The perfect Lombok travel itinerary
5-7 days of beaches, waterfalls & adventureConsidering Lombok island as your next holiday destination? This Indonesian gem is often overshadowed by its neighbor Bali, but those who visit are rewarded with pristine beaches, lush jungles, volcanic hikes, and a more tranquil vibe. Whether you’re dreaming of surfing, showering in waterfalls, island hopping, or simply relaxing by the sea, a well-planned itinerary can help enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Here, you can find a day-to-day travel itinerary that covers one week in Lombok; plus, tips if you have fewer days to spare. Find out how to reach Lombok, what to do there, and book your ferry tickets to the island and nearby destinations on Ferryhopper!
How many days do you need in Lombok?
If you want to make the most of your stay on the island, 5 to 7 days is the sweet spot. This gives you enough time to see the beaches in the south, take a day trip to the Gili Islands, explore the northern waterfalls, and maybe even go hiking on Mount Rinjani.
Short on time? You can still experience the best of Lombok in 3 or 4 days by focusing either on the southern beaches and Kuta, or spending a couple of days hopping around the Gili Islands.
Lombok travel itinerary for 5 to 7 days
Day 1: Arrival and a Senggigi sunset
Whether you arrive in Lombok by ferry from Bali or fly into Lombok International Airport, your first stop could be Senggigi, the island’s main tourist area. The coastal town is a convenient arrival point, as well as a great spot to settle into the island vibe.
Spend the afternoon strolling along the beach, dipping in the warm water, and grabbing a fresh coconut from a food stall. As the sun goes down, the sky often bursts into shades of orange and pink, creating the perfect welcome to Lombok.
And after all the travels, it’s time to treat yourself to a tasty seafood dinner at one of the town’s beachside restaurants.
Sunny day at Senggigi beach
Day 2: Discovering the beaches of South Lombok
Seize the morning, seize the day, and make your way to the southern coast, home to some of the most stunning beaches in Indonesia. Kuta Lombok, a lively town surrounded by rolling green hills and white-sand stretches, will be your base there.
From Kuta, you can easily head to Tanjung Aan, a picture-perfect beach with turquoise waters, and Selong Belanak, famous for its gentle waves and an ideal spot for surfing.
Looking for adventure? Climb up to Bukit Merese hill. Just a short hike from the top, you get to admire breathtaking views of the coastline and unforgettable sunsets.
After a day of beach hopping and hiking, don’t miss a stop at a warung stall for nasi goreng fried rice.
Day 3: A getaway to the Gili Islands
No Lombok trip is complete without a visit to the Gili Islands. Catch a boat from Lombok to the Gili Islands (the ride normally takes 1 hour max), and suddenly you’re in another world.
The 3 Gilis, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, each have their own personality. Gili Trawangan is the most vibrant one with beach parties and bars, while Gili Air boasts a perfect balance between buzz and peace. Gili Meno is the quietest, ideal for couples or travelers looking for complete relaxation.
Your day trip can include snorkeling with sea turtles, cycling along the sandy paths (no cars or scooters are allowed on the islands), and sipping cocktails while your feet sink into the sand. If you feel like dancing barefoot on the beach, you can spend the night in Gili Trawangan. Otherwise, head back to Lombok and catch the sunset from the ferry.
Transparent waters and white-sand beauty in Gili Air
Day 4: Waterfalls in north Lombok
You enjoyed the beach, so now it’s time to explore the jungle! Travel north toward Senaru village, the gateway to Lombok’s most spectacular waterfalls. The walk to Sendang Gile is quite easy, with lush greenery all around, while Tiu Kelep feels like it jumped out of a fairytale: water cascades into a pool that is perfect for a refreshing swim.
Tip: note that for most of Lombok’s popular waterfalls there’s usually a small entry fee. And if you wish to be accompanied by a local guide, they offer their services for an additional tip.
The north has a cooler climate, thanks to the elevation, and the area is a peaceful paradise. Spend the evening in Senaru, perhaps in a small homestay, and listen to the sounds of nature as night falls.
The breathtaking Tiu Kelep waterfall surrounded by thick vegetation
Day 5: Trekking on Mount Rinjani or exploring local culture
If you’re up for a challenge, you can dedicate this day to a Mount Rinjani trek. The climb is not for the faint of heart and usually takes 2-3 days, but you opt for a shorter hike that offers stunning views of the crater rim and Lake Segara Anak. This is a bucket-list experience for many Lombok visitors.
Not much of a trekking enthusiast? No worries. You can spend the day exploring life in Sasak villages, where locals practice traditional weaving and pottery. This is a great way to connect with Lombok’s culture and most unique sides, and pick up handmade souvenirs.
The othwerworldy landscape of Mount Rinjani Lombok and Lake Segara Anak
Day 6: East Lombok and the Pink Beach
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, venture to East Lombok. Here you can find the Pink Beach, named after its rare rosy sand caused by coral fragments. The beach itself is calm and quiet, ideal for snorkeling or just enjoying some peace away from the crowds.
Τhe east is the island’s less developed part, so you get to have a closer look of rural Lombok, where life moves at a slower pace. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited, and embrace the serenity of Lombok’s hidden side.
Serene vibes at the stunning Pink Beach
Day 7: Last swim and departure
It’s your final day on the island, so you’d better savor one last morning at the beach, maybe back in Senggigi or Kuta Lombok. If you’re flying out in the afternoon, squeeze in a leisurely brunch and soak in the island atmosphere.
Saying goodbye to Lombok isn’t easy, but the good news is you can continue your Indonesia journey as the island is well-connected. From here, you can easily reach Bali, the Gilis, Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan. Find out more about the ferry routes:
- Lombok - Bali
- Lombok - Gili Trawangan
- Lombok - Gili Air
- Lombok - Nusa Penida
- Lombok - Nusa Lembongan
Can you combine Lombok with Bali or the Gili Islands?
Yes! Many travelers pair Lombok with Bali, since ferries from Padang Bai to Lombok take around 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also include the Gili Islands as part of your Lombok itinerary or even use them as a stopover between Bali and Lombok.
Best time to visit Lombok
The dry season (May-September) is perfect for beach days, trekking, and smooth ferry rides. If you’re visiting in the wet season (November-March), expect afternoon showers, but also greener landscapes and fewer tourists.
Getting around Lombok
- Renting a scooter gives you flexibility, especially around Kuta.
- Hiring a private driver is more comfortable for long-distance transfers.
- Fast boats connect Lombok with the Gilis and Bali daily.
Travel tips for Lombok
- Always carry some cash, especially outside tourist areas.
- Book activities, such as Rinjani trekking, with a licensed operator.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Lombok’s fragile coral reefs.
Plan your Lombok travel itinerary
Lombok is a destination that combines adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, gazing at waterfalls in the jungle, or standing at the foot of Mount Rinjani, this island offers experiences that are raw and authentic.
A Lombok travel itinerary is never one-size-fits-all; you can make it as laid-back or action-packed as you wish. Either way, it’s a destination that will win a special place in your heart.