Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $7–15 | $20–50 |
| Food | $3–8 | $10–25 |
| Transport | $4–8 | $10–25 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $20–50 |
| Entry Fees | $1–5 | $5–15 |
| Daily Total | $20–50 | $65–165 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) costs 500,000 IDR (~$35) for 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance at all times
- Lombok International Airport (LOP) has direct flights from Bali, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential — nearest major hospital is in Mataram
- Bring a basic first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, painkillers, and any personal medication
- Mosquito repellent is essential — dengue fever is present in Lombok. Use DEET-based repellent, especially at dusk
Getting Around
- Motorbike rental is the standard transport — 60,000–80,000 IDR per day with an international driving permit
- Download offline maps before arriving — mobile data coverage is patchy in rural and southern coastal areas
- Shared transport (ojek, bemo) is available but infrequent outside main towns. Ride-hailing apps work in Mataram only
Connectivity
- Buy a Telkomsel SIM card at the airport for reliable 4G data — the best coverage across the island
- WiFi is available at most accommodation but speeds vary greatly. Download offline maps and guides in advance
- Share your itinerary with someone at home, especially for Rinjani treks or remote beach visits
Money
- Currency: IDR (Indonesian Rupiah). Cash is essential — many places do not accept cards outside Kuta and Senggigi
- ATMs are available in Kuta, Senggigi, and Mataram. Withdraw in larger amounts to reduce transaction fees
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated — round up at restaurants or leave 5–10% for good service
Packing Tips
- Reef-safe sunscreen, reef shoes, and a rash guard are essential for beach and snorkelling activities
- A lightweight rain jacket is useful even in dry season — mountain areas and waterfalls generate spray
- Quick-dry clothing is ideal — you can wash and wear repeatedly, reducing pack weight for island hopping
Cultural tips
Respect Sasak Culture
Lombok is predominantly Muslim Sasak — dress modestly when visiting villages and mosques. Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional villages.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all rubbish, especially on beaches and waterfall trails. Lombok's natural beauty is its greatest asset and plastic waste is a growing problem. Bring a reusable water bottle and refuse single-use plastics where possible.
Photography Etiquette
Always ask before photographing locals, particularly in Sasak villages and during ceremonies. Many villagers are happy to be photographed but consent is essential. Avoid using drones near villages or religious sites without permission.
Language & Communication
Learn basic Indonesian — selamat pagi (good morning), terima kasih (thank you), and berapa harga (how much) go a long way. English is spoken in tourist areas but limited elsewhere. A translation app helps in rural regions.
Support Local Communities
Choose locally-owned homestays, warungs, and guides over international chains. Buy handicrafts directly from artisans in weaving and pottery villages. Your spending has the most impact when it stays in the local economy.
Pace & Patience
Lombok runs on island time — buses leave when full, warungs cook when ready, and rushing is counterproductive. Embrace the slower pace and you will find the island reveals its best moments to those who are patient.
