Heading to Indonesia, in the heart of the Pacific Ring of Fire? Here’s where to stay in Lombok, in the south of the archipelago!
Lombok (which means « chilli pepper » in Javanese) is a volcanic island in Indonesia, located in the Bali Sea in the heart of the Lesser Sunda Islands. This little piece of paradise is recognized by Unesco as a biosphere reserve, home to a unique fauna (marsupials, reptiles, sharks, rays, parrots, etc.) and flora that differs greatly depending on whether you’re in the northern or southern part of the island (the former being much wetter than the latter).
The island and its surroundings are renowned for their seaside resorts (ideal for Lombok accommodation) and crystal-clear waters, where you can scuba dive, surf and observe extraordinary phenomena such as sea turtle hatchlings! Whether you’re lazing on white sandy beaches, snorkeling among the fish or discovering the island and its inhabitants, one thing’s for sure: Lombok will win you over.
Have you decided to take in the enchanting sunset while sipping a coconut juice cocktail? We’ve got all the tips you need to make the most of your stay!
Mataram
Photo credit: Flickr – Trekking Rinjani
Mataram is the island’s largest city, and the capital of the Lesser Sunda Islands region. Staying in Lombok in one of Mataram’s modern hotels means enjoying all the comforts of the West, just a stone’s throw from sublime, unspoilt panoramas.
From here, you can rent a scooter or car to explore the island, or walk the noisy streets and enjoy a coconut-braised meat skewer before strolling through Sangkareang Park.
But what’s really worth it in Lombok is to go hiking or trekking in the lush forests: organize your excursion to climb the foothills of Mount Rinjani, Lombok’s famous volcano rising to 3,726 m! If you reach the summit, a breathtaking view awaits you: you can see all the surrounding islands! What’s more, the crater contains a lake in the shape of a crescent moon.
Senggigi
Photo credit: Flickr – Lanang Suryo
Located some ten km south of Mataram, Senggigi is the island’s most touristic town: the hotel complex was even built to make Senggigi « the new Bali ».
This seaside resort offers accommodation at all price levels, numerous restaurants and a beach almost 14km long, where you can admire the sunset over Bali’s volcanoes! If you’re looking for accommodation in Lombok, but don’t necessarily want to stay here, Bangsal (just around the corner) is the place to set sail for the sublime Gili Islands, where heavenly beaches and coral reefs await you. And don’t miss out on the famous Manta Point for snorkeling enthusiasts!
Kuta
Photo credit: Flickr – Andrey Samsonov
A well-known surfing village in the south of the island (not to be confused with the town of Kuta on the island of Bali), Kuta is the place to stay in Lombok if you’re a self-respecting backpacker. Although not very lively and mainly populated by peasants, it’s a popular spot for young people in search of nature, who make up the majority of tourists here!
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lombok, you can use the surrounding guesthouses or hotels: you can even find weekly accommodation on rental platforms! Don’t forget to visit the splendid Selong Blanak beach and its legendary fine sand.
Find a hotel in Kuta
Find an Airbnb in Kuta
Map of hotels and accommodation – Lombok,id