The Magical Island, that’s what people call it. With its rich ancient culture and stunning landscapes, a trip to Sumba is one that will give you a new traveling experience.
Start your journey with our brief guide below; to experience the beauty of its savannah and wild horses, get hands-on with the region’s famous ikat fabric, and enjoy the silhouette of mangrove trees against the backdrop of the island’s majestic sunset.
Top places you don’t want to miss
Location: ± 40km from Waingapu, East Sumba.
Experience: Trekking while enjoying views of its seemingly endless hills.
Tips: Make sure you put on some sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
Location: ± 65km from Waingapu, East Sumba.
Experience: Trekking and witnessing wild horses in their natural habitat.
Tips: Maintain a good distance from the horses to avoid scaring them off.
Location: ± 40km from Waikabubak, West Sumba.
Experience: Watching the sunset.
Tips: Choose a spot close to the mangrove trees and enjoy the artistic silhouette that the sun projects.
Location: ± 3km from Waikabubak, West Sumba.
Experience: Hunting for Sumba souvenirs.
Tips: Use wipes to check the authenticity of a tenun ikat. Colors of genuine ikat fabric will not transfer when coming in contact with wipes.
Location: ± 65km from Waikabubak, West Sumba.
Experience: Learn more about Sumba’s culture.
Tips: Don’t miss Ratenggaro Beach located next to the village.
Location: ± 21km from Waikabubak, West Sumba
Experience: Swimming
Tips: Ask a local (driver, tour guide) to help you get to the waterfall so you won’t get lost.
Best time to visit
Did you know?
Getting to Sumba
By air
First, fly to Bali or Kupang, then continue to Tambolaka Airport in Southwest Sumba or Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport, Waingapu, East Sumba.
By sea
From western Indonesia, take the bus to the port of Sape, Bima, West Nusa Tenggara. Then continue with a ferry from Sape Harbor to Waikelo Port in Southwest Sumba.
Around Sumba
The best way to get around is to rent a car. Rental cost starts from Rp700.000/day, including driver and gasoline. For other alternatives, you can use an ojek, can be easily found anywhere on the streets or around the market.
Hotel Recommendation
Villa Amidala, Waingapu - Sumba
•
8.4/10
Jalan Ikan Hiu , Kota Waingapu, Sumba Timur, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia, 11128
Starting Rp1.131.165
Padadita Beach Hotel
8.8/10
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Jalan Airlangga Padadita Waingapu,Sumba Timur , Kota Waingapu, Sumba Timur, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia, 87113
Rp 723.182
Rp 542.387
Hotel Sinar Tambolaka
•
8/10
Jalan Tambolaka - Waitabula, Kaleno Wano, Tambolaka, Tambolaka, Sumba Barat, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia, 87255
Rp 475.000
Rp 315.875
Interesting Facts from Locals
The people of Sumba believe crocodiles are one of the forefathers, titled apu, or ancestors.
- Alan, Tourism Driver
In every traditional village there is marapunno, a post that cannot be stepped on by guests and even locals.
- Della Rarade, the Wife of Praijing Village Chief
Every November, Praijing traditional village is closed for public due to customary rituals performed by the locals.
- Gole Inabata, Weavers
Each region in Sumba has different languages, dialects and accents.
- Yuli Lindijawa, Director of Traditional Dance Studio
Horseracing is one of the main entertainment of Sumbanese society.
- Glenn, Student
Explore the Best of Sumba Island
Sumba Island
East Sumba Regency
West Sumba Regency
Central Sumba Regency
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