Good to know

How to get to Nihiwatu

Security of local airlines in Indonesia has been a topic for a while. Whenever possible, Nihiwatu charters a plane by ATR, a Toulouse and Southern France-based regional aircraft manufacturer. Avions de Transport Régional (ATR) is the world leader in the 50 to 70-seat turboprop market and offers the comfort you seek.

Flying time from Bali to Sumba is approx. one hour. The airport is located in Temboka, southwest Sumba. The transfer to the resort is another hour and offers our guests a first glance at this fascinating island and its people.

Malaria

Malaria is common in most of Indonesia, and Sumba is no exception. While we are not concerned about you contracting malaria at Nihiwatu (it is taken seriously by regularly fogging the resort and the surrounding area. The rooms have mosquito nets and are sprayed daily by the staff), we recommend you take a malaria prophylactic if you plan on visiting local villages and other parts of the island.

If you are concerned we recommend that you wear a light and loose long sleeved shirt at night with similar long pants and use insect repellent.

Health and medication

Sumba is not developed, has almost none tourist infrastructure and therefore medical care is very limited. In case of an emergency one will be evacuated to Singapore, which has the best medical treatment in the region. We recommend a respective insurance policy that would cover cost in such an event.

Travel Safety

Though Indonesia has been going through political changes, Nihiwatu remains a safe place to visit. In Bali and Sumba the situation is peaceful, friendly and stable.

Climate

Sumba is a very dry island with two main seasons, similar to Bali. Dry season: usually March through end of November. Months with more rain showers: December through end of February. During this time, the humidity is higher and short but heavy rain showers can be expected.

Local currency

Local currency on Sumba is Indonesia Rupiah (IDR 10’000 = approx. US$ 1.10). There are no money changing facilities on the island. The resort takes credit card payment for bar bills, shop purchases and activities at Nihiwatu. It is important that you change money in Bali so that you have cash on hand for purchases of handicrafts from the villages.