A Long Weekend on Gili Trawangan: Diving and Free Diving with Turtles

Gili Trawangan, the largest of Indonesia's Gili Islands, is a paradise for divers, free divers, and nature lovers alike. During a break from my studies in Indonesia, I decided to spend a long weekend there, immersing myself in the island's tranquil waters. What made this trip even more special was the incredible experience of diving and free diving with turtles—an unforgettable highlight of my time on Gili Trawangan.

Gili Trawangan: A Diver's Paradise

Gili Trawangan, or "Gili T" as it's affectionately known, is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere. The island has become a hub for divers from all over the world, and it's easy to see why. With a rich variety of coral reefs and warm, shallow waters, it's the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the underwater world.

During my time there, I spent most of my days in the water, alternating between diving and free diving, especially seeking out the island's famous residents: sea turtles.

Diving with Sea Turtles: A Magical Experience

Swimming with sea turtles was hands down the highlight of my time on Gili Trawangan. Both green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are frequently spotted around the island, making it one of the best places in the world to observe these gentle creatures up close.

As soon as I descended into the water, I was met with a scene of vibrant corals and schools of fish darting through the reefs. But the moment I spotted a turtle lazily gliding through the water, everything else seemed to fade away. There's something magical about watching these ancient creatures move so effortlessly, their slow, graceful movements almost meditative.

On one of my dives, I even witnessed a turtle making its way to the surface to breathe, a gentle reminder of their connection to both the sea and the land. As I free dove alongside them, I tried to match their calm, unhurried pace, making me feel as if I was part of their world, even if just for a few moments.

Turtle Conservation on Gili Trawangan

The waters around Gili Trawangan are part of a turtle conservation initiative, which has been crucial in helping protect and preserve the sea turtle population. On the island, you'll find turtle hatcheries, where local organizations work to protect eggs and ensure that hatchlings make it safely to the sea. These efforts are essential, as sea turtles are endangered, with their numbers declining due to threats like poaching, habitat loss, and marine pollution.

One of the reasons Gili T is such a great place for turtle encounters is that the island's shallow reefs are ideal for these animals to graze on seagrass and rest on the coral beds. You can often see turtles even while snorkeling close to the shore, making it an accessible experience for anyone visiting.

Fun Turtle Facts:

• Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are the two species commonly found around the Gili Islands.
• Green sea turtles can live up to 80 years and grow to more than 300 pounds!
• Sea turtles are air-breathing reptiles, which means they must come up to the surface to breathe, often every few minutes when active.
• Gili Trawangan has local conservation efforts in place to protect sea turtle nests and hatchlings, which helps boost the population in the area.

Beyond the Turtles: The Beauty of Gili T

When I wasn't diving or free diving, Gili Trawangan offered plenty of other charms:

• No motorized vehicles allowed, the island moves at a slower pace.
• Bicycles and horse-drawn carts are the main forms of transport.
• Sandy streets lined with lively beach bars and cafes.
• Perfect for relaxing and unwinding after long days in the water.
• Beautiful sunsets: each evening, the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink.
• The sound of waves serves as the perfect backdrop.
• A stark contrast to bustling city life.
• The ideal place to recharge before diving back into studies.

A Weekend to Remember

My long weekend on Gili Trawangan was more than just a break from school—it was an opportunity to reconnect with nature in one of the most peaceful, beautiful environments I've ever experienced. Diving and free diving with the sea turtles was the highlight of the trip, offering a profound sense of calm and wonder. Gili Trawangan's conservation efforts ensure that future generations can enjoy these magical encounters, making it a truly special place for both travelers and wildlife.