Sumba 7-Day Itinerary

Sumba 7-Day Itinerary: From West to East
Guide to Exploring Sumba Island in One Week

Sumba, an island in eastern Indonesia, offers a rich blend of pristine nature, ancient traditions, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. From majestic waterfalls and savannah hills to traditional villages and empty beaches, Sumba is a dream for adventurous travelers. If you’re planning to explore this untamed gem, here’s a complete 7-day Sumba itinerary from west to east, ideal for first-time visitors.

This itinerary covers the island’s best highlights and is designed to flow naturally from Tambolaka (West Sumba) to Waingapu (East Sumba). It’s perfect for a one-week trip with flights into Tambolaka and out of Waingapu.

Day 1: Arrive in Tambolaka – Chill and Prepare

Airport: Tambolaka Airport (TMC)
Accommodation: Maringi Eco Resort or Hotel Sinar Tambolaka

• Arrive at Tambolaka Airport in West Sumba.
• Rest after your journey, exchange money, and stock up on essentials (cash, water, snacks).
• Visit the local market or have dinner at a warung serving Sumbanese specialties like kaparak or fish sambal.

Travel Tip: Bring enough cash, as ATMs can be unreliable in remote areas.

Day 2: Ratenggaro Village, Weekuri Lagoon, Mandorak Beach

Route: Tambolaka – Ratenggaro – Weekuri Lagoon – Mandorak – back to Tambolaka

• Start your journey south to Ratenggaro Village, known for its traditional high-roof houses and megalithic tombs. Respect local customs.
• Head to Weekuri Lagoon, a beautiful saltwater pool surrounded by cliffs. Perfect for a relaxing dip.
• Nearby, visit Mandorak Beach, a tiny cove with white sand and turquoise waters.
• Return to Tambolaka before sunset.

Map: Weekuri Lagoon

Day 3: Southwest Sumba – Wairinding Hills and Beach Views

Accommodation: Stay in Rua or Kerewei area (e.g., Alamayah Boutique Retreat)

• Travel east toward Southwest Sumba, stopping for views and photos along the way.
• Visit Wairinding Hills, one of the most iconic landscapes in Sumba. Endless green hills roll under the sky like a scene from a fantasy film.
• Explore Kerewei Beach or Marosi Beach, ideal for surfers or beach walks.

Travel Tip: Catch sunset at Wairinding or from your beachfront bungalow.

Day 4: Explore Kodi or Surf in Kerewei

Options: Choose between culture or adventure

Option 1: Kodi Cultural Exploration

• Visit Pero Village, another traditional Sumbanese community.
• Learn about Marapu religion, tombstones, and ancestral customs.

Option 2: Surf and Relax

• Enjoy a full surf day at Kerewei Bay or Marosi Beach.
• Take a yoga class or book a spa treatment if staying in an eco-resort.

Recommended Stay: Alamayah Retreat

Day 5: Cross into East Sumba – Road Trip Day

Route: Southwest Sumba to Waingapu (approx. 6–7 hours drive)
Accommodation: Padadita Beach Hotel or a local guesthouse

• Begin your cross-island journey. This drive is scenic but long, so leave early.
• Stop for photos of savannahs, coastal cliffs, and remote villages.
• Lunch in Waibakul or picnic en route.
• Arrive in Waingapu, the capital of East Sumba.

Travel Tip: Hire a local driver with 4WD for a safer and more comfortable journey.

Day 6: Puru Kambera, Tanggedu Waterfall, and Prailiu Village

• Drive to Puru Kambera Beach, a stunning quiet bay often graced by wild horses.
• Head inland to hike to Tanggedu Waterfall, sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Sumba.” The hike takes around 1 hour.
• In the afternoon, visit Prailiu Village, known for its ikat weaving traditions. Watch locals create hand-dyed textiles passed down for generations.

Map: Tanggedu Waterfall

Day 7: Chill in Waingapu and Fly Home

Departure Airport: Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport (WGP)

• Spend the morning at Padadita Beach for sunrise and reflection.
• Grab coffee at a local café or visit a small souvenir market.
• Head to the airport and fly out to Bali or Kupang.

What to Pack for Your Sumba Trip

• Light, breathable clothing and a light rain jacket
• Swimwear and beach towel
• Sunscreen and hat
• Sturdy sandals or hiking shoes
• Power bank and offline maps
• Cash (IDR), snacks, and water bottle

Final Tips for Traveling Across Sumba

• Hire a local driver or guide: It makes the experience smoother and more enriching.
• Respect local culture: Especially when visiting villages. Dress modestly and ask before taking photos.
• Travel insurance: Recommended, especially if you’re surfing or hiking.
• No roaming? Get a Telkomsel SIM card, which works better in rural areas.

Conclusion

This 7-day itinerary lets you experience the best of Sumba, from ancient stone villages and wild coastlines to rolling hills and rich culture. Unlike Bali or Lombok, Sumba is less developed, which adds to its appeal for travelers seeking solitude and authenticity. Whether you’re chasing waves, weaving stories, or just watching the sky change color over an empty beach—Sumba gives you space to breathe.