Written by SACO on November 09, 2026.
Sumbawa's most remarkable attractions, Moyo Island, Satonda Island and the whale sharks of Saleh Bay, are all found along the island's northern coast. Although they lie close to one another, visiting each one separately can take considerable time and planning.
SACO, a local tour organizer based in Sumbawa, offers a simpler and more rewarding way to experience them. Our sailing trip follows a route off the beaten path through West Nusa Tenggara, bringing these highlights together in one seamless journey.
What you'll experience :
• Moyo Island : pristine nature, jungle trails and clear waters on one of Indonesia's most unspoiled islands
• Satonda Island : a striking crater lake set inside an ancient volcano
• Small islands along the route : quiet beaches and vibrant coral for snorkeling
• Saleh Bay : a memorable encounter with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean
Trip details
• Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
• Start and finish: Goa Port, Sumbawa Besar
With experienced local guides and a carefully planned route, SACO lets you enjoy the best of northern Sumbawa in comfort, without the hassle of arranging separate trips.
Contact us to reserve your place on our next departure.
Written by SACO on November 09, 2026.
If there is one experience you shouldn't miss in Sumbawa, it's Barapan Kebo, the island's traditional buffalo race. Picture a pair of powerful buffalo charging through a flooded rice field, mud flying everywhere, while a jockey balances on a simple wooden sled behind them and the crowd roars from the edges of the field. It's thrilling, raw, and unforgettable.
More Than a Race
Barapan Kebo isn't only about speed. The real goal is to steer the buffalo straight toward a wooden pole, called the saka, planted at the end of the field. Behind the excitement lie values the people of Sumbawa have passed down for generations :
• Harmony between humans, animals, and nature
• Teamwork and trust, since the jockey and buffalo must move as one
• Focus and determination, keeping your eyes on the goal despite the obstacles
• Gratitude for the land that feeds the community
A Celebration After the Harvest
Traditionally, the race was held after the harvest as a way for farmers to celebrate, relax, and bring the whole village together. That festive spirit lives on today, with music, laughter, and plenty of friendly rivalry.
Experience It Yourself
What began as a farmers' celebration has become one of Sumbawa's most popular attractions. You can now watch Barapan Kebo every week, combined with a village tour just a few minutes from downtown Sumbawa Besar. It's a rare chance to see living tradition up close, meet the local community, and discover the heart of Sumbawa culture.
Written by SACO on November 09, 2026.
Sumbawa is home to one of the largest whale shark populations in Indonesia. They gather in Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh), a large, semi-enclosed bay on the island's north coast. Early each morning, these gentle giants rise to the surface around the bagan — traditional floating fishing platforms — where local fishermen share part of their catch with them. This gives visitors a rare chance to see and snorkel alongside the world's largest fish up close in calm, clear water.
Our Whale Shark Tours
Speed Boat Day Tour
Make the most of a single day with our fast and comfortable speed boat trip. The tour starts and finishes in Sumbawa Besar or on Moyo Island, so you can easily fit it into your travel plans. Spend the morning snorkeling with the whale sharks, then head back in time to relax.
Liveaboard Tour
For a more relaxed and immersive experience, join our liveaboard tour. Sleep on board, wake up close to the whale sharks before sunrise, and be among the first in the water. It's the perfect choice for travelers who want more time at sea and a deeper adventure around Saleh Bay.
Land & Sea Adventure — Start & Finish in Sumbawa Besar
Short on time but big on adventure? This is the trip for you. Starting and ending in Sumbawa Besar, our Land & Sea Adventure packs the best of Sumbawa into one smooth, hassle-free journey. No complicated transfers, no wasted days, just more time doing what you came for: exploring the island and swimming alongside the gentle giants of Saleh Bay.
Island Camping Tour
Why spend the night staring at hotel walls when you could fall asleep under a sky full of stars? On this tour, you'll camp on a quiet island right inside the bay, surrounded by calm water and fresh sea air. Watch the sunset, relax on the beach, and wake up already close to the action. Then, as the morning light breaks, we set sail to where the whale shark gather for an unforgettable encounter.
Book Your Trip
To check availability, prices and departure dates, contact us at :
📱 WhatsApp : +6281547405090
✉️ Email : sumbawasharedcost@gmail.com
Good to know : Whale sharks are most active in the early morning, so tours start early. Please keep a respectful distance, don't touch the sharks, and avoid flash photography.
