Satonda Island is located in Nangamiro Village, Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. Spanning an area of approximately 2,600 hectares, it consists of 453.70 hectares of land and 2,146.3 hectares of water.
This island is renowned for its uniqueness, featuring a saltwater lake at its center. While local myths surround the lake, there are also fascinating scientific facts that have intrigued researchers since 1984.
1. The Myth of Satonda Island
The local community shares a captivating legend about the origins of the saltwater lake.
Long ago, a king from the Tambora Kingdom sought a life partner. On his journey, he met a beautiful woman in Dompu and decided to propose, revealing his royal identity and intentions.
However, the woman realized that the king was her long-lost son, separated from her years ago. She rejected his proposal, leading the king to fury. The sky darkened, lightning struck, and Mount Tambora erupted violently—seen as divine punishment for the king’s inappropriate desire.
Overwhelmed with sorrow, the king cried bitterly upon realizing the woman was his mother. His tears are believed to have formed the saltwater lake now known as Satonda Lake.
2. Satonda Lake: Saltwater and Scientific Interest
Satonda Island’s connection to Mount Tambora’s massive eruption on April 15, 1815, has drawn the attention of scientists.
Satonda Lake occupies a volcanic crater and contains marine-derived water. Scientists have studied its unusual water chemistry and microbial reefs. A study in the Journal of Sedimentary Research describes its increased alkalinity and red-algal microbial reefs. Alkalinity is different from salinity, so the lake should not simply be described as saltier than the sea.
Interestingly, the lake’s ecosystem resembles that of ancient marine environments, attracting international researchers eager to study its unique biodiversity.
3. How to Reach Satonda Island
Satonda Island is becoming increasingly popular among local and international tourists. However, its challenging accessibility requires careful planning. Here’s how you can get there:
3.1. By Air
Satonda Island is located in Dompu Regency, Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara. There are two main airports on Sumbawa Island:
- Bima Airport: A 6-hour drive to Nangamiro Port.
- Sumbawa Airport: A 7-hour drive to Nangamiro Port.
It’s recommended to rent a vehicle as public transportation is scarce and may take longer. From Nangamiro Port, you can hire a local fishing boat for approximately IDR 500,000 for a round trip.
3.2. Additional Destinations from Bima Airport
To make the 6-hour journey more enjoyable, consider combining your trip with these nearby attractions:
- Bima City Tour: Ama Hami Museum and Lawata Beach.
- Horse Racing in Dompu: Featuring child jockeys, a Sumbawa cultural tradition.
- Waterfalls: Oi Marai and Mutiara Falls in Tambora National Park.
- Savannahs and Hills: Doro Ncanga and Sarae Nduha Hill.
- Mount Tambora Trekking and finally, Satonda Island.
To explore all these destinations, allocate around 4–5 days and plan accommodations carefully.
3.3. Additional Destinations from Sumbawa Airport
From Sumbawa Besar, plan for a long road transfer to the departure port followed by a separate boat crossing to Satonda. Confirm both parts of the journey when arranging transport. If you have more time, consider these stops as options rather than a fixed itinerary:
- Sumbawa Besar City Tour: Dalam Loka Palace and Ai Lemak Beach.
- Maronge Hot Springs.
- Sumbawa whale shark tours departing from Labuan Jambu Village.
- Waterfalls: Oi Marai and Mutiara Falls in Tambora National Park.
- Savannahs and Hills: Doro Ncanga, Sarae Nduha Hill, and Mount Tambora.
- Finally, Satonda Island.
Exploring all these destinations requires 5–6 days, so ensure you have enough time for this extraordinary journey.
Mount Tambora Trekking Package Via Doro Ncanga
From
IDR 3,810,000
per person
4. Reaching Satonda Island via Sea
Another option is an open trip from Lombok to Labuan Bajo. Compare the full itinerary, duration, and inclusions with a dedicated Satonda visit before comparing prices: these are different journeys. Confirm that Satonda is a scheduled stop, as not every sailing route includes it.
Alternatively, charter a boat from Sumbawa if you’re already there. This is ideal for visiting both Satonda and Moyo Islands, with the trip usually taking 2 days and 1 night. While chartering can be expensive, traveling with friends helps split the cost and makes it more economical.
For a wider itinerary, compare our Sumbawa tour packages. Ask whether Satonda can be included and confirm the departure port, boat arrangements, and overnight stops before booking.
