Moyo Island's forested shore and turquoise reef from the air

Sumbawa, east of Lombok, is a large, quiet island of savannah, grassland and dry hills, long known for raising horses and cattle. Off its north coast, at the mouth of Saleh Bay, lies Moyo, an island of about 350 km² that is largely a protected reserve: savannah and forest inland, home to deer, macaques, wild pigs and some 86 species of birds, with its entire coastline a marine conservation area.

Forest trails lead to the terraced pools of Mata Jitu Waterfall, and the reefs around the island are excellent for snorkelling and diving. The dry season runs roughly from May to October; in the wet months the landscape is greener and the waterfalls fuller. Moyo suits couples, nature lovers, divers and anyone looking for true seclusion far from busy resorts.

Selected hotels