Understand

Uncover the hidden gem of Sumbawa, a captivating island that truly embodies the spirit of Eastern Indonesia. Unlike its neighboring regions, the influences of Hindu and Buddhist cultures are minimal here, as the majority of the population practices Islam. When the dry season blankets Sumbawa from April to November, a dusty spell envelops the island. Strong winds sweep in from the ocean, transforming the once lush green hills, mountains, and valleys into a dusty brown landscape. However, when the rainy season arrives, Sumbawa undergoes a miraculous transformation. The island is reborn, bursting with vibrant green jungles that teem with life. Yet, Sumbawa's beauty cannot hide the challenges it faces. The dryness of the island leads to frequent crop failures, amplifying the already prevalent poverty. Starvation is an unfortunate reality, and desperate circumstances sometimes lead to robberies. In fact, in October 2012 alone, the devastating effects of malnutrition claimed the lives of 20 children. Sumbawa's rugged and rural atmosphere prevails throughout the island, even in its capital, Sumbawa Besar. The presence of the mining company, Newmont, has brought some progress to the southwestern corner of the island. Gold and copper mines around villages such as Sekongkang, Maluk, and Benete have accelerated development. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the majority of Sumbawa's population remains in dire poverty. Environmental concerns have also been raised, leading to temporary suspensions of the mining operations due to mass riots. While visiting Sumbawa, prepare to immerse yourself in the local culture. Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken here, allowing you to connect with the welcoming and resilient community that calls this beautiful island their home.

Get in

Sumbawa, a remote island in Indonesia, is an adventure waiting to happen. If you're up for an exciting journey, you can embark on an overland-and-sea expedition starting from Singaraja, Bali, and ending in Poto Tano, the port on the western side of Sumbawa. The entire trip takes about 15 hours, but trust me, it'll be worth it. To make this journey possible, the Government-operated ASDP (Angkatan Sungai Danau Penyeberangan) offers a ferry service from Labuhan Kayangan, also known as Labuhan Lombok, in east Lombok to Poto Tano. The ferry ride itself takes approximately 90-120 minutes, depending on queue time. Just a heads up, though, the ferry service operates 24/7, but occasionally, it may be canceled due to rough seas during the monsoon season, which usually occurs from November/December to April/May. So, keep an eye out for any updates and plan accordingly. Now, here's the deal. The fare for both rider and motorcycle (below 250cc) is Rp 55,000. So, gather your friends, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Sumbawa!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing