Backpacking Lombok, Indonesia - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: August 7, 2026
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Experience The Unspoilt Beauty in a Land Before Time
Backpacking Lombok is like stepping back into an old David Attenborough documentary. One where he is the first non-native person to ever set foot on the island.
The crisp sands lay undiscovered - waiting for your toes to gently step across their shores, whilst the green jungle canopy swishes in the sky above. Sounds of monkeys howel across the central hills, and the mighty Mount Rinjani awaits your gazing eyes. Its slopes are covered in thundering waterfalls, as the lowlands lay open to paddy fields, crops and agriculture.
You cannot help but think this is what Bali once was, and you question why so few tourists holiday in Lombok. Yet, despite its remote wild feel, there are pockets of noise, excitement and even parties.
The seaside tourist towns of Mataram, Senggigi and Kuta breathe life and soul into this otherwise untamed island. Lombok is a land where Mother Nature reigns supreme, and the locals work with her to build a unique and remarkable island.
I've been lucky enough to visit the island of Lombok on numerous occasions, including leading a tour group through the wilderness and partying hard within the beachfront bars.
Now, I'm bringing this Lombok backpacking route to you. We will explore the best things to do in Lombok, discover the best place to eat and drink and where to stay in this untouched paradise.
Welcome to the island of Lombok, Indonesia.
What's Lombok Like?
The island of Lombok is a far cry from its noisy neighbour, Bali.
Nature blossoms from coast to coast and tradition is adhered to within this simpler world. Life on the island is basic. Yet, when combined with the island's natural beauty - everything makes sense.
To the north, east and south, lush green and untouched jungles greet the white crystal sands as warm waters lap over the shores.
Lines of traditional wooden longboats and crafts sway across the rippling shallows within the bays. On land, small beach shacks line the cusp of where the jungle gives way to shimmering sands.
Within the central regions, small pockets of humanity survive in bustling towns. Little carts, open-air restaurants and basic tentlike structures flank the streets. Smoke and steam pour from within as the smell of rice, chicken and intense, local sauces waft in the breeze.
The larger towns don't necessarily mean more modern or better architectural brilliance. In truth, it's more of the same, just louder.
Overall, a sense of peace, serenity and beauty fills the air, and you'll sink into a life of backpacking Lombok with a mañana nonchalant shrug of the shoulders.
It's heaven, with a naughty side.
How To Get to Lombok, Indonesia
Despite the island's remoteness, Lombok is reasonably easy to get to, especially if you're already in Indonesia.
As expected with Indonesian islands, there are countless options for arriving in Lombok by sea. However, Lombok does offer another option, and it is one you may not expect.
That's right - Lombok boasts an International airport!
Don't get me wrong. It is small, but it is, most certainly, international - just!
So, after that bombshell, let's settle you down and tell you about the International Airport. Firstly, it's called Zainuddin Abdul Madjid Lombok International Airport, and it has an international code of LOP.
The airport is nestled into the south of the island, a short fifteen-minute drive from the famous traditional village of Sade and thirty minutes from the small beachside-party-town of Kuta.
However, most of us backpacking Lombok arrive from either the Gili Islands, The Nusa Islands or Bali, and via a boat.
Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three tiny islands that lay just off the northwest shores of Lombok. It is a famous piss-up location that rivals the European powerhouses of Magaluf and Ibiza. However, you can reach Lombok from all three of the Gili Islands via a short boat ride to the small port of Bangsal.
Nevertheless, the main port on Lombok is to the southwest, and it's called Lembar. Lembar is where you'll find all the massive car ferry's that slowly chug over from the likes of Bali and Jakarta to the west.
There are two smaller ports on Lombok's east coast, Dermaga Labuhan Haji and Pelabuhan Kayangan, which link to Sumbawa to the east.
Yet, if I was asked, "what's the best way to get to Lombok from Bali?" I would say the fast boat from Padang Bai, arriving at Bangsal.
If, however, you are further afield, the airport is going to be your best option.
Journey times are (roughly) as follows:
Airport - Mataram - 35 minutes
Airport - Lembar Port - 40 minutes
Lembar Port - Mataram - 30 minuets
Lembar Port - Port of Bangsal - 1 hour 15 minutes
Port of Bangsal - Airport - 1 hour 25 minutes
Port of Bangsal - Matram - 40 minuets
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Backpacking Lombok, Indonesia
Give yourself as long as possible backpacking Lombok. It's one of the most visually stunning islands, where you can merge comforting home luxuries with that remoteness we crave.
The island of Lombok has so much to offer, from wild nights out to volcanic ridge walks and everything in between. My advice would be; if you were planning a two-week trip to Bali, split it into one week in Bali and one week in Lombok.
You'd be mad to miss out on this vivacious island.
So there you have my advice. Spend a minimum of a week here and experience the island, its thunderous waterfalls, firey volcanos and paradise beaches. You'll never want to leave.
The Best Time Of The Year For Backpacking Lombok, Indonesia
Generally, as with Bali, if you avoid the monsoon season (November to March), you'll be able to enjoy everything Lombok has to offer.
If you do visit Lombok in the monsoon season you will still have endless days of warmth and beautiful blue skies, but you will also have torrential rains and localised flooding. As a result, some of the waterfalls could be too dangerous to swim in, the volcano walks too treacherous to hike, and the beaches saturated, which is less than ideal.
In effect, Lombok is about the outdoors and its lush natural beauty, and if you can't get to that, it seems a bit of a waste of time.
Therefore, the high season is the best time of year for backpacking Lombok. It will be less crowded than Bali but still have that idyllic weather you'd expect on an Indonesian adventure.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Lombok
When it comes to accommodation, you'll find differing levels of comfort, cost and styles across the island of Lombok. There are cheap hostels, hotels, homestays and, of course, the all-important, five-star resorts.
So don't think untamed nature means a wild night's sleep - because it doesn't.
In short, Lombok has four main tourist destinations.
Firstly, Lombok's capital, Mataram on the west coast.
Secondly, Senggigi to the northwest and finally Kuta in the southeast.
The fourth is the Gili Islands, and whilst they are officially part of Lombok, they are very different to anything you'll experience on the island itself. Hence, I've written a separate blog for them. Head over to that if you're looking for info on where to stay on the Gili Islands.
In reality, the island of Lombok isn't all that big, and getting about doesn't take too long. Consequently, it doesn't overly matter where you stay.
That said, I'd highly recommend either Kuta or the coastal parts of Senggigi and Mataram, as not only are they more beautiful, but you can be at all of the best things to do in Lombok within an hour's drive.
With that in mind, let's look into my recommendations and where you can book them.
Chandi Boutique Resort and Spa, Senggigi
- What: Spacious, tranquil, luxurious resort with sea views, palm trees and that pool. Paradise!
- Where: Lombok's Northwest coast, south of Senggigi with a short drive to Mataram. (map)
- Why: Frankly, it feels like heaven, and every last detail has you in mind. Pure luxury!
- Why Not: Kuta has more nightlife, whereas this is more relaxing and designed for honeymoons.
The Chandi is a picture of serenity, calmness and well-being. Everything about the resort screams relaxation, from its perfectly trimmed lawns to its swaying palm trees and relaxing sea views, simply put it's heavenly.
Lavish chalet-style apartments are all large, bright, airy and well-designed, with beautiful leafy terraces to the front. Even the bathrooms are elegantly designed with outdoor showers in the open-aired courtyards.
I swear the pool has magical healing powers too, as I felt revitalised with every dip.
If the Chandi Boutique were in the United Kingdom, it would set you back thousands of pounds a night. Nevertheless, here in Lombok, Indonesia, all this will be yours for IDR 1,200,000 (£65) per night. Expensive for Indonesia, but for what you get, it's incredible.
There is nothing to fault in the Chandi. If I'm backpacking Lombok and the budget allows, this is where you'll find me every time.
Bintang Hotel, Senggigi
- What: Bungalow-styled hotel with hostel vibes.
- Where:Â A short walk down the beach from the Chandi Boutique Resort. (map)
- Why: Because you like the area but cannot afford the Chandi.
- Why Not: It can be quiet, and often, difficult to work out what the hotel is meant to be.
Ok, so this is the worst of my three suggestions, but it does have redeeming qualities, hence it being within my recommendations.
Firstly, I'll address the issue of the hotel not knowing what it is.
It's called a hotel, yet it has bungalow-style terraces with a hostel-like attitude to life. Then, to confuse things further, there are conference rooms and business areas.
It's too confusing.
Secondly, the hotel felt a little rundown and unloved, but a quick, simple freshen-up would make the hotel a very pretty place.
Now, for why I'm suggesting you stay here. It's got a big welcoming pool, it's on the beachfront with picture-perfect sunsets, which I think are the best on the island, and it is cheap.
These three reasons outweigh the hotel's downfalls, and as mentioned, if the hotel gets that makeover, it becomes a real contender for the best place to stay in Lombok, Indonesia.
Mad Monkey Hostel - Formally Kutamara, Kuta
- What: Relaxing hostel with cute rooms surrounding a small but perfectly formed courtyard and pool.
- Where: In Lombok's southeast coastal town of Kuta, a few minutes from all the action. (map)
- Why: Because it's extremely well-priced, well-located and looks great. I love it.
- Why Not: Ummmmmmmmmm, go figure!
A small, fun and friendly horseshoe-shaped hostel based around a quaint pool.
Right in the heart of Kuta, this beautiful hostel has everything you need, well-maintained, clean, tidy and very comfortable. However, its selling point is its location.
A short skip to the right is the main strip, with numerous bars, restaurants and shops. Left are a couple of funky, quirky bars, and a five-minute walk south opens onto an absolutely gorgeous beach.
**Disclaimer** It has been renovated since I stayed and now looks a little less leafy and more built up, but still epic.
Stay here if you're on holiday in Kuta, Lombok.
Further Accommodation
I have added three different styles, standards, prices and locations above.
However, if none take your fancy, check out my links below. There you'll find accommodation across Lombok to suit you.
To guide you in the right direction - if you want a bit of nightlife and hipster hangouts, Kuta is the place for you.
However, if you are looking for something a little more calming, head to Senggigi.
If you find a little gem hidden in the mountains, let me know in the comments below, or drop me a message on Instagram and I'll have to come and check it out.
Best things to do When Backpacking Lombok
Compared to Bali or the Gili Islands, you'll discover a remarkably different vibe when backpacking Lombok.
Firstly, it can, at times, feel uninviting and almost stand-offish. Therefore, getting around the best things to do in Lombok may seem slightly frightening, but it genuinely isn't.
On a personal level, everyone is super friendly, kind and helpful. Furthermore, everyone and their bloody dog is a driver, and for an agreed price, they will take you wherever you want to go.
So that's a win.
Likewise, when it comes to the best things to do in Lombok, they are outside and tend to involve either beaches, volcanos or waterfalls, which is pretty darn cool.
Furthermore, there are a couple of hands-on, traditional experiences in my - What to Do in Lombok itinerary.
So let's look at what I've got for you!
Backpacking Lombok, Indonesia: The Highlights
On today's Lombok itinerary is a little bit of everything. Well, a lot of beaches anyway.
However, we are kicking off with a bit of tradition and those hands-on experiences. From there, I'll guide you on a hike around the waterfalls too. After all, it's best to have achieved something before you get too comfy on those relaxing beach days.
- Visit a Traditional Old Sasak Village
- Create a sculpture at Penujak Sadak Pottery Village
- Dive into the Waterfalls at Air Terjun Benang Kelambu Geopark
- Relax on Tanjung Aan Beach
- (Honorable Mention) Hike Mount Rinjani
- Soak up the Sun on Pantai Selong Belanak
- Chill at Tampah Beach
- Paddle the Waves at Kuta Beach
Without further ado, let's rock.
Visit A Traditional Old Sasak Village
- Why: Travel is about learning new cultures, ways of life and experiencing new things.
- Where: Both of my suggestions are a short drive from the airport. Sade Village - (map) Industri Tenun Patuh - (map)
- How long: A couple of hours should be more than enough.
- How much: Free! But it's good to tip the guide around 20,000 to 30,000 IDR (£1 to £1.50p).
I'll be the first to admit, this is very touristy and is a money-making scheme for the locals. Yet it is something I feel is a bit of fun and worth learning when backpacking Lombok.
A village guide will greet you at the entrance and walk you around the traditional old villages. They will introduce you to the families who are present, show you the traditional ways of life, such as weaving, beekeeping, building and agriculture.
You will be allowed to explore inside some of the old elevated straw huts, dress up in formal clothing and get some pictures with the unique weaponry the Sasak people once used.
During certain times of the year, the villagers perform native dances and ceremonies. So if you're in town for that, please make the effort to go and watch.
The only downside comes when the tour inevitably ends in the village shop. Here, you can buy almost anything, as long as it's made in the village. Prices are extortionate, and honestly, it is a rip-off, and there is a lot of pressure to buy something. However, don't buy anything if you don't want to.
Have a look around as there are extremely beautiful items on offer, but walk out the second anyone tries to pressure you.
Create a sculpture at Penujak Sadak Pottery Village
- Why: It's something very different to your normal travelling activities.
- Where: Next to the International Airport. (map)
- How long: An hour is enough to make your Sistine Chapel.
- How much: The cost differs depending on how many people you have in your group and what you want to do there.
Almost overlooking the western approach to Lombok International Airport, you'll find an incredible little pottery village. There is a large store full of pottery where you can purchase anything your heart desires. That is, as long as your heart desires something made of clay.
Having weaved your way through the impressive selection of goods, you'll come to the best part of the village, the design and making area.
Grab a seat, pay for your clay and get creative. We made little turtles which are common tourist items that those of us backpacking Lombok tend to buy for our shit shelves.
Sadly though, you will not be finding our turtles in the shops anytime soon. Ours were shit.
Have a bit of fun and learn another local tradition.
Dive into the Waterfalls at Air Terjun Benang Kelambu Geopark
- Why: Because you can swim in the most beautiful of waterfalls in the jungle.
- Where: On the southern slopes of Mt Rinjani. (map)
- How long: On balance, I'd say at least half a day at the falls.
- How much: Again, it depends on how many waterfalls you visit and your haggling skills. Aim for 50,000 IDR.
Whilst everything about the entry set-up looks a little fake, it is legit. Prices set are the price you're expected to pay, but they often include a guide, which you don't need. Use your haggling skills and see what bargain you can conjure up. Obviously, if you want to see all the falls, which you do, it will be more expensive than if you only want to see a couple.
Now that's out the way, here are the good bits.
Enter under the arch, and a barricade of smells and noise smack you in the face as you walk by. Market stalls line the road to the kiosk where you pay. Haggle well and then set off through the jungle to the waterfalls. Monkeys and birds roam the jungle, and it feels and sounds as though you're miles away from civilisation. Super cool!
There are three waterfalls on offer in this Geopark, however, one of those is split into two, which in my books, makes it four. Not that I'm trying to simulate the Four Falls Trail in the Brecon Beacons, Wales.
In short, one of the falls you can dive into, the second you can swim and the third is just a magical experience of epic proportions. If you come to Lombok and don't see this place, I'd say that's the equivalent of going to India but not seeing the Taj Mahal.
Relax on Tanjung Aan Beach
- Why: If you told a child to draw a beach, this would be it.
- Where: Southeast of Kuta, on Lombok's glorious south coast. (map)
- How long: In reality, take as long as you so wish.
- How much: Free, until you buy a coconut, some food or something you didn't know you needed.
As far as beaches go, they don't come much better, and thinking about it, this one would jump straight into my top three beaches of all time.
The main draw to backpacking Lombok, other than its beauty, is that it still isn't touristy. Therefore you will still find tonnes of room to relax in the sun, paddle in the shallows or swim in the bay.
Frankly, this sort of beach in Spain would have thousands of people crammed in, but here, it's tens, not thousands.
The small bay has good walks up to the clifftops that act as turrets at either side of the entrance, the sea a perfect shade of blue that slowly fades to that incredible turquoise colour, and the sand... Well, take a look, it's divine.
This is somewhere you cannot afford to miss out on seeing.
(Honorable Mention) Hike Mount Rinjani
- Why: How often do you get to climb an active volcano and hike through the jungle.
- Where: Numerous locations around the island. But choose a tour that picks you up from your hotel. (map)
- How long: Excursions can last between half a day or four or five days.
- How much: The price depends on how many are in your group and how long you want to take.
**This is an honourable mention as I haven't actually done this. However, because it's one of the most popular things to do on Lombok, I have to let you know about it**
Mount Rinjani in north Lombok is Indonesia's second-tallest volcano standing at 3,726 metres above sea level.
As mentioned, there are several routes to the top, each with different challenges, time frames and sights to see. Once at the top, there is a large creator with a lake and another smaller mountain called Mount Barujari. Mount Barujari regularly throws smoke and coughs of lava into the air, which can be witnessed across the island.
From its slopes and from afar, I have admired this volcano, but I am yet to return and take the challenge. That is still to come.
Soak Up the Sun on Pantai Selong Belanak
- Why: Another world-class beach.
- Where: On Lombok's stunning southwest coast. (map)
- How long: Again, take half a day and just relax.
- How much: Free until you buy something.
I don't want to appear to be repetitive, but welcome to another stunning, horseshoe-shaped pristine beach on Lombok's south coast.
Again the beach is nestled beautifully into the surrounding green hills, where the jungle meets the crip white sands, and the turquoise waters lap against the shore.
Once more, you'll find plenty of space to relax, soak up the sun's rays and enjoy a slice of heaven. Huts to the back of the beach will provide you with food, drinks and boards should you wish to ride the waves.
If you want to surf, the waves are slightly bigger here than on any of my other suggestions, but it's still very safe in the waters.
Chill at Tampah Beach
- Why: Peaceful, idyllic beach
- Where: Fairly centrally on Lombok's golden south coast. (map)
- How long: It depends if you can drag yourself from this corner of utopia.
- How much: Free again!
Firstly, I was so blown away by the beach that I forgot to take a photo, and now I look like a right twat - so I apologise for that.
Anyway, you know how it goes from here.
Slightly more open to the elements, Tampah Beach stretches around the bay, welcoming the incoming tide to its glistening fine sands. Tampah Beach is the quietest of my suggestions, so if you're not a people person and just want to enjoy the perfect surroundings that Mother Nature has provided, try this beach first.
You won't want to move.
Paddle the waves at Kuta Beach
- Why: It's a beautiful beach and easily accessible from Kuta.
- Where: In the southeast of Lombok, next to Kuta. (map)
- How long: A couple of hours should be enough unless you go hiking.
- How much: It's free bitchesss.
Having just explored three of the best beaches in the world, it's difficult to big this one up.
If this had been anywhere else in the world, it would easily be an award winner. It has all the components, shimmering crystal clear waters, golden beaches, an abundance of colourful marine life and panoramic scenery to die for.
Yet, this is the norm for Lombok's south coast. The main reason I'm adding this one to the list, apart from its obvious beauty, is its proximity to Kuta. If you're backpacking Lombok, the chances are you'll want to be in Kuta, and therefore this little delight is within walking distance.
Similarly, there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or a few cheeky cocktails.
Overall, this is a top-quality beach, but when compared to the others, even this masterpiece is fairly standard.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Lombok
Food in Lombok is traditional, tasty and timeless.
Whilst the island serves up the Indonesian classics, such as Nasi Goreng and Gado Gado, it does add its twist to those dishes. It also cooks up a few delicious delights of its own.
The island is known for its wide range of vegetarian, Halal, sea-food and, of course, chicken and rice dishes. A few to keep an eye out for are;
- Plecing Kangkung - A garlic'y seafood, nutty-chilli dish.
- Satay (Sate) Rembiga - A sweet and spicy beef dish.
- Ayam Taliwang - A spicy grilled chicken.
Like the accommodation, you can find everything from five-starred restaurants to street huts in Lombok, and both will have your mouth watering.
A word of warning, if you do stray slightly off the tourist path, which you should, the roadside cafes and huts will serve chicken and rice on a plate with a whole chicken (eyes and beak included) draped over the rice.
It can be hard to swallow. Not the beak, don't eat the head, I mean more the look of it all.
However, if that doesn't sound too appetising, I have some great suggestions below. Enjoy
Warung Menega, Senggigi
- What: Seafood extraordinaire with sea view.
- Where: On the beach in south Senggigi. (map)
- How much: Not the cheapest in town, but worth every bite. (menu)
If fresh, sizzling hot seafood is something you love, then look no further than here at Menega.
Prices are a little higher than the surrounding restaurants, but then, in my opinion, so is the taste. I have to admit, I'm not a massive seafood fan, but gave it a go and can confidently recommend the white snapper.
With numerous tables lovingly placed along the beach, you really can enjoy a meal under the stars. However, if you wish, you can choose to eat under the large traditional styled wooden hut complete with thatched roof.
Fantastic freshly cooked seafood, great service and wonderful surroundings, you have to give it a try.
Asmara, Senggigi
- What: Authentic Indonesian restaurant with great European dishes.
- Where: Set amid wonderful grounds in the heart of the action in Senggigi. (map)
- How much: Generally 200,000 IDR (£10.50) should be enough for the three courses. (menu)
I love this place.
Every time I've been to the Asmara I've gone for the Indonesian meals, and that isn't going to change anytime soon. It is some of the tastiest foods I've had in Indonesia, and when I'm back in northwest Lombok, this is where I am going to be.
They pick you up at your hotel (within a reasonable distance) and bounce you into the restaurant. Once at the restaurant, it feels like you've arrived at a long lost hanging garden. Plants dance down from the ceiling and the sculptures lurk around every corner. This is what a restaurant should look like on a tropical island.
The menu reminded me of the original Jumanji and is a spectacular piece of art on its own.
The food is incredible, the setting is perfect and the ambience is spot on. You can instantly see that so much love and care goes into The Asmara.
When you're backpacking Lombok and feeling hungry, you know where to come.
Cafe Alberto, Senggigi
- What: Resort with fantastic beach restaurant.
- Where: Towards the southern tip of Senggigi sandwiched between the sea and main coastal route. (map)
- How much: Around 140,000 IDR (£7.80) will see you through three courses. (menu)
There is something romantic about this place. As you walk down through the lit lanterns, past the pool and onto the beach, you cannot help but smile.
My advice is to book, as there aren't many tables at all. But what are here are beautifully decorated and with the sand in your toes and your eyes fixed on the sea what better setting is there to enjoy a nice meal.
The food is as delectable as the restaurant itself and is presented in a truly romantic fashion. No matter what you have, be it Indonesian, Italian or seafood, you are in for a delicious treat here at Cafe Alberto.
El Bazar, Kuta
- What: Mediterranean restaurant with a Moroccan feel.
- Where: In Kuta, Southeast Lombok. (map)
- How much: Rough prices for a starter, main and dessert are 250,000IDR (£13). (menu)
Again, you will have to book El Bazar, as it is only small and does get busy.
With a beautiful rustic feel to the restaurant and stunning Moroccan set-up, you feel almost compelled to enjoy yourself, and that's how a restaurant should make you feel. Right?
The amazing dishes match the incredible design with more colourful and delightful tastes of the Mediterranean, with a twist of Lombok.
The staff add to the impressive ambience and go out of their way to make your meal special. El Bazar is a fantastic find in the hipster town of Kuta.
KRNK, Kuta
- What: Pizza and burger joint.
- Where: Right Opposite El Bazar. (map)
- How much: If you set aside 175,000 (£9) for three courses, you should be about right. (menu).
A small westernised, minimalistic, trendy food joint with a very well-stocked bar. KRNK would fit in perfectly with the hipster areas of London and New York, and they've nailed the look.
Fun and friendly, within a great location in a wicked part of this little town.
Along with Strawberry Fields in Seminyak, Bali, this place throws out some of the best burgers I've had the pleasure of destroying in Indonesia, and I cannot recommend them enough.
Bush Radio aka The Place With No Name
- What: Another hipster hangout.
- Where: A triple jump away from the above two. (map)
- How much: Smoothie bowls 65,000 (£3), and smoothies 40,000 (£2).
This place is so hipster it didn't even identify itself with a name for a long period.
Now, however, it's got over itself and has a name - Bush Radio.
I love the set-up, I love the people and frankly, I love its range of great-tasting smoothies and healthy brunches. All the hipsters and digital nomads call this place home, and that's the bit I don't get on with.
Despite wanting to really not like this place, I do, and that annoys me more than you will know.
Give it a try, but it is more of a breakfast, lunch kinda place.
Where to Party Whilst Backpacking Lombok
Now we're talking. I dunno about you, but I need a drink after all that info!
In any other under-developed, tropical island that isn't 'on the travel path,' this would be a quick answer of; "sorry, wrong location, there is no nightlife here". Especially when you consider that Lombok is predominantly Muslim, so alcohol is technically forbidden.
However, this isn't just any tropical paradise, this is Lombok, and there is nightlife to be found. Although, it does centre around the coastal town of Kuta.
Across the island from Senggigi and Mataram to Kuta, bars open well into the night, but if you're wanting to go out out, I suggest you get yourself down to Kuta. It's kicking off in the small tropical bars here every night.
In fact, all of my suggestions are in Kuta, and that says a lot. Kuta is, as mentioned, a very hipster, westernised town in the middle of paradise, and nights out are, in my experience, safe and well priced.
So without waffling on anymore, let me show you the best bars in Lombok.
Jungle Bar, Kuta
- What:Â Small and friendly but packs a punch with its banging anthems.
- Where: Next to the Indomaret, and only a short walk from both, the town and the beach. (map)
Jungle Bar is like a pitbull, small in stature but seriously lively and loud when it gets going.
If you're lucky, you might catch the bar during a live DJ set, but if not, you'll still be in for a big night out.
Cocktails, whisky, beers and more flow, and flow cheaply, as everybody squeezes into this simple little space.
I love it here because the staff are super chilled, extremely friendly and even let us serve ourselves. Complete win!
The Bus Bar
- What: It has a VW camper as the bar. That's all you need to know.
- Where: Less than 10 minutes from the restaurants and the town centre. (map)
The aptly named Bus Bar gets its name from the VW Bus that has been turned into the bar. Again, it's located very centrally and is only a few minutes from the above restaurants.
Tyres and oil drums make up the tables and chairs, as they do in Jungle Bar. Again, it's a simple set-up, but one that works, so why change it.
Whilst the night is usually a little quieter, there are great vibes, friendly staff and a chance to lay out some of your own tunes.
Sadly, I have heard that Covid has meant the end for the Bus Bar, but let's not write it off just yet. If anyone is in town, shout me up with what's happening.
Surfer's Bar and Rasta Bar
- What: Beach themed party havens.
- Where: On the beachfront. (map)
Both Surfers and Rasta are beachfront party zones. They're open to the elements, sea views, sand underfoot and great music blast out into the early hours.
In truth, the only difference between the two is that Rasta has a more Jamaican theme to it.
Both, have plenty of space to throw shapes, attract the opposite sex with your moves, and grab a cheap drink. These two places are as wild as Lombok gets, and to be honest, they do a great job.
Fantastic vibe, great ambience, super friendly staff, and they're somewhere I'd go time and time again. Fantastic
Is Backpacking Lombok Safe?
Normally, when it comes to this section, I try and allay all your fears and look for the positives. And, I will do the same here. However, backpacking Lombok doesn't come without risk, and I'll cover that first.
Natural Disasters
Indonesia stands upon a major tectonic fault line below the surface of the earth. Therefore, the country is extremely vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other activities that may arise, such as tsunamis.
In August 2018 I was caught up in a massive earthquake that caused numerous deaths, and multiple buildings were raised to the ground. Since then, there have been further large earthquakes measuring 7.0 or above around the island of Lombok.
As mentioned throughout the blog, Lombok does have Indonesia's second-largest volcano, and if that was to erupt with all its might and force, it would cause multiple casualties and could trigger tsunamis and further earthquakes in the region.
This is not here to scare you because these sorts of events are rare, and most go unnoticed. However, before I send you off backpacking Lombok and all it has to offer, I wanted to give you a quick heads up. If anything like this was to occur, the locals will help you.
Now that I've covered natural disasters, I will say the other threats to you whilst you're backpacking Lombok are minimal.
Crime
Generally speaking, crime isn't something you'll need to worry about when backpacking Lombok. The local people are very kind, helpful and friendly.
Obviously, the usual advice is still relevant, don't get drunk and walk home alone, don't start fights, keep your belongings locked away and don't flash your cash and wealth. A large percentage of people living in Lombok live below the poverty line, so be respectful of that.
Basically, my usual rules of don't be a dick, be respectful and keep your wits about you apply. If you do this, you'll have a safe stay in Lombok.
That said, I will mention one crime, and that is...
Drugs
Drugs in Lombok are everywhere, and you will get offered them. Most of the time this will be locals trying to make some extra cash, but it could also be an undercover cop.
Drugs carry the death penalty in Indonesia, and that sucks donkey dick. The likelihood of that happening are slim, but it's not something you really want to chance. Either way, prison isn't somewhere I want to be when travelling.
I'm not your mother. I'm only here to inform you of what could happen. If you wanna get hi, it's your call, but you've been warned,
Beach Safety
The beaches around Lombok are great for swimming and snorkelling, and generally, due to their horseshoe-shaped bays, the undercurrents and tidal flows are easy to swim against.
Roads
Lombok's road networks are well maintained, especially throughout the major cities, coastal routes and tourist hotspots. If you step back from these streets, the roads do become a little bumpier.
The standard of driving is not at the levels we adhere to in the UK. Yet, it is far better than numerous other islands and countries in the area.
Foods
Well, we've all heard of Delhi belly and Bali belly, but now, I bring you Lombok logs.
Of course, the food on Lombok is much the same as in Bali. Yet, due to the distinct difference in tourist numbers, and wealth, some of the foods are a bit more primitive.
I never caught anything during my time backpacking Lombok, and I tried a lot of different foods. Similarly, no one I took to Lombok ever got any form of food poisoning or dodgy stomach. However, it is possible, but don't let this stop you from trying new and exciting dishes. The food is fantastic. If you do get ill, it passes. Don't lose out on incredible food experiences.
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As can be seen, backpacking Lombok is a truly inspiring experience.
Stepping back to a land where humanity and nature combine to create an intense, beautiful, almost fairytale-like land.
There is something for everyone here in Lombok. If you're the sort of person who enjoys the comfort of home and luxury, yet still speaks about being "off the beaten track", this is the place for you. Similarly, if you like to grab a tent and disappear for weeks, you can do that too. Five-star luxury resorts, wilderness, party towns, and paradise beaches are all on offer twenty-four-seven.
Backpacking Lombok is something everyone should do before it's too late. After all, the island is next in line to collide with the sways of tourists, and that's a shame. It will become the next Bali, and whilst that's not a bad thing, it's not Lombok, and that upsets me to my core. So much so that I nearly didn't write about it because I don't want everyone ravaging the island.
Please respect the way of life, keep the island clean, and enjoy everything Lombok, Indonesia offers.
Now, to answer the big question, is Lombok better than Bali, I'd have to say yes. Overall Lombok is better than Bali. For me, it's less developed, more natural and far more peaceful. But for how long, I do not know.
Finally, I'd like to thank you for reading everything I've blurted out about backpacking Lombok. If you have found this blog useful, please let me know in the comments below.
Likewise, if you have been to Lombok and think I've missed anything, let me know below.
Thanks
If you're backpacking Lombok, Indonesia, you may be interested in these nearby places...
Backpacking Uluwatu, Bali… In Two Days
Where traditional fire-dancers meet dude-bros with surfboards. You’ll love it.
Backpacking the Gili Islands, Indonesia – The Ultimate Travel Guide
You’re here for the sesh, but there’s far more than just booze on offer…
Backpacking Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan, Indonesia – A Travel Guide
Where do you holiday when you already work in paradise? Here. You go here.
Interesting guide
Senggigi is trash dump, near Cafe Alberto is a meeting point for pedophiles who will take photos of your kids naked and girlfriend in bikini.
You will wake up every day at 4 am because of the muslim prey. In the houses you will experience noises/smoke from burning trash and theft when you are away. Happy cafe was selling tainted alcohol that made few Australians blind.
Artikel yang sangat membantu buat yang baru pertama kali ke Lombok. Memang benar, transportasi di sana paling nyaman kalau pakai mobil pribadi karena jarak antar pantainya lumayan jauh. Kalau ada teman-teman yang butuh armada terawat dengan supir yang hafal jalan tikus, bisa cek di Sewa Mobil Lombok ya. Semoga bermanfaat