Eco Tourism in the Gili Islands
Protecting Paradise: Sustainable Travel in the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands are known for their turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs and relaxed island life. But behind the scenes, a passionate community of locals, businesses and volunteers works hard every day to protect this fragile environment.
From coral reef restoration and beach clean-ups to refill stations and animal welfare initiatives, the Gilis have become one of Indonesia’s most inspiring examples of community-driven eco tourism.
Gili Eco Trust
Biorock Reef Restoration
One of the most important conservation projects in the Gili Islands is led by Gili Eco Trust, a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems.
Their most famous initiative is the Biorock reef restoration program.
Biorock structures are underwater metal frames that use a safe low-voltage electrical current to stimulate coral growth.
Coral fragments attach to the structure and grow significantly faster than they would naturally, helping damaged reefs recover.
Over time these structures transform into thriving artificial reefs filled with coral, reef fish and other marine life.
Eco Diving & Eco Tours
Gili Eco Trust also offers Eco Tours and Eco Diving experiences, including the Eco Snorkel Tour, RE-Cycle Gili Tour, Coral Propagation Workshop or the PADI Dive Against Debris Speciality.
Visitors can learn about coral reef restoration, conservation efforts and the impact of tourism on fragile ecosystems.
By joining, travellers directly support ongoing reef protection and restoration projects around the islands.
Waste Management & Recycling
Waste management is one of the biggest environmental challenges for small islands.
Gili Eco Trust works closely with FMPL, local community and businesses to improve recycling systems and reduce landfill waste across the islands.
Environmental contributions from divers and tourists help fund long-term waste solutions and sustainability programs.
Free Debris Friday
Beach Clean-Up
Every Friday, the island community comes together for Debris-Free Friday, a weekly beach clean-up across different areas of Gili Trawangan.
Divers, travellers and locals collect thousands of kilos of marine debris each year while learning simple waste-sorting and recycling techniques.
It’s a social and rewarding experience — often ending with a well-earned drink and a great start to the weekend.
Refill Stations & Plastic Reduction
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental threats facing small tropical islands.
To reduce single-use plastic bottles, many cafés, restaurants and dive shops across the Gili Islands offer drinking water refill stations for a minimum fee.
Visitors can also use the RefillMyBottle initiative, which maps refill locations and makes it easy to stay hydrated without buying bottled water.
Animal Welfare on the Gili Islands
Sea Turtle Conservation
Sea turtles are among the most iconic marine animals of the Gili Islands, and several initiatives help protect them.
One of the best-known projects is Proyek Penyu, which protects nests, monitors eggs and helps hatchlings safely reach the ocean.
Through education, conservation work and community awareness, the project supports turtle populations and promotes responsible wildlife interactions across the islands.
Ethical Horse Care
Because motor vehicles are not allowed on the islands, horses still play an important role in transportation through traditional cidomo carts.
Stud Horse Riding and Rescue, established in 2004, is the only ethical horse riding sanctuary on the Gili Islands, improving welfare through rescue, veterinary care and education.
They also offer riding tours and lessons, with proceeds supporting the care, rehabilitation and long-term wellbeing of rescued horses.
Cat & Animal Welfare
LUNI Lombok supports cats across the Gili Islands through its clinic, providing veterinary care, sterilisation programs and medical treatment.
They also run a small cat café, where visitors can interact with rescued cats while supporting their ongoing care and rehabilitation, and care for other animals such as horses, cows, goats and wildlife.
Alongside Cats of Gili, they help feed, rescue and rehome cats, and visitors can support through donations, or volunteering.
How to Travel Responsibly in the Gili Islands
Visitors can help protect the islands by making small, conscious choices during their stay. Using refill stations and avoiding single-use plastics helps reduce waste, while choosing reef-safe sunscreen and never touching or standing on coral protects fragile marine ecosystems. Joining beach clean-ups is a great way to give back to the island, and supporting ethical animal welfare organisations helps improve the lives of local animals. Simple actions like disposing of waste responsibly can make a big difference in preserving the beauty of the Gili Islands for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Gili Islands eco-friendly for travellers?
The islands have strong community-driven environmental initiatives led by organisations such as Gili Eco Trust.
Are there refill stations in the Gili Islands?
Yes. Many cafés, restaurants and dive shops offer drinking water refill stations.
How can visitors support eco tourism?
By using refill stations, respecting marine life, joining clean-ups and supporting local conservation initiatives.
Can I support local eco-friendly products while visiting the Gilis?
Absolutely. Many initiatives, including the Gili Eco Trust shop, offer locally made and sustainable products such as handmade soaps, shampoo bars and upcycled goods. Buying these items helps support local artisans and environmental projects across Lombok and the Gili Islands.
What is Free Debris Friday?
A weekly beach clean-up organised on Gili Trawangan where volunteers collect plastic debris.
What are Biorock reefs?
Artificial reef structures that help coral grow faster and restore damaged reefs.
Is it safe to swim or snorkel around coral reefs in the Gili Islands?
Yes, but it’s important to do so responsibly. Avoid touching or standing on coral, keep a safe distance from marine life, and use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect fragile ecosystems.
Is there a zero-waste or eco shop in the Gili Islands?
Yes. Gili Eco Trust runs a small zero-waste shop where visitors can find reusable items such as metal straws, bamboo cutlery, tote bags and plastic-free travel essentials, as well as upcycled products made from recycled materials collected on the island.
Ready to Explore Eco-Friendly Gili?
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Your Guide to Responsible Travel in the Gili Islands