Written by Beverley Lennon
Tired of Bali? Think that Bali is overly commercialised? Time to start thinking about Bali’s sister, Lombok!
Bali might have all the qualities you dream of when you picture the perfect tropical island – adventurous mountain hikes and waterfalls, white-sand beaches and spectacular views.
But besides these, Lombok is made that bit more special with its extraordinary location featuring more untouched crystal clear waters for the best snorkelling sessions and amazing sunset spots!
Keen to see and be where others have not? Check out Lombok’s must-dos and unique places in just 5 days 4 nights, we have planned it all in this itinerary!
Read more:
5D4N Best of Lombok and Gili Trawangan itinerary for beaches, fun adventure and spectacular views!
5D4N Best of Lombok and Gili Air itinerary for beaches, fun adventure and spectacular views!
The first-timer’s guide to Lombok: Best of things to do, attractions, beaches, islands and hotels!
Overview
From South to North, passing by the Gili Islands, this must-do itinerary lets you discover the best beaches, sightseeing spots, snorkeling locations and spectacular waterfalls for the most memorable views!
At the end of the trip, you will also be able to unwind with a massage and purchase unique souvenirs from an ultimate shopping session!
Here’s a quick overview of this must-do Lombok itinerary
Tap sections below to scroll to the relevant section
Getting to Lombok
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Getting around
Total Cost Breakdown
Getting to Lombok
From SingaporeFrom Malaysia (tap here to view)From Australia (tap here to view)
Direct flight (total cost from SGD 324)
Take Silk Air or Singapore Airlines from Singapore Changi Airport to Lombok International Airport. (Flight time: ~2h 45min)
Direct flight (total cost from RM 272)
Take AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Lombok International Airport. (Flight time: ~3h 10min)
Flight from Perth (total cost from 427 AUD)
From Perth:
1. Take Jetstar from Perth to Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali). (Flight time: ~3h 40min)
2. Take AirAsia, LionAir or Garuda Indonesia from Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali) to Lombok International Airport. (Flight time: ~40min)
Itinerary
Day 1
A relaxed welcoming in the South – the Lombok way!
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Lombok. We have landed at Lombok International Airport and you may now switch on your electric devices to peek at TripCanvas’ 5D4N Lombok itinerary!
Please make sure your seat belt is unfastened and get ready to change to your swimsuit. Thank you 😉
To immerse in the Lombok way of life, you will enjoy your first day with ultimate relaxation by the beach, before venturing to mesmerising sightseeing spots. While sunset time atop the hills will be remarkably spectacular, your dining spots will also leave you in awe!
Lunch with the best views at Horizon Restaurant and Lounge (1-2 hours)
Sit on their tranquil open terrace and soak up a vista of Lombok’s coast and greenery! They guarantee good food and good views!
Photo Via helo.lombok
Website
Explore a mystical shaped rock and relax by the beach at Pantai Aan (Batu Payung) (1-2 hours)
Mother nature is full of surprises, and Lombok is chock full of the beautiful, unique and bizarre!
Besides being a beach where you can relax at, Pantai Aan has a special geological feature – it is home to a mysterious and massive rock formation, Batu Payung, that will get all of you curious!
Most travellers visit to capture pictures of this iconic rock formation, which is believed to be the result of waves forces crashing against former cliffs.
Photo Via Hans.tanwjy
Become a wild sunset hunter at Merese Hills (1 hour)
In Lombok, spectacular sunset views are not restricted to the beach only – they can be enjoyed elsewhere, like on top of a hill!
Walking up the hills takes only 10 minutes and while it is not tough enough to drain you, the view on the other side is bound to leave you speechless! Sunsets at Merese Hills are so memorable – the sky takes on shades of orange and the drifting clouds start blushing to the warmth of the sun…
Sit back and unwind with a cold beer in hand – a first day in Lombok you’ll remember forever!
Photo Via Anomwindi, Dhanoeadjie, Kameraudaralombok
Overlooking the sea with toes in the sand: Laut Biru Bar and Restaurant (1-2 hours)
The Lombok good life doesn’t get better than this beachfront restaurant located by the shores of Kuta beach. Think of it as a low-key respite from the see-and-be-seen, chic restaurant and bar scene, where you can enjoy your rosé and Indonesian-inspired cocktails (wild!)
Dine al fresco under starry skies. Begin or end the evening with a glass of wine to match in the scene perfectly. The restaurant’s favourites include their seafood-centric dishes and it is no surprise as Lau Biru features a “sea-to-table” concept!
Photo Via Randi_ang
Website
Day 1 : Route
Day 2
Off to the Gilis for unlimited fun!
Whether you crave culture, adventure, or simply kicking back on a beach with a cold cocktail, at least one of the Gili islands is sure to be an ideal destination. Get ready to have your head under water!
After breakfast at hotel, head to Teluk Nara and catch your speedboat to the Gilis (2 hours)
There are two ways for you to get to the Gilis. You may choose to take a public boat from Bangsal Harbour (2 hours, $0.60) or simply privately charter a boat via online booking to depart from Teluk Nara (10 minutes to Gili T; 5 minutes to Gili Air and Gili Meno).
For private boat charter from Teluk Nara, we recommend Lombok Network. Please book your boat ticket prior to your departure date. Some hotels on Gili Trawangan provide private boat transfers from Lombok too, so you might want to check with them.
Tip: We highly discourage taking the public boat if you have limited time and are carrying luggages.These humble public boats are packed to the rafters with people and island supplies, leaving you shoulder-to-shoulder with the crowds.
Do note that there are no public boats departing from Teluk Nara (which is only for private charters), you can only take them from Bangsal Harbour.
Day 2 Transfer: Route
The honeymoon island – Gili Meno
Click here if you prefer to go to GIli Trawangan
Click here if you prefer to go to Gili Air
Drop your bags and check in at your hotel (1 hour)
Oh no, you don’t want to carry those around as Gili Meno has no cars, no motorbikes and … no worries 🙂
Indulge in a delicious brunch by the water at Karma Beach Gili Meno (2 hours)
Holidays on an island are never complete without a seafood feast!
Karma Beach Gili Meno takes pride in serving only fresh fish and seafood from starters to mains. If you are in Gili Meno on a Saturday, you might want to drop by here at night as they have a Saturday BBQ Special Night.
Seafood pasta and pizza are favorites, but what can possibly go wrong when you are seated by the clearest waters?
Photo Via J.os_
Website
More than just beaches, visit Gili Meno’s Saltwater Lake (1 hour)
Take a stroll or a cycle leisurely to Gili Meno’s Saltwater lake. You will be in awe to see the beauty of this body of water landlocked with lush greenery. It is one of the most unique additions to the island’s collection of gorgeous white-sand beaches.
The location is tranquil and serene, bordered by mangrove shoots and home to monitor lizards! Welcome to the tropics indeed!
Photo Via Bali_trip99
Swim and snorkel among underwater sculptures at “Nest” (2-3 hours/ until you got that perfect underwater shot!)
We dare you; simply search for #GiliMeno on Instagram and you will see what is the hype all about on this island (or shall we say, underneath its waters).
Brought to you by Jason deCaires Taylor, a well-known underwater sculptor, the Nest at Gili Meno is a collection of underwater sculptures that attract divers, swimmers and snorkellers – needless to say how photo-worthy the location is! You can judge by yourself from the pictures but you need to see it from your own eyes too!
Photo Via Aws80, Baskgilimeno
Celebrate sunset time with great happy hour specials at Diana Cafe (1-2 hours)
Nothing feels better than meeting your friends to unwind over a few drinks — except when you can snag a great deal, like happy hour specials at Diana Cafe on the west coast of Gili Meno!
There, you will find cheap cocktails and affordable snacks perfect for a fun night with friends but ultimately romantic for a date night too!
Finally one that has it all – good views, cheap and delightful tipples and snacks and great ambience!
Photo Via Lorenarengell
Treat yourself a beachfront fine dining experience at Mahamaya Restaurant (2 hours)
Stroll along a beach walk, with the ocean glistening in the distance and chance upon this al fresco beach dining restaurant.
Far from what you will get at typical beach shacks, the experience at Mahamaya Restaurant will leave you in awe with top-notch service, setting, ambience and a great menu while you slip your feet in the sand below your table!
Should you tire of gazing across idyllic tropical seas, the restaurant invites you to watch their Executive Chef Hamzar create mouth-wateringly irresistible dishes in his open kitchen from your table!
Photo Via Emmanuelle.gilbert
Day 2 Option 3: Route
Day 3
Adventure your way through North Lombok for majestic waterfalls!
After catching sunsets on the Gilis, time to chase waterfalls!
After breakfast at your hotel, be on time for your boat back to Lombok from the Gilis (5-10 minutes)
You don’t want to miss your boat ride because there is so much excitement waiting for you in Lombok! We recommend catching the first boat back and packing your own lunch as it’s going to be a long day ahead!
Go on a 10-minute walk for endless magical views at Bukit Selong (1 hour)
Today, catch amazing views of the surrounding mountains and vast rice fields from Bukit Selong. There are also various farm fields below you and they’ll turn your pictures bright and colourful.
There are two viewpoints at the hill – one higher than the other but both giving equally stunning vistas. Best yet; you can relish on such views only by walking up to the viewpoint within a short 10-minute!
Photo Via aryawiznu
Venture your way to a lesser-known path at Mangku Sakti Waterfall (2 hours) (optional)
On the slopes of Mount Rinjani sits a beautiful waterfall, ideal for a dip and unlimited fun! Getting there involves going along windy roads, but like the light at the end of the tunnel, it is oh-so worth it!
The water is clean, pure and unpolluted, which makes it the perfect spot to slip in a majestic swoosh and refresh yourself!
P.S. Trekking to the waterfall takes around 1 hour, so if you are too tired from the previous hike, you might want to skip this!
Photo Via Hakimsunjoyo
Indulge in local delicacies at Rifka Cafe (Local’s recommendation) (1-2 hours)
You know those small eateries only locals know about?
The ones that hide the most authentic flavours and tastes, along with traditional ambience and ultimate Indonesian hospitality; this is exactly what Cafe Rifka is about! (And guess what, food here costs not more than USD $3!)
Photo Via Ward-N, Travelcookeri, Zanurain
Website Day 3: Route
Day 4
Indulge in everything local from cuisine to traditional massage!
Live it up the local way on your last full day!
After breakfast, snorkel and swim at strikingly beautiful deserted islands of Gili Kedis and Gili Nanggu (3-4 hours)
There’s more than just the three Gilis!
A boat trip to any Indonesian Island is likely to be a pleasure, but Gili Kedis and Gili Nanggu – with their brilliant navy blue seas to the lightest, clearest turquoises imaginable – offer iconic landscapes, making them ideal for spending the day relaxing in the sun.
Needless to say, they are the best places to snorkel in. But the real steal is this – the giant starfishes in the shallow waters around the two deserted islands!
Tip 1: To make the most of this day in Lombok, rise early. We recommend starting the day at 6am and set off at 7am to catch your boat to Gili Kedis and Nanggu, so that you can catch your late lunch back at Lombok main island at around 1.30pm!
Tip 2: We highly advise you to book your boat transfer a few days prior to your tour to ensure boat availability!
Photo Via Cjworldofwonder, Tustelbayan
Book your boat transport
Lunch like a local at Sasak Warung (1-2 hours)
One of the best parts of your vacation in Lombok will be to experience local culture and traditions, and you can do so just by dining at this authentic warung (casual dining) that offers all the flavours of traditional Sasak cuisine.
We recommend their Ayam Taliwang and Spicy Tempe – a mixture of sweet and spicy that will surely not disappoint!
Photo Via Murielleki
Post-lunch snooze and chill at Senggigi Beach (1 hour)
A good swim, a great meal and lots of fun simply call for nap time by the beach, to the sounds of waves and a gentle caress from the ocean breeze.
You will find it oddly soothing to enjoy a post-lunch snooze and chill at Senggigi Beach in the afternoon (under a comfortable shade, of course!), yet few steps away from the hustle and bustle of this touristy area!
Photo Via Adycandraa
Unwind with an indulging massage with ocean views at Soul Bliss Spa (1 hour)
Slotting a massage at the spa in your holiday itinerary is already a wonderfully indulgent experience, but spending that time in a room like the ones at Soul Bliss Spa, with a great view over the ocean takes it to another level.
While most people (including you) keep their eyes firmly shut (or even doze off) while getting a massage or a facial, a treatment at Soul Bliss Spa is sure to keep you awake as it offers panoramic views of the great outdoors!
Photo Via Katamaranresort, V
WebsiteTipples and magical golden hour dinner at SENJA Lounge & Dine (stay till they close!)
Your last night in Lombok deserves to be a memorable one!
With lounge music, a vast menu and daily sunsets, SENJA Lounge & Dine is the perfect spot to start planning your next visit to Lombok! Your candlelight dinner is served right on the beach.
The highlight? Ocean views, great food and tickling cocktails! It is going to be a long night!
P.S. There is a Buy 1 Free 1 Special Offer every evening from 6pm to 8pm AND 50% off from 9.30pm to 10.30pm
Photo Via calliewijaya, venessamelita_
Website
Day 4 : Route
Day 5
Souvenir shopping before leaving!
Beachfront brunch at la Chill Bar (1 hour)
After a long night of chilling and drinking and a well-deserved rest, time to get rid of that hangover! Your last brunch in Lombok has to be a memorable one!
Located on the beachfront, this super chill spot has more that just its name – sit back and relax in one of their colourful bean bags while you dig into smoothie bowls, baguette and small bites to share accompanied by healthy detox drinks and a side of sea views – Bon Appetit!
Photo Via Dennis.0401, Lenykusuma, Alika.nayla_.p
WebsiteShop for gifts and souvenirs at Pasar Seni (Senggigi Market) (1-2 hours)
Senggigi Market (or otherwise locally known as Pasar Seni) is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Shop at for gifts and souvenirs at its myriad stalls! While it’s possible to bargain, we recommend heading there before peak time (afternoon). From the traditional to the downright tacky, you can find anything at Pasar Seni, usually at incredibly low prices.
The market sells a huge array of items such as unique local handicrafts, local sasak spices as well as clothes and everyday items! You can find good bargains for seawater pearls around the market too!
Photo Via Chenweiren
Use your last Rupiah at Asmara Collection (40 minutes)
Some notes left in the purse? Before departing to the airport, head to Asmara Collection. While it’s known for its restaurant, the backyard hides a secret art collection that’s for sale and worth every penny!
Expect quality items at super affordable prices! From sculptures, wall decorations, clothes, bags to photo frames and other local art objects, you are bound to empty your purse there!
Tip: Free transport is offered to nearby hotels if you require it.
Wipe your tears, and book your next trip on your way to the airport
We feel you; post-vacation blues emerge as soon as you are on the way home!
All you have to do is plan another memorable trip 😉 And for now, have fun going through your photos and captured memories! Share your experiences and vacation stories with friends and family!
P.S. Why not help them plan theirs by sharing our itinerary with them? 🙂
Day 5: Route
Optional: Have more time to spend in and around Lombok? Explore these hidden islands!
We bet you haven’t heard about these secret islands in Lombok – they’re untouched and feature white-sand beaches with almost see-through waters for your every pleasure!
🏝Gili Kapal: This hidden gem forms part of a cluster of islands in East Lombok. Gili Kapal only appears between 10am to 2pm at low tide and is surrounded by nothing but blue water! The origin of its name ‘Kapal’ which means ‘ship’ comes from several incidents where ships got stuck here during the low tide.
Photo via yetyott, mutyamasayu
Book here🏝Gili Petelu, Gili Kondo, Gili Asahan and Gili Bidara: These are Lombok’s secret nooks that only locals know about. They’re the best alternatives to the ever-so-popular Gili Trawangan, Meno and Air!
Photo via arieritonga, ganangnirwand, lysproperty, taufikhdayat
Book hereGetting around
Although you can flag bemos (minivans) on the streets of Lombok, there are far more convenient ways of getting around the island. Here’s some options:
1. Renting a car with private driver/tour guide (our recommendation)With excellent reviews for his service and reliability, a good sense of humour and all the necessary knowledge, Lombok driver Mr Gus is someone willing to go the extra mile for your holiday in Lombok.
Most of his packages are inclusive of parking fees, toll fees, and fuel costs, but you might top up a little for his meals (or simply share platters with him – the Asian way!).
Aside from your set itinerary, Mr Gus will be more than happy to help you discover places only locals know about, so you’ll get to see the whole of Lombok!
*Note: Prices differ based on the number of people travelling (type of car required) and tour itinerary.
2. Renting a car without driver
If you prefer to travel at your own pace and favour freedom and flexibility, you might want to consider the car rental services of Kuta Lombok Car Rental (you can take a taxi to Kuta first or request airport pick-up).
Tip: If you are unfamiliar with Indonesia’s roads and traffic, we strongly recommend you to rent a car with driver instead, as the road conditions might be challenging to navigate, and fellow drivers might not be easy to deal with!
Travel Budget – Estimated Cost Breakdown
Activities (2 pax): USD 70 (calculated based on activities listed, not inclusive of shopping)
Day 1, USD 2
Day 2, USD 6
Day 3, USD 2
Day 4, USD 60
Land Transport: USD 40 x 5 days = USD 200 (for private car and driver)
Boat Transport (2 pax): USD 180 (Day 2&3/ 2-way ticket to Gili)
Food (2 pax):
Day 1, USD 12 (lunch), USD 12 (dinner)
Day 2, USD 12 (lunch), USD 8 (drinks), USD 20 (dinner)
Day 3, USD 14 (lunch), USD 6 (dinner)
Day 4, USD 5 (lunch), USD 42 (dinner and drinks)
Day 5, USD 10 (brunch)
Total for food (2 pax): USD 141 (Estimated cost)
Hotel (3-4 Star Hotel)
Day 1, USD 80
Day 2, USD 75
Day 3&4, USD 67x 2 = USD 134
Total for hotel: 289
Estimated Total for 2 pax (Activities+Transport+Food+Hotel): USD 880
Besides Bali, Lombok is your best bet for untouched beaches, crystal clear waters, and majestic mountainous landscapes. With our itinerary, all you need to do is to book your flights, accommodation (as recommended), contact your driver and go!
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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
Tell us
| PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us |
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