Sumba Island Dream Escape
About this
Sumba Island is a hidden treasure in Indonesia where clear blue waters meet white sand beaches and local people still follow traditions from hundreds of years ago. Your days start with ocean waves outside your villa and continue with exciting activities like swimming with horses in the sea or hiking to waterfalls hidden in the jungle. We visited small villages where families have lived the same way for many generations and saw ancient stone monuments that tell stories from long ago.
The island offers adventures for everyone, from surfing on world-famous waves to relaxing spa treatments on cliffs above the ocean. You can ride mountain bikes through forests that nobody has developed or simply sit on the beach and watch incredible sunsets. What makes this trip special is how it changes the way you see the world and gives you stories to tell for the rest of your life.
Best Time to Visit
Discover the optimal periods to experience Sumba Island Dream Escape at its finest. These recommended times are carefully selected based on weather conditions, local events, and overall visitor experience.
Key Highlights
Spa Safari Adventure
Take a journey by horse, on foot, or in a safari truck to reach special spa treatment areas built on ocean cliffs. Your trip takes about 2 hours across beautiful countryside to reach the Nihioka valley, where you can eat healthy food in a treehouse and get massage treatments using natural ingredients from the island. This experience combines adventure travel with complete relaxation in one amazing day.
Swimming with Horses
Ride horses bareback into the Indian Ocean where these beautiful animals love to play in the saltwater waves. The horses at Sumba come from special bloodlines and are trained to be safe in the water with guests. Professional guides make sure you stay safe while creating unforgettable memories with these gentle animals on the pristine beach.
World-Class Surfing
Try surfing on the famous Perfect Left wave that has made Nihi Sumba known around the world among surfers. Professional instructors help beginners learn the basics while experienced surfers can challenge themselves on this incredible wave. Even if you do not surf, you can watch from the beach and see why this place is so special.
Village Cultural Tours
Visit real Sumba villages where people still live like their ancestors did centuries ago. You will see traditional houses built on hilltops, watch local people make crafts by hand, and learn about ancient burial customs that are still practiced today. These visits give you a true understanding of how island people have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
Mountain Biking Adventures
Explore different parts of Sumba on guided bike tours that take you to hidden beaches, remote villages, and scenic viewpoints. The trails range from easy coastal paths to challenging hill climbs, and expert guides teach you about local plants, animals, and island history. Each ride shows you new parts of Sumba that most visitors never see.
Itinerary
Your guide meets you at Tambolaka Airport and drives you to Nihi Sumba Resort, where you check into your private villa with ocean views. Spend your first afternoon getting familiar with the resort, enjoying lunch with fresh local food, and exploring the beautiful beach. Your welcome dinner introduces you to Indonesian and international cuisine that you will enjoy throughout your stay.
Start your day walking through Waikacura rice terraces where local farmers show you how they grow rice using traditional methods passed down through families. Visit Praijing village, built on a hilltop with beautiful views of the surrounding area and traditional homes. End your day at Lapopu Waterfall, where a 15-minute walk through the forest leads to natural swimming pools under a beautiful waterfall.
Begin at the local market where you can see authentic island life and buy products made by local families. Visit the twin villages of Tarung and Waitabar to observe traditional architecture and community life. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore three historic villages in Wanokaka where ancient customs are still practiced today. Your day ends at Watubela Beach, a secret spot with white sand and crystal-clear water.
These two days let you pick your favorite activities from all the options available at the resort. You can try spa treatments, take surfing lessons, go horseback riding, explore on mountain bikes, visit more villages, or simply relax on the beach. The resort staff helps you plan each day based on what interests you most and your skill level.
After breakfast with ocean views, the team takes you comfortably back to Tambolaka Airport for your flight home. You will have time to buy souvenirs featuring authentic Sumba textiles and crafts that remind you of your island adventure.
What's Included
Activities & Adventures
Swimming with horses in the Indian Ocean
Spa Safari to secluded Nihi Oka valley treatment rooms
Cultural village tours with local guides
Horse riding lessons
All Meals & Drinks
Three daily meals from organic gardens and local farms
All non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, and fresh tropical fruits
In-villa dining service from 6am to 10pm
Fresh sashimi at Ombak Bar and Boat House
Your Villa & Services
Personal Guest Kapten to plan your daily adventures
Airport transfers from Tambolaka Airport
Daily housekeeping and turndown service
What's Not Included
Extra Costs
Alcoholic beverages and cocktails
Additional spa treatments beyond included Sumbanese Dream
Staff gratuities and tips
Private romantic dinner setups
Personal Items
International flights to Indonesia
Travel insurance
Shopping and souvenirs
Good to Know
The resort runs on relaxed island time, so let your Guest Kapten help plan the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. All food comes from the resort's organic gardens and neighboring villages, creating incredibly fresh flavors. The rocky paths around the property aren't suitable for wheelchairs, but in-room massages are available if you can't reach the beach spa.
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Perfect for surfing with consistent waves and dry weather for all outdoor activities.
What to Pack
Essential Items: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes for horse swimming, and light clothing for the tropical climate.
For Surfers: Bring your own board under 9 feet due to flight restrictions.
Accommodations
Your One Bedroom Pool Villa uses traditional Sumba building styles with local materials and colorful island fabrics. The villa has a private infinity pool that seems to connect with the ocean and large windows that show spectacular sunrise and sunset views every day. Modern features include air conditioning, a luxury bathroom, and indoor-outdoor living spaces that let you enjoy the tropical climate. Your private deck is perfect for morning coffee or sunset drinks in complete privacy. The villa connects directly to the beach so you can walk from your room straight onto the sand and into the clear blue water.
FAQs
What makes the horse swimming experience safe?
The resort's horses are specially trained for ocean activities and naturally love playing in saltwater waves.
Are romantic dinners available?
Yes, private dining can be arranged at secluded locations around the property with advance notice to your Guest Kapten.