Highlights of Sumba Island

Duration: 5 Days

Overview

Nestled in eastern Indonesia, Sumba Island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its pristine beaches, rolling savannas, majestic waterfalls, and deeply rooted traditions, Sumba offers a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure for travelers seeking authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Sumba is home to some of Indonesia’s most spectacular natural wonders. From the white-sand beaches of Walakiri and Mandorak to the crystal-clear blue waters of Weekuri Lagoon, nature lovers will find paradise at every turn. Explore the dramatic Wairinding and Puru Kambera savannas, perfect for golden-hour photography, or take a refreshing dip in the cascading waters of Tanggedu and Lapopu Waterfalls.

What makes Sumba truly unique is its rich indigenous culture, deeply preserved for generations. Discover traditional villages like Ratenggaro and Praijing, where ancient Marapu beliefs, megalithic tombs, and traditional houses with towering roofs still stand. Experience the Pasola Festival, a breathtaking warrior ritual featuring horseback spear-throwing, or witness the intricate craftsmanship of Sumba’s famous Ikat weaving, a UNESCO-recognized heritage.

For adventure seekers, Sumba is a playground of thrilling experiences. Nihiwatu Beach is ranked among the best surf spots in the world, offering perfect waves for experienced surfers. You can also embark on a horse-riding experience along the coastline, trek through lush rainforests, or explore hidden caves that tell stories of Sumba’s ancient past.

Unlike Bali or Lombok, Sumba remains peaceful and unspoiled, making it the perfect getaway for those looking to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle. Luxury eco-resorts like Nihi Sumba provide world-class hospitality while maintaining sustainability and supporting local communities.

Sumba island is not just a destination—it’s an experience of raw beauty, deep traditions, and thrilling adventure. Whether you seek cultural exploration, nature immersion, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Sumba has it all.

Highlights

  • Explore pristine beaches, rolling savannas, and traditional villages in one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.
  • Relax on breathtaking beaches like Walakiri, Mandorak, and Tarimbang, known for their turquoise waters and stunning sunsets.
  • Experience the rich heritage of Sumbanese culture, ancient megalithic tombs, and unique Marapu rituals.
  • Ride the legendary waves of Nihiwatu Beach or trek through lush hills and waterfalls like Tanggedu and Waimarang.
  • Watch the thrilling Pasola festival, an ancient horseback battle tradition held in select months.
  • Stay in top-tier accommodations like Nihi Sumba, named one of the world’s best resorts, while supporting sustainable tourism.
  • Capture the stunning savannas of Wairinding and Puru Kambera, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
  • Escape the crowds and discover a raw, untouched paradise with endless exploration opportunities.

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Waingapu Airport in East Sumba, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide. We will then provide transportation to your hotel where you can check-in and relax before your upcoming day trip.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel and taking some time to rest, we will embark on an adventure to visit a traditional village. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness the process of creating Ikat Tenun, the traditional clothing of the Sumbanese people. Next, we will explore the natural beauty of the waterfall and savannah in East Sumba. You will see horses and cows roaming freely as they search for food and space. Along the way to Tanggedu waterfall, we will stop at Puru Kambera Savannah, where you can take a break and soak up the atmosphere. Tanggedu is a stunning waterfall in East Sumba that requires a flat 20-minute trek and a 15-minute climb up some stairs to reach. However, the breathtaking views along the way make it well worth the effort. Your lunch box will be prepared for you. After trekking, we will visit Puru Kambera beach, where you can relax until you are ready to return to the hotel. Alternatively, we can visit Walakiri Beach (also known as Mangrove Beach) if you would prefer.

Today, we will be traveling from East to West Sumba. Our first stop will be at “Bukit Wairinding,” which translates to “the Hills of Wairinding.” There is a stunning viewpoint from which you can admire the beautiful, endless green hills. Take a seat in the grass and enjoy the serene moment. Our next destination is the traditional village of Praijing, situated uphill and surrounded by lush greenery. This village provides a unique opportunity to observe the entire village and understand how it operates. Take a walk around the village, and don’t forget to share some candies with the friendly locals, including the elders and children who will be happy to greet you with a smile. Continuing our adventure, we will visit the Lapopu Waterfall after a scenic drive through Sumba’s endless hills and green landscapes. To reach the waterfall, you will need to hike for approximately 15 minutes and cross a bamboo bridge. Once you reach the waterfall, there is a beautiful spot where you can relax and observe the water cascading down the hill. After visiting the waterfall, we will visit the Tarung-Waitabar village in West Sumba. Both villages are located next to each other and are still very much alive, showcasing a clear example of how tradition can persist inside a modern city like Waikabubak, where the villages are located. Finally, we will transport you to your hotel in West Sumba.

After enjoying breakfast, we will head to the village of Ratenggaro in the Kodi area. This village boasts the highest traditional rooftops in all of Sumba, which are handmade using traditional techniques. While this village may only consist of a few houses, each one can accommodate up to 50 family members. During the harvesting season, most of the villagers will work in the fields and leave only the elders and children in the village. We will then proceed to Weekuri Lake, a stunningly clear lake that provides an excellent opportunity to swim and relax. Take some time to dip in the water and walk around the rocks and reef for a view of the ocean from one side. A lunch box will be prepared for you. Next to Weekuri Lake is Mandorak Beach, flanked by two massive rock ridges that point towards the middle of the beach and crystal-clear waters. We will return to your hotel and visit Lendongara Hill to witness the sunset.

After breakfast, our guide will be ready to pick you up and transfer you to Tambolaka airport, depending on your flight schedule.

More Information

Price: 848 / person

Inclusions

  • Tours & transfer as per the itinerary
  • Air conditioned transporation during program
  • 4 Nights accommodation on twin-sharing basis include daily breakfast
  • Mineral water during tour
  • English-speaking guide ONLY
  • Meals as per the program itinerary
  • All Entrance fees and donations

Exclusions

  • Flight tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Soft drink, juice and alcohol
  • Personal expenses such as; tip to guide and/ or driver, laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages
  • Extra cost due to causes greater than our control, for example; delays or flight cancellations, etc.
  • Everything not mentioned in “included”
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