The Orange Lotus in Sumba
Below you will find the many possibilities for holidays to Sumba. Every journey is tailor‑made with meticulous attention to detail, and each of the options below can be adapted entirely to your wishes.
NIHI Sumba
As a 5‑Star Ultimate Luxury resort, NIHI Sumba has been crowned ‘Best Hotel in the World’ no fewer than twice. A stay at NIHI Sumba promises an unforgettable experience.
Cap Karoso
Opened in 2022, Cap Karoso offers exceptional luxury on Sumba’s breathtaking and secluded west coast. Its design achieves a perfect balance between indoor and outdoor living, blending modern elements with local culture. Cap Karoso is a superb place to unwind and to discover the splendour of Sumba.
ALAMAYAH
Alamayah Boutique Retreat Hotel, opened in 2020, offers a serene haven to unwind and embrace the natural beauty and pristine beaches of Sumba. Its six distinctive suites gaze out across the ocean and jungle. Alongside the swimming pool and restaurant, guests may enjoy a dedicated spa and fitness facilities.
The Sanubari
Encircled by a two‑kilometre stretch of white sand, crystal‑clear waters and lush landscapes, The Sanubari is a jewel that fuses luxury with unspoilt natural beauty. With nine stylish villas, many featuring private pools, and its secluded setting, The Sanubari is the perfect place for an unforgettable experience.
Sumba
The highlights of Sumba are found mainly on the western side of the island. West Sumba enchants with sweeping savannahs, traditional villages crowned with towering thatched roofs and deserted beaches where the waves break undisturbed. Around Tambolaka and the west coast, you will discover iconic places such as Weekuri Lagoon, the cliffs of Mandorak and the golden beaches of Kodi and the southern shoreline. A rugged and authentic island where nature, culture and silence meet in their purest form.
Driving Times & Distances
Tambolaka Airport - Cap Karoso 29 miles / 1 hour
Tambolaka Airport - NIHI Sumba 39 miles / 1 hour 40 minutes
NIHI Sumba - Ratenggaro 46 milers / 2 hours 15 minutes
NIHI Sumba - Lapopu Waterfalls 30 miles / 1 hour 20 minutes
Cap Karoso - Ratenggaro 11 miles / 35 minutes
Indonesia’s Best‑Kept Secret
The still largely undiscovered island of Sumba lies not far from Bali, yet it feels like a world of its own. Focus Magazine has already named it “the most beautiful island in the world” — and it may well be true. Unlike many Indonesian islands, Sumba is not volcanic, offering instead strikingly beautiful landscapes and a culture found nowhere else.
Nature: nature lovers will find tropical rainforests, rolling green savannahs, stunning waterfalls with crystal‑clear water and, of course, countless palm‑fringed white‑sand beaches of breathtaking beauty.
Culture & Adventure: culturally, Sumba is shaped by the fascinating Marapu belief system, centred on ancestral worship. In traditional villages, you will encounter the iconic adat houses with their towering thatched roofs, each of deep cultural significance. In February and March, the annual Pasola ceremonies take place, where horsemen reenact ancient tribal battles.
As inspiration, we have created several suggested programmes, including visits to the long white sands of Marosi Beach and the lively traditional village of Ratenggaro, where friendly locals proudly introduce you to their crafts — ikat textiles, woodcarvings and beautiful woven bags made from dried pandan leaves. The Lapopu Waterfall is more than worth the rewarding hike, and for unforgettable sunsets there are countless viewpoints, such as the Lendongara hills.
For both beginners and experienced surfers, unspoilt Sumba is a true paradise, and its underwater world is equally spectacular for divers.
Hotels: while Sumba does not have a large number of accommodations, the award‑winning NIHI Sumba — named “best hotel in the world” — is spectacularly located on the south coast. Other properties, such as Cap Karoso, The Sanubari and Alamayah, offer exceptional quality.
Accessibility: Sumba lies about one and a half hours’ flight from Bali, served by smaller aircraft. It is also possible to reach the island by chartered helicopter; NIHI Sumba has its own helipad.
Sumba is a wonderful island for complete relaxation and is best explored from its collection of small‑scale luxury hotels. A stay here will undoubtedly become a memory for life.
The weather in Sumba
Sumba enjoys a warm, tropical climate with clear dry and wet seasons. From May to October, days are sunny and comfortably warm, while the rainy season from November to April brings brief, powerful showers.
What our guests say
We had an unforgettable journey through Java, Bali and Moyo Island. Joey impressed us with her wonderful proposals, each perfectly aligned with the wishes of our entire family. Throughout the trip she was always there for us — even securing a table at a restaurant that had been fully booked for months. Thank you, The Orange Lotus. We will certainly return.
Fam. Bruggenwirth • Journey to Indonesia
Thank you for an unforgettable journey through Thailand and for your flawless organisation. The excursions in Bangkok and Chiang Mai were truly unique experiences, and our hotel preferences were met perfectly. And the fact that you even surprised us by arranging our favourite wine on board during our private yacht excursion in Koh Samui says everything about your eye for detail and perfection. Wonderful in every way — we look forward to travelling with you again.
Mr. and Mrs. Masselink • Journey to Thailand
A big compliment to Rosa and the entire team at The Orange Lotus. Together with our friends, we enjoyed a truly wonderful journey through Thailand. The beautiful hotels, excellent private transfers and exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly local guides made the trip unforgettable — and the excursions were genuinely special. We have never encountered a travel designer with as much expertise as Rosa; an absolute breath of fresh air.
Mr. and Mrs. Kayser • Journey to Thailand
Our heartfelt thanks to the entire team at The Orange Lotus — our wedding anniversary could not have been celebrated more beautifully. Every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, ensuring an unforgettable journey for grandparents, children and grandchildren alike. Even the wishes we shared during the trip were fulfilled seamlessly. Truly exceptional.
Fam. Rutjes • Private Yacht Cruise Komodo en Sumba
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