Gili Trawangan Island to Nusa Penida tickets

About the ride from Gili Trawangan to Nusa Penida

Continue the snorkeling journey of a lifetime by heading to Nusa Penida. 

Nusa Penida is an island off the southeast coast of Bali, across the Badung Strait. This picturesque island has been dubbed the most "Instagrammable Island" because of its stunning views and incredible beaches. 

The 69 km (43 mile) journey between Gili Trawangan and Nusa Penida takes between two and four hours. Since you're island hopping, the only travel option is a ferry, infamously known as a bumpy ride on choppy seas. 

Four fascinating things to do in Nusa Penida

Here are some great things to see and do while in Nusa Penida: 

1. Snorkeling and more snorkeling: There are over 300 types of coral and 500 types of fish to see around Nusa Penida. Hire a boat operator to visit all the best places. Don't miss the chance to observe the mola-mola sunfish or swim with the manta rays at Manta Bay — unless they are too shy.

2. Explore hidden jungle pools: For a little change of scenery, consider visiting the off-the-beaten-path Tembeling Forest on the island's west side. After a motorbike ride through the jungle and a climb down some winding stairs, you will come to a few pools. The water is clean and an excellent place to swim safely. A longer trek leads to a beautiful beach, but the surf and current are more dangerous.

While there is no official entry fee, some visitors have reported locals requesting a small donation for entry.

3. Visit the Pura Goa Giri Putri Caves: This Hindu temple cave is an interesting place to witness how natural beauty intertwines with cultural and religious traditions. You have to climb over 100 steps to reach the fairly small entrance, which opens into a large cavern.

You'll pay a small fee at the entrance and be given a sarong if you don't have one. A priest will sprinkle holy water on you before you enter. 

4. Watch the sunrise at Nusa Penida's Rumah Pohon Treehouse: The Rumah Pohon Treehouse is an Airbnb with an incredible view, particularly at sunrise. Even without booking the room for the night, you can get in for a mere $0.65 or IDR 10,000 to steal some snaps of the stunning scenery. Other people may be staying there, so be conscious of that and be respectful. The view will really take your breath away, so it is a popular place for some incredible photos.

How to get from Gili Trawangan to Nusa Penida 

Traveling between Gili Trawangan and Nusa Penida requires a ferry ride.

The ferry options vary. Tickets run between $14 and $35 a person. They typically take between two and four hours. Travel times can vary due to stops along the way and weather conditions. 

Most of the ferries have A/C and restrooms in the indoor cabin. They also usually have some outdoor seating available. 

Luggage allowances vary as well. Some allow one bag at 20 kg (44 pounds) and a handbag at 7 kg (15 pounds). Check with the provider when booking to see what amount of luggage they allow. 

Additionally, check the pick-up and drop-off points. 

What to expect from the journey from Gili Trawangan to Nusa Penida

On your journey from Gili Trawangan to Nusa Penida, expect to be flexible and go with the flow. 

Stops vary, and it will be important for your peace of mind to remember that you will get there when you get there. It's island time!

The trip also tends to be very choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, take some medication before boarding. Sometimes, the crew has medication on hand, but if you take it on the trip, it may already be too late to be effective. 

Another good thing to do is to snag a seat outside if weather conditions allow it. While it may be warmer and seem less comfortable, access to fresh air can help with motion sickness.

You will need to pay the Gili Trawangan Harbor Retribution Fee when you leave. This tourist fee is required upon entry and departure from Gili Trawangan. It is currently $0.65 or IDR 10,000 per person. 

When is the best time to visit Nusa Penida?

The temperatures stay pretty consistent in Nusa Penida throughout the year, with highs during the day around 29°C (85°F). 

The high season in Nusa Penida is from early July to late August, although dry weather may last through September. These months are the best time to see Nusa Penida's most famous sea creatures, the manta ray and the mola-mola (sunfish). 

Sadly, the rains bring a lot of trash to the ocean from December through February, so those are not the best months to visit. 

How many days should you spend in Nusa Penida? 

Around two to three days is the perfect amount of time to stay in Nusa Penida. The island is bigger than it seems, but that would give you the time to enjoy the sights, swim with the fishies, and take lots of snaps. 

Where to visit after Nusa Penida? 

From Nusa Penida, hop on to Sanur, Bali. Only 25 km (15 miles) away, this town lies on the southeast side of Bali. It is a laid-back town with a very chill vibe. Considered by some to be the sleepy side of Bali, don't let that put you off. There is still so much to do and see.