Sumba Trips & Tours

Sumba Trips & Tours

Indonesia’s ‘Forgotten Island’ and the homeland of early Indonesian peoples, there’s no end to Sumba’s wonders.

An island in eastern Indonesia (three islands along from Bali if you’re being exact), Sumba is a marvellous mix of unspoiled landscapes and age-old traditions. Only an hour’s flight from Bali, it feels almost forgotten in time and there’s virtually no traffic, let alone pesky day trippers. All the elements of a beach escape are present and correct – think dramatic cliffs plunging into azure waters, sandy coves and fantastic surfing – but what really sets the island apart is its rich culture. The main religion is Marapu, a form of animism found only in Sumba that focuses on the worship of ancestral spirits, and the ancient rituals are still very much a part of daily life. Most resident lives in villages of traditional huts, their peaked roofs stretching to the sky, and produce the intricate, handwoven Ikat textile. It’s unusual to see traditions so well-preserved, and this is an enticing destination for those seeking deep cultural connections.