Island Information
Things to be aware of
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Cultural Heritage and Hindu Customs
Nusa Penida is an island steeped in cultural heritage and deep-rooted Hindu customs. Historically known as a black magic island and a former penal colony, it was once believed to be inhabited by dark spirits. Despite its mysterious past, the island now shares a rich cultural tapestry with Bali, where Hinduism plays a central role in daily life. Visitors can witness traditional ceremonies and rituals, often marked by vibrant offerings, intricate dance performances, and mesmerizing music. Temples such as Pura Goa Giri Putri and Pura Dalem Ped are significant spiritual sites, attracting both devotees and curious travelers. The island’s culture is a harmonious blend of traditional beliefs and practices, with a strong emphasis on respect for nature and spiritual devotion. Engaging with the local community offers a unique opportunity to experience this rich cultural tapestry firsthand, providing deep insights into the island’s unique customs and traditions.
Getting to Penida and Island Navigation
The most common route to get to Nusa Penida is by fast boat from Bali, typically departing from Sanur or Padang Bai and arriving at Banjar Nyuh or Sampalan Harbour. There a range of different baot companies to choose from. While the journey is relatively short, lasting about 30-45 minutes, boat schedules can be affected by weather conditions, and seas can be rough, particularly during the rainy season.
Nusa Penida’s infrastructure is still developing, with many roads being narrow and uneven, making navigation tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Renting a scooter is the best way to see the island but it requires very careful driving and experience. Alternatively, hiring a local driver is a safer and more comfortable choice, especially for exploring the island’s more remote areas, however this can be more expensive as there is no Grab or GoJek on the island.
Travelling Costs
Travelling to Nusa Penida from Bali involves several costs that travellers should budget for. The fast boat ticket typically ranges from IDR 300,000 to 500,000 (approximately EUR 15-30) per person for a round trip, depending on the company and the port of departure. There is also an entry fee of IDR 35,000 per person, which is used to improve the local infrastructure.
Once on the island, renting a scooter for the day costs around IDR 70,000 to 100,000 (EUR 4-6) for the smaller size scooter. Hiring a car with a driver can range from IDR 500,000 to 1,200,000 (EUR 30-68) per day depending on length of trip and number of destinations. Additionally, costs for food, entrance fees to popular attractions, and guided tours should be factored in (most of which are cash only). While Nusa Penida is an affordable destination, it’s important to plan and allocate a budget that covers transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses. It is best to always carry cash on you for surprise expenses, but don’t worry as there a range of ATM’s near both major harbours.