Lombok : Sharing Whale Shark Tour 2 Day 1 Night Sumbawa

Planning a trip to Indonesia and craving an extraordinary aquatic encounter? This Sharing Whale Shark Tour from Lombok to Sumbawa promises an adventure that combines stunning scenery with the chance to swim alongside the world’s gentle giants. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious traveler, this tour offers a unique peek into the marine life of West Nusa Tenggara.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the professional guides, the well-organized itinerary, and the opportunity for authentic, up-close whale shark encounters. The tour also emphasizes responsibility and safety, so you can enjoy your time knowing that conservation and respectful observation are priorities.

However, a potential consideration is the long travel time—with the journey from Lombok to Sumbawa taking about 4-5 hours including ferry crossings. For some, this might feel a bit lengthy, but many reviewers find the scenic routes and smooth logistics well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love adventure, aren’t afraid of a bit of travel, and want to experience one of the most iconic marine mammals in their natural habitat. It’s perfect for those seeking a combination of scenic exploration and meaningful wildlife interaction, provided you’re comfortable with the basic physical requirements.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience with expert guides ensuring safety and respect for wildlife.
• Comfortable transport with full air-conditioning, making long travel segments more pleasant.
• Early start allows for a prime snorkeling window with whale sharks.
• Multiple stops offering scenic views and cultural insights along the route.
• Flexible booking options and cancelation policies for peace of mind.
• Limited group sizes for a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off from Mataram, Lombok, at 09:30 AM, with a prompt departure at 10:00 AM. The journey begins with a scenic two-hour drive to Kayangan Harbour, where you’ll hop on a ferry around noon. The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours across the water, providing a chance to soak in views of the surrounding islands and the open sea—an experience in itself.

Once on the other side, the group heads to Poto Tano Harbour for a stop at a local restaurant for lunch (not included), which is a good opportunity to try local flavors and rest after the morning’s travel. The afternoon involves a drive to Sumbawa Besar, with a quick stop for a simple meal along the way.

By 6 PM, you’ll check into a hotel in Labuan Jambu, giving you some relaxation time and a chance to prepare for the early start the next day. Many reviews mention the clean, comfortable hotels as a highlight, with helpful staff and peaceful surroundings.

Early Morning Whale Shark Encounter

The real highlight starts at 4 AM. You’ll board a traditional boat—sometimes called a Begog—and head out to the whale shark sites. Arriving around 5 AM lets you catch the sunrise and be among the first snorkelers in the water. The tour supplies coffee, tea, fruits, and bread to keep you energized before the swim.

From 5:30 to 8 AM, you’ll be in the water with whale sharks, guided by experienced crew who prioritize responsibility and safety. The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and gentle the guides are, making the experience both safe and awe-inspiring. One traveler shared, “Our guides were very professional, and the experience was incredible.”

Post-Snorkeling and Return Journey

After your time with the whale sharks, you’ll head back to the harbor, then return to the hotel for breakfast. The rest of the morning is free for you to relax or explore before heading back to Lombok around 3 PM via ferry. Expect to arrive in Kayangan by 4:30 PM, then drive back to Mataram, with an estimated arrival time between 7 and 8 PM.

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Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses full-air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drives more comfortable. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and drivers, with some travelers mentioning the clean, comfortable cars and attentive service. You can opt for private groups or small shared groups, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility.

The Cost and Value

While the price isn’t explicitly listed here, the detailed itinerary and high-quality guides suggest this is a well-priced option for such a specialized activity. The value lies in the expert guidance, authentic wildlife encounter, and scenic journey. The tour also has a flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding to its appeal.

What Reviewers Loved

Multiple travelers praised the professional guides and crew, with one stating, “The guides for the boat and the site were incredibly gentle and helpful.” The scenic views along the route, from the mountainous landscapes to the ocean vistas, also received high marks. Several mentioned the cleanliness and comfort of the hotels and transport.

Considerations and Tips

Given the early start, you’ll need to bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen. The tour advises bringing cash for meals and extras, and a wetsuit if you prefer additional warmth in the water.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with health issues, or individuals with mobility challenges, so check your personal health before booking. Also, keep in mind that if a whale shark isn’t spotted, the tour can be extended for an extra hotel charge—so patience is key.

Responsible Wildlife Watching

The tour emphasizes responsibility—guides are trained to ensure minimal disturbance to the whale sharks, aligning with conservation efforts. This makes the experience not just thrilling but also respectful of the animals’ natural habitat, which travelers universally appreciated.

Final Thoughts

This Sharing Whale Shark Tour from Lombok to Sumbawa offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife interaction. The carefully curated itinerary, combined with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, makes it a solid choice for travelers eager for an authentic marine experience.

While the travel logistics are substantial, most reviewers find the journey and the chance to see whale sharks in their natural environment well worth it. It’s especially suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy long days of exploration, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a meaningful encounter with one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.

In summary, if you’re looking for a well-organized, responsible, and visually stunning tour that promises unforgettable memories, this Sumbawa whale shark trip is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day of travel and an early start—your patience will be rewarded with some truly magical moments.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts for 2 days and 1 night, including travel, snorkeling, and downtime.

What time does the tour start?
Departure from Mataram is at 10:00 AM, with check-in at the office by 09:30 AM. The early morning whale shark snorkeling begins around 4 AM on the second day.

Is the ferry included?
Yes, the ferry from Lombok to Sumbawa is part of the itinerary, crossing around noon on Day 1 and returning in the late afternoon of Day 2.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, cash, and wetsuit if you prefer additional warmth.

Can I extend the tour if no whale sharks are seen?
Yes, the tour can be extended if no whale sharks are spotted, with an additional hotel charge. Patience is often necessary as whale sharks are wild animals.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with health issues, or individuals with mobility or respiratory conditions.

What’s included in the price?
While specific prices aren’t listed, the tour includes professional guides, transportation, boat trips, and hotel accommodation. Meals are at your own expense during stops.

Are small groups available?
Yes, private or small group options are available, offering a more personalized experience.

How responsible is the wildlife interaction?
Very responsible. The guides emphasize safety and conservation, ensuring minimal disturbance to the whale sharks during your swim.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this tour fits your travel style and expectations. With a balance of adventure, comfort, and respect for nature, it promises a memorable Indonesian marine adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby