Five Reasons Sabu Island in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara is Worth a Visit

KOMPAS.com – Outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for natural beauty or to take pictures of the landscapes in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara may take time to experience what Sabu Island has to offer. Two or three days is not enough.

Visitors have choices of must-sees on their itineraries while in Sabu Island. From attending a thanksgiving traditional ceremony in Sabu Raijua regency to enjoying a rainbow hill in Kelabba Maja to walking on a white sand beach in West Sabu, this island will keep its guests busy capturing the moments.

Hand-made woven fabric is also a must-buy East Nusa Tenggara souvenir.

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Here are the things to do in Sabu Island:

1. Rainbow Hill in Kelabba Maja

The hill is located in the Hawu Mehara sub-district in Sabu Raijua regency. Visitors’ eyes will be pampered with the hill’s natural four colors of white, brown, blue, and red. Some may  regard it as Indonesia's version of the Grand Canyon.

Kelabba Maja has a stretch of valley and several cliffs with unique shapes. The hill also features balanced rocks that stand firmly at the end of the cliff. The locals believe that this is the abode of the gods and goddesses.

2. Traditional ceremonies

The people in Sabu Raijua district have various traditional ceremonies such as the thanksgiving ceremony. Locally known as hole, the ceremony takes place a few days after the full moon. Visitors can see the procession of a small boat being released into the sea. The boat carries various offerings from all the villages.

The ceremony is followed by a cockfighting ritual and horse dance or locally known as pehere jara.

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3. Napae Beach

One of the tourist attractions on the island is the white sand beach and a calm blue sea. After swimming, beachgoers can relax under the gazebos and enjoy the tranquil nature as the waves on Napae Beach are quite calm.

4. The local way of life