Lombok — Mount Rinjani & quiet beaches
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Lombok

Mount Rinjani & quiet beaches

Where to go

Lombok

Bali's quieter neighbour. White-sand beaches in Kuta-Lombok, lush rice fields around Tetebatu and — for the brave — a 3 to 4 day trek up Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's second-highest volcano.

Just east of Bali, Lombok feels like the Bali of twenty years ago — slower, less developed and quietly spectacular. Long empty beaches in the south, traditional Sasak villages inland, and a volcano so big it dominates the entire island.

Kuta-Lombok is the perfect base for the south — empty white-sand bays with reliable surf and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere. Inland, Tetebatu offers green rice fields, waterfalls and morning walks past Sasak farmers heading to their plots.

For active travellers, the Mount Rinjani trek is the headline experience — a multi-day adventure to a summit at 3,726 m and the otherworldly Segara Anak crater lake. The three Gili Islands off the northwest coast add white sand and turtle snorkeling to round things off.

Highlights

  • Mount Rinjani trek to the crater lake
  • Kuta-Lombok beaches & surfing
  • Tetebatu rice fields & waterfalls
  • Gili Islands snorkeling

What to see

Kuta

Kuta

Kuta is a laid-back town on the south coast of Lombok with white sandy beaches and turquoise bays. Walk along the shoreline and watch the fishermen prepare their boats, or visit the local market for fresh food and handicrafts like weaving. The surrounding beaches, such as Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or learning to surf. From the nearby hills you can enjoy wide views over the coastline, especially at sunset. Around town, small cafés and warungs serve local dishes and fresh seafood. If you want to explore more of the area, you can visit traditional villages, cycle through the countryside, or take a trip to the rugged cliffs and hidden coves along the coast.

The Secret Gili's

The Secret Gili's

The Secret Gili's, a group of small islands off the southwest coast of Lombok, are known for their quiet beaches and clear waters. Each island has its own charm, from the white sandy shores of Gili Nanggu to the colorful coral reefs around Gili Kedis and Gili Sudak. You can go snorkeling among tropical fish, relax under the palm trees, or enjoy freshly grilled fish in a simple beachside warung. The atmosphere is calm and unspoiled, making the Secret Gili's an ideal escape for a peaceful day trip or an overnight stay close to nature.

Tetebatu

Tetebatu

Tetebatu is a quiet village on the southern hillsides of Mount Rinjani, surrounded by rice terraces, forests, and traditional Sasak life. Walk through the fields and see farmers working with water buffalo, or visit small workshops where locals produce crafts and Lombok coffee. The nearby waterfalls, such as Jeruk Manis, are great for a refreshing dip, and from the village you can take guided hikes into the rainforest where black monkeys and colorful birds live. Around Tetebatu you will also find friendly kampongs where you can experience daily village life. In the evening, you can relax in a simple guesthouse and enjoy homemade Sasak dishes while looking out over the green landscape and the peak of Mount Rinjani in the distance.

Senggigi

Senggigi

With your feet in the sand and a book on your lap, you can gaze out over the blue sea and the towering mountain ridges that extend behind the coastal area. On the opposite side, Bali with the impressive Agung volcano comes into view. While sipping a cocktail at one of the beach bar-restaurants, you can witness the sun slowly setting into the sea. Alternatively, you can explore the weaving village of Sukarare, the pottery village of Penujak, the traditional Sasak houses in Rambitan and the Hindu temple in Lingsar. A visit to the Narmada Water Palace is highly recommended. This beautiful summer palace was constructed in the early 19th century by a Balinese king. For hiking enthusiasts, the area around the mountain villages of Senaru and Sembalun, situated at the foot of the Gunung Rinjani volcano, offers enjoyable hikes. In the evening, it's delightful to unwind with a drink and a snack on the beach of Senggigi.

Gili Islands

Gili Islands

Gili Air, Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno are three beautiful coral islands boasting coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees. Here, you can engage in activities like swimming, snorkeling, or taking a diving excursion. The beach of Gili Meno encircles the entire island, offering a delightful circular walk, along with nice bars and cozy restaurants. Experience a snorkeling excursion where a glass-bottomed boat takes you to areas with a good chance of spotting sea turtles and where you can snorkel above a coral garden teeming with colorful fish.

Rinjani Volcano

Rinjani Volcano

Nestled on the captivating island of Lombok, Mount Rinjani proudly stands as Indonesia's second-highest volcano, promising awe-inspiring landscapes and an invigorating trekking experience. Choose your adventure duration with options of 1, 2, or 3-day trekking, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Walk along farm paths, through lush jungles and verdant rice terraces, while gaining insights into the cultivation of vanilla, cocoa, coffee, cloves, peanuts and tropical fruits. Explore a traditional Sasak village, delving into their traditions and ceremonies. Don't forget your swimwear for a refreshing dip during your trek. We recommend you to spend one or two nights on the volcano at the campsite, surrounded by the serene mountains. As night falls, witness a mesmerizing sunset before returning to the village of Senaru with a euphoric sense of accomplishment.

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