A pristine Indonesian island where culture is deeply connected to nature and tradition

Just an hour’s flight from Bali, and twice the size of its popular neighbour, Sumba promises nature and a distinct culture. Thatched bamboo houses are set on an island rich with rainforests and rice paddies, fringed with sugary beaches and lofty palms.

The are approximately 6,000 island inhabitants. Many residents practice ancient rituals, following the traditions of their ancestors. Daily life is often connected to nature. With a guide from the island you can learn about ikat weavings, traditional knife carving and farming techniques.

There’s an abundance of outdoor excursions to take part in on Sumba. Embark on jungle treks and cool off by swimming in waterfall pools. Try paddle-boating on traditional bamboo rafts on the Wanukaka River and go surfing on Nihiwatu beach. Take a speedboat out for deep sea fishing, dive into vibrant reefs and explore the idyllic coastlines and private coves. The possibilities are endless.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Indonesia specialists

  • Delve into local traditions preview image
  • Set off on foot preview image
  • Take a horseback ride preview image
  • Enjoy an unforgettable dip preview image

Delve into local traditions

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Spend time with local experts and learn about Sumba’s enduring traditions. Intricate ikat weaving, traditional knife carving and farming techniques that remain closely connected to the island.

Set off on foot

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Trek through the Lamboya Highlands, following trails and taking in the rice paddies, forested hills and rural scenery along the way.

Take a horseback ride

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Saddle up and ride bareback on a Sandalwood horse. Experience a tradition deeply associated with Sumba as you explore the island’s open landscapes.

Enjoy an unforgettable dip

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Follow jungle trails to secluded waterfalls, then cool off with a swim in the clear natural pools beneath the cascading water.

A word from one of our experts

A wild and incredibly striking island. For those with an adventurous spirit, looking for a different kind of luxury and island experience – Sumba is the perfect island to explore.

Lucy Clarke headshot
Lucy Clarke

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Sumba

There are many incredible places to stay in Sumba. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Sumba example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

Luxe Java, Sumba and Komodo Adventure

12-Day Trip

Luxe Java, Sumba and Komodo Adventure

From
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12-Day Trip

Luxe Java, Sumba and Komodo Adventure

Discover gorgeous Indonesian islands on this luxury trip to volcanic Java and idyllic Sumba, plus a cruise around the wildlife wealthy Komodo Islands
From
$0 pp
Komodo National Park and Sumba

13-Day Trip

Komodo National Park and Sumba

From
$0 pp

13-Day Trip

Komodo National Park and Sumba

Epic Komodo National Park, laidback Jimbaran and secluded Nihi Sumba Island
From
$0 pp
Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Sumba adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

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Bali

Bali, the Island of the Gods is Indonesia’s most famous island. From rugged mountain peaks to lush jungles, magnificent waterfalls and stunning beaches, the island has got something for everyone. Bali also makes for an ideal gateway to other parts of Indonesia. From here, you can set off on day trips to smaller islands such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan.

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Banda Islands

Ancient Indonesian tribal culture, Dutch influence and a remote location make the Banda Islands particularly distinctive and entirely fascinating. Naturally stunning with excellent snorkelling and diving.

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Indonesia Yacht Charter

Explore the Indonesia archipelago on a private, exclusive yacht adventure. Cruise along white sand coastlines punctuated with emerald green jungles and swim with turtles.

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Java

Home to the bustling capital Jakarta, Java is one of the most diverse islands in Indonesia. Visit smouldering volcanoes, exquisite temples and cycle through rice fields and tea plantations.

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Komodo National Park

A UNESCO heritage site full of vibrant marine-life. Made-up of three islands the only way to explore fully is onboard a luxury yacht, stopping off to visit the fearsome Komodo Dragons.

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Lombok

A quiet, peaceful island with some of Indonesia’s most beautiful beaches. Relaxed and slow paced with an interior of rice fields and fascinating culture.

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Moyo

An island of small fishing villages, secluded beaches and an interior crammed with wildlife. Spot wild boars, deer, macaque monkeys, sea eagles and osprey.

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Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is a divers paradise, part of the Coral Triangle the waters here are some of the most rich and diverse in the world.

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Meet your Asia team

When to visit

Indonesia has a tropical climate and is warm all year round. The dry season runs from May to October and is the most pleasant time to visit.

Island hopping

Year round

Experience culture

November–February

Dry season

May–October

When Is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia?

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Plan your trip to Sumba

Whatever you want from your adventure in Sumba, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Start Planning

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.