Sumba in 3 days: a route for the west
Three days around Tambolaka, Kodi and West Sumba: lagoons, megalithic villages and waterfalls.
With three days, stay in the west and fly in and out of Tambolaka (TMC). Distances look short on the map, but roads are slow, so do not try to cover the whole island.
Day 1: Kodi coast
Morning at Weekuri Lagoon before the crowds, a short stop at Mandorak Beach, then Ratenggaro and Wainyapu in the afternoon. Sunset at Pero.
Day 2: West Sumba
Tarung in Waikabubak in the morning, then the south coast: Waigalli, the Pasola field and an afternoon at Marosi or Rua.
Day 3: waterfalls
Lapopu Waterfall in Matalawa National Park, and if you have energy and a guide, Matayangu. Back to Tambolaka for the flight.
Tips
Hire a car with a driver for all three days. Carry cash and water. Check the weather: in the rainy season some dirt roads become hard.
Guides
Best time to visit Sumba and what the weather is like
Dry season, rainy season and what each means for beaches, waterfalls and roads.
How to get to Sumba and get around the island
Airports, flights from Bali, ferries, distances and why most visitors hire a car with a driver.
Respect and etiquette in Sumba's villages
Marapu, guestbooks, photos and gifts: how to be a welcome visitor.
Sumba in 5 days: west and east
Five days crossing the island from Tambolaka to Waingapu, with the highlights of both sides.
Sumba in 7 days: the complete route
A full week to see Sumba slowly, including the remote south and north coasts.
Surfing in Sumba: where and when
Reef breaks, empty bays and what to know before paddling out in Sumba.
Pasola: Sumba's horseback spear ritual
What the Pasola is, where it happens and how to watch it respectfully.
Sumba ikat: how it is made and how to buy it well
The island's famous hand-woven textiles, and how to support the weavers.
How much does a trip to Sumba cost?
What you will spend on in Sumba and how to plan your budget.
Health and safety in Sumba
Hospitals, insurance, mosquitoes, the sea and the roads: what to know before you go.
Sumba or Bali? An honest comparison
Crowds, flights, healthcare, culture and nature: where each island wins.