After several trips and exploring almost every inch of this beautiful island, here is my recommended travel itinerary for spending 7 days on Lombok.
If you’re visiting Bali or the Gili Islands, don’t miss the chance to explore Lombok. Once a hidden gem, this incredible volcanic island is now on the rise for its breathtaking surf beaches, untouched jungle waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Mount Rinjani.
But the truth is, there is so much more to do and see in Lombok. From exploring secluded coves & hidden jungle hiking trails, and immersing yourself in the warm and accommodating Sasak culture, this itinerary will ensure you see the real Lombok– even if you only have a week to visit.
How to Get to Lombok & Where to Start Your Itinerary
There are three main options for getting to Lombok.
- Take a boat from Bali to Lembar or Bangsal
- Take a boat from the Gili Islands to Bangsal
- Fly into Lombok International Ariport (Bandar Udara Internasional Lombok)
For the purpose of this travel itinerary, I recommend starting the journey at Bangsal near Senggigi. This is currently more convenient as you can first visit Bali or the Gili Islands via a multitude of convenient transfer options.
Tip: If you are flying to Lombok Airport, or if you are stopping by on a cruise in Lembar, then you could also start your Lombok travel plan by following on from Day 2 below.
Day 1: Senggigi Beaches
The volcanic coastline of Senggigi was once the tourist hub of Lombok, the title which has now been given to Kuta Lombok. This region is known for its palm-tree-lined shores, laid-back atmosphere, beginner surf breaks, and lively restaurant and bar scene.
Since most most travelers will be arriving in Lombok via Bangsal, I recommend taking a taxi or arranging a local driver to take you to your accommodation in Senggigi (around a 30-minute drive).
Once you check in, get strapped because there's plenty to do and explore nearby. Here are some great Senggigi itinerary ideas to fill your day.
- Rent a motorbike and explore Senggigi's Beaches and stop at the Ghost Villa viewpoint
- Book a tour or ride to Lombok's Monkey Forest
- Explore the palm forests at Pantai Kerandangan
- Go surfing at Senggigi Beach, Mangsit Beach, or Batu Bolong Beach
- Finish the day with a sunset at Malimbu Hill
Tip for surfers: The breaks on the southern coast are much more reliable but Senggigi can be good for surfing when conditions are right.
Day 2: Kuta & South Lombok Beaches
Located approximately 1.5 hours from Senggigi is the main tourist hub known as Kuta Lombok. This is far removed from the chaotic streets of Kuta in Bali, and is more of a laid-back surf town but still sports plenty of bars, local warungs, and international restaurants.
The best way to get to Kuta from Senggigi is to pay a private driver. I recommend contacting Feel Lombok for the best rates. Alternatively, most of this itinerary (and more) is included on the epic Lombok Loop trip– a must-do!
Once in Kuta, there's plenty to explore. Here are my travel itinerary recommendations for your second day in Lombok.
- Rent a motorbike and explore the south coast beaches. I especially recommend Selong Balanak and
- Day trip to Lombok's Pink Beach. This is a long drive but it's possible to book a snorkeling trip to the beach instead.
- Get off the beaten path and explore Mawun Beach and the Semeti Hills.
- Stop by the Mandalika MotoGP Track
- Or turn it into a day trip and explore the Ekas Peninsula.
- Explore the Kuta Lombok Bat Cave
- Finish with a sunset at Merese Hills before hitting the bars or restaurants in the village.
Day 3: Tetebatu Waterfalls & Rice Terraces
Tetebatu (Tete Batu) is Lombok's answer to Ubud, well, at least what Ubud used to be like a decade ago. This quiet village just 1.5 hours from Kuta Lombok is surrounded by lush, green rice terraces and tropical jungle. This is one of the most peaceful places you'll find in Indonesia– and I'm sure you'll want to stay more than one day.
Once you arrive, here's what I recommend doing on your 3rd day of exploring this Lombok travel itinerary.
- Take a rice terrace walking tour to explore the most picturesque locations & spot rare monkeys
- Visit the Tetebatu waterfall
- Relax at a cafe, tree house, or rice terrace bungalow
- Day tripping to Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu waterfalls
Alternative: Explore the Sekotong Peninsula
On day three, if you'd prefer more beaches, islands and snorkeling to rice terraces and waterfalls, then I highly recommend exploring the Sekotong Peninsula. This is a scenic and remote part of Lombok within 1.5 hours from Kuta.
There's plenty to do in Sekotong, but here are my recommendations.
- Explore and snorkel at the Secret Gili Islands including Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis, and Gili Sudak
- Spend the night on a tiny sandbar island by camping on Gili Kedis
- Rent a motorbike and explore Sekotong's beaches and hidden gems like Orong Bukal
- Go scuba diving at Gili Asahan, Gili Layar, and the Japanese Wreck (Gili Tangkong)
Book: Secret Gilis Snorkeling Day Trip
Day 4: Sembalun Mountain Village
After relaxing in Tetebatu, it's time to head into the mountains, following a very scenic 1.5 to 2-hour journey through the winding mountain roads to Sembalun. Arriving at this high-altitude village (1,976 m) feels like you've just entered a different country and enjoys a much cooler climate.
Sembalun is one of the main hubs for climbing Mount Rinjani. However, I recommend instead exploring this area and if you're up for it, climbing Rinjani or the crater from Senaru the following day.
Instead, here's what you can do in Sembalun
- Pick strawberries in one of the colorful fields (seasonal between April & October)
- Hike to Pergasingan Hill for amazing views of Mount Rinjani
- Try the traditional Sasak mixture of organic garlic & honey for health, vitality, and apparently, "strength" in the bedroom.
- Climb up the Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint and check out the traditional Sasak houses nearby.
- Get up early for sunrise the next day for your chance at clear-sky views of Mount Rinjani from your hotel or guesthouse.
Tip: If you want to explore everything on this itinerary so far and more, make sure to check out the Lombok Loop– Indonesia's answer to the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam.
Day 5: Senaru & Rinjani
After a day and chilly evening exploring the mountain regions of Lombok, this itinerary continues to Senaru for perhaps the biggest adventure so far! Senaru is another mountain village perched on the slopes of Rinjani and is the best place to begin your trek to the summit if you're up for the adventure.
Its steep slopes and rugged jungle terrain also mean that it's home to some of Lombok's best waterfalls!
Here are the activities and attractions I recommend when visiting Senaru.
- Hiking to Tiu Kelep & Sendang Gili Waterfalls
- Visit the Kebun kopi dan coklat coffee & chocolate garden for a unique view of Tiu Kelep Falls
- Begin climbing Mount Rinjani's crater rim or summit (2 or 3 days).
- Visit or stay at the Rinjani Lodge– amazing views, great food, and an infinity pool
Tip: If you are climbing, I highly recommend booking this in advance, and then planning your transport with your trekking company (usually included from Sembalun).
Day 6: Mount Rinjani Summit Or Crater Rim
Mount Rinjani is the crown jewel of Lombok and a must-do if you love adventure. Whether you're aiming for the summit or the crater rim, this trek will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your trip and I highly recommend it!
If you are not climbing, you can skip day 6 of this itinerary and continue below from day 7, spending an extra day in Senggigi or visiting the Gili Islands if you haven't already via Bangsal Harbour.
Option 1: Summit Climb
If you're up for the challenge, the two-day (or three-day) trek to the summit is an unforgettable adventure.
- Starting Early: Most treks begin early at around 9 am the day prior (day 5) from Senaru and camp at the crater rim that evening.
- Summit Push: Most summit missions start at around 2 am from the base camp at Sembalun Crater Rim the following morning to get to the summit by sunrise.
- Summit Experience: Reaching the summit at 3,726 meters, you'll be awarded by panoramic views of Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Bali. The sunrise from the top is truly breathtaking and by far the best experience you can have in Lombok.
- Descent: After soaking in the views, you'll begin your descent back to the base camp for a well-deserved breakfast before heading back to Senaru.
Tip: If you want to climb Rinjani, I recommend contacting my partner team Feel Lombok on WhatsApp on this number: +62 815-2923-1971
Option 2: Crater Rim Trek
If you prefer a less strenuous but still challenging hike, the two-day trek to the crater rim offers amazing views without the push to the summit.
- Day 1: Start your hike from Senaru, passing through dense tropical forests and reach the Senaru Crater Rim by late afternoon, where you can set up camp and enjoy the sunset over the crater lake.
- Day 2: Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the crater, then start your descent back to Senaru by the afternoon.
Book: Rinjani Crater Rim Trek
Day 7: Senggigi
After an exhilarating and diverse travel plan exploring the absolute best of Lombok, you'll arrive back in Senggigi. Getting here from Senaru is easy and affordable, with many drivers and taxis making this route regularly.
Similarly to the Lombok Loop trip, Senggigi is the starting point and the end point of this travel itinerary. This is beneficial since you have the option of continuing to the Gili Islands, taking a boat back to Bali, or booking the epic Lombok to Komodo boat trip from here.
On your last day, I recommend taking it easy, spending some time at the beach, and reflecting on the epic trip so far! However, if you're still up for more adventure, rent a bike and head out to explore more of the epic Lombok waterfalls. Two of my favorites are Tiu Teja and if you're up for one truly epic mission, then you can try to find Lombok's tallest waterfall, Tiu Sekeper.
Where to Stay in Senggigi
Senggigi offers some of Lombok's best accommodations, catering to a wide range of budgets. Below are my current top recommendations.
1. Katamaran Hotel & Resort Luxury
The Katamaran Hotel & Resort ticks all the boxes for a luxury resort, boasting a swimming pool, wellness center, and on-site restaurant you won't ever want to leave.
2. Cozy Cottages Lombok Budget
A villa-style cottage accommodation located 600 m from Mangsit Beach and has an on-site restaurant. The outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by luscious gardens that provide a tranquil experience.
3. Sheraton Senggigi Luxury
Sheraton Senggigi is a luxury pick offering poolside bars, on-site restaurants serving international cuisine and buffet breakfast, tennis courts, multiple swimming pools, and spa treatments.
Next: Continue to Sumbawa or Flores (Komodo Islands)
While I've included many of the islands' most epic attractions in this travel itinerary, the truth is that one week in Lombok will leave you wanting more! There are so many hidden gems to explore and after spending months on the island, there's still so much I want to see and do!
If your Indonesian island-hopping journey is continuing, I highly recommend visiting Lombok's neighbors, Sumbawa and Flores (the Komodo Islands).
One of the best ways to explore this island is to jump on board the famous 4-day 3-night boat trip from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, stopping by the Rinca & Komodo Islands on the way.
I hope you enjoyed my travel guide. If you have any suggestions or questions, let me know in the comments. Otherwise, start planning out your accommodation with the guide linked below.
Read: Where to Stay in Lombok
