Satonda Island is one of Indonesia’s most enchanting hidden gems, offering a rare blend of volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful natural beauty. Located off the northern coast of Sumbawa, this uninhabited island is a sanctuary for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world.
In this guide, we will explore the things to do in Satonda Island that make it a must-visit destination. From swimming in a mystical saltwater crater lake to snorkeling in pristine gardens, discover the experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Uncovering the Beauty of Satonda Island
Satonda Island is a small, uninhabited volcanic island located in the Flores Sea, administratively part of the Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. Its history is deeply tied to the massive eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815. It is believed that the eruption created a tsunami that filled the island’s crater with seawater, forming the iconic saltwater lake we see today.
Visiting Satonda is like stepping into a “Lost World.” It is worth visiting for its unique geological history and its status as a marine nature park (Taman Wisata Alam). The island offers a surreal combination of a green crater lake in the middle and vibrant coral reefs on the outside.
1. Swim in the Saltwater Lake (Danau Satonda)
The crown jewel of the island is undoubtedly Lake Satonda. This green-hued lake is trapped inside an ancient volcanic crater. Because the water is trapped seawater mixed with minerals, it has a higher alkalinity than the open ocean, making it incredibly buoyant—similar to the Dead Sea.
- Location: Danau, Pekat, Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara 84191, Indonesia
- Ideal time to visit: Mid-morning when the sun lights up the green water.
- Tips: Be careful when entering; the edges can be slippery.
- Highlight: A unique crater lake formed inside an ancient volcano. Swimming here is a serene experience; the water is warm, calm, and surrounded by lush crater walls, offering a sense of complete isolation.
2. Snorkel Around Vibrant Coral Reefs
While the lake is mysterious, the coastline of Satonda is vibrant and teeming with life. The waters surrounding the jetty area are designated as a marine conservation area. You can step directly off the beach and find yourself surrounded by healthy hard and soft corals.
- Location: The southern coastline near the arrival jetty.
- Ideal time to visit: Morning or early afternoon for the best visibility.
- Tips: Bring your own gear as there are no rental shops on this uninhabited island.
- Highlight: Snorkeling here reveals schools of colorful anthias, butterflyfish, and occasionally sea turtles grazing in the shallows.
3. Climb to the Lake Viewpoint
To truly appreciate the geography of Satonda, you must hike to the viewpoint. A stone staircase leads from the beach up to the crater rim. From the top, you get a breathtaking panoramic view: the green crater lake on one side and the deep blue Flores Sea on the other.
- Location: Follow the marked trail stairs from the beach.
- Ideal time to visit: Sunrise or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Tips: Wear sturdy walking shoes; the stairs can be steep.
- Highlight: This is the most Instagrammable spot on the island, capturing the contrast between the two bodies of water.
4. Explore Satonda’s Volcanic Landscape
Satonda is a geological marvel. Beyond the lake, the island’s topography tells the story of its volcanic origins. Walking around the island’s perimeter or hiking deeper into the forest allows you to observe the unique rock formations and flora that have adapted to this environment.
- Location: Hiking trails around the crater rim.
- Ideal time to visit: Early morning.
- Tips: Stick to the paths to avoid disturbing the vegetation.
- Highlight: Observing the rugged terrain helps travelers understand the immense geological power of the nearby Mount Tambora.
5. Witness the “Wish Trees” Tradition
One of the most mystical things to do in Satonda Island is visiting the “Pohon Harapan” or Wish Trees. Located near the lake’s edge, these trees are draped with hanging stones and coral fragments.
- Location: along the footpath leading to the lake.
- Ideal time to visit: Any time during your walk to the lake.
- Tips: Respect the local culture; do not remove existing stones.
- Highlight: Locals and travelers hang shells or rocks as symbols of wishes or good luck. Legend says if your wish comes true, you must return to the island to untie your stone that is a beautiful reason to plan a second trip.
6. Relax on Quiet, Untouched Beaches
Unlike the busy beaches of Bali, Satonda’s shoreline is peaceful and pristine. The sand is a mix of white coral and black volcanic remnants. With no hotels or beach clubs, you are guaranteed privacy.
- Location: The main beach area near the jetty.
- Ideal time to visit: All day.
- Tips: Bring a beach towel and plenty of sunscreen.
- Highlight: It is the perfect spot to meditate, read a book, or simply listen to the gentle waves lapping against the shore without the noise of engines or crowds.
7. Go Kayaking Around the Island
For those arriving by private boat or liveaboard, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the island’s nooks and crannies. The waters in the bay are generally calm, allowing you to glide silently over the reefs.
- Location: Launch from the main beach or your boat.
- Ideal time to visit: Early morning when the sea is glassy.
- Tips: Check the current before paddling too far out.
- Highlight: Kayaking gives you a vantage point to see the sheer cliffs of the island and peer down into the clear water below.
8. Enjoy Sunset by the Lake or Shoreline
As the sun begins to dip, the atmosphere on Satonda changes. The sky turns shades of orange and purple, reflecting beautifully on the still water of the crater lake or the open sea.
- Location: The west-facing side of the beach or the crater rim.
- Ideal time to visit: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
- Tips: Bring insect repellent as mosquitoes can be active at dusk.
- Highlight: The silence during sunset is profound, broken only by the sounds of nature.
9. Spot Marine Life and Fruit Bats
Satonda is not just about fish. At dusk, thousands of large fruit bats (flying foxes) wake up and fly from the island’s trees to the mainland of Sumbawa to feed. Viewing this migration against the sunset is a National Geographic moment.
- Location: Look up towards the tree canopy or watch from a boat offshore.
- Ideal time to visit: Dusk (sunset).
- Tips: Bring binoculars if you have them.
- Highlight: Seeing the sky fill with the silhouettes of giant bats is a wildlife spectacle unique to this region.
10. Take a Scenic Boat Ride Around the Island
To see the full scale of the volcano, take a boat ride around the exterior of the island. You will see towering cliffs, sea caves, and hidden bays that are not accessible by foot.
- Location: A loop around the island.
- Ideal time to visit: Mid-day when the sun penetrates the deep water.
- Tips: Ask your boat captain to go slowly near the cliff edges.
- Highlight: Travelers can circle the island to see cliffs, hidden bays, and remote coral gardens.
How to Travel to Satonda Island
Satonda is an adventure destination. Traveling to Satonda Island requires a combination of land and sea transport, as the island is only accessible by boat.
Here are the main ways to reach the island:
- From Calabai (Sumbawa): This is the closest jumping-off point. It takes about 30-45 minutes by local boat.
- From Dompu/Bima: You will need to fly into Bima or Dompu, drive to Calabai port, and then take a boat transfer.
- From Labuan Bajo/Lombok: Satonda is a popular stop on multi-day sailing tours (liveaboards) running between Lombok and Komodo.
- Through a tour operator: This is the most recommended option. A tour operator provides transport, gear, and guided support, ensuring you don’t get stranded on an uninhabited island.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Satonda Island?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October. During these months, the weather is sunny, the skies are clear, and the sea is calmer, making the boat crossing safe and snorkeling visibility excellent.
What to Know Before Visiting Satonda Island
Since Satonda is uninhabited, there are no shops or facilities. Here are key tips to prepare for your trip:
- Bring essentials: Pack enough drinking water, snacks, and sunscreen. There are no vendors on the island.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking up to the crater rim.
- Gear: Bring your own snorkeling gear (no rentals available).
- Eco-conscious: Follow environmental rules and avoid littering. Take all your trash back with you.
- Safety: Check weather and sea conditions before departure.
Enjoy a Smooth Satonda Island Adventure with Indonesia Impression Tour
Exploring remote islands like Satonda requires expert planning. At Indonesia Impression Tour, we ensure visitors enjoy a complete Satonda Island discovery experience.
Why book with us?
- Experienced local guides & high-quality service: We know the history, the tides, and the best spots.
- Access to exclusive and diverse destinations: We combine Satonda with other gems in Sumbawa or Komodo.
- Provide complete inbound travel services: From airport pickup to boat charters, we handle the logistics.
- Custom & personalized itineraries: We tailor the trip to your pace.
Ready to hang your wish on the trees of Satonda? Contact us today to plan your adventure.
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