Kedis offers a fantastic way to see some of Indonesia’s most charming and colorful islands without spending days on multiple trips. Its combination of marine adventure, tasty local food, and scenic sunsets makes it an excellent value for a full-day experience.

Perfect for relaxed travelers, families with older children, or anyone eager to explore Lombok’s coastal treasures, this tour delivers memorable moments, vibrant underwater scenes, and beautiful landscapes. With its practical logistics and focus on environmental respect, it stands out as a thoughtfully designed experience.

While it may feel lengthy for some, the variety of sights and activities ensures you’ll leave feeling fulfilled—and with plenty of stunning photos to share.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be in the hotel lobby at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time to ensure a prompt start.

Are snorkeling masks and fins provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the tour, but you can bring your own if you prefer, especially if you have specific gear you’re comfortable with.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 9 years old. The activities can be demanding for younger kids or those with mobility issues.

Will I see marine life like starfish?
Yes, many travelers report swimming with starfish at Gili Nanggu, which is often considered a highlight.

Can I swim at all three islands?
Absolutely. You’ll spend most of your time snorkeling or relaxing on the beaches of Gili Nanggu, with swimming options at both Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis.

Is the sunset view on Gili Kedis really worth it?
Yes, many reviewers describe Gili Kedis at sunset as magical—perfect for photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

What should I bring with me?
Bring hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Avoid touching coral or marine life to protect the environment.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

This carefully curated experience offers a wonderful combination of marine exploration and culture, perfect for those eager to see Lombok’s nearby islands without the hassle of planning every detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby