10-Day Bali to Lombok & Gilis Dive Holiday Plan
For scuba diving enthusiasts, combining Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands creates an unforgettable adventure. In this 10-day itinerary, you’ll explore vibrant marine life, stunning coral reefs, and diverse dive sites across these breathtaking Indonesian destinations, all while enjoying the unique culture and beauty each island has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Bali
Your journey begins in Bali, where you’ll land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Depending on your arrival time, consider spending your first day unwinding at a resort or exploring nearby attractions. If you arrive in the morning, head to Ubud for some local culture or relax on the beaches of Seminyak. Accommodation prices range from $30 (IDR 450,000) for budget hotels to $200 (IDR 3,000,000) for luxurious beachfront resorts.
Day 2: Scuba Diving in Bali
Kickstart your diving adventure with a day trip to Tulamben, famous for the USAT Liberty wreck. This site is accessible to divers of all levels, with depths ranging from 9 to 30 meters. Book a dive package with a local dive shop costing approximately $100 (IDR 1,500,000) for two dives, including gear rental. After diving, explore the vibrant marine life or relax at a beachside café.
Day 3: Explore More of Bali
Take a break from diving and immerse yourself in Bali’s culture. Visit the stunning Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the sacred Ubud Monkey Forest. In the afternoon, you can opt for a Balinese cooking class or indulge in a traditional spa treatment. For your next dive day, ensure you’re refreshed and ready for the journey ahead.
Day 4: Ferry from Bali to Lombok
On the morning of Day 4, take an early ferry from Bali to Lombok. The fast boat ride from Padangbai to Senggigi typically takes around 1.5 hours and costs approximately $30 (IDR 450,000). Upon arrival, check into your accommodation, which should be booked in advance. Prices in Lombok are generally lower, with options ranging from $25 (IDR 375,000) for guesthouses to $150 (IDR 2,250,000) for upscale resorts.
Day 5: Diving in Lombok
Begin your Lombok diving experience at the vibrant dive sites around the Gili Islands. Most dive operators will arrange day trips out of Senggigi. Expect to pay around $120 (IDR 1,800,000) for two dives, including lunch, and gear rental. Popular spots include Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, where you can encounter turtles, vibrant coral gardens, and diverse fish species.
Day 6: Full-Day Dive Trip to Gili Islands
Today, embark on a full-day dive trip around the Gili Islands. You’ll typically visit two to three dive sites, with dive depths ranging from 12 to 30 meters. Spot manta rays, reef sharks, and stunning coral formations while enjoying a packed lunch on the boat. After diving, spend some time relaxing on the beach or exploring the charming island atmosphere. Return to Lombok in the evening to recharge.
Day 7: Relaxation and Exploration in Lombok
After several days of diving, take a breather. Consider a day trip to the stunning waterfalls of Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile or relax at Kuta Beach, famous for its pristine white sands and surf-friendly waves. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter (about $5 per day) and explore the island at your own pace. Take the time to savor local delicacies at roadside warungs, where meals cost around $5 (IDR 75,000).
Day 8: Return to Bali & Night Dive Planning
On Day 8, return to Bali via the fast boat (1.5 hours, $30 / IDR 450,000). After checking into your hotel in either Seminyak or Sanur, prepare for an exhilarating night dive in Padangbai. Many dive shops offer night dive trips for around $90 (IDR 1,350,000), providing you a chance to see bioluminescent plankton and nocturnal marine life. Experience the underwater world in a whole new light.
Day 9: Diving at Nusa Penida
Dedicate your penultimate dive day to Nusa Penida, renowned for its stunning dive sites like Manta Point and Crystal Bay. Expect to see majestic manta rays and vibrant coral reefs. The day trip typically costs around $120 (IDR 1,800,000) for two dives, including transport and lunch. Depart early in the morning and enjoy the thrill of diving at depths of 10 to 30 meters.
Day 10: Departure
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your hotel and perhaps squeeze in a last-minute dive or some shopping for souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, spend your remaining time relaxing on the beach or exploring Ubud’s artisan markets. Ensure you leave ample time to travel back to Ngurah Rai International Airport and reflect on an incredible 10-day Bali to Lombok and Gili dive trip.
Sample Indonesia Dive Itinerary Overview
| Day | Activities | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Bali | Bali |
| 2 | Dive at Tulamben | Bali |
| 3 | Cultural Exploration | Bali |
| 4 | Ferry to Lombok | Lombok |
| 5 | Dive at Gili Islands | Lombok |
| 6 | Full-Day Dive Trip | Gili Islands |
| 7 | Relaxation and Exploration | Lombok |
| 8 | Return to Bali & Night Dive | Bali |
| 9 | Dive at Nusa Penida | Bali |
| 10 | Departure | Bali |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I combine Bali and Lombok diving?
Plan a trip that starts with a few days in Bali for cultural experiences and local dives, followed by a ferry to Lombok for diving around the Gili Islands. - Which is better for my scuba holiday: Bali or Lombok?
Both locations offer unique diving experiences. Bali is great for wreck dives and vibrant marine life, while Lombok and the Gilis provide pristine coral reefs and abundant marine species. - What is the best order for a Bali, Lombok, and Gili itinerary?
A recommended route is to start in Bali, then ferry to Lombok, dive the Gili Islands, and return to Bali for more diving adventures.
With this 10-day Bali to Lombok and Gili dive itinerary, you will experience some of the best diving Indonesia has to offer. Make sure to plan ahead, book your accommodations and dives, and get ready for an unforgettable underwater adventure!