Below is a list of the general questions that have appeared on our radar over the years. Please have a look and if you still have any questions, get in touch and we’ll gladly answer any queries you may have.
Do I need a visa?
Yes. Most nationalities can purchase a Visa On Arrival (30 days) at Indonesian Immigration upon arrival. The cost is IDR500,000 (AUD50/USD30). You can also purchase a VOA online before you arrive in Indonesia. When travelling to Indonesia, it is a strict requirement that your passport be valid for AT LEAST six months from your arrival date.
What happens once I arrive in Padang?
One of our English speaking staff will meet you at the arrival gate once you’ve exited immigration and customs in Padang. Look for the sign. Our transport will take you into Padang, either to a spot to chill or directly to the boat. If you plan to arrive a day before departure, please ensure you book a hotel in Padang. There are a number of comfortable western style places to stay, and Padang is actually a fascinating city to explore once you search beyond the organized chaos. At the end of the charter, we provide return transfers to the airport.
What surfboards should I bring?
A good base for your quiver would be to bring two short boards and a step-up. Your standard board short board will get you through the general 4-6ft waves, and it’s a good idea to have a second as a backup if you happen to snap one. An additional step-up will assist you getting into the waves when the swell picks up. A good step-up is generally about 4-6 inches longer or 3-4 liters more than your standard board, though the best bet is to chat to your local shaper. Your final decision will be based on how the forecast is looking right before you leave home. We can also arrange order of custom name brand boards which can will be in Padang when you arrive.
Do I need travel Insurance?
Yes. Proof of travel insurance is required before you start your trip, and your travel insurance policy must include medical evacuation. Serious accidents do happen here from time to time; it is part of surfing. We recommend taking out travel insurance when you pay your deposit, so you are covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances that may arise before your trip. We recommend Surf Travel Insurance. They provide insurance packages specific to surfers visiting the Mentawai and Telos.
What’s the best time for waves?
The “peak season” here is May through October. This is when the Indian Ocean is most active, and the swell is most consistent. However, this is also the most popular time of the year. We run charters year round, and though the swell is often a touch smaller and a little less consistent outside the peak season, the crowds are generally fewer, and we’ve had killer trips November through April too.
Is a photographer available?
Our resident photographer/videographer can be booked to document your trip. Prices for a photo package are generally around $200 USD per person, and photos/video footage are provided at the end of the trip before you get off the boat.
Is there phone signal or internet on the boat?
A number of cell towers are now active in the islands. If you need to call home, you can often get signal most days. The boat has no internet though the cell towers also have 4G data which allow you to connect to the internet. Purchasing an E-Sim before you arrive in Padang is the most economical way to connect.
Do I need medication for malaria or other vaccinations?
Malaria medication is generally considered overkill while on a boat. You are mostly anchored far from land, and there is a often a good breeze at night. It’s a good idea to stay aware, keep an eye out for mosquitoes, wear appropriate clothing to cover up in the evenings and spray any remaining exposed areas with mosquito repellent. These simple but smart preventative measures are generally considered enough.
We strongly recommend that you seek information from your doctor regarding malaria treatment and any other considerations such as hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, etc. We also advise speaking to your doctor about any additional recommendations for illnesses that are common in this area generally. (For example, Cipro is often prescribed by some doctors to combat a stomach bug that can be common in these areas, and it’s also a good broad spectrum medication for bacterial infections.)
Any medical concerns you may have should be discussed with a doctor. Mentawai Daze accepts no responsibility for any illnesses or injuries incurred while on board our trips.
What’s included in the charter price?
Charter packages include air-conditioned accommodation, 3 cooked meals/day with snacks and fruit in between, 3 complimentary beers/day and unlimited juice/soda/coffee/tea/drinking water, round-trip airport transfers, use of snorkelling and fishing equipment, use of speedboat tenders. Additional beer is available for purchase in Padang prior to departure.