NIHI Sumba: The Allure of a World-Class Luxury Hotel

2026年7月9日

What makes NIHI Sumba the ultimate celebrity choice on Sumba Island?

NIHI Sumba, located on Indonesia's Sumba Island, is a dream destination that captivates celebrities and discerning travelers from around the globe.

The iconic sight of horses swimming in the ocean and the luxury spaces blending seamlessly with untouched nature are truly breathtaking.

It has been repeatedly honored as the best hotel in Asia by prestigious travel publications such as Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

I’ll be sharing the full charm of NIHI Sumba based on my personal experience during my stay.

This article is perfect for:

・Perfect for those searching for a "once-in-a-lifetime" dream resort.

・Ideal for anyone interested in exploring Sumba or Indonesia's remote islands.

・Best for those seeking a luxury escape surrounded by pristine ocean and nature.

・Great for travelers who want to stay at a world-renowned, award-winning property.

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Authentic local insights from a Japanese woman living in Bali, based on firsthand experience.

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Location and Access: How to Reach NIHI Sumba

Sumba Island is located just three or four islands away from Bali.

Since there are no direct flights from Japan, you'll need to catch a connection in Bali.

Sumba has two airports—Waingapu in the east and Tambolaka in the west; Tambolaka is the one you'll use for NIHI Sumba.

The direct flight from Bali to Tambolaka Airport takes approximately one and a half hours.

I traveled on a small propeller plane operated by Wings Air, a domestic Indonesian airline.

Upon arrival, a private NIHI Sumba vehicle will be waiting for you. From there, it's a scenic 1.5-hour drive south to the coastal resort.

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A Breathtaking Blend of Natural Beauty and Luxury

The journey from the airport to the resort reveals a wilderness far more raw and vast than that of Bali, brimming with rustic charm. It truly embodies the essence of "untouched nature" in every sense.

Horses and cows are everywhere, creating a beautiful sense of coexistence where humans and animals live as one. Historically, every household owned a horse, and you can still feel how deeply these animals are cherished as both vital companions and workers.

Local children from the village neighboring the resort. ♡

A whole fresh coconut to welcome you upon arrival.

The moment I arrived, I felt as though I had stepped into one expansive, magnificent village.

The villas are so incredibly spacious that it’s nearly impossible to fit an entire unit into a single camera frame!

Every accommodation at NIHI Sumba is a standalone private villa.

Options range from intimate one-bedroom villas to expansive three-bedroom estates and even whimsical treehouses, making you want to experience every single one.

It’s the kind of place that leaves you spoiled for choice.

The private pool of a two-bedroom villa.

This, too, is your own private sanctuary.

Indulging in a Luxurious All-Inclusive Stay

Stays at NIHI Sumba are fully all-inclusive, covering all three daily meals.

With two on-site restaurants and 24-hour butler service, you have the freedom to dine wherever you please—from the vibrant dining rooms to the privacy of your villa.

If you’re worried that dining only within the resort might get repetitive, think again!

Every dish is so exceptional that you’ll find yourself wanting to repeat favorites, yet the extensive menu makes every choice a delightful challenge.

With a Japanese chef supervising the kitchen, the Japanese offerings are outstanding; sushi and katsudon were especially popular among international guests.

For a coffee lover like me, it was pure paradise—chilled iced coffees and lattes can be delivered anywhere, whether you’re lounging by the pool or on the terrace.

Your room is also stocked with snacks, vodka, and whiskey—all complimentary and replenished daily. The only dining-related expense I encountered was for the wine at the restaurant.

(Though the glass of wine I chose was roughly 2,700 JPY... a bit of a shock to the wallet! lol)

How to Spend Your Time at NIHI Sumba: Recommended Activities

At the vast NIHI Sumba, a wide variety of engaging activities are available, both complimentary and paid.

The one experience you absolutely cannot miss is "Swimming with Horses"—it's a truly unique highlight I highly recommend!

Riding on horseback and swimming through the waves together!

NIHI Sumba has its own dedicated stables, providing a sanctuary for retired racehorses and injured horses who are cared for with great love.

In the early mornings and evenings, you can witness herds of horses strolling along the beach—a sight that is truly profound and beautiful.

Because they are so well-loved by the staff, every horse is incredibly friendly and sweet. It was my first time interacting with horses in such a free-roaming environment, and it was an absolutely exhilarating experience!

The resort also features a chocolate shop with free workshops, beachside massages, and spa programs that include professional-grade trekking.