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Lombok is an Indonesian island located East of Bali which is famous for its beaches and surfing. It’s possible to enjoy Lombok and see the highlights of the island in a week, but I recommend extending this to a 10 day Lombok itinerary to include the Gili islands which are relaxing car-free islands where you can do amazing snorkelling and diving. There is also a sea-turtle hatchery.
10 Day Lombok Itinerary
Day 1-3: Kuta
Your Lombok itinerary starting destination could vary depending on if you get a boat from another Indonesian island. However, to make this a lot easier, I’ve flown you into Lombok international airport. Most travellers prefer to go straight to the Kuta region as it’s relatively close to the airport. Therefore, not needing a lot of time to travel.
Taxis are waiting at the airport and make the trip to Kuta around half an hour depending on traffic and weather conditions. Prices are always negotiable so get your best haggling hat on!
Something which you’ll enjoy doing is exploring the beaches in and around Kuta. The easiest way to do this is by hiring a motorbike! Start the day by exploring the surfer town and make your way over to Kuta beach. The beach has a lot of vendors on the front selling all kinds of tourist stuff, drinks and snacks. For a bit of wildlife viewing, head to the Eastern end and watch the monkeys come down for sunset.
Leave the beach with plenty of time before the sunset as it will be one you really won’t want to miss! Head on over to the Ashtari Lounge, which will give you absolute brilliant views of the sunset and surrounding areas. It’s worth going to see, and you won’t regret it!
A little side notes: The food at Ashtari is mediocre at best, it’s the gorgeous views that make the restaurant memorable. It’s probably best to eat food elsewhere and come here for a beverage instead.
There are quite a few famous beaches in this region. You can also explore the dream beaches of Mawun, Tanjung Aan and Seong Belanak.
Mawun is a soft white sand beach close by to Kuta. Depending on the time of day, the beach is deserted. The beach is secluded and located west of Kuta in an almost enclosed bay, which you can easily reach with your bike!
I believe I rarely saw such a broad and shallow beach like Selong Belanak somewhere else. You can perfectly surf or swim on this long beach.
I strongly recommend taking a look at the near viewpoint overlooking the beach and the bay. The outlook is located a bit north of Selong Belanak Beach.
Day 4-6: Mt Rinjani
Any pictures of this place will explain to you why you MUST go and see the Mt Rinjani area. If you don’t book a tour through your hotel or hostel, you can have a look at booking a driver either online or through a travel agent. Most tour operators will take you on a four-hour drive with breaks in between. You’ll stop at some genuinely breathtaking waterfalls: Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep.
Personally, as you’re on a tight schedule I wouldn’t spend too much time in the area, not because it isn’t out of this world – it is! But because there are some other cool places in Lombok you need to visit.
The trek will push you in many ways. It can get quite frustrating as you keep being told by your guide “Not that long now” after you’ve found out he’s said this a couple of hours ago. HOWEVER, the treks are genuinely brilliant. You’ll see some spectacular views, see a magnificent sunrise and sunset, and there isn’t much more you could ask for from a trek through Mt. Rinjani.
The trek can be quite tricky because of the weather. Remember to dress appropriately as the weather conditions often change as you get further and further up.
Although on a tight schedule, it is essential to rest well after the trek or you will not have the energy to push on and see the final parts of your Lombok itinerary.
However, if you do get time before setting off to Sengiggi, then try and visit some waterfalls! Lombok got numerous waterfalls, mostly in the northern part of the island. Among others, there would be Tiu Teja, Tiu Kelep or Sendang Gile. In the centre of Lombok, you will find a few decent ones as well, for example, the Bennang Kelambu, Benang Stokel or Jeruk Manis near Tetebatu. There is no fresher water than this! Drink it, swim or just let the ice-cold water hail down your back!
Day 7-10: Sengiggi + Gili Islands
Sengiggi is around two and a half hours drive from the Mt. Rinjani region and will require you getting a taxi. You’ll be more than happy to pay the extra for the comfort and easiness after your long trek.
Sengiggi is excellent for going out at night or eating. One of the most famous surf spots for locals and tourists alike is Senggigi Beach.
At this beach, there are plenty of vendors and market stalls for you to buy tourist things if you’re looking for a souvenir. The vendors are friendly and enjoy talking to travellers about their experiences in Indonesia.
From Sengiggi you can take a boat to three paradise islands – which seem tiny compared to Lombok. However, only 20 minutes away by boat: Gili Trawangan, the main island, Gili Meno and Gili Air.
The Gilis are very popular for scuba diving and snorkelling and have some of the most transparent waters around! Most people head to Gili Trawangan for some partying. The main island is known for being a huge party destination and gives you the chance to party for the first time in Lombok.
In stark contrast to Trawangan, Gili Meno is much quieter and has a relaxed feeling about it. The island is more know for its white-sand beaches and small little bars lining the coast. The island is more for couples to explore and enjoy the chilled vibes. Finally, Gili air is known more for its mixed culture where it mixes party and chilled vibes into one!
The key to visiting the Gilis is really to get your exploring hats on. The Gilis are a different experience to the mainland. Due to their different island cultures, it’s essential to make time for all three as they all offer something different!
You will also find this information helpful on how take the ferry from Lombok to Bali.
If you enjoyed this 10 Day Lombok Itinerary then you might also be interested in reading about the best yoga retreats in Bali and the perfect Ubud Itinerary.