Question 1

What is included in the package?

Accepted Answer

The Full Surf Package is USD 140 per person / day. It includes an air-conditioned bungalow with private bathroom, three meals daily, drinking water, WiFi, guided surf boat trips with fuel when conditions allow, two Padang hotel nights, and airport, port and camp transfers.

Question 2

Can I book as a solo traveller?

Accepted Answer

Bookings require at least 2 guests. Please plan your booking with a travel companion.

Question 3

How many guests can the camp accommodate?

Accepted Answer

Purimanu accommodates up to 10 guests in total. Contact us with your dates to check availability.

Question 4

Can I enquire about a group offer?

Accepted Answer

Groups of 6–10 guests can contact Purimanu directly with their group size and travel dates for a personal offer. We do not publish fixed group discounts.

Question 5

Which trip costs are paid separately?

Accepted Answer

Flights, travel insurance, Padang–Siberut ferry tickets, surfboard baggage, the government surf permit and personal purchases are paid separately. Ask us for current ferry and permit costs before travelling.

Question 6

What happens if surf boat trips cannot run?

Accepted Answer

Surf boat trips depend on weather, sea conditions and the skipper’s safety assessment. Routes and trip frequency may change, and trips may be cancelled when conditions are unsafe. We do not offer partial refunds for boat trips unused because of these conditions, except where required by applicable law.

Question 7

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Deposits are non-refundable. However, you can transfer your booking to another date within 12 months, subject to availability. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

Question 8

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season (April-October). Popular dates can fill up quickly. Last-minute bookings may be available during the shoulder season.

Question 9

What's the best way to get to the camp?

Accepted Answer

Fly into Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang, Sumatra. From there, take the Mentawai Fast Ferry to the islands (3-4 hours), followed by a speedboat transfer to our camp (30-45 minutes).

Question 10

Do I need a visa for Indonesia?

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Indonesian airports for $35 USD (valid 30 days, extendable once). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival. Check current requirements for your nationality.

Question 11

Should I spend a night in Padang?

Accepted Answer

Your package includes two nights in a Padang hotel, on arrival and departure. Share your flight details so we can coordinate the hotel and transfers with your ferry.

Question 12

How long is the journey from Padang?

Accepted Answer

The ferry from Padang takes 3-4 hours to reach the Mentawai Islands. From the port, it's another 30-45 minutes by speedboat to our camp. Total travel time from landing in Padang is approximately 5-6 hours.

Question 13

What is the ferry schedule to Mentawai?

Accepted Answer

The Mentawai Fast Ferry departs from Padang on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 7:00 AM. The return ferry leaves Siberut the same day in the afternoon.

Question 14

What skill level is required?

Accepted Answer

We cater to intermediate to advanced surfers. You should be comfortable paddling out through surf, duck diving, and riding overhead waves. Some spots are suitable for confident intermediates, while others are expert-only.

Question 15

Are the waves suitable for beginners?

Accepted Answer

The Mentawai Islands are known for powerful reef breaks best suited for experienced surfers. While we have some gentler waves, this is not a beginner-friendly destination. A solid intermediate level is minimum.

Question 16

How many surf sessions per day?

Accepted Answer

Surf boat trips depend on weather, sea conditions and the skipper’s safety assessment. Routes and trip frequency may change, and trips may be cancelled when conditions are unsafe. We do not offer partial refunds for boat trips unused because of these conditions, except where required by applicable law.

Question 17

Do I need to bring my own boards?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please bring your own boards. We recommend bringing 2-3 boards of varying sizes (step-up, everyday shortboard, and a backup). Limited rental boards may be available but we can't guarantee specific models.

Question 18

What size boards should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring boards with a bit more volume than you'd normally ride. Reef breaks and tropical conditions favor boards in the 6'0" - 6'8" range for most surfers. A step-up (7'0"+) is recommended for larger swells.

Question 19

Is there WiFi at the camp?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have satellite WiFi available in common areas. Connection can be slow and weather-dependent. We encourage disconnecting and enjoying the island experience!

Question 20

Are there power outlets? What voltage?

Accepted Answer

We have 220V power outlets (European Type C/F plugs), with electricity and generator provision around the clock. Bring a universal adapter for your devices.

Question 21

What about laundry facilities?

Accepted Answer

Laundry service is available and included. Just leave your items in the designated area and they'll be washed, dried, and returned within 24 hours. Bring quick-dry clothing.

Question 22

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our chef can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary requirements. Please inform us of any restrictions when booking so we can stock appropriate ingredients.

Question 23

Is malaria a concern?

Accepted Answer

The Mentawai Islands have a low to moderate malaria risk. Consult your doctor about prophylaxis. We recommend mosquito repellent, long sleeves at dawn/dusk, and sleeping under provided mosquito nets.

Question 24

What vaccinations do I need?

Accepted Answer

Consult your doctor, but commonly recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine vaccinations. Some doctors recommend Japanese Encephalitis for extended stays. Start planning 6-8 weeks before travel.

Question 25

Is there a doctor nearby?

Accepted Answer

The nearest medical clinic is about 45 minutes away by boat. We have comprehensive first aid kits and staff trained in first aid. For serious emergencies, evacuation to Padang can be arranged. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential.

Question 26

Is travel insurance required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is mandatory. Your policy should cover surfing activities and emergency medical transport. We can recommend specialized surf travel insurance providers.

Question 27

What currency should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in cash for tips and personal purchases. There are no ATMs on the islands. USD is also accepted for tips. We recommend bringing $200-300 in small bills for a 10-day trip.

Question 28

Are alcoholic beverages available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a selection of beer and spirits available for purchase. Prices reflect the remote location. You're welcome to bring duty-free alcohol from the airport to keep costs down.

Question 29

Can I extend my stay?

Accepted Answer

Extensions are possible subject to availability. Contact us as soon as possible if you'd like to extend. Additional days are pro-rated based on your package rate.

Question 30

What if the waves are flat?

Accepted Answer

Surf conditions vary. Our guides choose destinations according to the swell, weather, sea conditions and safety. Specific breaks and a fixed number of boat trips cannot be guaranteed. Ask us about other activities when the surf is small.

Question 31

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

Essentials: 2-3 surfboards, leashes, wax, boardshorts/rash guards, reef booties, sunscreen (reef-safe), insect repellent, basic medications, quick-dry clothing, headlamp, and a good book. See our detailed packing list for more.

Everything you need to know about yourMentawai adventure, from travel tips to surf conditions.

Booking & Reservations

Getting There

Surfing & Waves

Accommodation & Facilities

Health & Safety

General Information

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