Best things to do on Sumba
Sumba offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring the island's culture and history, or prefer to spend your time outdoors, there is something for everyone in Sumba.
Here are some of the best things to do on Sumba.
#1 Visit the Weekuri Lagoon
The Weekuri Lagoon is the most visited sight on Sumba. This natural wonder is a crystal-clear lagoon located in the south of the island, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The water is incredibly clear and inviting, making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
You can relax on the sandy shores of the lagoon or take a dip in the refreshing water. The lagoon is also a great spot for photography, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, there are several vendors selling snacks and drinks nearby, making it a great spot for a picnic.
There are some facilities, but very basic, so bring some water and snacks.
#2 Take in the view from Nihi Sumba
Nihi Sumba is a world-renowned luxury resort located on the western coast of Sumba. The resort is situated on a pristine stretch of beach, with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Unless you have a big budget (£1,700+ per night) youcan take in the stunning view from the comfort of your own private villa, or from one of the resort's many viewing decks and lookout points.
If you are not a visitor or a friend of the owner, you are not allowed to enter, but luckily, you can drive up to the resort and take in the views from the cliff. The view from Nihi Sumba is simply breathtaking, with turquoise waters stretching out as far as the eye can see, framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.
The sunset view is particularly spectacular, with the golden light reflecting off the water and casting a warm glow over the entire landscape.
#3 Learn to surf
Sumba is an excellent destination for surfers of all levels, whether you're a beginner looking to learn how to surf or an experienced surfer looking for a new challenge. There are several surf schools and surf camps on the island that offer lessons and equipment rental.
One of the best surf spots on the island is Nihiwatu Beach, which offers consistent waves and a range of breaks for surfers of different levels.
Other popular surf spots on the island include Watu Maladong Beach, Marosi Beach, and Tarimbang Beach.
#4 Visit traditional villages
Visiting traditional villages is one of the most popular and rewarding things to do on Sumba. The island is home to several indigenous communities, each with their own distinct culture and traditions. You can experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals and learn about their way of life.
One of the most famous villages on the island is the village of Waikabubak, located in the west of the island. Surrounded by lush green meadows and forested hills, tiny Waikabubak encloses several kampung with slanting thatched roofs and megalithic stone graves, where life proceeds according to the laws of the spirits. Kampung Tarung, on a hilltop just west of the main street, has some excellent megalithic graves and is regarded as one of the most significant spiritual centres on the island.
The ratu (king) of Tarung is responsible for the annual wula padu ceremony, which lasts for a month at the beginning of the Merapu New Year in November. The ceremony commemorates the visiting spirits of important ancestors, who are honoured with animal sacrifices and entertained by singing and dancing. Kampung Praijiang is a fine five-tiered village on a hilltop surrounded by rice paddies, several kilometres east of town.
Prailu is the most visited of the local ikat-weaving villages, and is an easy walk from the hotels near the market. After signing in at the large, traditional house, you can inspect weavings that weren’t good enough to be bought by the traders.