Highlights
- Enjoy floor-to-ceiling views and your own private pool at Hotel Indigo Seminyak
- Discover the history of Balinese Hinduism at a traditional kecak dance performance
- Hike to the crashing cascades and blue pools of Sumba's Lapopu Waterfall
- Ride horses along Sumba's beaches and feel the rush of the surf beneath you
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Seminyak, Free Day to Explore | Seminyak, Bali |
| Day 2 | Seminyak Shopping, Kaum Culinary Journey, Evening Drinks at Bali's Rock Bar | Seminyak, Bali |
| Day 3 | Excursion to Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance Performance | Seminyak, Bali |
| Day 4 | Helicopter to Sumba Island, Panoramic Landscapes of Sumba | Sumba |
| Day 5 | Cultural Tour of Weigali Village, Hike to Lapopu Waterfall | Sumba |
| Day 6 | Day Trip to Konda Beach: Swim, Snorkel & Barbecue Lunch | Sumba |
| Day 7 | Rice Island Trek & Brunch, Swim with the Horses of Sumba | Sumba |
| Day 8 | Pasola Festival Experience | Sumba |
| Day 9 | Sunrise Beach Ride, Healing Spa Safari | Sumba |
| Day 10 | Fly to Bali, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bali, Transfer to Seminyak, Free Day to Explore
Welcome to Indonesia! Your flight lands on Bali, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands and known for its jungle landscapes, ornate temples, and cultural traditions. Your private driver will collect you from the airport and transfer you to Seminyak, a coastal town in southern Bali.
Upon arrival, check in at the incredible Hotel Indigo Seminyak, a 5-star retreat just steps from Bali's beaches. Here, you'll find tasteful, elegant decor, upscale amenities, options for rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and tropical views, or villas with private pools. Take time to relax and regroup, then set out on a self-guided tour.
A popular destination for visitors and locals alike, Seminyak has much to offer. If watersports are your thing, head to the beach and rent surf or paddleboards, kayaks, or snorkel equipment, or just rent a lounger and soak up the sun. There are also yoga studios, cooking workshops, and other activities available. While this beach town isn't necessarily considered a cultural hub, it's home to the ancient Petitenget Temple, a significant landmark with intricate architecture and a carved stairway that takes you to sea views. Tonight, rest up at the hotel for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 2: Seminyak Shopping, Kaum Culinary Journey, Evening Drinks at Bali's Rock Bar
Discover Seminyak's lively shopping scene today, where retail therapy reaches new heights amid chic boutiques, stylish concept stores, and bustling markets. Stroll the busy streets, stopping in at designer shops and quirky art galleries, embracing the laid-back yet sophisticated ambience as you seek memorable souvenirs and keepsakes. From high-end fashion labels to locally crafted artisanal goods, you're sure to find a diverse shopping experience that caters to every taste and preference.
For lunch, take a captivating "Journey Through Indonesia" at Kaum restaurant, a renowned destination for foodies that celebrates the rich tapestry of the country's regional cuisines. This special meal offers authentic dishes, all curated from various provinces and crafted using traditional cooking techniques and locally sourced ingredients.
Later tonight, make your way to the town of Jimbaran and visit their Rock Bar, where you'll find a cliffside entrance and a custom DJ booth carved right into the cliff face. The bar is famous for its breathtaking sunset views, with panoramic vistas of the Indian Ocean. Sit at their Round Bar, listen to live music, and sip handcrafted cocktails in the unique surroundings. Guests are advised to arrive early for a good seat, so show up before sunset if possible!
Day 3: Excursion to Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance Performance
Today's private tour begins at Tanah Lot, a 16th-century temple dramatically perched on a wave-lashed rocky outcrop and one of Bali's most popular tourist destinations. The temple is dedicated to the Balinese sea gods and is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Hindu priest Nirartha. With your expert guide, you'll walk the temple grounds and learn about the history and traditions of Balinese Hinduism. The temple is also surrounded by small shops and restaurants, a great spot to pick up some souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.
From here, continue to the ancient Uluwatu Temple. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, the temple's architecture dates back to the 11th century and showcases the rich history of Balinese Hinduism. Walk around the grounds and learn about the significance of the temple, which is dedicated to Dewa Baruna, the Hindu god of the sea. As you wander, keep an eye out for the population of monkeys that inhabit the area—considered sacred and believed to protect the temple from evil spirits, they're also prone to snatching items from unsuspecting visitors!
End the day at the temple's amphitheater for a memorable kecak dance performance. This traditional Balinese dance and music show features a large group of male performers chanting the rhythmic "cak cak" sounds while dancers reenact scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana, all set against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Day 4: Helicopter to Sumba, Panoramic Landscapes of Sumba
Your next destination is the island of Sumba, located in eastern Indonesia and part of the East Nusa Tenggara province. After breakfast, your driver will meet you and transport you to the airport, where you'll hop onboard a private helicopter for the journey to the island. Soar across the water, taking in endless views of land and sea, then arrive and meet your private transfer to your accommodations at NIHI Sumba. This luxury hotel blends the island's natural wonders with modern style.
The drive takes you across the island, winding through charming villages and communities as you immerse yourself in the authentic Sumbanese culture and hospitality. Traverse rugged terrain and cross rivers, all accompanied by vistas of rolling hills, green forests, and pristine coastlines that paint the backdrop of this island paradise.
Arrive at NIHI and check into your private villa, where you can enjoy views of the ocean and beach, private pools, and open-air terraces that showcase the sights and sounds of the surrounding jungle. Dine at their beachside restaurant this evening, watching the sun drop below the sea as you sip delicious cocktails.
Day 5: Cultural Tour of Weigali Village, Hike to Lapopu Waterfall
Take a deep dive into Sumbanese daily life with a guided visit to Weigali Village, a culturally rich community nestled deep within the island. Meet the villagers, known for their intricate handwoven textiles and vibrant ceremonial traditions that reflect the depth of the island's heritage. Meander through the village and see traditional thatched-roof houses and intricate megalithic tombs, which serve as a testament to the ancient customs and beliefs of the Sumbanese people. Gain insight into their daily routines and rituals, coming away with a profound appreciation for the village's importance and legacy.
Later, see more of Sumba's natural beauty with a visit to Lapopu Waterfall, a multitiered cascade accessed via jungle trails and a bamboo bridge. Your guide will transport you to the trailhead, where you'll make the quick hike through lush tropical landscapes and along the nearby river to the falls. Sitting at a height of nearly 300 feet (90 m), the waterfall flows over step-like rocks and into a gorgeous blue pool. You'll have time to relax here, take some pictures, and cool off in the pool if you like. Return to your hotel in time for dinner and relaxation.
Day 6: Day Trip to Konda Beach: Swim, Snorkel & Barbecue Lunch
The day starts early as you meet your guide and depart from the resort via boat, heading out on the water to explore Sumba's marine life. You'll start with a fishing excursion, visiting those secret spots only locals usually are privy to and trying your hand at fishing for mackerel, wahoo, tuna, and other species. Then, drop anchor off the white sands of Konda Beach, known for its calm, clear waters and peaceful vibe. Unwind, swim, sunbathe, or use the boat's standup paddleboards or snorkeling equipment. End with a barbecue lunch of the fish you (hopefully!) caught earlier!
Day 7: Rice Island Trek & Brunch, Swim with the Horses of Sumba
Explore the serene greenery of Sumba's rice fields with NIHI's "Rice Island Trek and Brunch" experience. Depart with your guides from the resort, trekking through the local rice fields and taking in the panoramas of terraced paddies. Learn about the cultivation process and its importance to the island, finishing with a brunch of locally sourced Sumbanese delicacies skillfully prepared to tantalize your taste buds.
Return to the resort in time for another exciting adventure: swimming with the horses of Sumba! With your guides and equestrian experts, meet the resort's resident horses, who roam free along the beach, and mount up for a ride across the sand and into the ocean waters. Find yourself bonding with these magnificent creatures as you ride through crystal-clear waters and feel the exhilarating rush of the surf beneath you. Your guides will stay with you, ensuring safety and caution, making this a perfect excursion for all skill levels.
Day 8: Pasola Festival Experience
Visit Pasola Field today, home to Sumba's thrilling Pasola Festival. This traditional jousting event involves horseback riders engaging in a symbolic battle, hurling spears to commemorate the arrival of the planting season. Become part of the cultural fervor as you cheer on your favorites, embracing the yells and chants of the onlookers that echo through the fields. Watch the powerful horses race up and down, creating an incredible spectacle encapsulating the island's history and traditions.
Day 9: Sunrise Beach Ride, Healing Spa Safari
Make the most of your last day in Indonesia with a sunrise beach ride, departing early in the morning to catch the sun's first rays. With your expert equestrian guides, you'll take a leisurely horseback ride along the beach, relishing the tranquil beauty of the dawn and serene coastal vistas. Embrace the island's natural beauty and feel a sense of unity between yourself, your steed, and the crashing sea.
Keep that serenity going this afternoon with NIHI's spa safari. This one-of-a-kind excursion offers guided treks through the surrounding forests or meditative oceanside yoga sessions, culminating with an outdoor spa session of Sumbanese healing techniques. Relax under the touch of expert therapists, all set against the soothing sounds of the waves, breezes, and tropical birdsong. Tonight, enjoy your final evening at the resort, indulging in a delicious dinner or taking advantage of other on-site amenities.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 10: Fly to Bali, Depart
Sadly, your Indonesia adventure ends today. At the appointed time, you'll transfer to the airport to catch a flight back to Bali and connect with your journey home. Safe travels!
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