Mataram’s 12 Best Tours & Experiences

Mataram offers more than just a gateway to Lombok’s beaches and rice paddies. It’s a vibrant hub packed with diverse tours and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers—whether you’re craving underwater adventures, cultural insights, or scenic hikes. We particularly like the Hidden East Gili’s Lombok Private Snorkeling Tour for its combination of marine life and tranquil beaches, or the Lombok: Private Pink Beach & Gili Snorkeling Tour with GoPro for a hassle-free day of coastline exploration. These tours stand out for their well-rounded itineraries, excellent reviews, and unique access to Lombok’s less-visited spots. If you’re planning your trip, check out the full list below to see which adventures match your interests.

Quick Overview

Our list features a variety of tours in Mataram, from a full-day private snorkeling trip exploring Gili islands and mangrove forests, to cultural city tours visiting markets and mosques. For those who love the outdoors, we recommend the Lombok Waterfalls & Bukit Selong Private Tour or the Lombok River Tubing & Waterfalls. For marine life enthusiasts, options like the Whale Shark Tours to Sumbawa and Gili snorkeling adventures are hard to beat. Food lovers can enjoy the Lombok Traditional Cooking Class, while those seeking culture can explore the Lombok: Mataram City Tour and Lingsar Temple visit. Each offers a different flavor of Lombok—so read on to find your ideal experience.

1. Hidden East Gili’s Lombok Private Snorkeling Tour

This tour takes you into Lombok’s lesser-known waters, exploring Gili Petagan, Gili Bidara, Gili Kapal, and Gili Kondo. It’s ideal if you want to combine marine life, mangroves, and pristine beaches in one day. The trip includes a drive through a mangrove forest—a peaceful setting for photos—and stops for snorkeling at two vibrant spots. Gili Kondo, in particular, is described as a snorkeler’s paradise with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 by 27 reviews, this private tour is praised for its flexibility and knowledgeable guides. The full-day experience (10-12 hours) offers a rare chance to visit less crowded spots, with options to relax, snorkel, or enjoy free time on the beaches. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an adventure that’s both relaxing and immersive, with the option to customize stops. Practical details include hotel pickup, private group service, and high-quality transport.

Bottom line: If you want a personalized, nature-focused day exploring Lombok’s underwater world and mangroves, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see Lombok’s hidden treasures.

2. Lombok: Private Pink Beach & Gili Snorkeling Tour with GoPro

At number 2, this 8-hour tour offers a seamless experience exploring Pink Beach, Gili Petel, and Gili Gambir. It’s known for its full seafood lunch, snorkeling with colorful fish, and complimentary GoPro to capture the underwater moments. The tour combines scenic boat rides with stops at beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots, which are less accessible on your own.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 11 reviews, travelers highlight the well-organized itinerary and the professional photographer. The trip includes scenic views, swimming, and photo opportunities—a perfect choice for social media lovers and underwater enthusiasts. Pickup is included from key locations like Mataram, Kuta, and Senggigi. The tour also features scenic views en route, making it a well-rounded day.

Bottom line: For about 8 hours of relaxing, snorkeling, and beautiful scenery, this tour provides great value with added extras like a GoPro and seafood lunch, especially suitable for families or couples.

3. Private Tour Lombok Pink Beach and Snorkeling

This 9-hour private adventure emphasizes crystal-clear waters, exotic beaches, and coral reefs. Starting with Guided tours at Pulau Pasir, Pink Beach, and Gili Petel, it offers plenty of photo stops and free time for swimming or relaxing. The tour focuses on less crowded beaches, allowing you to enjoy peaceful snorkeling and beach lounging.

Rated 5/5 by six reviews, this trip appeals to travelers seeking a quiet, personalized experience. The itinerary includes stops at Pink Beach, often praised for its stunning pink sands, and Gili Petel for snorkeling amid vibrant marine life. The inclusion of guided tours and free time makes this a flexible, stress-free option. The tour also features lunch and scenic stops along the coast.

Bottom line: For a luxurious yet relaxed day exploring Lombok’s most photogenic beaches and coral reefs, this private tour is a strong contender. It suits travelers who value privacy and tailored experiences.

4. Lombok’s Hidden Gems: Snorkeling Gili Kondo & Petagan

If exploring untouched islands sounds appealing, this full-day trip is highly recommended. It takes you to Gili Kondo, Petagan, and Bidara, with an emphasis on snorkeling in pristine waters and relaxing on beachfront spots. The trip includes guided tours, photo stops, and free time on Gili Kapal and Gili Kondo.

Rated 5/5 from just one review, it’s clear this tour appeals to those seeking peaceful, uncrowded beaches and close encounters with marine life. The tour emphasizes small-group intimacy and local guides. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more secluded experience away from the busier Gili islands.

Bottom line: For a quiet, nature-focused adventure exploring Lombok’s less-visited islands, this tour offers a comprehensive, relaxing day with personalized guidance.

5. Lombok Waterfalls & Bukit Selong Private Tour

This 9-hour private tour combines some of Lombok’s most iconic natural sights. It starts with Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls, where you’ll walk through tropical forests and marvel at powerful cascades. Then, the trip heads to Bukit Selong for spectacular valley views and some of the most picturesque rice paddies in Lombok.

Rated 5/5 by one reviewer, this tour is praised for its friendly local driver and flexible scheduling. It’s ideal for those who enjoy hiking, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. The tour is well-suited for active travelers who want a full-day nature immersion with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.

Bottom line: If your idea of fun involves waterfalls and mountain vistas, this private tour offers a great mix of activity and scenery, perfect for nature lovers.

6. Lombok: 2-Day Whale Shark Tour to Sumbawa with Snorkeling

For wildlife enthusiasts, this two-day excursion from Lombok to Sumbawa combines snorkeling with whale sharks and scenic ferry rides. While reviews are not available, the tour’s highlights include crystal-clear waters and opportunities to swim alongside these gentle giants, making it a must-do for marine lovers.

The experience includes delicious onboard breakfast, relaxed hotel stays, and the chance to capture underwater footage with a GoPro. It’s suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with sea travel and looking to go beyond Lombok’s shores.

Bottom line: For a unique marine adventure that combines wildlife encounters with comfort, this tour offers an unforgettable experience, especially for travelers interested in whale sharks.

7. Lombok Sumbawa Sharing 2D1N Whale Shark With Snorkeling

This two-day tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive journey with whale shark snorkeling and overnight comfort. It departs every Wednesday, including round-trip transportation from Lombok and breakfasts. The tour features snorkeling with whale sharks, sunrise experiences, and photo sessions.

Rated without reviews, it appeals to adventurous travelers seeking deep marine encounters and local guides. It’s a good choice if you want to combine marine life with a more relaxed travel pace.

Bottom line: If your goal is to see whale sharks and enjoy an overnight trip, this tour balances excitement with comfort.

8. Lombok: Traditional Cooking Class by Mas Oppa

This hands-on cooking class offers an authentic taste of Lombok’s culinary scene. Led by local home cooks, you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes, choosing from morning, afternoon, or vegan/vegetarian options. It’s perfect for food lovers who want to bring home a piece of Lombok.

Rated without reviews, the class is praised for its interactive format and delicious end-product. After cooking, you’ll enjoy your meal, making it a practical, tasty experience. It’s suitable for all skill levels and offers a cultural connection beyond sightseeing.

Bottom line: For those who enjoy cooking and local flavors, this class provides an engaging, tasty insight into Lombok’s cuisine.

9. Lombok: Mataram City Tour with Mosque & Famous Culinary

This 8-hour guided tour introduces you to Mataram’s highlights, including local markets, the Islamic Center Mosque, and famous dishes like Ayam Taliwang and Sate Rembiga. It’s a great way to understand Lombok’s cultural and religious landscape.

Rated without reviews, travelers value the local market visit and culinary tasting, which reveal authentic flavors. The tour is flexible enough to include shopping and cultural insights, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the city.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in culture, cuisine, and city sights, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Lombok’s urban side.

10. Lombok River Tubing & Benang Stokel–Kelambu Waterfalls

For a fun outdoor day, this river tubing adventure combines white-water tubing with visits to two stunning waterfalls. You’ll paddle through lush landscapes, stopping at Benang Stokel and Kelambu waterfalls for swimming and photos.

Rated without reviews, it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy water sports and scenic nature. The tour includes lunch, coffee, and scenic drives, making it a full-day outing with plenty of adventure and photo opportunities.

Bottom line: If you love water-based activities and want an active day in Lombok’s forests and waterfalls, this tour hits the mark.

11. Lombok : Sembalun Crater & Hidden Waterfall

This 3-hour tour is perfect for quick scenic escapes. It takes you to Sembalun Village, famous for its high-altitude views, and the Sendang Gile Waterfall. The tour offers mountain vistas, agricultural scenes, and the chance to pick strawberries.

Rated without reviews, it suits travelers with limited time who enjoy easy walks and panoramic landscapes. It’s a good choice for family travelers or those looking for a short outdoor experience.

Bottom line: For a brief but scenic excursion to waterfalls and mountain villages, this tour provides a quick dose of Lombok’s natural beauty.

12. Thrilling Rafting, Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Cultural Lingsar

This 10-hour full-day experience combines whitewater rafting on the Jangkok River, a visit to Benang Kelambu Waterfall, and culture at the Lingsar Temple. It’s suited for travelers who want a mix of adrenaline and culture.

Rated without reviews, it appeals to active travelers who enjoy scenic river trips, waterfalls, and temple visits. The tour includes scenic views of rice terraces and is guided by English-speaking experts.

Bottom line: If you’re after a full-day outdoor adventure that includes adrenaline rushes and cultural insights, this tour offers a balanced mix.

How to Choose Your Tour in Mataram

When selecting from these diverse options, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For example, if underwater life is your focus, the snorkeling tours (like the Pink Beach & Gili Snorkeling) provide excellent value. For a relaxed cultural experience, the city tour or cooking class might suit you better. If adventure is your priority, the waterfalls and river tubing excursions promise plenty of action.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular multi-day whale shark tours or private excursions. If you need flexibility, tours with full refunds upon cancellation give you peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Mataram and Lombok’s surrounding areas offer a wide range of tours that cater to adventurers, culture seekers, and nature lovers alike. From snorkeling in Gili Kondo to exploring waterfalls and rice terraces, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences. Our top picks include the Hidden East Gili’s Lombok Private Snorkeling Tour for its immersive nature, the Pink Beach & Gili Snorkeling Tour for hassle-free fun, and the Waterfalls & Bukit Selong Private Tour for a scenic nature day.

No matter your travel style, booking early and choosing experiences aligned with your interests will ensure you get the most out of your time in Mataram. With such a variety, Lombok promises plenty of authentic, lively, and relaxing adventures—ready for you to discover.