Nestled in the shimmering Bali Sea, slightly east of its famous sibling Bali, lies the majestic island of Lombok. With its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil beaches, and vibrant local culture, Lombok offers the perfect escapade for travelers seeking adventure, romance, or a peaceful retreat into nature.
This travel guide unfolds a meticulously curated 5-day itinerary that showcases the best of Lombok. From the bustling streets of Mataram to the serene shores of the Gili Islands, and from the cultural enrichments of traditional Sasak villages to the natural splendor of its waterfalls and beaches, your Lombok getaway promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
Whether you are snorkeling among colorful reefs, dining under the stars, or simply soaking up the sun on pristine sands, each day in Lombok is a slice of paradise waiting to be cherished. So pack your bags and let’s embark on a memorable journey through the enchanting isle of Lombok!
Revel in the detailed escapades that await you in this guide, ensuring your weekend getaway to Lombok exceeds every expectation and leaves you longing for more.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Senggigi
Welcome to Lombok! Your adventure begins in Senggigi, a vibrant area known for its beautiful beaches and excellent dining options. Upon arrival at Lombok International Airport, take a pre-arranged taxi or a rental car to your hotel.
Morning: Check-in and Relax
- Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Activity: Check into your hotel and take some time to relax by the pool or wander around the beachfront.
Afternoon: Explore Senggigi Beach
- Time: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
- Location: Senggigi Beach
- Activity: Enjoy the sun and sand at Senggigi Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Optional water sports available include snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.
Lunch Recommendation
Try the local cuisine at Asmara Restaurant, known for its excellent Indonesian and Western dishes.
Evening: Sunset at Batu Layar
- Time: 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM
- Activity: Head to Batu Layar, a famous spot for stunning sunsets. Perfect for romantic strolls along the beach.
Dinner: Dining by the Beach
Conclude your day with a dinner at Coco Beach, offering freshly caught seafood and a serene view of the ocean.
Day 2: Cultural Tour and Northern Lombok Exploration
After a refreshing start in Senggigi, get ready to dive into the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Northern Lombok.
Morning: Visit Pura Batu Bolong
- Time: 08:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Location: Pura Batu Bolong Temple
- Activity: Explore this stunning sea temple perched on a rocky cliff. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the panoramic views of the ocean.
Travel to Northern Lombok
- Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Activity: Take a scenic drive to Northern Lombok, known for its waterfalls and lush green landscapes.
Lunch: Autentic Sasak Cuisine
Enjoy a traditional Sasak lunch at New Sasak Cafe, offering a variety of local dishes by the beach.
Afternoon: Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall Tour
- Time: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
- Location: Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls
- Activity: Trek through the jungles of Senaru and visit these two stunning waterfalls. The hike is refreshing and offers numerous photo opportunities.
Evening: Return to Senggigi
- Time: 04:30 PM – 06:00 PM
- Activity: Travel back to Senggigi. Relish the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or relaxing on the beach.
Dinner Recommendation
Dine at Yessy Cafe in Senggigi. They serve a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Day 3: Island Hopping in the Gili Islands
On your final day, discover the beautiful Gili Islands, famous for their pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere.
Morning: Departure to Gili Islands
- Time: 08:00 AM – 09:00 AM
- Activity: Take a boat ride from Senggigi to Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three Gili Islands. Enjoy the stunning ocean views during your ferry ride.
Mid-morning: Snorkeling around Gili Trawangan
- Time: 09:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Activity: Participate in a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life around Gili Trawangan. Rent snorkeling gear from one of the many shops on the island.
Lunch on Gili Trawangan
Grab lunch at Scallywags Organic Beach Club, which offers a great beachfront setting and a variety of international and local dishes.
Afternoon: Relax or Explore
- Time: 01:30 PM – 04:00 PM
- Activity: Spend the afternoon at your leisure – relax on the beautiful beaches, rent a bicycle to explore the island, or continue snorkeling.
Late Afternoon: Visit Gili Meno and Gili Air
- Time: 04:30 PM – 06:30 PM
- Activity: Take a short boat trip to visit Gili Meno and Gili Air for a quieter experience compared to Gili Trawangan. Enjoy the peaceful sunset from the smaller islands.
Dinner: Sunset Beach BBQ on Gili Air
Enjoy a beachfront BBQ for dinner at Mowie’s Bar on Gili Air, where you can dine on fresh seafood as the sun sets over the Bali Sea.
Evening: Return to Lombok
- Time: 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM
- Activity: Depart back to Lombok after a memorable day exploring the Gilis. Reflect on your weekend getaway as you return to your resort.
Day 4: Relaxation and Culinary Adventure in Lombok
On your fourth day, take it easy and indulge in the culinary delights of Lombok, while enjoying some shopping and relaxation.
Morning: Spa Treatment
- Time: 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Activity: Start your day with a relaxing spa treatment at Puri Mas Boutique Resort & Spa, renowned for its traditional Indonesian spa therapies.
Late Morning: Visit the Art Market in Mataram
- Time: 11:30 AM – 01:00 PM
- Activity: Explore the local art market in Mataram. Shop for handicrafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs to take home.
Lunch: Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy lunch at Taliwang Irama, an eatery famous for its Ayam Taliwang, a spicy grilled chicken dish that is a must-try in Lombok.
Afternoon: Leisurely Beach Time
- Time: 02:00 PM – 04:30 PM
- Activity: Spend your afternoon relaxing on the tranquil Selong Belanak Beach, known for its soft white sands and ideal swimming conditions.
Early Evening: Cooking Class
- Time: 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM
- Activity: Participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Sasak dishes. This is a hands-on way to understand Lombok’s culinary arts directly from local chefs.
Dinner: Enjoy Your Culinary Creations
Wrap up your cooking class by enjoying the delicious dishes you’ve prepared, accompanied by local music for a truly immersive experience.
Evening: Departure
- Time: Depends on your flight/travel schedule
- Activity: Conclude your Lombok weekend getaway. Depending on your departure time, you might want to relax at your hotel or start your journey back home.
Day 5: Discovering East Lombok
On your final day, explore the less-trodden paths of East Lombok, which promises an enriching experience with its rich culture and pristine natural beauty.
Morning: Visit the Sasak Village
- Time: 08:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Location: Sasak Village
- Activity: Start your day by visiting a traditional Sasak village. Here, you’ll experience Lombok’s local lifestyle, observe their unique architecture, and learn about the indigenous Sasak culture.
Mid-morning: Pink Beach Adventure
- Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Activity: Head to the stunning Pink Beach, known for its blushing pink sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for photography, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea.
Lunch at a Local Warung
Enjoy a traditional meal at a nearby warung, tasting local dishes like grilled fish and sambal, and enjoying the views of the sea.
Afternoon: Explore Pura Kalasa Temple
- Time: 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM
- Location: Pura Kalasa Temple
- Activity: Visit Pura Kalasa, an ancient and significant temple in East Lombok. Delve into the spiritual atmosphere and admire the intricate Balinese architecture.
Evening: Sunset at Tanjung Ringgit
- Time: 04:00 PM – 06:30 PM
- Activity: Conclude your day and trip with a visit to Tanjung Ringgit. The cliffs offer panoramic ocean views – a perfect spot to watch the sunset and reflect on your journey.
Dinner: Seafood Feast
Enjoy your final dinner in Lombok, renowned for fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian dishes by the ocean.
Evening: Departure or Leisure Night in Lombok
- Activity: Depending on your travel plans, either prepare for departure back home or spend a leisurely night at your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful Lombok night.
Conclusion: Unforgettable Moments Await in Lombok
As our journey through the stunning island of Lombok comes to a close, we hope you are filled with anticipation and excitement to experience the myriad of wonders that await. From the colorful coral gardens of the Gili Islands to the awe-inspiring waterfalls of the north, and from the rich cultural tapestry of the Sasak villages to the serene sunsets on pristine beaches, Lombok offers an endless array of unforgettable experiences.
Lombok’s charm lies not only in its scenic beauty but also in the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the laid-back yet vibrant lifestyle that symbolizes this incredible Indonesian gem. Whether you seek thrill and adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Lombok delivers all this and much more.
Remember, every journey begins with a single step. Book your accommodations, pack your essentials, and let Lombok’s enchanting allure do the rest. See you in paradise!
