Yes, to drive legally in Indonesia, you need:

• Your home-country driver’s license, plus
• A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)

Where can I get an IDP?
Only official agencies in your home country (like AAA in the U.S. or national motoring associations) can issue a valid IDP.
⚠️ Many online “international license” websites are not legally recognized.

Will I get checked by the police in Sumba?
Police controls in Sumba are very rare. If they stop you, it’s usually just to say hello or take a photo with you 😊 — not for strict checks.
But remember: Driving with a valid license is your responsibility.

Can I still rent if I don’t have an IDP?
Yes, but you assume all risks. In case of an accident or police stop, you may face issues with insurance or legal responsibility.

All payments are handled securely by our payment provider, Xendit. After you book your reservation, we will send you a payment link along with your contract and invoice. Currently, we only accept credit card payments.

In rare cases where a credit card payment does not work from your country, we will provide you with our direct bank details for a transfer. If you have any questions or issues regarding payment, please feel free to reach out to us!

More informations regarding payment terms you find in our Policies

We collect a deposit for each booking, processed with your initial payment.
Your deposit will be refunded after we receive the car back in the same condition and with the same fuel level as when it was provided.
If there are any damages, if the car is returned with a different fuel level, or if special cleaning services are needed, the associated costs may be deducted from your deposit. We will inform you of any deductions before processing the refund.

The refund will be processed using the same payment method you used. Please note that credit card refunds can take up to 14 days, depending on the bank, although it usually happens more quickly.

More informations regarding deposit terms you find in our Policies

If your rental bike gets a flat tire, there are easy solutions available. You’ll find plenty of roadside stands with compressors (marked with a "Tambal Ban" sign) where they can fill your tire with air for just 5,000 IDR. These are great for quick fixes to keep you going.

If the tire has a small leak, you can easily reach one of the many mechanics ("bengkels") along the roadside. For around 20,000 IDR, they have the tools to properly patch the tire and get you back on your way.

First of all, don’t panic — we’ve got your back!
We offer island-wide assistance, and we’re just a call away. Please notify us immediately, even if it’s just a minor issue. If the car is still running, it’s still important to let us know — this helps us prepare any tools or parts that might be needed later.

If the vehicle won’t start or breaks down completely, remember: some parts of Sumba are over 6 hours away, so we kindly ask for your patience and flexibility.
Locals are often happy to help in the moment — feel free to accept their support while keeping us updated. We’ll work together to get everything sorted!

---

🚙 A Note on Adventure Jeeps

Our adventure jeeps are charming oldtimers, but also high-maintenance vehicles.
For this reason:

• They are only allowed within East Sumba.
• If you take them beyond East Sumba and assistance is needed, the free rescue zone ends at the East Sumba border.
• Any roadside support in West Sumba will be charged 1.500.000 IDR per rescue, no matter the issue.

So please explore East Sumba freely with these jeeps — but stay within the zone to avoid extra charges.

For our rental cars, Pertamax is preferred, as it’s higher quality and ensures smooth operation. If you see a line at the petrol station, it’s usually for the cheaper Pertalite, while Pertamax pumps often have no wait.

In emergencies, you can fill up at roadside stalls selling petrol in bottles, but be sure to check that the fuel is clean. If you accidentally use dirty petrol and it causes issues with the car, you will be charged for the cleaning of the fuel system and any transportation costs incurred.

That said, there are plenty of petrol stations around the island, so it's quite rare to run into a shortage. We recommend filling up more frequently—ideally every day—even if the tank isn’t empty, to avoid any issues down the line!

If there's an issue with the vehicle that happens due to regular use—like parts wearing out naturally—we’ve got you covered! All repair and transportation expenses will be on us.

However, if the problem is caused by something like hitting a pothole, stuck because irresponsible route choice, putting the wrong fuel in the car, or user error in general, we’ll need to charge you for both the travel expenses and repair costs. For example, if you ask us to drive 6 hours to assist, and it's clearly your fault, those costs will be passed on to you.

Also, keep in mind that the insurance won’t cover damages caused by irresponsible use. We’re not worried about a few scratches, but things like losing the exhaust, burning the tires next to the campfire, or getting stuck in beach sand—well, you get the idea!

!!! Important note !!!
Our adventure jeeps and rooftop tent trips are intended only for East Sumba, within a 2–3 hour radius of our base at Sumba Paradise Beach Resort. If an adventure jeep is used outside this area—such as in West Sumba—and breaks down, a rescue fee of 1,5m will be charged regardless of the cause of the issue.

Absolutely! You can arrange to have a vehicles delivered to Tambolaka and return it in Waingapu, or vice versa. Just a heads up: while we're only about 30 minutes from Waingapu Airport, Tambolaka is a bit further away—around a 4.5-hour drive.

For delivery, the fee is 1,500,000 IDR per vehicle for one-way trips to and from Tambolaka. As for transfers to and from Waingapu Airport, the prices vary depending on the vehicle. You can check out all the details and pricing on our product pages. Just let us know what you need, and we’ll be happy to help!

Please note: our adventure jeeps are for exploring East Sumba only. We offer delivery to Tambolaka exclusively for our comfort vehicles.

Yes, as far as we know, we’re the only official rental service in Sumba that hands over the keys directly to our customers. Most others prefer to rent cars with drivers—probably because not many are willing to let people, sometimes unexperienced on these rough roads, take control of the vehicle.

But we believe this is the best way to explore the island! While you might find better deals with a car and driver (plus a guide), for us, the real adventure is in getting lost and having the freedom to drive yourself. That’s what makes the journey through Sumba so special!

Yes! We offer island-wide delivery for all vehicles, including custom pickup and drop-off locations. Just let us know where you'd like to pick up and return the vehicle, and we’ll send you a quotation for the service. We’re happy to accommodate your needs to make your trip as smooth as possible!

Road conditions in Sumba vary depending on the area. The main road between Tambolaka and Waingapu is in excellent condition and provides a smooth, paved drive. However, once you explore more rural areas, the roads can become rough, with potholes, gravel, and dirt roads more common.

For exploring remote or off-the-beaten-path locations, we recommend renting a vehicle equipped for rugged terrain, like an off-road car or bike. Always drive with caution, especially if you're heading into less developed areas!

There are no general destination or kilometer limits, so feel free to explore the island at your own pace. However, please keep the following important guidelines in mind:

• Driving directly onto sandy beaches is strictly prohibited. Vehicles can easily get stuck, and rising tides may cause serious damage if the car isn’t moved in time.
  
• Always use your best judgment. If you’re ever unsure about a route or location, please don’t hesitate to ask us for advice.
  
• Any damage resulting from driving irresponsibly or in restricted areas is not covered by insurance.

Vehicle-specific guidelines

• Comfort city cruisers (Suzuki Ignis)
  These vehicles are not off-road capable and should only be used on main paved roads. Please avoid rough or unpaved tracks.
  
• Comfort SUVs (Grand Vitara)
  These are off-road capable and ideal for comfortably exploring the island’s diverse terrain. However, they are not intended for heavy off-roading—use common sense and avoid extreme routes.
  
• Adventure Jeeps
  Our adventure jeeps are ready for all destinations within East Sumba. Because they are classic oldtimers, we like to keep them close to our base. They should be used within a maximum 2–3 hour radius from Sumba Paradise Beach Resort.
  Please note that in case of a breakdown in West Sumba, regardless of the cause, a rescue fee will apply based on the location.

In Sumba, the rainy season typically starts later around November, though last year, the first real rain didn’t arrive until January. That said, the rain—especially in East Sumba—is usually not disruptive. Showers do happen occasionally, but it’s rare for it to rain all day or more days. West Sumba tends to be wetter overall.

We can’t say which season is better, as both have unique perks. During the dry season, you’ll enjoy clear trails and crystal-clear water, but the landscape can appear faded. In the rainy season, waterfalls may be murkier, but the scenery transforms into a vibrant green paradise.

We understand that our prices might seem higher compared to what you find in Bali. However, it’s important to note that Sumba is a different island with unique challenges. Our infrastructure and supply chains are far more limited—something as simple as a spare part can take weeks to arrive. Unlike Bali, which has easy access to suppliers, we go the extra mile to maintain the quality and availability of our vehicles.

Our prices reflect the cost of operating under these conditions, ensuring we can consistently offer reliable services throughout the island. Of course, if you prefer, you are welcome to rent a bike in Bali and make the journey to Sumba—just be prepared for the adventure!

Please note that our prices are carefully set and are not subject to negotiation. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to being part of your Sumba experience!

Camping with a rooftop tent in Sumba is generally safe, and many travelers find it an adventurous and rewarding experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Overall Safety:
  Sumba is considered safe for camping. In the east, we have never encountered incidents. In the west, there are a few spots where the appearance or behavior of locals might feel unsettling. Just to be on the safe side and don't give a chance for disappointment Our Tent Adventure Jeeps shall be used in East Sumba only. 
  
  
• Our Favorite Spots:
  Walakiri Beach
  Laki Beach
  Laipori Lake
  Tarinbang Beach
  Puru Kambera
  
  but feel free to get lost, there are plenty of undiscovered beaches :)
  
• General Tips:
  • Always set up camp before dusk to avoid unnecessary risks.
  • Avoid camping in very remote spots unless you’ve done thorough research or consulted us for advice.
  • Common sense is key. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
    
• Wildlife in Sumba:
  The island’s wildlife isn’t overly dangerous, but you should still exercise caution:
  • Crocodiles: Found in rivers and some beaches. Wooden crosses on a beach often indicate a dangerous area—avoid these spots.
  • Scorpions and Snakes: While they’re present, rooftop tents provide an extra layer of protection, ensuring no unwelcome visitors join you at night.
    
• Embracing the Experience:
  Camping in Sumba is an opportunity to explore untouched natural beauty on a developing island. By using common sense, respecting the environment, and seeking advice when needed, your experience will likely be safe and memorable.

Feel free to reach out to us for personalized recommendations and safety tips before your trip!

Our adventure jeeps with rooftop tents are intended for exploring East Sumba, within roughly a 2–3 hour radius from Sumba Paradise Beach Resort. Popular destinations include Walakiri Beach, Laki Beach, Laipori Donau, and as far as Tarimbang Beach.

We do not recommend using these vehicles in West Sumba, as past guests have occasionally experienced discomfort with local situations there. Additionally, since these are classic oldtimer jeeps, assistance or repairs could take 6–7 hours to reach that area if needed.

For your safety and peace of mind, we kindly ask you to keep your adventures within East Sumba. Feel free to ask us for suggested routes and camping spots!

While the dry season is safer for camping, the rainy season just adds a bit of unpredictability. Most of our customers still camp without issues, as heavy, all-day rain is rare. However, on a few occasions, guests have opted for the comfort of Sumba Paradise Beach Resort instead of camping.

We can’t guarantee perfect weather, but we can guarantee you’ll always have the option to escape to Sumba Paradise if rain disrupts your plans. With a bit of luck, you’ll enjoy the thrill of camping, even during the rainy season!

You can camp almost anywhere in East Sumba, as there are essentially no restrictions on where you set up camp. Please note that our camping service is only available within East Sumba.

Our top recommendation is Tarimbang Beach—it’s remote, beautiful, and perfect for a peaceful night under the stars. For those looking to stay close to our resort or who are newer to camping, Laki Beach, Laipori Lake is a great option. Walakiri is another lovely spot for sunset, even here locals are welcoming campers!

In the eastern part of Sumba, there’s generally no fee required for camping—at most, you might be asked for a small donation for parking. By contrast, in the west, locals may expect payment if you camp on their beaches. Overall, the eastern side is known for its welcoming locals and more peaceful camping experiences, while interactions in the west can sometimes be less predictable.

To make sure our guests have the best possible experience, we’ve chosen to offer our tent adventure exclusively in East Sumba, where we know you’ll enjoy a friendlier, more relaxed atmosphere.

If you have any questions about a specific beach or camping spot, feel free to reach out to us directly. We’d be happy to do the necessary research to help you plan your stay!

Yes! We’ve created a map of our favorite camping locations, which you can find here. Feel free to explore — and if you discover any great new spots, let us know! We’d be happy to add them to the map.