Lombok wasn’t really on my radar at first. I had always heard of Bali—who hasn’t? But one casual chat with a traveler in a Gili café led to me booking a ride around Lombok. They described the island as “Bali before the crowds,” and that got me curious.
Now, having experienced the island firsthand, I get why some people fall deeply in love with it and never look back.
Landing in Paradise: The First Impression
I landed in Lombok on a warm Thursday afternoon. The airport was surprisingly relaxed, unlike the buzzing chaos of Bali. A wide smile greeted me—my local driver for the next few days. His English was decent, but it was his knowledge and love for the island that truly impressed me.
We drove past green rice paddies, sleepy villages, and kids waving at every car. It felt like time had slowed down. I wasn’t rushing from one tourist attraction to another; I was easing into island life.
Coastal Roads and Ocean Breezes
Our first stretch took us along the southwest coast. Picture this: a winding road where the sea keeps peeking out between palm trees. We stopped at small beaches where fishermen were fixing their nets, and no tourists were in sight.
If you’re the kind of person who enjoys coastal road trips, this island will spoil you. There’s a strong sense of freedom here. No tour buses blocking your view, no aggressive vendors pushing souvenirs—just open roads and salty wind.
My driver pointed out a few spots I’d never find on Google Maps. One was a hidden cove where I watched the sunset in total silence. It was surreal.
Mount Rinjani and the Highland Air
On day two, we left the coast and began climbing toward the north. The temperature dropped slightly as we entered the highlands near Mount Rinjani. Even from a distance, the volcano stood like a majestic guardian watching over the land.
We made spontaneous stops: a small coffee plantation, a village known for its traditional weaving, and a waterfall that required a short trek through bamboo forests. My guide told stories about the Sasak people and their customs. It added depth to the places we visited—it wasn’t just sightseeing; it was storytelling.
A Taste of Culture in Central Lombok
Midway through the journey, we veered inland. Central Lombok doesn’t get much attention, but that’s where you feel the heartbeat of the island. We visited a Sasak village where people still live in thatched-roof homes. I tried weaving (badly), and we shared snacks made from sticky rice and coconut.
I found it humbling—how warmly they welcomed a total stranger.
There was also a traditional market stop. No fancy cafés or curated Instagram spots, just the raw energy of local life. Women bartering over vegetables, children chasing each other barefoot, and the occasional chicken slipping through the stalls.
Gili Islands Viewpoint and the Northern Edge
Before looping back, we explored the northwestern tip of the island. The sea here turns from blue to turquoise, and you can see the famous Gili Islands across the water. I didn’t go to the islands on this trip—I wanted to experience mainland Lombok fully—but the view alone was worth it.
We had lunch by the cliffside, with the sea stretching endlessly in front of us. My driver had packed us some local treats, and we shared them while chatting about life, travel, and dreams.
That’s when I realized—this wasn’t just a vacation; it was a connection.
Why a Private Ride Changes Everything
Looking back, I think the reason I enjoyed this trip so much was because I wasn’t tied to a fixed itinerary. No rushing, no ticking off checklists. Having a private driver meant we could stop anywhere, change plans, or just sit quietly and take in a view.
And the best part? My driver wasn’t just a driver. He became a friend, a guide, and sometimes a translator. I asked him how travelers usually find services like his, and he mentioned a website called Lombok trip where people book custom tours with local drivers. It felt good to know I had supported someone directly instead of a big tour company.
The Unexpected Highlights
Here’s the thing: the best parts weren’t the ones I had planned.
- A temple ceremony we stumbled upon.
- A roadside warung where the food was so spicy I almost cried (but finished the plate anyway).
- An impromptu dip in a waterfall pool while still fully dressed.
- A conversation about dreams and childhoods with someone who lives a world apart from me—but somehow, we connected.
That’s the magic of traveling with locals on an open itinerary. It’s not just about where you go; it’s about how you experience it.
Planning Your Own Island Exploration
If you’re someone who enjoys:
- Authentic cultural experiences
- Flexible and relaxing road adventures
- Nature and scenery that hasn’t been overrun by tourists
- Friendly locals who genuinely want to share their stories
Then Lombok will deliver all that and more.
Let go of the rigid schedules and embrace a road-style journey. Whether you’re riding through quiet villages, hiking near waterfalls, or just sipping coffee with a view of the sea, there’s something about this island that touches your soul.
And trust me, having someone local to guide you makes all the difference. I’ve done solo road trips, group tours, and backpacking—but nothing felt quite like this journey.
So, if you ever find yourself craving a peaceful, beautiful, and enriching travel experience, think of this island next to Bali. It might just surprise you in the best possible way.
