Suggested 3-day itinerary in Sumbawa

Explore Sumbawa in three days with our tailored itinerary that showcases its pristine beauty and vibrant marine life. Experience exclusive private tours that fit your preferences, from budget-friendly options to luxury experiences. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your singular journey.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Sumbawa Besar

Your adventure begins in Sumbawa Besar, the capital of Sumbawa Island. Arrive at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport in Makassar and take a connecting flight to Sumbawa. Once you land, you will be greeted by our guide and transported to your accommodation.

Morning: Local Market Visit

After settling in, start your day with a visit to the local market. Here, you can taste traditional snacks and interact with friendly locals. Try some Sumbawan specialties like:

Ayam Penyet (smashed fried chicken with chili)
Kerupuk (crackers made from fish or shrimp)
Lontong (rice cakes served with curries)

Afternoon: Sumbawa Cultural Heritage

Post-lunch, explore the cultural heritage of Sumbawa. Visit the Sultan’s Palace and the Old Mosque. These sites reflect the island’s rich history and Islamic influence. Allocate around 2-3 hours for this exploration.

Evening: Beach Relaxation

Wrap up your day at Kertasari Beach, where you can enjoy the sunset. This beach is known for its calm waters and beautiful views, making it an excellent spot for relaxation. Consider dining at a local seafood restaurant nearby.

Day 2: Diving and Snorkeling Adventure

On your second day, prepare for an underwater adventure. Sumbawa offers some of the best diving spots in Indonesia, especially during the dry season from April to October.

Morning: Diving at Moyo Island

After breakfast, head to Moyo Island, approximately 30 minutes by boat from Sumbawa. Moyo is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Our private diving tour allows you to explore various dive sites, including:

Shark Point – spot reef sharks and schools of fish
Angel Reef – known for its colorful corals and abundant marine life
Gili Balu – great for both beginners and experienced divers

Diving equipment is usually provided, but ensure to check with your tour operator for specifics.

Afternoon: Snorkeling and Beach Time

After diving, enjoy a picnic lunch on Moyo Island. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the shallow waters, where you can see vibrant coral gardens and various fish species. Don’t miss the chance to explore the island’s natural beauty, including the famous Moyo Waterfall.

Evening: Return to Sumbawa Besar

Return to Sumbawa Besar in the late afternoon. Freshen up and head out for dinner in the city. Try local dishes at one of the many restaurants that offer a view of the ocean.

Day 3: Hiking and Departure

On your final day, embrace the natural landscape of Sumbawa with a morning hike.

Morning: Hike Mount Tambora

Start early and begin a hike to Mount Tambora, famous for its massive eruption in 1815. The hike typically takes about 4-6 hours, depending on your pace. Ensure you are prepared with:

Comfortable hiking shoes
Water and snacks
Sun protection

The hike rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the crater itself, offering a unique perspective of this historical site.

Afternoon: Relax and Prepare for Departure

After your hike, return to your accommodation to freshen up. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, followed by some downtime. If time permits, consider a visit to a local crafts store to pick up souvenirs.

Evening: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, your guide will take you back to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your enriching three-day experience in Sumbawa, where you’ve immersed yourself in local culture, explored striking marine environments, and enjoyed sweeping landscapes.

Final Tips for Your Sumbawa Trip

Best Time to Visit: April to October for calm waters and ideal diving conditions.
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s good to have cash for local markets.
Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

For more information and to customize your experience, visit our booking details page. We are here to ensure your Sumbawa trip meets your expectations and creates lasting memories.

Planning specifics? See learn more here or book Sumbawa Private Trip | Sumbawaprivatetrip.

Exploring Sumbawa’s Culinary Delights

As you begin your 3-day adventure through Sumbawa, take the opportunity to settle in in the island’s unique culinary offerings. Sumbawa’s cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Indonesian flavors with its own local twists. A must-try dish is Sate Pusut, a skewered meat dish marinated in a rich blend of spices, including turmeric and coriander, then grilled to perfection. It’s often served with a side of spicy peanut sauce and a squeeze of lime. Another specialty is Singang, a Sumbawan fish soup that features the freshest catch of the day simmered in a broth of tamarind, lemongrass, and chili, offering a tangy and spicy kick. Make sure to pair these dishes with a serving of Uta Palu, a savory coconut rice that complements the bold flavors of the main dishes.

While exploring the island, take time to visit local markets, such as the lively Sumbawa Besar Traditional Market. Here, you can sample an range of local snacks and fresh produce. Try Roti Bakar, a popular grilled bread often enjoyed with a variety of sweet or savory toppings, or indulge in Jaje Tujak, a traditional sticky rice cake with a sweet coconut filling. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, don’t miss out on tasting Sumbawa’s locally grown coffee, known for its robust flavor and aromatic profile. As you savor these culinary delights, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich cultural heritage and the role of food in bringing communities together.

Try Sate Pusut at local warungs for an authentic taste.
Visit Sumbawa Besar Traditional Market for fresh produce and snacks.
Sample Sumbawa’s local coffee for a unique, aromatic experience.

Exploring the Unique Crater Lake of Satonda Island

Satonda Island offers a captivating geological marvel: a saline crater lake formed in the caldera of an extinct volcano. Unlike typical freshwater crater lakes, Satonda’s is filled with saltwater, a result of a unique natural phenomenon linked to the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora. This rare environment supports a distinct ecosystem, making it a fascinating stop on your Sumbawa itinerary.

Visitors can enjoy a short hike to the lake’s edge, where the surrounding lush vegetation contrasts vividly with the lake’s shimmering surface. The island’s tranquility is perfect for introspection or simply soaking in the natural beauty. Remember, facilities are minimal, so bring essentials such as water and snacks. Accessing Satonda is typically part of a combined day trip with Moyo Island, offering a seamless blend of Sumbawa’s natural wonders.

Bring swimwear for a refreshing dip in the lake.
Respect local customs by avoiding loud noises.
Check with your tour operator regarding entrance fees or permits.