You may have heard about a small island in Indonesia where Princess Diana, Mick Jagger, David Beckham, and even Korean stars Rain and Kim Tae Hee once spent their holidays. That’s Moyo Island, a quiet conservation island just north of Sumbawa that still flies under the radar of mass tourism. If you want a destination far from the Bali crowds, Moyo Island is a strong contender.
We at The Langkah Travel have been running trips to Moyo Island for over a decade. This guide is built from real fieldwork, not just summarized from other blogs. You’ll find practical info on how to get there, what to see, how much it costs, and small details that usually surprise first-time visitors.
Contents
- About Moyo Island
- How to Get to Moyo Island
- Best Time to Visit Moyo Island
- 12 Best Things to Do in Moyo Island
- Activities You Should Try on Moyo Island
- Sample Itinerary for Moyo Island
- Where to Stay on Moyo Island
- Estimated Costs for a Moyo Island Trip
- Practical Tips from Our Field Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
About Moyo Island
Moyo Island sits in Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara province, around 2.5 km north of mainland Sumbawa. It covers roughly 350 km², peaks at 671 meters elevation, and has 88 km of coastline. Most of the island is tropical forest and savanna, with two main villages: Labuan Aji in the south and Sebotok in the north.
Moyo is now officially part of Moyo Satonda National Park, together with Satonda Island to the east. As a result, there is a national park entrance fee that applies to most tourist spots on the island (we cover the rates in the cost section below). The park protects a rich ecosystem of Timor deer, long-tailed macaques, wild boar, over 80 bird species, and 21 species of bats including flying foxes.
The island became internationally famous after Princess Diana stayed here in 1993. Since then, names like Mick Jagger, David Beckham, Edwin van der Sar, and tennis star Maria Sharapova have all dropped by. Most of them stayed at Amanwana, the only luxury resort on the island.
How to Get to Moyo Island
Moyo Island is fairly remote, so getting there takes two stages: first reach Sumbawa Besar, then cross by boat.
1. Getting to Sumbawa Besar
There are two ways to reach Sumbawa Besar:
- By Air: Fly to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin III Airport (code: SWQ). Direct flights are available from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Lombok, with flight times of 1 to 2 hours from major hubs. This is the fastest option, and we recommend it if your time is limited.
- By Land from Lombok: Take the ferry from Kayangan Port (East Lombok) to Poto Tano Port (West Sumbawa). The ferry takes 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by a 2-hour drive to Sumbawa Besar. Total travel time is 4 to 5 hours, but it’s cheaper and works well if you’re already in Lombok.
2. Crossing to Moyo Island
Once you reach Sumbawa Besar, there are two boat options:
Public Boat Public boats depart from Muara Kali (Pantai Jempol), about 10 minutes from the airport. Tickets cost around IDR 50,000 for locals and IDR 75,000 for foreign visitors. It’s cheap, but the schedule is unreliable. Boats usually only depart when there are enough passengers, so be prepared to wait until midday. This option suits backpackers with flexible schedules.
Private Speed Boat (Charter) Operators in Sumbawa now only offer speed boats (slow boats are no longer in service). Charter rates range from IDR 2,500,000 to IDR 4,000,000 per day, depending on boat size and passenger capacity. Smaller speed boats fit 4-6 people, while larger ones suit groups of 8 and above at the higher end of the price range.
The advantage of chartering a speed boat: the crossing from Sumbawa Besar to Moyo Island takes just 30 to 45 minutes, and you can decide which spots to visit in a single day. We strongly recommend this option for groups and families.
3. Tips from Our Sumbawa Team
A few things we always tell guests before they head out:
- Book your boat at least 2 weeks in advance, especially in July and August. Speed boats in Sumbawa are limited, and high season often books out a month ahead.
- Check the weather forecast before departure. While May to November is generally safe, sea conditions in Sumbawa can change quickly.
- Coming from Lombok? Flying directly to Sumbawa Besar is more practical than the ferry route. The price difference is often small once you factor in ground transport, and you save half a day.
Best Time to Visit Moyo Island
The best months to visit Moyo Island are April to December. Avoid January to March due to strong westerly winds that make the sea rough and many boats refuse to cross.
For the most dramatic waterfalls, visit at the end of the rainy season (April-May). Mata Jitu, Lady Pool, and Diwu Mbai will have stronger flow and the pools turn a vibrant turquoise compared to the dry season.
For snorkeling and diving, June to October is ideal. Visibility can reach 20 to 30 meters, and the sea is calm. Bonus: this period also overlaps with whale shark season in Saleh Bay, which runs from May to November.
One thing to note: July and August are peak season. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for May, June, September, or October.
12 Best Things to Do in Moyo Island
Moyo Island has plenty of spots worth exploring, from tiered waterfalls to white-sand beaches with great snorkeling. Here are the 12 places we take our guests to most often.
Note on entrance fees: Since Moyo Island is part of Moyo Satonda National Park, there is an official entrance fee for accessing tourist spots within the park (especially the waterfalls). The rate follows Indonesia’s standard national park pricing: Indonesian citizens pay IDR 50,000 (weekday) or IDR 75,000 (weekend & national holidays), while foreign visitors pay IDR 250,000 (weekday) or IDR 275,000 (weekend & national holidays). Fees are collected at the park entrance post.
1. Mata Jitu Waterfall
The icon of Moyo Island. Mata Jitu Waterfall has multiple natural pools with crystal-clear turquoise water. Princess Diana reportedly bathed here in 1993, and the spot has been a must-visit ever since.
To get here, take a motorbike taxi (ojek) from Labuan Aji village for around IDR 100,000 per person (round trip), then walk about 5 minutes from the parking area. The national park fee is paid at the entrance.
2. Lady Pool / Queen Waterfall
A 10-minute walk upstream from Mata Jitu leads to a smaller, quieter natural pool. Locals call it Lady Pool or Queen Waterfall, said to be where Princess Diana retreated for more privacy.
The atmosphere is much calmer because most visitors don’t know about it. If you want photos without people in the background, hike up to Lady Pool.
3. Diwu Mbai Waterfall
For those who like a bit of adventure, Diwu Mbai is your spot. The waterfall stands about 4 meters tall with a rope set up for jumping into the pool. Motorbike taxi from Labuan Aji costs around IDR 50,000 per person. Visit around midday so the sun is high enough for swimming and lounging.
4. Tanjung Pasir Beach
A white-sand beach on the eastern tip of Moyo Island. The sand is clean, and the snorkeling here is good thanks to healthy coral reefs. Local tip: if you want to save on boat costs, charter from Aik Bari village on Sumbawa instead of going through Labuan Aji. It’s much closer to Tanjung Pasir.
5. Raja Sua Beach
About 20 minutes from Tanjung Pasir, Raja Sua Beach has diverse coral reef formations at varying depths, making it a fun snorkeling spot. Access is by motorboat only.
6. Brang Sedo Beach
Brang Sedo is a quick stop before reaching Labuan Aji village. The underwater scenery is impressive, with colorful coral reefs. Ask your boatman to stop briefly. They usually agree if you mention it from the start.
7. Ai Manis Beach
A beach with fine white sand and plenty of shady trees around. The atmosphere is cooler than other beaches on the island. If you’re lucky, you might spot wild Timor deer in the forest nearby. They often come down to find fresh water during the dry season.
8. Poto Jarum Beach
Located near Amanwana Resort, so it’s often used as a relaxation spot by hotel guests. Public visitors are still welcome as long as you don’t disturb the resort area. Clean beach with crystal-clear blue water.
9. Takat Sagele
Our favorite snorkeling spot. Takat Sagele is a small sandbank in the middle of the sea that appears at low tide and disappears at high tide. The colorful fish and surrounding coral reefs make this a must-visit. About 15 minutes by motorboat from Labuan Aji village.
10. Batu Kapal Beach (Crocodile Head Beach)
Named for the rock formation on the beach that looks like a crocodile’s head. Known as one of the best sunset spots on Moyo Island. Access is a bit tricky: you can take a motorbike taxi from Labuan Aji for around IDR 50,000 per person, or hike for 2 hours through the forest.
11. Sangelo Beach
Sangelo Beach is farther from Labuan Aji village, but the trip is worth it. The coral reefs are dense and colorful, making this a top diving spot. You’ll need to charter a boat to reach it.
12. Sangelo Waterfall
After snorkeling at Sangelo Beach, walk about 15 minutes inland and you’ll reach Sangelo Waterfall. Few visitors know about this spot, so the atmosphere is calm and natural. Perfect if you’re looking for somewhere truly off the beaten path.
Activities You Should Try on Moyo Island
Beyond visiting the spots above, there are a few activities well worth trying during your stay.
Snorkeling & Diving
Since Moyo Island is part of a marine conservation area, the underwater ecosystem remains intact. Top snorkeling spots: Takat Sagele, Sangelo Beach, Tanjung Pasir, and Poto Jarum. For more advanced diving, local boats can take you to Angle Reef or Tanjung Menangis.
Snorkel gear rental costs around IDR 50,000 – 100,000 per set. Full diving with tanks and a guide ranges from IDR 300,000 – 700,000, depending on the number of dives.
Trekking & Waterfall Exploration
A light trek from Mata Jitu to Lady Pool is the most popular option. The trail is easy and beginner-friendly. For something more challenging, the 2-hour trek to Batu Kapal Beach through tropical forest is rewarding.
Bird Watching & Wildlife
Moyo Island hosts more than 80 bird species, including the endemic Tanimbar megapode. If you’re into bird watching, bring binoculars and head out before 8 AM. You may also spot Timor deer, long-tailed macaques, and flying foxes that emerge at dusk.
Sunset & Photography
Batu Kapal Beach is, as we mentioned, the best sunset spot. But honestly, almost every west-facing beach on Moyo offers a great sunset. If you’re staying in Labuan Aji, just walk to the small village pier to watch the sun set with Mount Tambora silhouetted in the distance.
Sample Itinerary for Moyo Island
Here are general itinerary sketches we typically use. For a complete package with transport, accommodation, and a local guide, check our Moyo Island Tour Package page.
One Day Trip to Moyo Island
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Hotel pickup in Sumbawa Besar |
| 07:30 | Depart from Goa Harbor / Muara Kali |
| 08:30 | Arrive at Poto Jarum Beach, snorkeling |
| 10:00 | Continue to Takat Sagele, snorkeling |
| 12:00 | Lunch in Labuan Aji village |
| 13:30 | Trek to Mata Jitu Waterfall |
| 15:30 | Stop at Lady Pool |
| 17:00 | Return to Sumbawa Besar |
This works well for limited time or as part of a larger Sumbawa package. For a more streamlined version with fast boat, see One Day Moyo Island Tour.
One Day Trip Moyo Island, Sumbawa
From
IDR 870.000
per person
2 Days 1 Night on Moyo Island
| Day | Time | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 07:00 | Hotel pickup, cross to Moyo Island |
| 08:30-12:00 | Snorkeling at Poto Jarum & Takat Sagele | |
| 12:30 | Lunch in Labuan Aji, check in to homestay | |
| 14:00 | Trek to Mata Jitu & Lady Pool | |
| 17:30 | Sunset at Batu Kapal Beach | |
| 19:00 | Dinner, rest | |
| Day 2 | 06:30 | Breakfast, explore beaches near homestay |
| 08:00 | Additional snorkeling (Brang Sedo / Sangelo) | |
| 11:00 | Check out, return to Sumbawa Besar | |
| 13:30 | Trip ends |
This itinerary is more relaxed and gives you enough time to enjoy the island without rushing.
Where to Stay on Moyo Island
Even though it feels remote, Moyo Island offers a few accommodation options to fit different budgets.
Amanwana Resort (Premium) An exclusive luxury tented resort run by Aman Resorts. Rates start from USD 800 to 2,000 per night. This is where Princess Diana stayed, along with many other celebrities. If you’re after an ultra-private experience with butler service, Amanwana is the option.
Local Homestays in Labuan Aji For more budget-friendly stays, several local homes in Labuan Aji village are rented out as homestays. Rates range from IDR 200,000 to 500,000 per night depending on facilities. Most rooms come with fans and either shared or private bathrooms.
Camping Some travelers choose to camp on beaches near Labuan Aji. Bring your own tent and gear, and make sure to ask permission from the village head first. The cheapest option, but expect very basic facilities.
Estimated Costs for a Moyo Island Trip
Here’s a cost breakdown for a One Day Trip:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Public boat (round trip) | IDR 100,000 – 200,000/person |
| Speed boat charter | IDR 2,500,000 – 4,000,000/day |
| National park ticket (Indonesian) | IDR 50,000 (weekday) / IDR 75,000 (weekend) |
| National park ticket (foreign) | IDR 250,000 (weekday) / IDR 275,000 (weekend) |
| Local ojek (Mata Jitu round trip) | IDR 100,000/person |
| Snorkel gear rental | IDR 50,000 – 100,000 |
| Lunch | IDR 50,000 – 100,000 |
| Tips for guide/boatman | IDR 50,000 – 100,000 |
For groups of 4-6 people, chartering a speed boat is more cost-effective than the public boat per person. Total One Day Trip budget per foreign visitor is typically IDR 1,200,000 to 2,000,000 (including the national park fee, transport, gear rental, and lunch), depending on boat choice and group size.
For 2D1N, add IDR 200,000 to 500,000 per room for homestay, plus 2-3 additional meals.
Practical Tips from Our Field Experience
After more than a decade of running Moyo Island trips, here are lessons we’ve learned:
Book Boats and Accommodation Early Especially if you’re traveling in July or August. Speed boats in Sumbawa are limited, and local homestays often fill up fast. Book at least 2 weeks ahead to be safe.
Bring Enough Cash There are no ATMs on Moyo Island, and most transactions are cash-only (national park tickets, local boats, motorbike taxis, meals, gear rental). Carry at least IDR 1,500,000 to 2,000,000 per person for a One Day Trip, covering the park fee and other expenses.
Limited Mobile Signal Cellular signal on Moyo Island only works in certain areas. Let your family know in advance that you’ll be offline for a few hours. Telkomsel has the strongest coverage around Labuan Aji.
Essential Packing List
- Reef-safe sunscreen (important for marine conservation)
- Hat or bandana
- Anti-slip sandals for trekking
- Change of clothes & dry bag
- Light snacks
- Personal medication (limited shops on the island)
- Power bank (homestay electricity often goes out at night)
Conservation Etiquette Moyo Island is a protected national park managed by the Indonesian government (see Wonderful Indonesia for details). Don’t take corals, don’t feed wildlife, and bring your trash back to Sumbawa. Use the designated waste bins in the village rather than leaving anything on beaches or near waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Moyo Island? Yes, there is now an official entrance fee since Moyo Island is part of Moyo Satonda National Park. The rate follows Indonesia’s standard national park pricing: Indonesian citizens pay IDR 50,000 (weekday) or IDR 75,000 (weekend & national holidays), while foreign visitors pay IDR 250,000 (weekday) or IDR 275,000 (weekend & national holidays). The fee covers access to tourist spots within the national park, including the waterfalls.
How long should I spend on Moyo Island? For a fuller experience, 2 days 1 night is ideal. A One Day Trip covers the main highlights but feels rushed. If you want to really explore the entire island, allocate 3 days.
Is it safe to visit Moyo Island independently without a guide? It’s generally safe, but we don’t recommend it. Local boatmen are available, but many of the best spots are hard to find without someone who knows the terrain. Plus, return boat schedules can change unexpectedly.
Can children join a Moyo Island trip? Yes, but with a few considerations: the boat ride is at least 30 to 45 minutes by speed boat, and the sea isn’t always kind to small children. Kids over 7 usually do fine. Make sure to bring extra life jackets and seasickness medication.
What if I only have one day in Sumbawa? A One Day Trip to Moyo Island is still very doable. Leave Sumbawa Besar early in the morning and return by late afternoon. You can cover 2-3 main highlights (Mata Jitu plus Takat Sagele or Poto Jarum). For a hassle-free option, our tour package includes round-trip transport and the national park ticket.
Moyo Island is one of Sumbawa’s quieter gems, far from the mass-tourism noise. From tiered waterfalls to untouched snorkeling spots, there’s plenty to explore here. Most importantly: plan ahead so you don’t waste time in Sumbawa Besar waiting for boats that never quite stick to schedule.
If you’d like help planning a trip to Moyo Island, our team at The Langkah Travel is ready to assist. Contact us via WhatsApp or check our complete Sumbawa Tour page for current package details and prices.
