If you’re craving a peaceful yet adventurous way to enjoy the stunning waters of Gili Trawangan, the Gili SUP or Kayak with Drone Shoot tour might just catch your eye. This experience offers a perfect blend of learning, exploring, and capturing the moment—ideal for nature lovers and those eager to add some unique photos to their travel albums. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve sifted through reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
What makes this experience appealing? First, you’ll get a hands-on introduction to stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, perfect for beginners or those looking to refine their skills. Second, the drone shoot videos and photos promise a memorable way to document your adventure with stunning aerial views. Lastly, local guides ensure safety and local insight, making the journey both smooth and informative.
A possible drawback? The activity is weather-dependent, meaning wind or rough seas could cause rescheduling—something to keep in mind if you’re planning a tight itinerary. This tour seems best suited for adventurers eager to enjoy the natural beauty of Gili Trawangan from the water while capturing those moments from above.
- Good To Know
- The Experience: What You Can Expect
- The Breakdown of the Itinerary
- Practical Details You Need to Know
- Authentic Experiences & Honest Feedback from Reviewers
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Tour Reviews in Gili Trawangan
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Good To Know

- Accessible for beginners: Basic paddling skills help but are not a must, as guides assist newcomers.
- Scenic exploration: Expect crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and beach stops.
- Guided experience: Local guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing your safety and enjoyment.
- Photo and video bonus: Drone footage adds a special touch to your memories.
- Flexible duration: Tours range from 1 to 4 hours, fitting various schedules.
- Weather dependent: Rain, wind, or waves may cause rescheduling, so flexibility is key.
The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour begins at the designated meeting point, SUP GILI (coordinates -8.34926986694336, 116.0434341430664). Here, a friendly instructor introduces you to the basics of paddleboarding or kayaking—think of it as a quick, no-pressure lesson, perfect for first-timers or those wanting a refresher. According to reviews, guides like Anthony are praised for their patience and friendliness, making beginners feel comfortable right away.
Once on the water, you’ll paddle along the calm, turquoise waters surrounding Gili Trawangan. The scenery is genuinely breathtaking—you’ll see vibrant coral reefs beneath you and, if luck is on your side, spot sea turtles gliding through the clear waters. As one reviewer put it: “The activity is top! The guide was super nice, and they took amazing photos and videos of the turtles.” This highlights how much the guides go beyond just supervising—they also focus on giving you a memorable visual record.
During the paddle, you’ll enjoy secluded beaches perfect for taking a break from paddling and soaking up the tranquility. Some reviewers mention that the drone footage turns an already impressive experience into a cinematic memory—“insane videos” as one said. The drone shoot is a highlight for many, providing aerial shots that you’ll cherish long after your trip.
The tour typically lasts from 1 to 4 hours, with options for daylight or sunrise experiences. Some reviews note that weather is a significant factor—windy conditions or rough seas can lead to rescheduling, which isn’t unusual for outdoor water activities. One traveler mentioned that their activity was postponed by the guide due to unfavorable wind conditions, but appreciated the honesty and flexibility.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Gili Trawangan.
The Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at SUP GILI, where all equipment is provided, easing worries about bringing your own gear or worrying about technical details. The guiding staff will give a brief intro, ensuring even complete beginners can feel confident on the water.
Next, you’ll head out for approximately an hour of guided paddleboarding or kayaking around Gili Trawangan. During this time, you can enjoy the vibrant marine environment, with chances to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations beneath your board. The guides are known for their local knowledge, sharing insights about marine life and the island’s history.
Depending on your chosen duration, the tour may include stops on secluded beaches. These peaceful spots are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or just soaking up the sun. According to reviews, the tranquility of these beaches is a real highlight—an ideal break from busy beaches and tourist hotspots.
Finally, the drone photographer captures shots from above, making this not just a water activity but an opportunity to create stunning visual souvenirs. Many guests have noted that the drone footage “left them speechless,” adding a special dimension that’s rare in typical paddleboarding tours.
Practical Details You Need to Know

Transportation & Meeting Point: The tour starts at SUP GILI with precise coordinates provided for easy access. It’s recommended to arrive a little early to meet your instructor and get comfortable with the equipment.
Duration & Flexibility: Ranging from 1 to 4 hours, the tour can fit into various schedules. Check availability for different starting times, especially if you’re considering the sunrise experience.
Group Size & Guides: This is a private group experience, with guides speaking both English and Indonesian. The guides earn praise for their patience and friendly attitude, crucial for a relaxed experience.
Cost & Value: While the price isn’t explicitly provided here, reviews suggest the activity’s value lies in the combination of guided instruction, beautiful scenery, and professional drone footage. It’s a more immersive way to explore Gili Trawangan’s waters compared to solo rentals.
What to Bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for valuables. No need to worry about bringing your own gear—the tour includes all equipment.
Weather & Cancellations: Weather plays a significant role; activities can be rescheduled if conditions aren’t safe. Cancellations are flexible—up to 24 hours in advance—for a full refund.
Authentic Experiences & Honest Feedback from Reviewers

One traveler from France pointed out that the activity seemed largely like a paddleboard rental with guide support—so if your main goal is just paddling, it’s straightforward. Meanwhile, another from the UK praised the “amazing activity” and helpful guide, emphasizing how much they enjoyed the drone videos.
However, some reviews highlight issues with communication or safety, such as a French traveler who expressed disappointment about a lack of visible drone footage or wind-related delays. One reviewer from France also mentioned a dangerous incident where their son and friend drifted, requiring rescue—a reminder that safety is paramount, and you should feel comfortable with the guides.
The guides and drone photography are frequently praised, but it’s worth noting that weather and safety are unpredictable factors in outdoor water experiences.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for beginners who want to try paddleboarding or kayaking with guidance, as well as nature and marine life enthusiasts eager to see sea turtles and coral reefs. If you’re into photography or drone footage, this tour offers a fantastic chance to capture Gili Trawangan from a unique perspective.
It’s best suited for active, water-loving travelers comfortable in the water, and those who appreciate a relaxed, unhurried pace. Not ideal for travelers with limited mobility or seeking a high-adrenaline adventure, as the activity emphasizes calm exploration and natural beauty.
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The Sum Up

The Gili SUP or Kayak with Drone Shoot is a well-rounded activity blending beginner-friendly paddleboarding, serene marine exploration, and the thrill of aerial photography. Its key appeal lies in the stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the chance to capture incredible drone footage—making it a memorable addition to any Gili Trawangan itinerary.
While weather can influence scheduling, the activity’s flexibility and the quality of guides make it a valuable experience for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging water adventure. It offers excellent value for travelers eager to combine leisure, discovery, and photography in one package.
If you’re seeking a peaceful way to connect with Gili’s natural environment, enjoy gentle waters, and come away with spectacular photos, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to plan for possible weather delays and communicate your preferences clearly—your guides are there to help make it a safe, enjoyable experience.
FAQ

What skills are needed to participate? Basic paddling skills are helpful but not required; guides provide a short intro and assist beginners.
Is equipment provided? Yes, all paddleboards, kayaks, and safety gear are included in the tour.
Can I do this tour if I’m a beginner? Absolutely. Guides are experienced and friendly, making it suitable for first-timers and those with some paddling experience.
What should I bring? Swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, towel, and a waterproof bag for valuables.
What if the weather is bad? The activity is weather-dependent, and it might be rescheduled if conditions aren’t safe. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
How long does the tour last? Tours range from 1 to 4 hours, depending on your choice and availability.
Are there any safety concerns? Safety depends on weather conditions; some reviews mention safety incidents, so always follow your guide’s instructions.
Is this experience suitable for children? Not explicitly stated, but since it involves water and moderate fitness levels, children should be comfortable in the water and supervised.
Can I customize the experience? The tour is a private group, so you might be able to discuss specific requests or timings with the provider when booking.
In essence, this tour offers a peaceful and visually stunning way to explore Gili Trawangan’s waters—perfect for those who love nature, photography, and gentle adventure.
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