I still remember my first time exploring Lombok by car. The island greeted me with its blend of ocean breeze and the scent of fresh rain on the hills. It was early morning, and the streets of Mataram were just waking up — market vendors arranging baskets of fruit, schoolchildren in crisp uniforms waiting by the roadside, and the distant call of a mosque echoing through the air.
I had one goal that day: to see as much of Lombok as possible without feeling rushed. My driver told me we’d cover beaches, hills, villages, and maybe even a hidden waterfall if time allowed. What I didn’t expect was how much the journey itself would feel like a story unfolding.
Starting from the Heart of the Island
Leaving Mataram, we headed north. The city slowly gave way to sprawling rice paddies, each plot reflecting the morning sky like a mirror. Farmers in conical hats were already hard at work, ankle-deep in water. My driver pointed out Mount Rinjani in the distance, its peak still shrouded in a gentle mist.
We made our first stop at a small roadside stall for Lombok coffee. The aroma alone was enough to wake me up completely. Sitting on a wooden bench, sipping the strong, earthy brew, I watched motorbikes zip past while roosters wandered freely between the houses.
Climbing into the Highlands
The road began to wind upward, and soon the temperature dropped. We passed through small villages where life seemed untouched by time. Children waved from the roadside, and the occasional sound of traditional music drifted from an open window.
In one village, we stopped to visit a weaving cooperative. Inside, women were working on wooden looms, their hands moving quickly to create colorful songket patterns. One of them explained that each motif tells a story — about the sea, the mountains, or even a personal journey.
A Hidden Waterfall in the Forest
From the highlands, my driver suggested a short detour to a waterfall he knew. The path was shaded by thick foliage, with birds chirping overhead and the occasional monkey darting between the branches.
When we reached the waterfall, I understood why he called it “hidden.” The cascade fell into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by smooth rocks, and there wasn’t another person in sight. I sat on the edge, letting the cool spray hit my face, and thought about how these are the moments you can’t plan — you just have to let them happen.
Down to the Coast
By midday, we began our descent toward the coast. The sea appeared like a sheet of sapphire in the distance, growing larger with every turn. We followed the road until it opened onto a stretch of white sand framed by coconut palms.
Fishermen were repairing their nets under the shade, while children played in the shallows. The water was so clear that I could see small fish darting around the rocks. We lingered here for a while, just enjoying the rhythm of the waves.
An Afternoon of Culture and Color
Later, we drove to a Sasak village, where the houses are made from bamboo and thatch. A local elder welcomed us and shared stories about traditional ceremonies. In one corner, a group of women were teaching young girls how to weave, while men prepared offerings for an upcoming celebration.
It was a reminder that Lombok’s beauty isn’t just in its landscapes but also in its people and traditions.
The Road to Sunset
As the day drew to a close, we headed west to catch the sunset. The coastal road offered breathtaking views — waves crashing against cliffs, fishing boats silhouetted against the horizon, and stretches of golden sand that seemed endless.
We stopped at a viewpoint just as the sun began its descent. The sky turned a mix of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting off the water in shimmering patterns. It felt like the perfect end to a day of exploration.
For anyone wanting to experience the island in this way — not just moving from place to place, but truly connecting with it — booking through Lombok drive can be the difference between a simple trip and a memorable journey.
Why the Journey Matters as Much as the Destination
Driving through Lombok is more than a means of getting around. It’s about the small stops, the unplanned detours, the conversations with locals, and the countless views that you can’t see from a tour bus or a quick ferry ride.
Whether it’s the cool air of the highlands, the salty breeze along the coast, or the earthy scent of the forest, each part of the island feels distinct yet connected.
Ending the Day with Gratitude
When we finally returned to Mataram, the city was bathed in warm streetlight. Night markets were in full swing, with the smell of grilled satay and fresh seafood filling the air. I stepped out of the car feeling both exhausted and deeply satisfied.
I had covered so much ground in one day, but it didn’t feel hurried. Instead, it felt like I’d been given a glimpse into many different faces of the island — each one as memorable as the last