Sumba Enchanted

Highlights

  • Wander through the Mangrove Forest on the beachside at sunset
  • Trek to and swim in Waimarang Waterfall
  • Discover Sumbanese uma mbatangu (peaked houses) and megalith tombs
  • Savannah Puru Kambera – packed with wild horses, buffalos, and cows
  • Kayak through the valley and canyons
  • Embrace village life

Explore the enchanting island of Sumba – one of the most diverse islands within Indonesia.

With its rugged, undulating savannah and low limestone hills growing maize and rice, it’s nothing like Indonesia’s northern volcanic islands. Scattered throughout the countryside are hilltop villages with tall, symbolic grass roofs clustered around megalithic tombs, where nominally Protestant villagers still respect indigenous marapu (spiritual forces) with bloody sacrificial rites.

Stroll along on foot or horseback on Sumba’s white-sand beaches. Search for the island’s secret swimming spots and waterfalls further inland. Engage with the locals who expertly craft Indonesia’s most prized ikat (patterned textiles).

Journey map

Fitness level

Easy
Moderate
Challenging
Tough

Itinerary

Day 1 - Sumba

Flying in from Denpasar this afternoon, welcome to the island of Sumba! Arriving into Waingapu Airport, you will be met by your driver for to Tanoma Sumba Beach Resort. Enroute from the airport, stop at Walakiri Beach. Here you can enjoy some time relaxing on the beach and enjoy your first Sumba sunset. Once at the resort, you will find it is located directly on the beach at Pantai Wera and offers views out across the ocean from the main restaurant and pool area, as well as from some of the impressive bamboo bungalows. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in East Sumba Regency, the beach is popular at sunset due to the magical silhouette made by the sun on the mangrove forest which lines the beach shores. (B)

Two nights at Tanoma Sumba Beach Resort 

Day 2 - East Sumba

After breakfast, we head south to Waimarang Waterfall. Located in the middle of the jungle, the waterfall was discovered only recently by a boy called Eric who lives in the nearby village. He stumbled upon the waterfall while out collecting firewood when he started to hear the sound of water. Following the sound, he soon uncovered what he describes as the most beautiful waterfall he had ever seen. Sharing the news with his father, the waterfall was soon brought to the attention of the local government. When asked by the government what he would like to happen to the waterfall, Eric informed them that he wished that a road would be built so that everyone could come and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall. Eric’s wish was made a reality and a road was built, making it possible for us to visit this beautiful sight today. Eric still lives in the village and his mother runs the small cafe at the parking area for the waterfall. The trek down to the waterfall is around 30 minutes along a well cleared path. It is not too steep, but some areas can become slippery if there has been rainfall. When arriving at the waterfall, there is a small pool which you can swim along before jumping down to the main pool. Here you will find a modest cascade falling into a wide plunge pool, partially enclosed by rugged stone walls. After some time cooling down in the water, it’s time to return to the carpark where we can enjoy a fresh coconut and a packed lunch before departing to Priayawang Traditional Village, which is one of the oldest villages in East Sumba. Here you will witness first-hand, the Sumbanese uma mbatangu (peaked houses) which surround the Megalith Tombs in the centre of the village. Your local guide will inform you about the unique culture of the Sumbanese people and introduce you to some of the people who call the village home and still practice the traditional way of their ancestors. Leaving the village, return to your hotel where you have the rest of the afternoon and evening to enjoy at your own leisure. (B)

Day 3 - Northeast Sumba

Following breakfast, continue your exploration of the East Sumba Regency, as we head to the Northeast of the island. Your first stop will be at Savannah Puru Kambera. The Savannah is packed with wild horses, buffalos, and cows on a good day. In the hot season, the savannah’s golden tones are reminiscent of the savannahs of Africa, but instead of zebra you are treated to the beautiful Sumba horses. The breed of horse found in Sumba is called the Sandalwood Pony, they originated from the island and are named after the Sandalwood trees, which are a major export of the country. Day to day, the horses are used for light farm work and riding from village to village. Once a year, some horses will be used for the annual bareback race and/or the Pasola Festival, Sumba’s most popular and traditional sport, which brings together dozens of riders to demonstrate their dexterity, precision and riding skills by throwing spears at their competitors. After enjoying your time at the savannah, continue to Morinda Villa where you will overnight. Morinda Villa offers simple, comfortable rooms. However, where the resort comes into its own and why we encourage you to spend a night at the property, is due of the breathtaking views that can be found here. Offering both sunrise and sunset viewpoints over a valley of beautiful green hills and a picturesque river which flows between them. In the evening, grab yourself a refreshment and sit back and be in awe of your natural surroundings as the sun sets for the day. (B)

2 nights Morinda Villa or similar

Day 4 - Northeast Sumba

An early morning start for your sunrise experience. Driving down to the bottom of the valley, you will hop into your own kayak and enjoy a guided kayak along the river as you watch the sunrise above the beautiful hills which surround you. Return to your hotel to enjoy breakfast before heading out on today’s adventure. Your first stop of the day will be Tangdendu Waterfall. Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of East Sumba or Twin Canyon in East Sumba because the its rocky cliffs and water flow, which are very similar to the Grand Canyon in the USA. After an adventurous morning, head to Pura Kembera Beach. The soft white sands and calm blue ocean make for the perfect spot to enjoy some downtime relaxing on the beach or swimming in the ocean. Due to the stillness of the water, it is possible to enjoy some snorkelling directly from the beach. A lunchbox will be provided for you to enjo some traditional Sumbanese food. In the late afternoon, depart the beach and head for Bukit Wairinding were you can enjoy one of the most special sunsets over the beautiful rolling hills of Northeast Sumba, before returning to the hotel. (B)

Day 5 - Departure

An early start this morning as you transfer to the airport for your onwards flight to Denpasar where your tour ends on arrival. (B)

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What’s included

  • Return economy class airfares with Wings Air Denpasar/Sumba/Denpasar (20kg luggage allowance)
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • All transportation by air-conditioned private vehicle for all included sightseeing
  • All entrance fees during touring
  • Services of local English-speaking guides
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Bottle of water during sightseeing
  • VAT Government tax and services charge
Exclusions
  • International flights
  • Domestic flights unless otherwise mentioned
  • Drinks unless otherwise mentioned
  • Visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips
  • Inoculations
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.

* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.

* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.

A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.

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