Sumba day 2: rice field, waterfall, sunset hill

We had a full day that started with 7 miles run for me at the gym. I contemplated running outside and realized that for safety reason better not, especially given that the roads are narrow and hilly. The run put me in a great mood to start the day. Breakfast was basic as there are not many guests in the hotel but they served vegetables so I was happy.

8:30am we departed to our first designation, an hour away, Waikelo & Waikacura rice fields. It’s a real rice field, so neat and organized. In bali, the rice fields that one can visit are usually for display only, not for real production. But this one is legit and so beautiful.

people actually working in the field

then we saw this little pool and it looks surreal, so peaceful and calm. We couldn’t believe it’s pure nature

Then we left for our second spot, 30 min away drive, to get to Lokomboro waterfall. Again, no other tourists so we were the only ones trying to get closer to the waterfall. The two guides were super helpful to assist as the path was not easy and required a lot of balancing

finally got to the water and Sofia jumped in right away. The water was fresh and calm. The color turquoise comes from the mineral of the rocks, so beautiful

Lizzy got a scratch on the way so we had to stay dry

I ventured out and went in too.

we spent an hour there before leaving this beautiful little waterfall. Our guide told us there was horse racing in town, so we went to check it out. I was surprised to see many men watching and wondered why they were not working on a Monday. But yes, island farm life follows a different schedule.

Then we picked up our packed lunch box and went to the top of the hill. It had a Rio de Janeiro feel

Next was to visit Tarung Village, a traditional way of locals living. Each house has two levels, the bottom level is for the animals (horses, pig, dogs), top level for the people. It was interesting to see how this traditional culture co-live with the modern world. I saw many buffalo horns hanging in their walls. Our guide explained to us that when someone dies in the family, they kill buffalos are sacrifice. The bigger the horn, the richer the family. Also, the tradition is for each family to build the graveyard in front of their houses. It looks like a smaller house, it has a door, so it can be opened when another member of the family dies. We see those grave houses all over the island.

we got back to the hotel for some rest before going out to the Lendongara Hill for the sunset. Unfortunately, it was crowded but it was still a beautiful scene to end our day.

This island has many beautiful sites, pristine and untouched, yet there are so few tourists visiting. I feel lucky to know about it and came with the family to enjoy this nature beautiful and quiet island life.