Must-see! Sumba, Indonesia: Explore the tribal customs and treasures of a pristine island

Sumba Island Highlights 1. Unique Culture - Traditional Villages and Architecture: Sumba Island retains many traditional villages, such as those near Waikabubak. The houses here have a unique architectural style, with thatched roofs and walls made of mud and wood. They are conical in shape, resembling overturned boats. The layout of the villages follows traditional planning, with a central area usually reserved for ceremonies. Here, you can see the locals still maintaining their ancient way of life and carrying on traditional crafts such as weaving and wood carving. - Pasola Festival: This is the grandest and most unique festival in Sumba, held every two years (in even-numbered years) from February to March. During the festival, local riders, dressed in traditional costumes, ride ornately decorated horses and engage in mock battles with spears. This is not only a fierce competition but also a celebration carrying the profound cultural significance of praying for a good harvest and worshipping ancestors. It is full of primitive and mysterious colors. 2. Natural Scenery - Stunning Beaches: Sumba Island boasts many undeveloped beaches, such as Lawahide Beach. The sand here is white and fine, the coastline stretches for miles, and the seawater displays a mesmerizing blue-green hue, crystal clear to the bottom. With moderate waves, it's a surfer's paradise, allowing you to fully enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. At the same time, the coconut groves swaying in the wind around the beach create a pleasant tropical seaside atmosphere. - Inland Plateaus and Waterfalls: The inland plateau area of the island offers magnificent scenery with lush tropical vegetation. Some waterfalls hidden in the jungle, such as Lapopu Waterfall, cascade down from great heights, creating a picturesque landscape surrounded by verdant plants. While hiking to the waterfalls, you can also admire various rare plants and animals. 3. Special Cuisine - Babi Guling (Roast Suckling Pig): Although most of Indonesia is influenced by Islam and prohibits pork, Sumba Island, due to its unique religious culture, offers this delicacy. Babi Guling is made with local suckling pig marinated in various spices and slow-roasted over charcoal. The roasted pig has a golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Served with a special sauce, it is incredibly delicious. - Tumpeng: This is a ceremonial traditional food, cone-shaped and made of piled-up rice, surrounded by various side dishes such as vegetables, meat, and eggs. Different colored side dishes represent different meanings, and it is usually eaten during important festivals or special occasions. Best Time to Visit 1. April - October: This period is the dry season in Sumba. There is less rainfall, the weather is sunny and clear, and it is suitable for various outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming at the beach, or hiking inland to waterfalls. During the dry season, road conditions are better, making it easier to travel to various attractions without worrying about muddy roads or traffic inconvenience due to rain. This period is also a good time to watch local traditional ceremonies and festivals, allowing you to better experience the unique culture of Sumba. Precautions 1. Cultural Respect: Sumba Island has unique and profound cultural traditions. When visiting traditional villages, respect local customs and religious beliefs. Do not enter private property or photograph locals without permission, especially during ceremonies. If you want to take photos, it is best to ask for their consent first. 2. Outdoor Activity Safety: When engaging in water activities such as surfing, choose certified instructors and equipment rental shops to ensure the safety of the equipment. When hiking to remote areas such as inland waterfalls, it is best to hire a local guide. They are familiar with the terrain and environment and can help you avoid getting lost or encountering danger. Also, bring enough drinking water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. 3. Food Hygiene: When trying local food at small restaurants or markets, pay attention to food hygiene and avoid eating unclean food that may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. As sanitation conditions in some areas of Sumba may be limited, try to choose cooked food and drink bottled water. 4. Transportation: The transportation infrastructure in Sumba is relatively weak, and public transportation is not well-developed. Renting a car and driving yourself is a more convenient way to get around, but road conditions may be poor, so drive carefully. If you choose to take local transportation, such as minibuses or motorcycles, pay attention to your safety and wear protective gear such as helmets. 5. Medical Care: Familiarize yourself with the distribution of medical facilities on the island in advance and bring some common medicines, such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness medicine. If you experience any physical discomfort during your trip, seek medical attention promptly.