Lombok Loop
Lombok, with its beautiful nature and strong traditions, is a special place in Indonesia worth exploring. This 13-day scooter route guides you through stunning landscapes, peaceful beaches, and traditional villages where life moves slowly. Each turn shows a new side of this magical island: from wide, green rice fields to turquoise waters along quiet, hidden beaches.
Among the must-do experiences, hiking Mount Rinjani offers breathtaking views from the top of this majestic volcano. Unlike Bali, Lombok has retained its authentic character, away from mass tourism, providing a more genuine and immersive experience perfect for those seeking a journey filled with adventure and discovery.
The Route
The route covers all the main destinations in Lombok and can be followed either clockwise or counterclockwise. I recommend going counterclockwise to save the Mount Rinjani hike, located in the north, for the end of the trip, dedicating the first few days to exploring the beautiful beaches in the south of the island.
Starting from Padangbai harbor in Bali, you can board the ferry, which will take you to Lembar harbor in Lombok in about 5 hours, costing IDR 180,000 (approximately €10.50). Purchasing the ticket online can be complicated due to the website being in the local language, but it’s straightforward to buy it directly at the port on the day of travel. Ferries run approximately every two hours during the day; I took the 9:00 ferry, but schedules may vary depending on the season.
Alternatively, if you prefer to rent your two-wheeler directly in Lombok, you can consider taking a speedboat to the island from either Padangbai (north Bali) or Serangan (south Bali). This option reduces the travel time to less than 3 hours, allowing you to disembark at Bangsal harbor, located northwest of Lombok, near the famous Gili Islands. In this case, you can conveniently purchase your ticket on 12Go.com. Once you arrive in Lombok, you can rent a scooter in Senggigi, a tourist area not far from the arrival port. If you arrive in Lombok by air, Kuta Lombok is the ideal place to rent a vehicle.
Considering that some destinations require at least two days for proper exploration, I spent 13 days and 12 nights completing my island loop.
Below is a list of the destinations I visited and their main points of interest to help you customize your loop to your liking:
Port of Lembar: The main gateway to Lombok for those arriving from Bali with their own vehicle, which can be comfortably transported on the ferry from Padangbai.
Gili Sudak: Part of the "Secret Gili," this remote island in southern Lombok is perfect for recharging your energy before embarking on your busy journey. The island is mainly visited by day-trippers but offers seaside bungalows for a uniquely peaceful stay and great snorkeling spots.
Kuta Lombok: The most touristy area of the island, from where you can reach the best beaches in Lombok. I recommend spending a couple of nights here unless you prefer more authentic experiences in remote areas.
Ekas: This area of Lombok is known for surf-friendly beaches. About a half-hour scooter ride away is Pink Beach, ideal for snorkeling and relaxation. However, it may not be convenient to stay here if you're not into surfing.
Tetebatu: This lush area of Lombok, located south of the volcano, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. Here, you can stroll through rice terraces and visit charming waterfalls. I suggest spending a couple of nights to fully explore the wonders of this special part of the island.
Sapit: Although a less common stop often overlooked by tourists, this village has a charming atmosphere and breathtaking views. I recommend spending a night here for an authentic and immersive experience.
Sembalun: As you head north, the scenery becomes increasingly lush, with stunning vistas. Sembalun is a must-visit stop, especially for trekking enthusiasts.
Senaru: Not far from Sembalun, Senaru is home to beautiful waterfalls and a relaxed atmosphere.
Mount Rinjani: An unmissable experience on your journey through Lombok. Sembalun and Senaru are the main gateways for hiking Mount Rinjani, with treks lasting two to three days, including overnight camping. While tours are well-organized, it is advisable to be in good physical condition.
Mataram: The capital of Lombok and the administrative and commercial center of the island. In Mataram, you can experience a local atmosphere free from tourists and visit its markets and mosques.
The main roads surrounding Lombok are in excellent condition, thanks to recent improvements aimed at boosting tourism and hosting international events like the MotoGP. With Lombok being less populated than Bali and experiencing lower tourist traffic, the roads are significantly less congested, making scooter travel convenient and safe. This itinerary is ideal for those looking to ease into motorcycle travel, with distances between destinations not exceeding two to three hours and many attractions to explore along the way.
Tips Before Departure
Get a Vehicle: The journey begins in Bali. Ubud could be an ideal starting point due to its proximity to Padangbai, the port from which you can reach Lombok by ferry. To arrange a competitively priced vehicle rental, you can contact Kadek on WhatsApp at +6281805385222.
Travel During the Dry Season: The best time for a scooter loop is during the dry season, from May to October. However, rain can occur, so it's advisable to bring a waterproof jacket.
Obtain an International Driving Permit: In Indonesia, as in much of Southeast Asia, an international driving permit is required. However, I've never been stopped by the police in Indonesia, and when it happens, they usually ask for a small fee, often negotiable.
Travel Light: It’s recommended to travel with just one backpack and, if possible, store some clothes under the seat of your scooter, as you'll need to carry your gear between destinations. Laundry services offering express service are available along the route, so you can wash clothes in a day. Some areas along the journey, like Tetebatu and the summit of Mount Rinjani, may have cooler temperatures than the rest of the island, especially at night or dawn due to altitude. Therefore, it's wise to bring some warmer clothing.
Do Not Book Accommodations in Advance: It’s unnecessary to book hotels in advance, as finding last-minute accommodations in Lombok is easy, often with the option to negotiate the price on-site. This will give you greater flexibility if you wish to stay longer in a destination that particularly impresses you or skip others.
Bring Cash: It’s advisable to carry cash, as most restaurants and hotels do not accept credit cards in Lombok. While ATMs are easily found in some areas, they can be more challenging to locate in others. To avoid inconvenience, it’s best to obtain cash before departing or in Kuta Lombok, one of the first destinations on your route. The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR): with 1 euro, you can get approximately 17,000 Indonesian rupiah.
Swimming and Snorkeling Gear: In destinations like Gili Sudak and Pink Beach, you can enjoy snorkeling in their crystal-clear waters. Besides your swimsuit (which is also recommended for swimming in the waterfalls of Tetebatu and Senaru), if you have a snorkeling mask and snorkel, bring it along to avoid having to rent one.
Wake Up Early: To fully enjoy some attractions in Lombok, it's advisable to wake up early or, on some occasions, before dawn; the recommended sleep hours during this adventure are generally from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, except for rare occasions like the Mount Rinjani hike.
Get Familiar with Google Maps: Various applications can assist you in navigating, but I find Google Maps to be the most intuitive and comprehensive. Locations are easy to find, and user reviews can help with your choices. It's advisable to install the app on your smartphone and download the map of the area for offline use in case of signal loss. All hotels, restaurants, and activities mentioned in the guide are easily traceable on Google Maps.
Internet Connection: Internet connectivity in Lombok is generally better than in Bali. I recommend choosing Telkomsel as your mobile provider. Along the route, you’ll easily find accommodations offering rooms with desks and Wi-Fi, or communal areas where you can work comfortably.
Respect Islamic Culture: Unlike Bali, where Hinduism is the predominant religion, Lombok has a majority Muslim population. It's essential to respect the local Islamic culture, especially when visiting villages and sacred sites. Modest clothing is required to enter mosques: men and women should cover their arms and legs, while women are expected to wear a scarf to cover their hair.
Day 1: Bali - Gili Sudak
Morning
Start your day with the ferry trip to Lembar. It’s best to take the ferry from Padangbai in Bali by 9:00 am to arrive in Lombok around lunchtime. Ferries run approximately every two hours; I took the 9:00 am ferry, but schedules may vary depending on the season. Tickets can be easily purchased at Padangbai port for IDR 180,000 (about €10.50), which includes your scooter. The journey takes around five hours, and the ferry is quite comfortable: there’s a spacious vehicle deck on the lower level, while the upper levels offer a snack bar and comfortable seating in both air-conditioned and outdoor areas.
Lunch
Once you arrive in Lombok, you’ll immediately notice the cultural shift from Bali, especially in people’s clothing. You’re moving from a predominantly Hindu area to a mostly Islamic one. Near Lembar port, there are several seafood restaurants, like Rehan Seafood and Remaja Indah 2. For a more budget-friendly option, Warung Makan Aduh Enak'e offers good local dishes.
Afternoon
Set your GPS for ALDI trans Boat Gili Nanggu Gili Sudak Gili Kedis Gili Layar, about a 30-minute drive away. Here, you can arrange a private boat to Gili Sudak, a small island only 10 minutes from Lombok. As a solo traveler, I negotiated a round-trip fare of IDR 200,000 (around €11.70), and the family who runs the service let me park my scooter in their garage while I stayed overnight on the island. Plan your return to Lombok for the following morning, ideally around 10:00 or 11:00. However, if your plans change, you can easily reach them via WhatsApp from Gili Sudak.
There is only one accommodation on Gili Sudak: Nirvana Gili Sudak, which you can book online or on-site for a better rate. During my stay, I was the only guest at the property and on the entire island. I paid IDR 250,000 (around €14.60) for a basic beach-view bungalow with a modest breakfast included. Once on Gili Sudak, take advantage of the late afternoon for snorkeling right off the shore and walking around the quiet island at sunset. While the property is clean and well-maintained, you’ll notice some litter around the rest of the island, an issue I found especially in southern Lombok.
Dinner
The Nirvana Gili Sudak restaurant doesn’t stand out for its food, but it’s the only dining option on the island. After a long travel day, with the whole island to yourself, you’ll likely enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep to the sound of waves and the serene atmosphere of Gili Sudak.
Day 2: Gili Sudak - Kuta Lombok
Sunrise
After a restful night, wake up at sunrise to enjoy the quiet of the island all to yourself. The sunrise over the ocean is the perfect way to start your day.
Morning
Enjoy Gili Sudak before tourists arrive and head back to Lombok. If you’re in a group or have a larger budget, consider a stop on the way back at Gili Nanggu, where you can spend an hour exploring the island and snorkeling in its clear waters. Once back on Lombok, head towards Pantai Selong Belanak beach. You can choose either a scenic countryside route suggested by Google Maps (more time but beautiful scenery) or a faster main road route.
Lunch
Following this itinerary, you’ll reach Pantai Selong Belanak around lunchtime. There are several local warung that offer fresh seafood and beach loungers. You’ll also find Lantis Resto & Bar at the far end of the beach, which has a pool and more modern amenities. If you’re carrying heavy bags, ask the staff to store them so you can relax by the beach without worry.
Afternoon
Pantai Selong Belanak is a popular spot for surfers. The water is usually choppier in the morning and calms down with the tide toward the afternoon. Spend the day relaxing here, and don’t miss the sight of local farmers herding water buffalo along the beach in the late afternoon. After admiring the stunning sunset that the beach is famous for, hop back on your scooter and head to Kuta Lombok, the island’s main tourist hub, about 30 minutes away. There, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options for every budget. I traveled in August, likely the busiest time of the year, so accommodations were a bit limited and less flexible on price. Booking.com was very helpful for finding a last-minute place in the late afternoon.
Dinner
In Kuta Lombok, you’ll have plenty of dining options, from Western-style dishes to fresh seafood grills. Google Maps is a good tool to find places that match your preferences. Among the places I tried, I recommend Knalpot Tropical Bistro for a range of international dishes in a stylish setting and Gulas Garden for fresh, well-prepared seafood.
Day 3: Kuta Lombok
Morning
Take a leisurely morning today. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or one of the many cafés in Kuta. For a hearty Western-style brunch, I suggest Kenza Cafe & Restaurant Kuta Lombok. After a quick walk around Kuta (skip the beach; it’s crowded with boats and plastic), head to Tanjung Aan Beach, just a 15-minute scooter ride from the center.
This beach, along with Selong Belanak, is considered one of the best in the area, known for its white sand and gentle waves, ideal for beginner surfers. There are several warung along the beach that offer local dishes and free loungers for customers. I spent the whole day at Warung Sunshine, conveniently near Warung Pandan, which offers a seaside massage spa.
Lunch
Have lunch at your chosen beachside spot, enjoying local dishes and grilled fish.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and take a walk to Bukit Antara, a large rock formation offering a fantastic coastal view. In the late afternoon, low tide reveals seaweed beds in the shallow waters, a characteristic feature of Tanjung Aan Beach.
Sunset
At the western end of Tanjung Aan Beach is one of Lombok’s most spectacular viewpoints: Bukit Merese. Accessible by scooter with an entry fee of IDR 10,000 (around €0.58), this spot is famous for its incredible sunsets. The hill offers a 360-degree view of beaches, ocean, and nearby Kuta village, making it an ideal place to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Dinner
For dinner, try one of the previously recommended restaurants or explore other options in the area.
Day 4: Kuta Lombok - Ankas
Overview
Today’s area, at Lombok’s southeastern tip, is known for surfing at Ankas Beach and the pink sands of Pink Beach. Ankas is mainly a surfing spot, and the pink sand at Pink Beach isn’t as vivid as it used to be. However, swimming in its clear waters among coral and fish can be pleasant, especially when the sea is calm. If you’re short on time or uninterested in surfing, consider heading directly to Tetebatu instead of stopping here.
Morning
Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or one of Kuta’s many cafés. Get ready for a couple of hours’ ride to Pink Beach. Set it as your destination on Google Maps and enjoy the scenic drive through local villages. The last 3 km are rough, and you’ll need to pay an entry fee of IDR 25,000 (around €1.45). Pink Beach is a pristine and quiet spot; most visitors arrive by private boat from the more developed Ankas Beach. If the sea is calm, spend time relaxing on the beach and snorkeling in the clear waters.
Lunch
There are only a couple of local warung near the beach offering simple dishes, so bringing a packed lunch from Kuta Lombok may be a good idea.
Afternoon
When you’re ready to leave this beach, backtrack toward Ankas. This area is not particularly touristy, and accommodation options are limited. Ekas Garden Bungalow 2 offers convenient, standalone bungalows just minutes from the beach. In the evening, take a walk on Ekas Beach. Aside from morning surf activities, you’ll find a more authentic atmosphere, with local fishermen anchoring their boats along the shore.
Dinner
Dining options in this remote part of Lombok are also limited. A few minutes from the beach, Warung Rizki, a family-run restaurant, offers well-prepared local dishes at affordable prices.
Day 5: Ankas - Tetebatu
Sunrise
Wake up early for one last walk along Ankas Beach at sunrise, savoring the quiet moments by the sea before heading toward the next stages of the loop, which will mainly lead you through forests and mountains.
Morning
Return to your homestay for breakfast, check out, and get ready to follow a scenic route through picturesque local villages nestled in nature until you reach Tetebatu, a peaceful area on the slopes of Mount Rinjani. Surrounded by lush rice fields, tobacco plantations, and tropical forests, Tetebatu offers an authentic experience, still away from mass tourism, though signs of development are growing.
The charm of this region is enhanced by the care of its residents, who keep the place clean and organized, showing a warm hospitality that I found especially welcoming compared to southern areas. I recommend staying for at least two nights to fully relax and explore all that this Tetebatu has to offer. There are various comfortable accommodations at very competitive prices compared to previous locations. I highly recommend Bale Kembang Kuning, a small homestay with just four bungalows overlooking lush rice fields. Rooms are spacious, clean, and reasonably priced, with breakfast included. Negotiating rates directly on-site may lead to even better deals; you can reach the manager, Sometimes, on WhatsApp at +62 81349618446.
Lunch
Western cuisine is rare in Tetebatu, but local warungs offer great food with attentive service. Popular choices include Oktavia Warung and Warung Monkey Forest. I had a lovely lunch in a cozy bamboo setup amid rice fields, where a local woman prepared delicious traditional dishes for only IDR 100,000 (about €5.80), arranged by my homestay. For an exclusive local dining experience, contact Sometimes at the number above.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring Tetebatu’s beautiful rice terraces. Many tourists opt for guides, but in my experience, wandering freely allows you to better absorb the authentic charm and natural beauty of these fields.
Dinner
Dine at one of the recommended warungs and go to bed early. Set your alarm for 6 a.m. to visit the stunning waterfalls near Tetebatu in the early morning.
Day 6: Tetebatu
Sunrise
Rise early to head to Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, a natural complex with four impressive cascades, located about 45 minutes from Tetebatu. Visiting early has two benefits: you’ll enjoy the place without crowds and avoid the steep entry fee imposed by local “gatekeepers,” which can be as high as IDR 120,000 (€7). Arriving before 7:30 a.m. usually allows you to bypass this.
Morning
Return to your homestay for a hearty breakfast, then head out to explore Tetebatu Monkey Forest. This lush forest, home to many black-furred macaques, offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating and social animals. Wander the paths surrounded by greenery, taking in the calm beauty until lunchtime. You can easily avoid the entry fee by accessing the forest from one of the side paths.
Lunch
Near Tetebatu Monkey Forest, on one of the village’s main streets, you’ll find a few of the previously mentioned warungs that are perfect for lunch. Alternatively, explore other options around the area.
Afternoon
Relax in the afternoon and don’t miss a visit to Air Terjun Sarang Walet waterfall, accessible by foot from many local homestays, across charming rice fields. The rocky path leading to the falls involves wading through a stream, adding an adventurous touch to your experience.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local warung, or join one of the cooking classes offered by various homestays, where you can prepare your meal with local guidance.
Day 7: Tetebatu - Sapit
Morning
Wake up leisurely, enjoy breakfast, and check out to make a few stops before reaching your next destination, likely by the afternoon.
First, visit Pringgasela, a village renowned for its textile tradition and clothing and decorative items crafted with the ikat technique. Head directly to Sundawa Pringgasela Weaving & Experience, located near the village mosque, where you can admire and purchase these handmade textiles. The owner warmly welcomes visitors and introduces them to the skilled village women who create these famous fabrics.
After this memorable stop, continue to Selong, the second-largest city in Lombok and the capital of East Lombok.
Lunch
In Selong, you’ll find several dining options, with no tourists in sight. Great choices include the renowned Warung Rasbani, famous for its grilled chicken and fresh fish. It offers delicious dishes at reasonable prices, keeping an authentic vibe without touristy influences.
Afternoon
After lunch, take some time to explore Selong. While it lacks major tourist attractions, visiting an authentic place untouched by tourism can be rewarding. Unwind at a local café, like Aru Coffee, before heading to your next overnight stop.
For accommodation, I chose Sapit, a peaceful village in nature. Among the few options on Booking.com, Kurni's Cabin stands out with excellent reviews. The owner, Didik, is an experienced guide who organizes tours to climb Mount Rinjani and visit the small islands east of Lombok, such as Gili Kondo. He speaks excellent English and understands Western standards. For quality lodging, I recommend staying at his homestay and contacting him for the famous Rinjani trek via WhatsApp at +62 81237836099.
Don't miss a stop at X.TEROS CAMP COFFEE & NATURE for a sunset drink in a relaxed and authentic setting.
Dinner
In Salong village, there’s only one restaurant, Balelangga, which I found unimpressive. Instead, ask Didik if he can prepare dinner during your stay.
Day 8: Sapit - Sembalun
Sunrise
Sapit’s nature is extraordinary. Start your day with an early walk from Kurni's Cabin, following Google Maps to the SUNRISE DREAM POINT, then continue toward Wisata Batu Pelangi. This two-hour morning hike is a perfect way to begin the day.
Morning
Have breakfast at your homestay and relax before heading to your next destination. On the way to Sembalun, stop at the Taman Wisata Pusuk Sembalun viewpoint, the highest point for close views of Mount Rinjani and the scenic Sembalun village, with its fields forming a colorful patchwork.
Sembalun is a primary starting point to climb Mount Rinjani, offering the shortest route to the summit, a challenging two-day, one-night trek.
Lunch
Dining options in Sembalun are limited and focus mainly on local dishes. Kebon Kupi Sembalun offers a great view of the village, while Kedai Sawah Sembalun has a unique setting among the area’s gardens.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the village by motorbike, possibly stopping at the two eateries mentioned for a meal or drink. Later, head to Bukit Selong, an easy 10-minute walk from where you can enjoy stunning valley views and watch the sun set behind the hills surrounding this rural area.
Dinner
Go to bed early and set your alarm for 4 a.m. if you plan to climb Pergasingan Hill. This trek is manageable without a guide, though some sections are quite steep and require good fitness.
Day 9: Sembalun - Senaru
Sunrise
Wake up around 4 a.m. to start your Pergasingan Hill climb by 4:30 a.m. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the top, so leave on time to catch the sunrise. Remember to bring water and warm clothes, as it’s often windy and chilly at the summit.
Morning
Take in the breathtaking views from the summit, then descend and return to your accommodation for a hot shower and hearty breakfast. Check out and head towards your next destination.
On the way, make a stop at the Old Traditional Mosque Beleq, the oldest mosque in Lombok, known for its unique, simple architecture. Wander around the village that unfolds along a narrow street, offering fascinating sights. You’ll arrive in Senaru in time for lunch.
Lunch
Senaru, a small village known for its waterfalls and as a gateway to Rinjani treks, has several homestays and restaurants along the main road where you can enjoy local dishes with beautiful valley views. Warung Bukit View Senaru and Café Rifka are popular choices for their quality and welcoming atmosphere.
Afternoon
After lunch, check into one of the homestays in Senaru. I chose Bukit Senaru Homestay Lodge, which offers simple yet spacious rooms in an ideal location for reaching the waterfalls on foot. The rate is very affordable; I paid only IDR 100,000 (€5.80) for a private room with one of the best hot showers I had in Lombok, with a simple breakfast included. The owner, Bambang, organizes popular Rinjani treks from both Senaru and Sembalun; his WhatsApp is +62 81237667468.
Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Sendang Gile Waterfall and Tiu Kelep Waterfall, both located along the same trail, with an entry fee of only IDR 20,000 (€1.20).
This is also a great time to arrange a Rinjani trek for the next day, as Senaru offers competitive prices compared to other locations.
Dinner
Have an early dinner and get some rest after this intense day, especially if you plan to start the climb up Mount Rinjani the following day, as I did. You’ll need all the energy you can get.
Day 10-11 : Climbing Mount Rinjani
Here’s a summary of the key information I gathered for trekking Lombok’s iconic volcano. It’s best to confirm details with the trekking company you choose.
There are various routes to Mount Rinjani, but Senaru and Sembalun are the most popular due to their proximity to the summit and the stunning views along the way:
Senaru: A two-day, one-night trek here leads to the base camp with a spectacular view of Danau Segara Anak lake, framed by the mountains. This route is considered beginner-friendly, as it doesn’t include the early-morning summit climb, so you can start your day at a more comfortable hour. If you want to reach the peak from Senaru, you’ll need to add another day and night to your trek.
Sembalun: Starting here, you can complete a two-day, one-night trek to the summit—an intense experience that requires good physical fitness. The final ascent starts at 2:00 a.m., with a steep, challenging four-hour climb to reach the summit before dawn. A more common option is a three-day, two-night trek, which includes a stop at the hot springs in the inner valley near the lake, for a more rounded experience.
If you’re looking for a quieter route and aren’t focused on reaching the peak, these two alternative access points might be ideal:
Aik Berik: Located south of the volcano near Tetebatu, this trail provides a nature-focused experience, away from the crowds, though it doesn’t reach the summit.
Torean: This is an unofficial and adventurous route featuring hot springs and waterfalls. It’s perfect for those seeking an alternative experience, but it requires an experienced guide due to the lesser-marked trails.
I opted for the two-day, one-night trek from Sembalun. Although I was in Senaru, the round-trip transport (about 45 minutes each way) was included. If I had arranged the logistics in advance, I could have started directly from Sembalun, where I stayed the night before, saving travel time and scheduling my visit to the Senaru waterfalls after the trek (moving it to days 9 and 10). Personally, I found reaching the summit to be the most rewarding part of this experience, despite the effort involved.
Several companies offer unforgettable Rinjani trekking experiences. From my research on-site, prices for a two-day, one-night trek are around 1,500,000 IDR (approx. €87.80), and for a three-day, two-night trek around 1,900,000 IDR (approx. €111.20). These packages typically include park entry fees, meals, and camping gear, so you can travel worry-free.
However, most companies don’t provide warm clothing or trekking poles. Temperatures at the summit, especially at night, can drop significantly, so bringing your warmest clothes is recommended. Although I completed the climb without trekking poles, I would have opted to rent them, considering the difficulty of the final ascent and the descent.
Here are the contacts I mentioned previously, along with an additional contact for a local guide, so you can discuss and negotiate with different companies to find the best option for your needs:
Didik: The owner of Kurni’s Cabin Homestay in Sapit is also an experienced guide with excellent English. His services are reliable and of high standards, with slightly above-average prices. Contact him on WhatsApp at +62 81237836099.
Bambang: The owner of Bukit Senaru Homestay Lodge in Senaru was instrumental in organizing this unforgettable experience, offering very competitive prices and good room for negotiation. Contact him on WhatsApp at +62 81237667468.
Rahman: A local guide working for Rinjani Sasak, offering good standards at competitive prices. His WhatsApp contact is +62 87743366491.
Day 12 : Senaru - Mataram
Morning
After a well-deserved rest to recharge following the strenuous Rinjani trek and descent, enjoy breakfast at your homestay, pack your bags, and check out. Today you’ll head to Mataram, the final stop on your Lombok itinerary, located about two hours from Senaru. I suggest stopping at Senggigi Beach along the way for a relaxing break on the sand, which will be especially welcome after the intense activities of the past few days.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants in Senggigi, which mostly offer Western cuisine, or head straight to Mataram, where you’ll find a broader selection of local options.
Afternoon
Arrive in Mataram, the capital and largest urban center on Lombok. The city is lively and authentic, with a mix of modernity and tradition, featuring markets, malls, and cultural landmarks. Before checking into your hotel, visit Kebon Roek Traditional Market at the city entrance from Senggigi for an entirely local experience. For accommodation, I chose Gading Guesthouse Lombok, which offers simple but clean rooms at a great price. Spend the afternoon exploring, and don’t miss Hubbul Wathan Great Mosque, the largest and most impressive mosque in Lombok.
If you’re craving a bit of modernity after over 10 days in nature, visit Lombok Epicentrum Mall for any shopping needs. Take a sunset stroll through Mayura Park for a relaxing final moment before dinner.
Dinner
As a capital city, Mataram offers plenty of dinner options. Lombok Epicentrum Mall has a variety of Western restaurants, while for a more authentic final dinner, try the famous grilled chicken at Taliwang Khas Pak Udin or grilled seafood at Rumah Makan Seafood 88. After another long, fulfilling day, get an early night to prepare for your ferry trip back to Bali the next morning.
Day 13 : Mataram - Bali
Morning
Wake up around 6:30 a.m. and check out. The port of Lembar (Dermaga Ferry Lembar) is about 40 minutes from Mataram. Ferry schedules can vary, but they’re generally consistent throughout the year, with a few exceptions. On my departure day, I just missed the 9:00 a.m. ferry and took the next one at 11:30 a.m., arriving at Padangbai Port in Bali around 4:30 p.m. Have breakfast on the way out of Mataram and consider getting a takeaway lunch for the five-hour trip. Alternatively, there are a few restaurants at Lembar Port where you can have breakfast and buy lunch before boarding.
Lunch
Enjoy your packed lunch, or choose something from the ferry’s snack bar, though options are limited, and prices are higher.
Afternoon
The return ferry turned out to be even more comfortable than the one going, ensuring a relaxing trip back to Bali. If you catch the 9:00 a.m. ferry, you’ll reach Padangbai Port in the early afternoon, giving you time to travel at ease to your final destination in Bali.
The long journey back offers a perfect chance to reflect on the experiences of the past two weeks in beautiful Lombok. As the sea stretches out to the horizon, you’ll relive unforgettable moments and adventures that made this trip unique, from the spectacular waterfalls and mountain landscapes to the wide southern beaches and lush rice terraces. Each stop tells a story of natural beauty and culture that will stay with you forever.
Travel Expenses
Lombok is generally less crowded than Bali, except for the island’s southern part, known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the airport. Prices tend to be higher in this area due to the greater demand. Outside of this zone, costs are significantly lower, making Lombok a great choice for those seeking an authentic experience without overspending.
Throughout this trip, I opted for budget accommodations that still offered private rooms and bathrooms. While not particularly luxurious, these options provided the comfort needed to recharge after each day’s journey to new destinations. The restaurants and warungs I chose were also affordable, allowing me to enjoy typical island dishes featuring fish and meat for around IDR 60,000 (about €3.50) per meal.
Traveling as a couple would further reduce accommodation expenses, making the experience even more budget-friendly.
Below is an approximate overview of expenses for the 13-day, 12-night journey:
