Although the Gili Islands are small and relaxed, you’ll still find basic banking facilities for travellers. Knowing where and how to access cash or exchange money can make your trip easier and help you avoid unnecessary fees or last-minute stress.
ATMs on the Gili Islands
ATMs are available on all three main islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno – but the largest number is on Gili Trawangan near the harbour area and along the main street. Most machines accept international debit and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) and dispense cash in Indonesian rupiah (IDR).
While ATMs generally work well, they can occasionally run out of cash during peak holiday seasons or weekends when many tourists withdraw at the same time. Machines may also have withdrawal limits, often ranging between 2–3 million IDR per transaction, depending on your card and bank.
For peace of mind, it’s a good idea to withdraw enough cash before arriving on the smaller islands or bring some cash from Bali or Lombok as a backup.
Money Exchange Services
You’ll find several small money-exchange kiosks, mainly on Gili Trawangan near the harbour and tourist streets. Rates on the islands are usually slightly less favourable than those in Bali or Lombok, and the kiosks may charge a commission or have limits on the amount exchanged.
If you’re carrying foreign currency, it’s best to exchange most of it in Bali or Lombok before travelling to the Gilis. The island kiosks are convenient for topping up small amounts if you run short of cash during your stay.
Payment by Card
Many mid-range and upscale hotels, dive shops and some restaurants accept card payments, but smaller cafés, bars, homestays, transport services and street-food vendors usually operate on a cash-only basis. Having cash on hand is essential for day-to-day expenses.
Practical Tips for Travellers
- Withdraw in advance: If possible, withdraw cash in Bali or Lombok where there are more ATMs and better availability.
- Carry enough cash: Always keep enough IDR for small purchases, transport and emergencies, especially on Gili Meno and Gili Air.
- Check your card fees: Some banks charge foreign withdrawal fees – check before travelling.
- Avoid carrying large sums at night: For safety, carry only what you need for the day.
- Keep small notes: Useful for local boats, markets, tips and small shops.
Access to cash on the Gili Islands is generally easy, but machines and exchange rates are less reliable than on Bali or Lombok. To enjoy a smooth stay, arrive with some cash already in rupiah and use the island ATMs and money-exchange kiosks mainly for topping up your budget.
