Hidden Gilis: Private Snorkeling Adventure to 5 Secret Islands

If you’re looking for an escape from the crowded tourist hubs and craving a more authentic, peaceful adventure, this private snorkeling tour around Lombok’s secret Gilis might just be what you need. This nine-hour journey takes you to five lesser-known islands in West Sekotong, where calm waters and vibrant coral reefs await. The intimate group size—limited to just five travelers—means you get personalized attention and a flexible, relaxed experience.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to explore Lombok’s hidden gems away from the crowds, combined with the opportunity to snorkel in some truly stunning spots. The inclusion of private transportation, top-quality snorkeling gear, and a delicious local seafood lunch makes this an excellent value for a full day of adventure.

One thing to consider is that, because it’s a private tour, you’ll want to book well in advance—most travelers seem to reserve about a week ahead. Also, if you’re not a big swimmer or hesitant about snorkeling, it’s worth noting that the experience is centered around calm, shallow waters, making it suitable for most skill levels.

This tour suits those who love underwater exploration, peaceful beaches, and discovering off-the-beaten-path locales. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager for an authentic, personalized experience—especially if you’re keen on avoiding the crowds and enjoying genuine moments of tranquility.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Small group size guarantees a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Vibrant Reefs: Expect colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life in calm, shallow waters.
• Multiple Islands: Five distinct stops, each offering unique scenery—white sand beaches, tiny romantic islands, and excellent snorkeling spots.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, lunch, transport, and entrance fees are covered, simplifying the day.
• Early Start: Tour begins at 7:00am, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and avoid midday crowds.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around nine days ahead, highlighting its popularity and limited availability.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

The First Stop: Gili Layar

Your day begins early, with pickup from your hotel and a quick transfer to the departure point. The first island, Gili Layar, is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Expect clear, calm waters with vibrant coral reefs just beneath the surface. It’s a fantastic spot to get comfortable with your gear and marvel at the underwater world. The inclusion of admission tickets makes it seamless—no hidden costs here.

From the reviews, we know that “the coral reefs are colorful and abundant,” which is perfect for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. The guide, Rema, is highlighted as a reliable and friendly presence, adding a layer of comfort and local insight.

The Peaceful Escape of Gili Nanggu

Next up is Gili Nanggu, famous among travelers for its tranquil, white-sand beaches. The shallow waters here are perfect for snorkeling, especially if you want to stay close to the surface and enjoy the coral gardens and small marine creatures. The review emphasizes its peacefulness—“we loved the way it felt like our own private beach”—making it ideal for relaxing, selfies, or just soaking up the sun.

Lunch at Gili Sudak

The third stop is Gili Sudak, where a simple yet delicious local seafood lunch awaits. The waters are gentle, making it an inviting spot to unwind and refuel. The reviews suggest that this break is as much about enjoying the local flavors as it is about relaxing on the sand. It’s a good chance to chat with your guides or other travelers, soaking in the authentic vibe.

The Tiny Romance of Gili Kedis

Gili Kedis is affectionately described as a “tiny romantic island,” perfect for photos or a picnic. It’s just a short stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to its picture-perfect scenery. This island’s charm lies in its size—small enough for a quick stroll but big enough to capture some truly memorable photos.

Snorkeling at Gili Rengit

The final stop is Gili Rengit, which offers some of the best snorkeling in the area. Expect colorful reefs and calm, shallow waters where you can easily see marine life without venturing too deep. Travelers have noted that this spot is a “beautiful environment for snorkeling,” especially if you want to end the day with more underwater exploration.

What’s Included and What You Should Expect

This tour covers almost everything you need for a smooth trip. You’ll be provided with snorkeling equipment, and the boat is both private and comfortable, ensuring your group isn’t crowded or rushed. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the transfer comfortable and cool, especially after a morning of exploration.

A local lunch is included—simple, fresh seafood that hits the spot after snorkeling. All fees and taxes are covered, meaning no surprise costs cropping up during the day.

The tour is designed to be flexible, with a typical duration of around nine hours, starting at 7:00am. The small size of the group—max five travelers—means you’ll get personalized attention and can customize the experience slightly if needed.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

The only review so far, from a Tripadvisor traveler, describes the tour as “fantastic and beautiful,” emphasizing how well-organized and scenic it was. The guides, especially Rema, are praised for their reliability and friendly demeanor, which makes a big difference when navigating unfamiliar waters or unfamiliar islands.

One of the key perks of this tour is the chance to visit less-visited islands, giving you the feeling of discovery and privacy. Many popular Lombok spots can be crowded, but here, you’ll enjoy a tranquil escape with pristine beaches and colorful reefs just for your group.

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Price?

At $120 per person, this private tour offers exceptional value considering the inclusions—private boat, snorkeling gear, lunch, and all fees. Compared to similar group tours, the personalized nature and limited group size make this a more exclusive experience. Plus, it’s a full day out, giving you plenty of time to explore, snorkel, and relax.

Booking nine days in advance suggests high interest and limited slots, which speaks to its popularity. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off also means you don’t have to stress about logistics—just show up and enjoy.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience caters well to adventurous travelers, small groups, couples seeking a romantic day, or anyone wanting to explore Lombok’s hidden side. It’s ideal if you value authentic, less crowded environments and enjoy underwater activities. The tour’s flexibility and inclusive nature make it manageable even for beginners.

However, if you’re looking for a very long, extensive snorkeling trip or prefer large group excursions, this might feel a bit intimate or limited. But for those who want a personal touch, this is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

This private snorkeling tour around Lombok’s secret Gilis offers a rare chance to discover tranquil islands away from the tourist hustle. With vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic beaches, it’s a day packed with natural beauty and authentic experiences. The small group setting, attentive guides like Rema, and all-inclusive approach make it a standout option for anyone wanting more out of their island-hopping adventure.

It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer personalized service, peaceful scenery, and underwater exploration without the crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or new to the activity, the calm, shallow waters guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

If authentic, scenic, and intimate island-hopping appeals to you, this tour will likely be one of your most memorable adventures in Lombok.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the islands without feeling rushed.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, limited to a maximum of five travelers, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Are snorkeling equipment and lunch included?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, the boat, and a local seafood lunch are included in the price.

How long will I spend on each island?
You will typically have about an hour at each stop, enough to snorkel, relax, or take photos.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the calm shallow waters make it accessible for most skill levels, including beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and possibly a waterproof camera to capture the stunning views.

In summary, if you’re after a personalized, scenic, and authentic snorkeling experience in Lombok’s lesser-known islands, this private tour delivers on all fronts. With beautiful reefs, peaceful beaches, and attentive guides, it’s a day that promises both relaxation and adventure—an excellent addition to your Lombok itinerary.