Classic Lombok - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Relax on the beautiful Gili Islands, explore traditional villages, snorkel vibrant reefs, and sit back on picturesque beaches.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 12 travelers.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation includes 4 nights in hotels and 3 nights in bungalows. Please note that cold water showers are common, and hot water facilities can be unreliable. Properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  7 breakfasts are included. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility, but vegetarian options are available, though choice may be limited in some areas. Be specific when ordering as Indonesian cooking often includes fermented shrimp paste.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You need coverage for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000). We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price. Check with your booking agent for specific details on combo tours.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  Dress standards are conservative in Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees (long pants, skirts, shirts) is strongly recommended for comfort and respect. Singlets, tank tops, and topless sunbathing are not acceptable.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include a surf lesson in Kuta (48USD per person) and yoga on Gili Trawangan.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) is required. Visa requirements vary by nationality; check with your local embassy or travel agent. An All-Indonesia Arrival Card must be completed online within 72 hours before arrival for certain airports. Additionally, Bali implements a 150,000 IDR (approx. $10 USD) Tourist Levy, which can be paid online before or upon arrival.

• Will this tour be affected by Ramadan?

  Ramadan will occur between Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. While services may have limitations and schedule disruptions, tours generally operate effectively, and food is available to non-Muslims. Increased cultural sensitivity is important during this time; wear loose, covering clothes and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public.

• What kind of transportation will be used on the tour?

  Transportation includes private van, ferry, walking, and boat.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides information, suggestions, and introduces local venues. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, for circumstances outside our control.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping service providers (approx. 10%) is customary in Asia and shows satisfaction with assistance. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day, and $20-25 USD per person per week for your CEO.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah. Debit cards are best for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard widely accepted). USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, and AUD cash are recommended for emergencies when ATMs are not accessible. Credit cards can be used at some upmarket restaurants and larger stores.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for self-laundry.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Your CEO has authority to amend the itinerary for safety. Exercise good judgment during free time and consider taxis for night excursions. Swimming, including snorkeling, is at your own risk.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is against our philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include relaxing on the beautiful Gili Islands, exploring traditional villages, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and enjoying picturesque beaches.

• What activities are included in the tour price?

  Included activities are a Sasak village visit, a snorkeling trip, a Tetebatu countryside trek, a Benang Kelambu Waterfall swim, and free time on the white-sand beaches of the Gili Islands. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include a surf lesson in Kuta (USD48 per person) and yoga in Gili Trawangan.

• What types of accommodation are used?

  The tour includes stays in Hotels (4 nights) and Bungalows (3 nights).

• What is the shower situation like in the accommodations?

  Cold water showers are the accepted norm in many areas, and hot water facilities are often unreliable even when available. Many hotels will not have hot water showers.

• Are there elevators in all accommodations?

  Properties with only two stories may not have elevators, requiring you to carry your own luggage up stairs.

• How many meals are included?

  7 breakfasts are included.

• What is the meal situation like on the tour?

  Generally, meals are not included to offer flexibility in dining choices, and food is typically inexpensive. Your CEO can suggest local restaurants. Included breakfasts are usually Asian style. Vegetarian options are available, though choice may be limited in some areas. Be aware that Indonesian cooking often uses fermented shrimp paste (terasi) as a basic ingredient.

• What modes of transportation are used?

  Transportation includes private van, ferry, walking, and boat.

• Who will lead the tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the tour, providing information, suggestions, and recommendations for local dining. They have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited, and local guides are also used for more specific knowledge.

• What is the typical group size?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• What are the age requirements for this tour?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can join when traveling with a guardian over 21 years old.

• Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

  No, for group trips, solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some independent trips may have different policies.

• What happens if I book the 'My Own Room' option?

  If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all overnight stops.

• Is travel insurance compulsory?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Indonesia and Bali?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. An All-Indonesia Arrival Card is mandatory for international travelers and must be completed online within 72 hours before arrival. Additionally, foreign tourists entering Bali are required to pay a 'Bali Tourist Levy' of 150,000 IDR (approx. $10 USD), which can be paid online or upon arrival.

• Do I need to complete a medical form?

  Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility for the trip.

• What health considerations should I be aware of?

  Inoculations may be required; consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements, as you may be in remote areas away from medical facilities. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  Dress standards are conservative throughout Asia, and Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders is strongly recommended. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is respectful and suitable for the hot climate. Shorts should be knee-length. Singlets and tank tops are not acceptable, and one-piece bathing suits are recommended, with topless sunbathing being unacceptable.

• What impact might Ramadan have on the tour?

  Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims, and there may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules. Guests should display increased cultural sensitivity, wear loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect.

• Is this tour part of a larger combo trip?

  Yes, this tour combines with other tours, so staff and some travel companions may have been traveling together prior to Day 1, or may continue together on another tour after this trip concludes.

• What currency should I use and how should I manage my money?

  The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah. The best way to carry money is with debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). It's advisable to bring some USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, or AUD cash for emergency situations when ATMs might not be accessible. Ensure any USD notes are new and in good condition (notes older than 2003 or with blemishes may not be accepted).

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• How much spending money will I need?

  Spending money requirements vary for each traveler depending on personal habits regarding drinks, shopping, and tipping.

• Is tipping customary in Indonesia?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters is customary (around 10%). For local guides and drivers, a range of $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is recommended. If your CEO provides outstanding service, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is appreciated.

• Are international flights included?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Some combo tours may include them; check with your booking agent.

• Are local flights included?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted.

• Is departure tax included?

  Yes, departure tax is included in all international and domestic tickets.

• Are laundry facilities available?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What general safety and security information should I know?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, utilize hotel safety deposit boxes, and lock your luggage. The CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. Optional activities are at your own discretion and risk. Stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Participate in water-based activities with a guide; swimming and snorkeling are always at your own risk.

• What rules apply regarding illegal drugs or sex tourism?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Smoking marijuana and opium, while part of local culture in some areas, is not acceptable for travelers. Exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly prohibited. CEOs have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to converting travel into a positive impact by assisting local communities in generating income from tourism through the development and support of community-owned businesses.

• Can I subscribe to a newsletter?

  Yes, you can subscribe to the adventure travel e-newsletter for travel news, trip information, and updates from the tour operator.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  In dire need, contact the tour operator's Local Office or Local Representative. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Specific numbers are provided for Denpasar (Bali) Airport Transfer complications (+62 813 376 18480, +62 811 380 3820, +62 811 380 3821), and for general emergencies, the Bangkok office (+66 92 338 9222) or international sales team numbers.

• Is there a tourist levy for Bali?

  Yes, effective February 14, 2024, foreign tourists entering Bali must pay a 'Bali Tourist Levy' of 150,000 IDR (approximately $10 USD). Payment can be made online through the Love Bali System before entry or upon arrival. It is strongly suggested to pay before arrival to avoid queues.

• Are there specific safety considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and utilizing tools like Equaldex for travel planning.