Travel Info
Travel Info
Your essential info for important information via Gili Air Port — including medical info, transport tips, and local atmosphere
Medical and Emergency Info
A quick guide to essential emergency contacts in Gili Air Port, offering access to medical care and reliable local assistance during your time in Nusa Penida. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Medical Services
Gili Air Emergency / Clinic (Gili Emergency)
Phone: +62 82-162-112-112
Notes: This is a dedicated 24/7 service number for medical emergencies and doctor-on-call services on the Gili Islands. They can arrange transfers to Lombok if necessary.
Gili Air Clinic Center (Blue Island)
Phone/WhatsApp: +62 81-999-705-703
Notes: Another major clinic on Gili Air, located near the harbor. This is a good number for non-emergency medical consultation.
Emergency Contacts
Polsek Pemenang (Sector Police)
Phone: +62 366 21297
Notes: Handles safety issues, lost items, accident reports, and general emergencies.
Emergency Numbers in Indonesia
Police: 110
Ambulance / Medical Emergency: 118 / 119
Fire Department: 113
Tourist Hotline: 0361 224111 (Bali tourism support)
Important Safety
For Serious Cases: For serious accidents, diving-related issues (like decompression sickness), or severe illness, you will be stabilized and then rapidly transferred by speed boat to a main hospital in Mataram, Lombok.
Bring Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, as the cost of a private emergency transfer to Lombok or even Bali can be high.
Local Security: While you have the national police line, the local community security (often working with the hotels) is also very effective in handling minor local issues quickly. If something happens, report it to your accommodation manager immediately; they know the local processes best.
Transport and Luggage
No Motorized Vehicles
Gili Air is completely free of cars, motorbikes, and scooters. Transportation is limited to walking, bicycles, and Cidomo (horse-drawn carts). This is the single most important difference from Bali or Lombok. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Luggage Strategy
Pack Light. Since you will be carrying your bags from the boat to your Cidomo/accommodation (often over sand or uneven paths), heavy luggage is difficult. Only take essentials to Gili Air and consider using the luggage storage service at Sanur Port for large suitcases. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Arrival at Port
The port is busy. Be prepared to immediately choose a Cidomo if you have heavy bags, or walk if your hotel is within 5 minutes (most are). Always agree on the Cidomo price before starting the journey. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Money and ATMs Informations
Cash Availability
Prioritize Cash. ATMs are available near the harbor, but they sometimes malfunction or run out of cash, especially during peak season. Bring sufficient Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) from Bali for things like bike rental, Cidomo, and smaller warungs (local food stalls). Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
ATM Location and Reliability
Location
All ATMs on Gili Air are concentrated near the main harbor area on the South and East sides of the island. You will find machines from major Indonesian banks like Mandiri and CIMB Niaga.Reliability Risk
ATMs on the Gili Islands can be unreliable. They may occasionally run out of cash, especially during peak holiday periods (June–September, Christmas/New Year), or temporarily be out of service due to power fluctuations.- Withdrawal Limits
ATMs in Indonesia often have lower maximum withdrawal limits (e.g., IDR 1.5 million to IDR 2.5 million per transaction). You may need to perform multiple transactions, which means paying the transaction fee multiple times.
Money Changes
Avoid using money changers on Gili Air unless absolutely necessary, as they often offer less competitive rates than those found in Bali. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Notes: Preserve your budget by exchanging currency where the rates are better.
Mobile Signal and Connectivity
Best Provider
The most dominant and reliable provider across the Gili Islands and Indonesia is Telkomsel.
If you are planning to purchase a local SIM card, choose Telkomsel for the best chance of stable 4G/LTE service.
Signal Quality
Signal strength is strongest along the coastline, particularly near the main harbor on the East and South sides. It can weaken slightly in the island’s interior or on the beaches furthest North/West. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
International Roaming
International roaming is available, but speeds and costs are usually poor.
Buying a local Indonesian SIM card or an eSIM package before you go is almost always cheaper and faster. Always find the latest travel information before going to Gili Air regarding this matter.
Local Atmosphere and Activities
The Vibe
Gili Air is a mix between the nightlife of Trawangan and the tranquility of Meno. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, yoga studios, and excellent diving/snorkeling. The East side is the social hub, while the West is quieter and ideal for sunset views.
Snorkeling
The best snorkeling (and highest chance of seeing turtles) is usually found on the Northeast side (Sunrise Point), where the current is calmer.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are present, especially inland and at sunset. Use repellent, particularly when dining outdoors in the evening.
