How to Travel to Sumba from Bali

How to Travel to Sumba from Bali: A Complete Guide for Adventurous Souls

If you’re seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path destination in Indonesia, Sumba Island is a gem worth exploring. With its rugged coastlines, savannah landscapes, traditional villages, and rich culture, Sumba offers a unique contrast to the tropical luxury of Bali. Traveling from Bali to Sumba is becoming easier with improved air and sea connections, but it still retains the charm of a remote adventure. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to travel to Sumba from Bali, including flight options, sea routes, transportation on the island, and travel tips.

Flying from Bali to Sumba (The Fastest and Easiest Way)

The most convenient and time-efficient way to reach Sumba from Bali is by plane. There are two main airports in Sumba:

• Tambolaka Airport (TMC) – Located in West Sumba
• Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport (WGP) – Located in Waingapu, East Sumba

Both airports offer direct flights from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), and the flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Airlines that operate Bali–Sumba route:

• Wings Air (subsidiary of Lion Air)
• Nam Air
• Citilink
• Occasionally Garuda Indonesia

Tip: Tambolaka is ideal if you’re heading to southwestern Sumba (think Weekuri Lagoon, Mandorak Beach, and the traditional village of Ratenggaro), while Waingapu is better if you’re exploring the eastern side (like Wairinding Hills or the savannahs of Puru Kambera).

Traveling by Sea from Bali to Sumba (The Adventure Route)

If you’re in no rush and want a more immersive travel experience, sea travel is a unique, albeit slower, option. The journey by ferry or cargo-passenger ship is long and not for the faint of heart, but it offers stunning sea views and a more local experience.

Option 1: Bali – Sumbawa – Sumba (Multi-leg route)

1. Ferry from Padang Bai (Bali) to Lembar (Lombok) – 4–5 hours
2. Overland travel to Sumbawa Besar or Bima
3. Ferry from Sumbawa to Sumba (Waikelo port in West Sumba or Waingapu port in East Sumba)

This route can take 2–3 days, depending on ferry schedules and connections. It’s an adventure best suited for seasoned travelers with flexible itineraries.

Transportation Once You’re in Sumba

Sumba is a large island with limited public transport, so you’ll need to arrange your own wheels.

Options:

• Rent a Car with a Driver – Most recommended for comfort and navigation
• Motorbike Rental – Great for solo travelers or couples who want to explore at their own pace
• Private Tours – Available through local travel agencies or eco-resorts

Roads in Sumba range from decent asphalt to rough dirt tracks, so a 4WD is advisable for long-distance exploration.

Where to Stay in Sumba

Sumba’s tourism infrastructure is still growing, but you can find a variety of accommodations:

• Luxury: Nihi Sumba – one of the world’s top eco-luxury resorts
• Mid-range: Hotels and guesthouses in Tambolaka and Waingapu
• Budget: Homestays in traditional villages or local-run beach bungalows

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit Sumba. You’ll enjoy sunny days and easier access to beaches, waterfalls, and hill treks. Avoid the wet season (November–March) if you plan to travel extensively around the island.

Travel Tips for Bali to Sumba Trip

1. Book flights in advance, especially during peak seasons or festivals.
2. ATMs are limited in remote areas, so carry enough cash (IDR).
3. Internet is patchy—great for a digital detox!
4. Respect local customs, especially when visiting traditional villages (e.g., wear modest clothing, ask before taking photos).
5. Don’t rely on last-minute bookings. Plan accommodations and drivers beforehand.

Why Travel to Sumba from Bali?

If Bali feels too crowded or commercialized, Sumba is the raw and real Indonesia—untouched beaches, friendly locals, sacred rituals, and wide savannahs under starlit skies. The contrast between the two islands makes the trip deeply enriching, both culturally and visually.

Helpful Links

• Flights to Tambolaka Airport
• Nihi Sumba – Luxury Resort
• Google Map of Tambolaka Airport
• Google Map of Waingapu

Final Thoughts

Traveling from Bali to Sumba is more than just a change of scenery—it’s a journey into another world. Whether you take the skies for convenience or the sea for adventure, Sumba rewards you with its authenticity, quiet power, and natural grace. Now is the perfect time to go—before the crowds catch on.