Lombok sits just east of Bali across a narrow strait, but has developed at a fraction of the pace, beaches that would be crowded resort strips in Bali remain here largely undeveloped, and Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's second-highest volcano, offers one of Southeast Asia's most demanding and rewarding treks.
Mount Rinjani
Mount Rinjani, an active volcano rising to 3,726 metres, is typically climbed over two to three days, with the reward at the summit being a view down into a crater lake (Segara Anak) and a smaller, newer volcanic cone actively steaming within it, a genuinely dramatic sight for those who complete the demanding trek.
The trek requires a licensed guide and porter, and conditions on the mountain change with weather and volcanic activity, check current trail status before committing, as sections occasionally close following eruptions or landslides.
Beaches and the Gili Islands
Selong Belanak and Kuta Lombok (not to be confused with Bali's more famous Kuta) offer wide, uncrowded beaches with strong surf breaks, a low-key alternative to the resort development found on Bali's equivalent coastlines.
The Gili Islands, three small car-free islands off Lombok's northwest coast, are reachable by boat and offer snorkelling with sea turtles in clear water, Gili Trawangan has the most nightlife, while Gili Meno and Gili Air remain quieter and more suited to a slower pace.
Recommended Stay · Lombok · Northwest Coast
The Oberoi, Lombok
A beachfront resort with private pavilions set among tropical gardens, facing a quiet stretch of coastline with views toward the Gili Islands.
