by Mélissa | 22 Aug 2023
Nestled in the Indonesian archipelago, Sumba Island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its pristine beaches, rich culture, and incredible surf breaks, Sumba offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey to Sumba, sharing insights on the best season to visit, things to do, must-see attractions, top surf breaks, a glimpse into its vibrant culture, and tips for budget travelers planning a one-week adventure.
If you plan to travel as a solo women, I will share a post about some places I went, and do not recommend because I did not feel safe !
Sumba is rich in culture and traditions. The island is famous for its unique funeral ceremonies, stunning handwoven fabrics (known as “ikat”), and megalithic tombs. Visitors can witness these cultural elements by participating in local ceremonies or visiting traditional villages.
Unique Architecture:
Sumbanese houses are known for their distinctive tall, peaked roofs, which often reach impressive heights. These roofs are typically thatched with alang-alang grass or palm leaves and held up by a complex system of wooden beams and posts.
Ikat Textiles:
Sumbanese houses are often adorned with beautifully woven textiles known as “ikat.” These textiles are hung as decorative elements and are also used during ceremonies and rituals.
Ikat textiles in Sumba are highly regarded for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. They are created using a traditional weaving technique that has been passed down through generations.
Getting to Sumba from Bali typically involves taking a flight to Sumba’s Tambolaka Airport or Waingapu Airport. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to Sumba from Bali:
Book a Flight from Bali to Sumba:
Start by booking a flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to either Tambolaka Airport (TMC) or Waingapu Airport (WGP) in Sumba. Tambolaka Airport is located in West Sumba, while Waingapu Airport is in East Sumba.
Airlines That Operate Flights:
Several airlines operate flights between Bali and Sumba, including Garuda Indonesia, Wings Air, and Nam Air. These airlines offer daily flights, but schedules and availability may vary, so it’s advisable to check with the respective airlines for the most up-to-date information.
Use Skyscanner to check the best prices.
Flight Duration:
The flight duration from Bali to Sumba typically ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your destination airport in Sumba.
Costs:
Flight costs can vary significantly depending on the airline, the time of booking, and the class of service. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, one-way flight tickets from Bali to Sumba could cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more, depending on these factors.
Transportation within Sumba:
Upon arriving at Tambolaka Airport or Waingapu Airport, you’ll need transportation to reach your desired destination on the island. Options include taxis, car rentals, and local transport. Be sure to negotiate fares or arrange transportation in advance if needed.Best is to arrange with your hotel. Some include it in the price, I paid 700.000IDR.
Local Transportation:
While exploring Sumba, you can use local transportation such as bemos (shared minibuses) or rent a motorbike to get around. Bikes are in pretty bad shape and expensive.
Keep in mind that road conditions in some areas of Sumba may be basic, so plan your travel routes accordingly.
Plan Ahead:
Sumba is a relatively remote island, and it’s advisable to plan your trip in advance. Consider your interests and the regions you want to explore, as the island is quite large, and attractions are spread out.
Sumba Island enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to September.
During this period, you can expect sunny days, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
Sumba offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
I stayed in a surf camp, will make a post about it asap.
Pantai Watu Belah: It was few minutes away from the surf camp, you can pass through villages, access the beach. Its if for free ! So beautiful.
Pantai Kerewei Sumba Barat: Sunset spot, pack a snack & water to enjoy the view. ( Take your trash with you ;) ).
Sunsets and sunrise is Sumba are something else…
On my way back to the airport, I took a day tour to visit this two main spot of the Island. Price: 1.200.000IDR
While just going to the airport is half the price so it’s worth it. And I share with two girls to drop them off on the way ;).
While those two places are the most famous one of the Island, they are also my worst memories of the Island.
I do not recommend this area of the Island for women travelling alone !
Laguna Waikurri, Sumba Barat Daya:
Entrance fees: 20.000.
The place is really beautiful.
Pante Ratenggaro:
This picturesque village is famous for its traditional tall-roofed huts and megalithic tombs. It provides a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Entrance fee: 50.000k
When you come in, they don’t tell you that you have to pay for the drone, only after! They charged me 75.000k with no choice but to pay !
Be aware they will ask for money for anything you do beside walking around.
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Explore the Stunning Beaches: Sumba is renowned for its untouched beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Nihi Sumba Beach, Pantai Marosi.
Chase Waterfalls: Discover the island’s hidden waterfalls like Tanggedu Waterfall and Lapopu Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in natural pools.
Trekking and Hiking: Sumba offers fantastic trekking opportunities. Explore the lush forests of Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park or embark on a scenic hike to the hills surrounding Waingapu.
Visit Traditional Villages: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional Sumbanese villages like Ratenggaro and Praijing. Witness the unique architectural designs and soak in the warm hospitality of the locals.
Wairinding Hill: For breathtaking panoramic views, hike up Wairinding Hill during sunrise or sunset. The vista of rolling hills and the coastline is nothing short of spectacular.
Praijing Megalithic Village: Explore the ancient stone formations and megalithic tombs that offer insights into Sumba’s unique ancestral traditions.
Note: Sumba surf breaks are for Intermediate to Advanced. Few spots are ok for beginner but really not ideal.
Nihiwatu Beach: Known as one of the best surf breaks in Indonesia, Nihiwatu offers world-class left-hand waves and is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Miller’s Right: Located near Tarimbang Beach, this reef break is known for its long rides and powerful waves, making it a favorite among surf enthusiasts.
Yoyos: A reef break near Tropicana Beach, Yoyos is famous for its consistent waves and suitability for surfers of varying skill levels.
A budget for a one-week trip to Sumba can vary depending on your travel style. Here’s an approximate budget breakdown for a budget-conscious traveler:
Sumba Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities. Whether you’re a surfer seeking the perfect wave or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in traditional culture, Sumba has something extraordinary to offer. Explore this hidden gem before the rest of the world catches on to its charm.
Once again I hope you enjoyed this blog post,
Send me a DM on instagram if you have any questions. If you need tips on Bali, get your Bali Guide (93 pages of content, all my adresses with google map links, itinerary, what to see per area and so much more).
And have a great trip!
To make it short before my travel timeline, I am an Island, Sun, Ocean lover. In love with diving & freediving, dream of becoming a surfer one day. I am a foodie, always looking for the best places to have a food experience.
Planet lover, so I try to make the most concious choices
