Sumbawa is located in the east of Lombok Island. The island is less developed, mostly very dry, much poorer, very conservative, and divided into two distinct. But despite the conditions, this island has so many incredible tourist destinations. This island is best known for its waves, sandy beaches, and wild terrain. With great surf and spectacular coral reefs, the majority of travelers to Sumbawa come to surf and dive. Visit here if you need an amazing adventure trip and want to get a truly authentic experience of local culture.
Visit Mount Tambora as the Largest Recorded Volcanic Eruption
This is the spectacular volcano on Sumbawa Island, which happened on April 10, 1815. Mount Tambora erupted for the first time in 10,000 years, with a series of large explosions sending a massive column of volcanic cloud into the air. That event was the most destructive explosion on earth in recorded history and it left behind a crater 7 km in diameter, 1,250 meters deep, and a circumference of 37 km, which makes it the second biggest caldera in Indonesia. There’s still volcanic activity inside the caldera until today. The eruption of Tambora was ten times more powerful than that of Krakatau. The consequences of the Mt Tambora eruption for Sumbawa were disastrous, with none of their inhabitants surviving the cataclysm.
But until now, climbing Mount Tambora is something many climbers dream of. The mountain is covered in volcanic scree, but not as massive compared to those two. It is possible to hike up to the rim and climb up to the summit. The area has been declared Mount Tambora National Park and there are already efforts to increase the number of visitors. Besides its hiking opportunities, Mount Tambora is an area of archeological interest.
Mantar Hill
Bukit Mantar Hill will give you the chance to feel what it’s like among the clouds. Its elevation offers perfect views of the sunrise and sunset. You can set up camp for a night in this amazing place to see the natural scenery. If you want something more adventurous, several paragliding are also available for you to rent so you can have fun flying around the hills.
Kalela Waterfall
The first motive why many tourists are interested in visiting Kalela Waterfall is due to the trekking chance. It is because everyone needs to pass through several landscapes to get there, including local farm areas. The rocky route makes the trip more challenging.
Kenawa Island
Is your vacation because you want to relax with nature? Spend a great time in the peaceful little paradise known as Pulau Kenawa (island). Located northwest of Sumbawa, this uninhabited island consists of grasslands surrounded by a white coastline. The view of the wide blue sea that surrounds this island will remind you of the sense of peace you get here. There is a small hill that stands at the corner of the island, a perfect place to feel the gentle breeze which is calming and soothing your senses. You can also snorkel around here to see coral reefs under the island’s crystal-clear waters.
How to get to Sumbawa
To reach Sumbawa Island, tourists must land on Lombok Island, which has an international airport. From Lombok, you can take a ferry to Poto Tano in West Sumbawa. Some tour agents can arrange private seaplanes from Bali directly to Sumbawa or fast boats from Lombok. On Sumbawa, public buses are operating on the island’s main highways. For car rental, you only find it in Bima downtown Sumbawa. Motorbikes rent. If you want a more authentic experience, try a traditional horse-drawn carriage –called a Ben-Hur– to explore Sumbawa Besar.