Last updated on May 11th, 2025 at 09:21 am
Our 30-day Indonesia itinerary started on the island of Java, finishing up in Lombok. And what a place to end an epic Indonesian adventure.
This Lombok travel guide highlights the very best Lombok attractions, places we’ve personally explored and loved, and we cannot wait to tell you all about it.
Discover the allure of Lombok, a paradise with mountain hikes, pristine beaches, and tropical islands, all less crowded than Bali!
After reading this guide and learning about all the incredible Lombok things to do, trust us you’ll be eager to book your flights to this stunning Indonesian island.
Don’t have time to read the entire article? You can find the top-rated tours to explore the best of Lombok – including waterfalls and traditional villages, a snorkeling tour to all three Gili Islands, and the most popular 2-day/1-night Mount Rinjani guided trek.
Lombok Things To Do- Top 7 Lombok Attractions
Let’s kick this Lombok travel guide off and get straight into the top Lombok attractions so you can start getting excited about your trip.
1. Lombok Things To Do: Hike Mount Rinjani – Trekking Indonesia’s Majestic Volcano
First up on our Lombok things to do is hike Mount Rinjani.
The summit of Mount Rinjani is one of Indonesia’s most iconic trekking destinations. As the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, standing at 3,726 meters, it offers one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in Southeast Asia.
Hikers who reach the Rinjani summit are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lombok, the majestic crater lake Segara Anak, and surrounding landscapes. The trek to the top is challenging, but it’s a rewarding experience and cultural significance to the local Sasak people – a place where they believe their ancestors reside.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking for an unforgettable adventure, summiting Mount Rinjani should be on your Indonesia itinerary.
Don’t worry, if hiking is not for you it gets easier after this first Lombok recommendation!
If hiking is your thing, make sure to check out our 10 best hikes in the world – some just may surprise you!
Can you hike Mount Rinjani independently?
Climbing Mount Rinjani independently is not recommended. The trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani is challenging, and there are several reasons why it’s advisable to go with a guided tour, for example, the trail to the summit can be difficult to navigate, and it is an active volcano after all!
The most popular Mount Rinjani tour is the 2 day/one-night trek for the opportunity to experience the magnificent sunset and sunrise views on this majestic mountain, however, if you are stuck for time or looking for a more budget-friendly option you can do this Mount Rinjani trek in one day.
Question: Do you know what is Indonesia’s highest mountain? (find out the answer at the bottom of the article)
2. Lombok Things To Do: Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls – Lombok’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls
Next on our Lombok travel guide: exploring the most beautiful waterfalls in Lombok!
No trip to this stunning island is complete without visiting at least one of its breathtaking waterfalls – trust us, it’s a must-do on any Lombok itinerary.
While North Lombok is best known for the mighty Mount Rinjani, there’s plenty more to discover beyond the volcano. Now that you’ve (hopefully!) recovered from the epic Rinjani trek, it’s time for a much gentler adventure.
Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls are two of Lombok’s hidden gems and most stunning natural attractions, each cascading over 30 feet and surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest. The scenic trek to reach them is an adventure in itself – winding through dense jungle, crossing streams, and soaking in the sounds of nature. The two magical waterfalls are a bonus!
Discover more about this hike and why it is one of the top things to do in Lombok.
These waterfalls were spectacular BUT check out what we consider to be the best waterfall in Indonesia.
What is the entrance fee for Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls?
When visiting these Lombok waterfalls we would recommend entering and exiting through Sendang Gate 1 for an easier walk.
The entrance fee to visit Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls is 20,000 IDR/1.20 Euro per person.
After only a 10-minute walk you will reach Sendang Gile Waterfall (walk through it to get blessed!) Lots of people only visit this waterfall BUT make sure to continue to the second waterfall – Tiu Kelep. Walk for approximately 30 minutes (depending on your fitness level) to reach the incredible Tiu Kelep Waterfall, known for its powerful cascade and magical jungle setting. Trust us it will be worth the effort!
Lombok Waterfalls Tip: Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet as you will have to walk through shallow water for some parts.
Aim to arrive at these Lombok Waterfalls before 10 am to avoid the crowds. It gets really busy after this time.
It is possible to go tubing while visiting Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls. This will cost 100k/€5.90 PP – Although when they saw we weren’t interested they offered 100k for both of us. It was still a hard no for us, as it is a tubing experience through a dark tunnel for 5 – 6 minutes….. No thanks!
Check out some other top-rated Lombok activities and tours in the links below:
3. Lombok Things To Do: Bukit Selong Viewpoint – The Perfect Sunrise or Sunset Spot in Lombok
Bukit Selong is not mentioned on most of the “Lombok Top Things to Do” lists so this is a Lombok another Lombok hidden gem for you. You’re welcome!
Bukit Selong, or, Selong Hill is a small rice field viewpoint overlooking a carpet of fields and paddies in Sembalun, East Lombok.
At first glance, a simple viewpoint over rice fields might not sound like the most exciting stop – but Bukit Selong is one of East Lombok’s most quietly beautiful attractions. Located in Sembalun, this small hill offers a stunning panoramic view of colorful patchwork fields and rice paddies, framed by the surrounding mountains.
What makes this spot truly special is the chance to experience the authentic, rural charm of Lombok. As you take in the view, you’re immersed in a landscape shaped by local farming traditions, where daily life unfolds in harmony with nature.
Bukit Selong is truly a peaceful, less-touristy part of the island that reveals the true heart of Lombok – raw, vibrant, and untouched by the crowds.
From the top of Selong Hill, you can also see the entire town of Sembalun which we felt looked like an “Indonesian Florence” with the striking view of the multitude of Mosques against the village below.
Bukit Selong viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Lombok if you’re looking for a great sunset or sunrise viewpoint without much of a hike involved.
The early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to visit Bukit Selong – sunrise and sunset light up the fields in golden tones. If you’re into photography, these are the perfect times to capture the lush colors and dramatic shadows.
If you are interested in visiting this unique Lombok attraction check out our detailed guide to Bukit Selong Viewpoint.
4. Lombok Things To Do: Visit the Paradise Gili Islands From Lombok
Did you know that Lombok is the closest major island to the Gili Islands? These three small, tropical islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air – are just off the northwest coast of Lombok and are the perfect paradise escape.
If you’re looking to make your Lombok holiday even more unforgettable, why not add a day or two on the Gili Islands? It’s a short and easy boat ride from Lombok to these idyllic islands, and it’s the ideal way to experience both Lombok’s stunning landscapes and the laid-back island vibes of the Gilis.
Read everything you need to know for your trip to the Gili Islands with this ultimate guide and find which Gili Island is Best for you.
Travelers typically hop on boats or fast ferries from Bangsal Harbor in the north or Teluk Nare in the west to reach the Gilis. The journey is quick – usually just 15-20 minutes, depending on which island you’re visiting – book your boat from Lombok to the Gili Islands.
If you are a budget traveler (like us!) it is possible to travel from Lombok to the Gili Islands by local transport. We made the trip from Gili Meno to Bangsal Harbor on a local boat for only 21,000 IDR (about €1.25) per person – a bargain for such a scenic ride!
*Keep in mind, the price will vary depending on which Gili Island you’re traveling to.
Check out the video to see how we got on travelling from the Gili islands to Lombok.
The Gili Islands offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. You can explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or scuba diving, swim with sea turtles, and enjoy the clear waters with paddleboarding or kayaking.
For a more laid-back day, relax on the island’s pristine beaches or unwind with a yoga session by the sea. Whether you’re after thrilling adventures or just want to chill in paradise, trust us, the Gili Islands have you covered!
If you prefer to keep things simple during your Lombok holiday and have everything taken care of so you can just sit back and relax, check out these top-rated tours from Lombok to the Gili Islands:
- From Lombok: Visit all 3 Gili Islands on a Snorkeling Day Trip – Travel from Lombok to the Gili Islands on a snorkeling day trip. Visit Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, go snorkeling and swimming in the reefs, and explore the islands on your own.
For an even greater Indonesian adventure check out our Bali/Lombok/Gilis itinerary for your ultimate Indonesia experience.
5. Lombok Things To Do: Take a Lombok Road-Trip
Roads in Lombok are in excellent condition and basically brand new all the way around the island.
So why not hit the road (so to speak!) and experience all the Lombok viewpoints, secluded Lombok beaches, and tropical forests for yourself at your own pace? It doesn’t get better than this and there’s no better way to truly delve into and get to know the island fully during your Lombok holiday.
During our visit to Lombok, we rented a scooter for 4 days. This will cost you between 70-80k IDR/4-5 Euro per day. We based ourselves in Senggigi venturing on a day trip from Senggigi to Kuta and Bukit Merese.
Also, we took a longer Lombok road trip which included an over night stay in North/East Lombok to visit Sendang Giles and Tiu Kelep waterfalls and Bukit Selong viewpoint.
Prepare yourself with everything you need to know for your Indonesia holiday.
The waterfalls and viewpoints were the main Lombok attractions, however, there was so much more to explore around Lombok. With such a stunning, rugged island soaked in natural beauty, we found ourselves stopping off on so many occasions for photos or simply just to take it all in.
During our Lombok road trip we stopped off in local villages, ate in local restaurants and shopped in local shops – the time and freedom of having our own transport is unbeatable.
If you don’t drive a scooter yourself we witnessed plenty of people who hired a Lombok local to drive them around the island on a scooter so don’t worry you still get the Lombok road trip experience.
Or simply book a fully customizable Lombok day tour.
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6. Lombok Things To Do: Kuta for Beaches, Surfing, and Adventure
Kuta in Lombok is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of the island’s natural beauty and laid-back vibes. Kuta is famous for its stunning beaches such as Selong Belanak, Tanjung Aan, and Mawun Beach, and offers some of Lombok’s most picturesque coastal landscapes.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on white-sand beaches, exploring secluded coves, or surfing the excellent breaks at Gerupuk Bay, Kuta is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
As the most popular town in Lombok, Kuta is home to a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars, to suit all tastes and budgets!
Kuta’s laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to unwind, while its proximity to outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and exploring waterfalls ensures there’s always something exciting to do to keep everyone happy!
For more details on another lesser-visited Indonesian island brimming with adventure, take a look at our Java Itinerary.
7. Lombok Things To Do: Bukit Merese – The Best Coastal Viewpoint in Lombok
Lastly on our Lombok travel guide of the 7 best Lombok things to do is visiting Bukit Merese.
Bukit Merese, located near Tanjung Aan Beach (near Kuta) is a picturesque hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Bukit Merese is a must-visit spot in Lombok, offering one of the best panoramic views on the island – and it is only a short hike to the top!
Trust us, you’ll be awe-struck by the beauty of Bukit Merese. Even though it was a cloudy, rainy day when we visited, we were still blown away by the stunning views. We can only imagine how incredible it must look on a clear, sunny day!
Aside from Lombok’s breathtaking natural beauty, you can also engage in activities like paragliding or hiking at Bukit Merese to make the most of this scenic spot.
Bukit Merese is one of the most popular places in Lombok to watch the sunset. Enjoy a picnic here – bring your own food or purchase snacks from the various vendors present in the parking lot – just remember to clean up after yourself and put your rubbish in the bins provided.
What is the entrance fee for Bukit Merese?
There isn’t an “official” entrance fee for Bukit Merese, but you can think of it more as a parking fee of 10,000 IDR (around 60 cents). This fee covers entry to both Tanjung Aan Beach and Bukit Merese Hill, giving you access to the best coastal views in Lombok for just the cost of parking!
Answer: The highest mountain in Indonesia is Puncak Jaya, also known as Carstensz Pyramid. It is located in the Sudirman Range of the Papua Province, on the island of New Guinea.
Enjoy Your Lombok Travel!
Most people flock to the popular island of Bali for their Indonesia experience, however, we hope we have convinced you to take a trip to this lesser-visited island of Lombok.
Lombok now holds a special place in our hearts and we truly feel it has something to offer every type of travellers with it’s perfect balance of relaxation, activities and nature.
What do you think of our Lombok travel guide? Have you visited any of these Lombok things to do or even more importantly, are we missing any other best things to do in Lombok?
Even though we come from the beautiful island of Ireland, at this point in our travels we’ve probably written more about Indonesia than anywhere else. It’s a country that completely captured our hearts. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to dive into our Indonesia travel guides – they’re packed with our favorite spots, hidden gems, and itineraries we’ve loved.
Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
We hope you love Lombok as much as we do and we would love to hear your thoughts.
Slán go fóil
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