Daily costs per person in US dollars. Gili Islands costs depend on which island you stay on, season, and how much diving you do — these ranges cover budget backpacker to comfortable mid-range.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: IDR (Rupiah) (1 USD ≈ Rp 15,800)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8–15 | $20–45 | $60+ | Dorm beds → fan bungalows → AC beachfront |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–25 | $30+ | Warungs → beachfront restaurants → seafood BBQ |
| Diving (2 dives) | $55–75 | $75–95 | $100+ | Fun dives → guided dives → private guide |
| Transport | $0–5 | $5–10 | $15+ | Walking → bicycle → horse cart |
| Snorkelling | $2–5 | $10–20 | $30+ | DIY from beach → boat trip → private charter |
| Daily Total | $30–60 | $60–120 | $150+ | Budget diver → comfortable → luxury resort |
Money-saving tips
Compare dive shops in person
Walk along the main strip on Gili Trawangan and compare prices at 3–4 shops. Prices vary by Rp 500,000–1,000,000 for the same PADI course. Ask about equipment age, instructor ratios, and included accommodation.
Free snorkelling with turtles
You do not need to pay for a snorkel tour. Walk into the water on the east coast of Gili Trawangan with a mask and snorkel (rent for Rp 30,000/day) and see turtles in waist-deep water for free.
Eat at warungs, not restaurants
Local warungs serve Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, and Nasi Campur for Rp 25,000–40,000. Tourist restaurants on the strip charge Rp 80,000–150,000 for the same dishes with a sea view.
Book fast boat from Bali online
Fast boats from Padang Bai or Serangan to Gili Trawangan cost Rp 200,000–400,000 booked online, versus Rp 500,000+ at the harbour. The trip takes 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the operator.
Choose Gili Air for cheaper stays
Gili Air has fewer tourists and lower prices than Gili Trawangan. Guesthouses start at Rp 150,000/night versus Rp 250,000+ on Gili T. The diving is equally good with fewer boats on the sites.
Bring your own gear
If you already own a mask, snorkel, and rash vest, bring them. Equipment rental adds Rp 100,000–200,000 per day and rental masks are often scratched or ill-fitting.
