Nusa Tenggara Region
Indonesian archipelago region including Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores
Nusa Tenggara is a chain of islands stretching east from Bali through the Indonesian archipelago - a rugged, less-travelled region of volcanoes, dragons and dazzling seas, taking in Lombok, Flores, Komodo and Sumba, with some of the country's most spectacular and untamed scenery.
Nusa Tenggara at a Glance#
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Nusa Tenggara - the “Southeastern Islands” - is a rugged, less-travelled chain stretching east from Bali through the Indonesian archipelago. A region of volcanoes, dragons, savanna and dazzling seas, it takes in Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores, Komodo, Sumba and West Timor - some of Indonesia’s most spectacular and untamed scenery, far from Bali’s crowds.
The islands: - Lombok - Bali’s quieter neighbour: the mighty Rinjani volcano, surf beaches, and the Gili Islands offshore. - Sumbawa - wild and remote, with world-class surf (Lakey Peak) and the great Mount Tambora. - Komodo & Flores - the Komodo dragons and pink beaches, Kelimutu’s tri-coloured crater lakes, and Labuan Bajo as the gateway. - Sumba - raw and traditional, with megalithic culture, wild horses and empty beaches. - West Timor - the off-beat, traditional Indonesian half of the island.
Why go / don’t miss: the Komodo dragons and the diving and pink beaches around Komodo, trekking Mount Rinjani on Lombok, the laid-back Gili Islands, the tri-coloured crater lakes of Kelimutu on Flores, the surf, and the ancient traditional cultures of Sumba and Flores.
Getting around: flights link the main hubs (Lombok, Labuan Bajo, Sumba, Kupang); ferries and liveaboard boats connect the islands; and you’ll rely on local transport (bemos, scooters, hired drivers) on each island - travel is slow, so allow time.
When to go: the dry season Apr - Oct is best (Komodo diving is finest May - Sep); the wet season is greener but rougher for boat travel.
Where to stay: Lombok (Kuta or Senggigi) or the Gili Islands for beaches; Labuan Bajo for Komodo trips; and eco-lodges on Flores and Sumba.
Dining: Indonesian and island fare - grilled fish, ayam taliwang (Lombok’s fiery grilled chicken), sate, and distinctive regional dishes across the islands.
Local tips: it’s far wilder and less developed than Bali - fewer tourists, rougher roads and slower travel - and the islands are big, so pick a couple rather than rushing all of them; Komodo and Flores are the headline draws.
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