When you visit Indonesia, you must know that each region has a different culture. Even the two neighbouring islands, Lombok and Bali, are already completely different. So, prepare yourself beforehand about what to expect. Let’s dive in and learn everything you need to know about Lombok.
General info about Lombok
The island has a majority Muslim population. So when you explore Lombok, you will not find a lot of Hindu temples, but an abundance of mosques. It is often referred to as ‘the island of 1000 mosques’.
Another fact you need to know about Lombok is that it is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. The island itself is about 4,738.65 km² and inhabits some 3.8 million people. The highest point is a massive volcano called Mount Rinjani, which you can scale during your visit. The peak lies at 3,727 m above sea level.
As the climate is tropical, there are only two seasons. Choose your best time to visit Lombok by learning about the wet and dry seasons. Both have their virtues and disadvantages. But, more on that later.
What to know before visiting Lombok
Before visiting, it will be very helpful if you find out as much information about Lombok as possible. There are certain aspects that you can prepare yourself for. For instance, there is still malaria in Lombok. However, it is not as big of a threat as you might think.
Malaria
The government takes the issue seriously and works on preventing infections by extinguishing mosquitos. All you have to do is to prevent mosquito bites. This way is the best way to prevent yourself from malaria in Lombok.
There are several preventive medicines you can use before visiting. Or you can buy a mosquito-repellent lotion and use the mosquito nets. These are available at hotels or resorts in the areas where it’s most needed.
Covid rules in Lombok
Furthermore, when talking about COVID-19 in Lombok covid, the regulations keep updating. To visit the island, they require that you are fully vaccinated. You can prove this with a Covid vaccine certificate (minimum 2 doses).
Indonesian visa
When you arrive in Indonesia, you can make use of the Visa On Arrival (VOA). This is available both in Lombok International Airport as well as in Bali, Jakarta and other international flight hubs. The free VOA is valid for 30 days and can’t be extended. Best check beforehand that a VOA is available for your nationality.
However, you can opt for the paid Visa On Arrival. This cost IDR 500,000 (USD 33.80 | EUR 30.75 | AUD 50.00) and can be paid before passing the immigration counter in the airport. The initial visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. To do so, you will need to visit an immigration office. In Lombok, this is in Mataram. Or you can use the services of a visa agent.
Furthermore, there is a new eVOA. You can apply for this online before your holiday to Indonesia. After receiving the visa, you have to use it within 90 days. But, be aware that the visa itself is still only valid for 30 days. At the moment of writing, citizens of 87 countries are eligible for the eVOA.
How to get to Lombok
Geographically, Lombok is located among many beautiful islands. It’s to the east of Bali and west of Sumbawa, Komodo, and Labuan Bajo, which are no less gorgeous. Because of that, you can also take trips to and from the adjacent tourist destinations using ferries, fast boats and sailing boats.
For a less scenic, but shorter trip, you can travel by plane. A domestic flight between Bali and Lombok only takes 20 to 40 minutes. Therefore, it’s the most popular way to get to Lombok.
Don’t forget to choose the first location for your visit. The main tourist destinations are the Gili’s, Senggigi, Senaru, and of course South Lombok with Kuta, Selong Belanak, and Serangan. When searching about Lombok, you will find that it’s very easy and efficient to rent a motorbike or car to travel around.
Best time to visit Lombok
What the actual best time to visit Lombok is, will depend on your preferences. Therefore, we simply highlight several aspects to consider when planning your vacation to Indonesia.
Indonesian holidays
If you travel to Indonesia, please note that long holidays do not depend on the season like in other countries. Several student semester holidays coincide with religious holidays. Because of the Muslim majority in Indonesia, Eid al-Fitr or Idul Fitri is a long Indonesian holiday.
Next, Christmas, New Year, and the accompanying holiday season is also peak season. This is similar to Julu, August, and September as the European holiday season. Apart from these long holidays, you should also pay attention to the Indonesian public holidays 2023 to know when locals are travelling.
Seasons in Indonesia
When we talk about the Lombok seasons, you should know that there are only tow of them. You have the rainy and the dry seasons.
While the dry season is perfect for those of you who want to enjoy Lombok for its water sports. The Lombok rainy season is perfect for enjoying nature. Also consider that during the latter, Lombok looks greener. Moreover, this doesn't mean that it will rain continuously throughout the day. You will still be able to keep doing activities outside throughout the day.
Special events
Special events such as Ramadan Lombok, will be felt more on the island. Just before iftar (break fasting), you will have lots of street food vendors around you. This is one of the best times for culinary exploration. And just before Eid al-Fitr, you will find almost all mosques beautifully decorated and parades all day long.
If you celebrate Christmas, don't worry. You can still go to church or take part in a gift exchange event or meet Santa for your baby for Christmas in Lombok.
Finally, there are world-class events in Lombok. These are international race events like motoGP or WSBK and several large music festivals. If you don't want to get caught up in the busy streets surrounding these events, you should plan your trip accordingly.
Other aspects
Apart from external factors as above, you also have to consider the best time to visit Lombok for certain activities. Like the best time for surfing, snorkeling, or hiking. In these cases, sunlight, wave height, wind, or rainfall can be important factors in planning your holiday.
Tips & tricks for your Lombok holiday
Actually what you should know before visiting is about Lombok info in general. Because each region in Indonesia has different characteristics. Like Lombok vs Bali which, although they have similarities in nature, culture, and infrastructure, they are still quite different.
But, regarding Indonesian etiquette, each region has similarities. For example, locals do not make excessive physical contact to say hello. Just shake hands or nod when meeting with the elderly or saying hello. Please dress properly, especially when visiting religious places. Don't use bikinis or swimwear away from the beach or swimming pool. And other small things like not using your left hand to give or receive something are recommended.
It is certainly worth your time to read all about Lombok before travelling to the island. We upload new articles every week highlighting a new aspect of your holiday. Discover Lombok through our guide for insights from ‘locals’ with hidden gems and more.
You will find all the info about Lombok that you need. Learn, for instance, that the island is very versatile when it comes to activities. It’s perfect for hiking a majestic volcano, a fun family trip, beginner and pro wave surfing, a romantic honeymoon, snorkeling between colourful fish, and much more.
So for all the latest Lombok tips and tricks, visit the explore section of the Amazing Lombok Resort website. It is also the best place to stay in Lombok. Complete with tropical infinity pool, outstanding restaurant, and relaxing green environment.
Last updated on: 08 June 2026