The No FOMO 7-10 Day Lombok Itinerary for Adventure Seekers

Often, travelers who’ve had their fill of north Bali’s mountains and south Bali’s partying decide to venture over to Lombok as a little side adventure. Many only make it as far as the Gili Islands, but there’s so much more to this island.

Lombok, referred to as the Bali of 20 years ago, has an awesome tourism infrastructure and its own stunning natural landscapes (plus, it’s cheaper!).

Based on my own escapades, my top three experiences in Lombok would be:

• Tackling the surprisingly tough hike up Mount Rinjani, one of the most challenging I’ve ever attempted – and I’ve hiked Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro!
• Driving around all the Kuta Beaches, especially to Tanjung Ann
• Getting sprayed by the mist from Tiu Kelep Waterfall

When I first set foot on Lombok, it was just a follow-up to my Bali trip. But after two weeks of heart-pumping adventures and scooter calluses, this is how I would plan a 7- 10 day Lombok itinerary.

How Many Days in Lombok is Enough?

How long you spend in Lombok really depends on what you want to do and see while you’re on the island. If your primary goal is to relax on the beach and do some snorkeling or diving, then 5-7 days will be enough to visit the west side of Lombok, which includes the Gili Islands, Sengiggi, and surfing in Kuta.

If you want to explore the entire island, do the Mount Rinjani hike, and see all the best waterfalls and the Sembulan ridge, then you should plan to stay for at least ten days. And that timeframe would mean doing activities and moving every day with little time for relaxation. Two weeks would be way more comfortable.

Best Things to Do in Lombok, Indonesia

The following things to do in Lombok loosely follow the sample itinerary above, but to see them all will require much more than just 10 days. They will be organized into different regions of Lombok, starting with the west, central, north, then south Lombok.

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Days 1-3: West Lombok Itinerary

Party The Night Away on Gili Trawangan

As the largest and most popular of the three Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan is party-central regarding nightlife. With plenty of bars and clubs to keep you dancing into the early morning hours and meeting and losing people throughout the night, it literally feels like you are at a music festival.

Party Tip #1: After 12-1 am, all bars and nightclubs will shut down and converge into one after-hours party that ends at around 3 am.

Party Tip #2: If you want to party late into the night, avoid Thursday nights, as Fridays are holy for Islam. All bars and clubs will shut down at 12 am.

Although it’s mainly about the nightlife, the daytime can be spent relaxing on beautiful beaches, snorkeling or diving among tons of sea turtles, or exploring the motor-free island by bike. When you need a break from doing very little, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a leisurely meal or snack.

Chill on Gili Meno and Gili Air

The tourists who leave Bali most likely end up in Gili-T. But, if you’re looking for less drunk people and a more low-key, relaxed atmosphere, Gili Meno and Gili Air are your best bet. 

As the smallest and least developed of the three Gilis, Gili Meno is perfect for those who really want to get away from it all. Known as a honeymoon island, there’s not much to do except relax and soak in the sun. 

Gili Air is a happy medium between the lively nightlife of Gili T and the tranquility of Gili Meno. Although it’s still quite small, there are a few more restaurants and cafes than in Gili Meno, as well as a few dive shops and diving schools. Both islands can also be visited on a day trip from Gili-T or on a full-day snorkeling tour.

Resort Relax in Senggigi

As one of Lombok’s most popular tourist destinations, Senggigi is where you’ll find the majority of the island’s luxury resorts. Although it’s not as lively and the average tourist demographic is older than on the Gilis, there are still plenty of restaurants and a few nightclubs and bars to enjoy.

The real draw here is the luxury resorts. You can find Sengiggi Lombok accommadation from private villas and infinity pools to butler service and in-room spa treatments that dot the turquoise-colored coast.

Visit Pura Meru Temple

Lombok is predominantly Muslim, but there is a small Hindu minority on the island as well. The largest and second-most important Hindu temple on Lombok is Pura Meru. The three shrines symbolize the Hindu holy trinity, but they also stand for the trio of volcanoes in close proximity: Rinjani, Batur, and Agung.

The temple grounds are open to visitors, but it is a small space, so you won’t need much time to explore. Make sure to dress modestly; you will be asked to wear a sarong while on the temple grounds.

Try Pottery Making at Banyumulek Pottery Village

The village of Banyumulek is slowly becoming a popular Lombok destination, thanks to its large pottery production. Located 14 kilometers from Mataram City, most of the residents of Banyumulek are considered pottery artisans.

If you visit Banyumulek Village, not only will you find an aesthetic display of pottery. You’ll also witness the clay being processed into pottery by talented craftsmen. And if you’re feeling artsy, go ahead and try making pottery yourself!

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Day 4: Central Lombok Itinerary

Spot Black Monkeys in Black Monkey Forest

Head to the Black Monkey Forest in central Lombok to see these cute creatures that usually sit high up in the trees. Not as mischievous as the grey macaques that steal tourists’ phones and snacks, the Black Monkeys are not as easy to find in Lombok’s Monkey Forest.

If you are thinking of the Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali, the Lombok version is much more natural and untouched. No temples, walking paths, or swaths of tourists roam around the Monkey Grounds, only small trails, but also way fewer monkeys.

👉 Without a guide, finding the Black Monkeys who like to congregate near the river on the treetops may be challenging.
✔ Make sure you’re able to spot the black monkeys led by a local guide here

Benang Stokel and Kelambu Waterfalls

Two great attractions for the price of one, Benang Stokel and Kelambu Waterfalls, are a stone’s throw from each other. The perfect way to spend half a day if you’re in Tete Batu.

The former is Lombok’s tallest waterfall at 150 meters high, while the latter is more of a series of cascading waterfalls.

Enter the Rinjani Geopark to get to both waterfalls. But be aware that the entrance fee for foreigners is negotiable depending on your haggling skills. The guards will push you to get a local guide, but you do not need one to be able to find the main waterfalls. We paid 60k IDR per person just for the entrance into the park.

Two other smaller waterfalls in the park are hidden along more obscure walkways. The park offers a guide to help you find them, but with a good map and some exploration, you should be able to find them yourself just off the main path.

👉 You’re going to need your own transportation to get to these awesome waterfalls. Click here to book a driver and tour over to Benang Stokel and Kelambu Waterfall

Admire the Tete Batu Rice Terraces

Delve into landscapes by walking or cycling through the many rice terraces around Tetebatu. These lovely rice paddies can be seen stretching far and wide throughout the village of Tete Batu.

While they may not be as grandiose or popularized as the ones in Bali, don’t let that stop you from exploring the local terraces! You can book a tour or just rent a scooter and drive around until something catches your eye or .

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Days 5-6: Things To Do On the Mount Rinjani Trek

Mount Rinjani is an active volcano and the second-highest point in Indonesia. If you’re spending any time in Lombok, it takes up a considerable portion of the island. It is literally unmissable. If you’re not up for a hike, you can still enjoy the views from one of the many lookout points.

4 MOUNT RINJANI TREKKING OPTIONS

🌋 1. Sembulan/Senaru – Hike 2D/1N to the crater rim (summit only) of Mount Rinjani This is the 2D/1N route I took. If you are in Senaru, then they will drive you early in the morning to Sembulan. 🌋 2. Sembulan/Senaru – Hike 3D/2N to the crater rim (summit & crater lake) of Mount Rinjani This will be same as the summiting option, but you get to spend one day at the lake and the hotspirngs too. 🌋 3. Tete Batu –  Hike to the second summit of Mount Rinjani via Air Berik Route They have since created a second summit that doesn’t connect to the other two routes, but the altitude is just a bit lower than the actual “summit”. There are way fewer crowds on this newly-developed route. 🌋 4. Senaru – One Day Crater Rim Mount Rinjani Hike (No Summiting) If time is limited, you could simply hike to the crater rim for a view of the caldera and Segara Anak lake, then return the same way on the same day. Tours start at midnight.

Summit Mount Rinjani

Of my three months backpacking in Indonesia, summiting Mount Rinjani was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I had on the whole trip. We went with the 2D/1N Sembalun summit route, packed with plenty of stunning views and challengingly steep terrain.

Warning! I completely underestimated this hike. You may be gone altogether for less than two days, but you are hiking for 14+ hours in that time. You start the “second” day at 1am, and most of that 5 hours are all steep, deep sand! And it’s cold and windy!

Having gone at the end of the dry season in August, we were awarded awesome sunrise panoramas. Even then, the cloud cover started to roll in the crater rim by late morning. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Agung, on East Bali.

So that you’re summiting views are thwarted by bad weather and you won’t be absolutely miserable, make sure to not go in rainy season or check and check the forecast before leaving.

Camp at Lake Segara Anak

Located inside the crater of Gunung Rinjani, Lake Segara Anak is the camping spot for those on a 3-day, 2-night Mount Rinjani trek. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and a unique perspective of the volcano.

Fun Fact: The mini-volcano inside Mount Rinjani’s crater didn’t form until an eruption in 2015, when many tour groups had to evacuate the vicinity.

Soak Your Tired Feet in the Mount Rinjani Hot Springs

A few minutes from Segara Anak Lake, the steaming hot springs are a great way to end a long day of trekking. The warm waters offer a soothing and relaxing experience while taking in the spectacular views from inside Mount Rinjani’s crater.

Visiting the lake and the hot springs are only available on the 3D/2N Mount Rinjani hikes.

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Days 7-8: North Lombok Itinerary

Hike the Mountain Ridge from Bukit Pergasingan Hill

Hike to the top of the 1200-meter-high plateau of Bukit Pergasingan Hill for expansive panoramas of the island’s volcanoes and mountain peaks. Pass rice fields and vegetable gardens as you walk the three hour hike across the ridge to the summit of Pergasingan Hilltop.

The top of the hill is a popular spot for camping or having a picnic lunch. From here, Mount Rinjani will be visible in all her glory.

You don’t need a guide for this hike, but if you would rather have a local lead the way and tell you fascinating facts about Indonesia, you may be interested in this tour.

Insider Tip: If you’re looking for peace and quiet, camping on the weekends might not be the best idea since the location is quite popular.

Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint

If you’re not really down for an all-day hike, the Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint is a much shorter alternative to enjoy views of the surrounding rice fields and mountain ridges. After parking, walk up a short hill in less than 15 minutes, with the usual Indonesian selfie picture opportunities.

👉 The Sembulan views are mesmerizing. If you’re short on time, hire a driver to take you to all the best spots around Sembulan.

Make the Trek to Mangku Sakti Waterfall

Mangku Sakti is a Lombok waterfall located in the backwoods, behind a construction or mining operation. Even though it’s hard to get to, the river’s beautiful milky blue color makes the effort worth it.

The water sources from Mount Rinjani’s crater lake, which is rich in sulfur. It slowly erodes the limestone rock as it flows through a jagged slot canyon.

You’ll find Mangku Sakti Waterfall between Senaru and Sembulan. If you’re driving up towards Rinjani, the road will turn unpaved and steep at some point. Get ready for a bumpy ride that lasts around 30 minutes on roads full of sand and eroded areas, followed by an unmarked, confusing walk that lasts 10 to 15 minutes. 

Tiu Kelep Waterfall and Sendang Gile Waterfall

Lombok’s most visited tourist destinations are Tiu Kelep Waterfall and Sendang Gile Waterfall. These waterfalls are among the lush jungles surrounding the town of Senaru in northern Lombok. Both falls have the same entrance fee down a pair of developed stairs, with Tiu Kelep 15 minutes further down the trail.

Tiu Kelep’s main flow is aesthetically unique, as it majestically crashes down with one stray diagonal rush of water. Although often overshadowed by Tiu Kelep, Sendang Gile’s two-tiered falls against the lush, water-soaked rainforest are also incredibly elegant.

✔ Stand in awe of Lombok’s best waterfalls: Book a tour to Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile (if you’re not already in Senaru)

Bonus: Slide Down the Drain Pip Near Tiu Kelep Waterfall

There’s more than meets the eye on the bridge to Tiu Kelep. Climb inside and let the water slide you horizontally across. But be careful not to go too far– as in down the drainage pipe!

Explore Lombok’s Black Sand Beaches

In the very north of Lombok, right across the view from the Gili Islands, volcanic ash-laden beaches lay barren across the expansive shorelines. For those who have yet to see black sand beaches, there is a beauty to them.

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Days 9-10: South Lombok Itinerary

Lounge the Day Away on South Lombok’s Beaches

Kuta Lombok beaches are rapidly gaining popularity among travelers to Indonesia. With its world-renowned surfing spots, stunningly blue waters, and picturesque landscape, Lombok offers a relaxed atmosphere. And with some of the best white sandy beaches on the island, you’re sure to find your R&R paradise here.

👉 Book a tour to visit all the best Kuta beaches
(Don’t miss Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak Beach)

Here are a few of the most beautiful beaches (at least my favorites):

1. Tanjung Aan Beach
2. Selong Belanak Beach
3. Seger Beach
4. Nambung Beach

Surf in Lombok’s Gnarly Waves

Kuta Lombok’s azure waters, hilly backdrop, and perfect waves are quickly making it one of Indonesia’s most famous surf and sun destinations. For both beginners and intermediate surfers, Kuta Lombok has many breaks and swells. Check the daily surf report here.

On most of the best surf beaches, instructors and board rentals set up shop right on the beach. A few of the best are: Tanjung Aan, Selong Belanak, and Mawi Beach (for more advanced surfers). 

Climb the Hills for the Best Sunset Point

Bukit Merese Hill offers a great view of the surrounding area and is one of the best places to watch the sunset in south Lombok. There is a small 10k IDR entry fee to enter Bukit Merese.

Nearby, Bukit Pedau Hill was my favorite place to take in the amazing ocean views, sea stacks, sunset, and seaweed farms in low tide.

Watch Millions of Bats Fly out at Dusk

Large groups of bats can be seen at dusk in a few caves near Kuta Lombok, like Goa Bangkang Prabu, Goa Buwun Prabu, and Gua Sumur.

Only a short drive from Kuta, these caves are a great visit in the day, as well as for the bats. At the right time of day, the caves display cavey-characteristics, but the main selling point is the huge beam of aesthetic light that’s perfect for photos.

Explore Sasak Culture at Traditional Village

Lombok may not be famous for its cultural tourism, but you can’t go to Lombok without visiting and learning about the indigenous Sasak culture. Most of these villages have kept in touch with their traditional way of life, still using dried-leaf building materials and keeping their traditional artisan crafts alive.

Sade is the most famous and touristed of these villages. If you want to learn more about the Sasak people and their local culture, this is the most accessible place to go, even though it has become a bit touristy.

Here are six Sasak villages scattered around Lombok that you can visit (or go on a tour for): 

1. Blek Village
2. Sade Village (most famous and close to Kuta)
3. Segenter Village
4. Ende Village
5. Beleq Village
6. Bayan Village

Play with Pink Sand at Pink Beach

Pink Beach in Lombok may not be as pink as the famous ones from Komodo National Park in Flores, but nonetheless still pinker than most. Eroded from pink coral that lines the shores, the best way to enjoy the beach is to go snorkeling, as there is plenty of colorful fish and coral to see just offshore.

There’s no Uber in Indonesia, and the beach is about 2 hours away from Kuta on a remote peninsula in southeastern Lombok. The best way to get there is to rent your own scooter or hire a private driver for the day. A few travelers have said there’s an entrance fee of 50K IDR, but we’re not sure if that’s from an official attendant.

👉 Pink Beach is not an easy place to get to. For a hassle-free option, catch sight of Lombok’s very own Pink Beach on this all day tour (+ snorkeling)!

Visit Gunung Tunak National Park

Gunung Tunak Nature Reserve is a hidden gem on the big list of great Kuta Lombok beaches. This protected forest houses two beautiful beaches, a deer sanctuary, an iconic sea stack arch, and plenty of hiking paths.

The entrance fee into the protected reserve costs 100k IDR per person. Plan to spend a few hours touring the park to see all the attractions.

You will follow an asphalt road after you enter the park. This road first takes you to the Deer Sanctuary before diverging into two paths. These routes take you to either one of the beach areas in the park or the 40 minute hiking path to the Pantai Sari Goang Arch.

Marvel at the waves at Tanjung Poki

Tanjung Ringgit, at the southeasternmost tip of Lombok island, is a hidden gem with breathtaking views of steep cliffs, azure seas, and white sand beaches. However, many people don’t bother to make the journey as the path there is in poor condition.

But this beach hides a hidden gem, Tanjung Poki, where giant waves violently hit the cliffs during high tide. Plus, there is a bat cave nearby to check out.

Secret Gilis Island Hopping Tour

Most people know about the northern Gili’s, but did you know there are a few secret ones in the south? A few hours away from Kuta Lombok by car and then boat, these Gilis (Gili Tangkong, Gili Sudak Gili Kedis, and Gili Gede) offer a more secluded experience.

As it’s not easy getting to these Gilis, I recommend doing a Secret Gili Island-Hopping Tour. This all-day tour will take you island-hopping on this remote chain, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax the day away. 

👉 Book your seat to island hop on the Secret Gili Islands

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Where to Stay in Lombok

🏘️ WHERE TO STAY IN LOMBOK

GILI TRAWANGAN BEST SUNSET BEACH VIEW – Santorini Beach Resort (⭐8.8) PARTY HOSTEL – Mad Monkey Gili Trawangan (⭐9.1) SENGGIGI TOP LUXURY: Royal Avila Boutique Resort (⭐9.7) TOP BUDGET: Makarma Resort Lombok (⭐8.1) KUTA VOGUE TRADITION-DESIGNED – El Tropico Boutique Hotel (⭐9.6) AESTHETIC HOSTEL – Mad Monkey Kuta Lombok (⭐8.6) SEMBALUN UNIQUE HUTS WITH VIEW – Bukit Tiga Lima Boutique Hotel(⭐8.8) BEST SEMBULAN VIEW – Terasawah Hotel (⭐6.5 but should be higher)

Related Post: If you’re location is not on the table above, check out this comprehensive guide on the best areas and places to stay in Lombok

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How to Get to Lombok From Bali

By Ferry

The easiest way to get from Bali to Lombok is by fast boat ferry. Several companies operate ferry services between the two islands, mainly from: Sanur, Padang Bai, and Kusamba. The journey takes about four hours and costs around $30 USD.

🛥️ Pre-book your fast boat ferry online

By Plane

Several airlines offer daily flights between the two islands to Lombok International Airport. The flight takes about an hour and a half and costs around $60-$70 USD.

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FAQs: Commonly Asked Questions About a Lombok Itinerary

Is Lombok Worth Visiting?

With each grueling step, one comes inches closer to the summit of Mount Rinjani and toward seeing the epic bird’s view of all of Lombok, Indonesia. Just for the views at the summit of Mount Rinjani, the answer of whether Lombok is worth visiting is a deafening yes.

For other kinds of travelers: Kuta and Sengiggi’s long white sand beaches are perfect for any beach bum, while the difficult to hike Mount Rinjani will satisfy adventurous types. Those who love a good view will love Lombok’s scenic rice terraces and waterfalls.

Is Lombok better than Bali?

This question gets asked a lot, and it’s tough to answer. Both Lombok and Bali have a lot to offer visitors. Lombok is more laid-back and relaxed, while Bali is more touristy and developed and more easily able to communicate in english.

The perfect Indonesian island for your vacation depends on what you want to do while you’re there. Both islands have excellent nature opportunities. If you plan to stay active and experience the culture, Lombok will give you a more authentic Indonesia. However, Bali has a livelier party scene if that’s what interests you most.

Is Lombok too touristy?

No, Lombok is not too touristy. While it’s true that the island has become more on-the-radar in recent years, it still retains its charm and uniqueness. You will probably never encounter traffic anywhere on this island (outside peak hours in Mataram), nor have too many problems with accommodation or boat tickets being sold out.

Is Lombok Cheaper than Bali?

Yes, Lombok is generally cheaper than Bali. This is due to the fact that it’s not as developed of a Southeast Asian hotspot and there are fewer tourists.

Although visitors may have to wade through fewer options, they can often find amazing deals on accommodations, food, and activities. If you’re looking to save money on your vacation, then Lombok is definitely more affordable than Bali.

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Bucket List Worthy? Things to do On a Lombok Itinerary, Indonesia

If you’re looking to expand from mainstream Bali activities into the rest of Indonesia, Lombok is a great foray into Indonesian culture while maintaining the ease of travel.

You’ll find stunning white sand beaches, vibrant green rice terraces, active volcanoes here, and the opportunity to party on the Gili Islands. And unlike other popular tourist destinations, Lombok hasn’t been overrun by tourists (yet)– so you can enjoy relative peace and exoticism during your trip.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find the best tours and activities with Viator to cross off your bucket list and create unforgettable memories 🏘️ Book your accommodation with Booking.com in advance and check availability on the days of your travels. 🧾 Rent a car in advance with Discovercars for those epic road trips at the best price.