Lombok is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Located just a short trip from Bali, this island offers a completely different vibe. It’s calmer, more authentic, and still feels like it has so many secrets waiting to be discovered. When I planned my visit, I knew I wanted more than just a quick stopover—I wanted to really dive into what makes this island special.
From the moment I landed, Lombok greeted me with a warmth that was both in its people and its landscapes. The towering Mount Rinjani in the distance, the golden beaches that seemed endless, and the traditional villages tucked into the hills all created a mix that felt both adventurous and soothing.
First Glimpses of the Island
On my first day, I stayed in Senggigi. It’s often the starting point for many travelers, and I understood why. The beach stretched out in front of me, lined with cafés and small restaurants where locals and tourists mingled easily. The sound of waves mixed with laughter created a sense of welcome.
Later in the day, I visited a Sasak village, where time seemed to slow down. Watching women weave traditional cloth while children played nearby gave me a glimpse into the heartbeat of the island. It wasn’t staged; it felt genuine. That authenticity is something I noticed again and again during my time here.
Days Out to the Gili Islands
Of course, no journey to Lombok is complete without heading out to the Gili Islands. Each one had its own charm:
- Gili Trawangan was buzzing with energy. Beach bars, dive centers, and sunset spots made it lively and fun.
- Gili Air offered balance—a place where you could snorkel in the morning and sip a cocktail in peace later in the evening.
- Gili Meno was pure tranquility, where the loudest sound was the ocean and the occasional bird call.
What made it even more unique was the lack of motor vehicles. Only bicycles and horse carts carried people around, and that added to the feeling of being somewhere truly different.
North Lombok and the Mountains
The next part of my journey took me north. Driving through rice fields and green hills, I found myself on the way to Mount Rinjani. Even though I didn’t climb the mountain, just being near it was awe-inspiring. The air was cooler, the landscapes greener, and the sense of adventure more alive.
The waterfalls—Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep—were highlights. The trek to reach them felt like walking into another world. Dense forest, birds calling, and finally, the roar of water crashing down. Standing under the spray was refreshing, almost like the island itself was giving me a reset.
Southern Beaches and Open Horizons
South Lombok was all about beaches. But not just any beaches—these were some of the most stunning I’ve ever seen.
- Kuta Lombok had long stretches of white sand and a laid-back surf town vibe.
- Tanjung Aan looked like two beaches in one, separated by a rocky hill that gave a perfect panoramic view.
- Selong Belanak was the kind of place where you could watch beginner surfers catching waves while water buffalo wandered nearby.
Each beach felt unique, but they all shared the same untouched beauty. Unlike other destinations, these spots still felt raw, as if nature was showing off without any filter.
Why a Local Driver Makes It Easier
Something I didn’t fully appreciate until I was there was just how spread out everything in Lombok is. Attractions aren’t always close together, and some of the best places are hidden behind winding roads and small paths.
That’s where having a local driver made all the difference. It wasn’t just about convenience—it was about connection. My driver knew when to avoid busy spots, where to find the tastiest local food, and even small detours that turned into some of my favorite memories.
During the ride, he would share stories about the island, its traditions, and even his own childhood. It made the trip more personal, more human. And honestly, without that guidance, I probably would have missed so much.
When you’re planning a Lombok tour, having that kind of support is priceless. It turns a simple holiday into something meaningful, something you’ll carry with you long after you return home.
Reflections from the Road
Looking back on my days in Lombok, what stands out isn’t just the scenery—it’s the feeling. The island gave me moments of peace on quiet beaches, adrenaline under waterfalls, and laughter with locals who treated me like family.
Travel isn’t only about seeing places. It’s about how those places make you feel, and Lombok made me feel alive, grounded, and curious all at once. It’s a place where every sunrise feels like an invitation, and every sunset feels like a gift.