Sumbawa: Paserang and Kenawa Islands Snorkeling Day Trip

Discover the Charm of Sumbawa’s Islands with the Paserang and Kenawa Snorkeling Day Trip

If you’re seeking a day away from the busy tourist hubs and want to soak in authentic island scenery, the Sumbawa: Paserang and Kenawa Islands Snorkeling Day Trip offers a compelling escape. Designed to highlight some of the most picturesque spots in West Nusa Tenggara, this tour combines vibrant underwater life, stunning vistas, and a taste of local Indonesian hospitality—all packed into an 8-hour adventure.

What truly makes this experience worth considering are the crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful coral and fish, the breathtaking views from Kenawa Island Hill, and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes — from savanna to beaches. That said, travelers should note that this tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, as boat rides are involved. Still, it’s an excellent choice for active travelers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and anyone eager to discover Indonesia’s less crowded island gems.

If you’re craving a day of natural beauty, authentic local flavor, and outdoor activity, this trip could be a perfect fit. Just be prepared for some sun exposure and bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer a specific set.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic islands with stunning scenery and vibrant marine life
• Hiking opportunity on Kenawa Island Hill for panoramic views
• Includes local-style lunch, offering a taste of Indonesian cuisine
• Private group tour ensures a personalized experience
• Comfortable boat transfer from Poto Tano Village to the islands
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness

An In-Depth Look at the Paserang and Kenawa Islands Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Sumbawa Besar, making the start easy and stress-free. From there, you’ll head to Poto Tano Village, the gateway to your island exploration, where a wooden boat awaits to whisk you across the water. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—expect gentle rocking and wide views of open sea, which many travelers find relaxing, though some reviews mention being cautious if seasickness is a concern.

Your first stop is Paserang Island, a smaller but striking island that offers the perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty. Here, you’ll have time to explore the island’s lush surroundings and feel the fresh tropical breeze. The real highlight, though, is the snorkeling experience in waters noted for their crystal clarity. With vibrant coral formations and a variety of tropical fish, snorkelers of all levels can enjoy the underwater spectacle.

One reviewer mentioned that the underwater environment was “beautiful and full of life,” emphasizing the colorful coral and fish diversity. Another pointed out that the snorkeling gear was adequate, but bringing personal gear is recommended if you have specific preferences.

Paserang Island: A Visual Feast

Paserang remains relatively untouched, which means you get to witness authentic island life and natural scenery without crowds. Many guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to relax on the beach or explore the surroundings. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a combination of light activity and downtime.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transition to Kenawa Island: Lunch and Exploration

After soaking in the sights and snorkeling at Paserang, you’ll depart for Kenawa Island, a larger island known for its savanna landscapes, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs. Once there, you’ll enjoy a local-style lunch—a simple yet hearty meal that reflects traditional flavors. Many reviews praise the food as authentic and satisfying, providing the energy needed for the next part of your day.

Kenawa Island: More to Discover

Post-lunch, the exploration continues. You’ll have the chance to snorkel again, enjoying different underwater spots that boast clear waters and colorful marine life. A standout activity is the hike up Kenawa Island Hill, which provides panoramic views of the island’s diverse terrains.

Reviewers consistently mention how the views from Kenawa Hill are worth the climb, offering stunning vistas over the savanna, beaches, and surrounding islands. The hike isn’t overly strenuous, but sturdy footwear is advised, as paths can be uneven.

The End of the Day: Return Journey

As the sun begins to set, you’ll head back to Poto Tano Harbor by boat, then be transported back to Sumbawa Besar. The return trip is a good time to relax, reflect on the day, and perhaps plan your next Indonesian adventure.

The Practicalities: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

This tour is private, which means you’ll be traveling with your own group, often just family or friends, making it more intimate and flexible. The 8-hour duration is a good balance—long enough to explore both islands thoroughly without feeling rushed.

The transportation includes a pickup from your hotel and a boat transfer, both of which are generally smooth. The group size tends to be small, paving the way for personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

Timing varies depending on availability, but most tours start in the morning, allowing ample time for snorkeling, hiking, and enjoying the scenery. The tour’s rating of 3.9 indicates a generally positive experience, though some reviews mention that weather can influence the quality of the day, especially for snorkeling.

What to Bring and Consider

Travelers should pack hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to make the most of their day. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is recommended if you have particular preferences or want to ensure comfort underwater. Note that littering is not allowed, so remember to clean up after yourself.

While the tour is suitable for most, non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness should be cautious, as boat rides are involved and on-water activities are a core part of the experience.

How Good Is the Value?

Considering the full-day itinerary with private guides, boat transfers, snorkeling, a local meal, and hiking, the price offers decent value for travelers wanting a curated experience without large crowds. The personalized nature of the tour means fewer surprises, and you’re more likely to enjoy the scenic highlights at your own pace.

What You Might Love Most

• The vivid underwater scenery that promises memorable snorkeling moments
• The opportunity to hike for panoramic views that many find rewarding
• An authentic, local-style lunch that provides a taste of Indonesian culture
• The chance to escape crowded tourist spots and enjoy untouched nature

A Few Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, weather conditions can impact the snorkeling experience and overall day. The private group setup is great for flexibility, but it also means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day outdoors, including sun exposure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers looking for a mix of underwater discovery and scenic hikes, especially those who appreciate authentic environments. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy spending a full day exploring nature with a touch of local flavor. Since it isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, it’s best for active, curious explorers comfortable in the water and on uneven terrain.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and a boat transfer from Poto Tano Village to the islands.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 8 hours, from pickup in Sumbawa to return.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, bringing your own gear is recommended if you prefer specific equipment or sizes.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this tour is not recommended for non-swimmers since snorkeling is a key activity.

What should I pack?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and possibly sturdy shoes for hiking.

Are the islands crowded?
No, the islands tend to be quiet and less touristy, especially Paserang.

What is the meal like?
A simple, authentic local-style lunch is included, offering a hearty taste of Indonesian cuisine.

What is the difficulty level of the hike?
The hike up Kenawa Hill is manageable for most, but sturdy shoes are advised due to uneven paths.

Are there facilities like bathrooms on the islands?
This detail isn’t specified, but expect basic facilities; bring your own essentials.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
Weather can influence the snorkeling and overall experience; flexible cancellation policies allow you to reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Sumbawa Paserang and Kenawa Islands Snorkeling Day Trip offers an enriching look into Indonesia’s less-visited islands, blending underwater marvels with scenic hikes and local flavors. The private setup ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, perfect for travelers who crave authentic encounters away from large crowds.

While it’s not suited for non-swimmers or those seeking a more relaxed, land-based tour, it’s an excellent choice for those eager to combine adventure, natural beauty, and culture in one memorable day.

This tour’s focus on stunning views, vibrant marine life, and authentic island atmosphere makes it especially appealing to active travelers and snorkelers looking to discover the true spirit of Sumbawa. Pack your gear, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a day of natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: