NIHI Sumba

NIHI Sumba is unlike anywhere we’ve ever stayed. Described as the “edge of the wildness,” it truly delivers on that promise. Sumba Island is a hidden gem that every nature lover should experience, and staying at NIHI made our time there extraordinary. From the untouched beaches to the thrilling surf, the graceful horses, the beautifully designed villas, and the incredible food, everything was beyond perfect. The staff’s warmth and genuine care made us feel more like family than guests. It’s a rare kind of luxury—effortless and unpretentious, where comfort and sophistication coexist seamlessly. The experiences we had were straight out of a dream: riding horses through the waves, marveling at children bathing their buffaloes in the beach, indulging in the spa safari, and witnessing horses galloping freely along the shoreline. Each moment felt like it belonged in a storybook. As an ex-teacher, I was deeply moved by NIHI’s partnership with the Sumba Foundation. Visiting the children’s English class, reading with them, and learning about the foundation’s work left a lasting impression. It’s rare to find a resort that not only offers luxury but also contributes meaningfully to the local community and environment. NIHI Sumba gave us memories we’ll cherish forever, and there’s no doubt in our minds we’ll be back to relive them. This isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.

To sum up Nihi Sumba in one word would have to be WOW. Where do i start. Everything about this resort is absolutely amazing, from the rooms, food & beverage and the staff. I had very high expectations for this place and I’m happy to say those expectations were exceeded. All the food and non alcoholic drinks are included in the room rate, and everything was A1. So many cool and unique experiences are on offer ranging from a half day spa safari, swimming with local horses or surfing the world famous ‘gods left’. But the highlight of our stay would have to be how nice the staff were. At all levels from the GM to the Chefs to the gardeners. Everyone meets you with a huge smile and a welcome. Will forever be grateful for the opportunity to have stayed here with my family, memories that I will cherish for life.

Our 1st time to NIHI Sumba and it has left us speechless. Their tagline 'On The Edge of Wildness' couldn't be more true. Aside from the herds of horses and water buffalo on the beach, the isolated setting and immense surf gives the feeling of being a million miles away. The food has been exquisite, the service - a product of the brilliant Sumba Foundation, has been next level, and the 2 dedicated butlers in a group chat with my family, have bent over backwards to attend to our every need. The Nihioka Spa Safari is simply breathtaking and worth every single penny. No other spa on Planet Earth comes close. Have enjoyed playing Padel on their brand new court, the kids loved the chocolate making and the entire Christmas experience has been one that we will never ever forget. There's only 1 recommendation that I hope Sabine and her team will take to heart... Please never change what you have created. It is perfect in every way.

This hotel cannot be compared to any other on earth.... and my wife and I travel extensively.....and really expect Aman type service. The premise of the hotel is to really help the local community... and so far they have helped 45,000 people..... It feels as if you are at the end of the earth.... and you are... there are no nearby hotels.... and the structures have been crafted over 25 years to hug the mountainside...... heads up, there are steps everywhere, and lots of them..... but that is part of the fun!!! Secret paths everywhere! Our villa was huge, with a giant copper round bathtub... a large outdoor pool and sitting area... and then down a stone path.... another private daybed endless ocean vistas everywhere... We have trouble describing the hotel in normal terms.... it is more like an unbelievably high end Africa Safari Camp....... the food is spectacular... how they manage to get so many options here is beyond us... fresh salmon sushi? no problem... the best Indonesian food.. no problem.... the best western options... no problem..in fact any request is no problem. A bit of Veuve Clicquot Brut .....they make it happen... But what is so special is that many of the staff are being trained and come from the local villages... and they do spectacular....we started listing names... and we had to stop, because each and every staff member, was always happy to assist with anything... and because of the unique opportunity.. their hearts are happy, and this echoes throughout the resort.... We did a spa safari, and it was the most amazing experience of its type we had ever had... it was as if we were transported to Bali before Tourist...[this is true of the entire hotel]... We rode with horses in the ocean..... and I had surf lessons.... each experience amazing and with patient and kind staff. While trying to avoid an endless list, a special thanks to Maxy and Vikry our butlers..... and to each and every employee that made this so utterly one of a kind. Housekeeping and Laundry flawless....There was not a single employee who we would not want to hire for our own business... thats how incredible they were. We were here 8 days, and will come back soon. Special added thanks to Evalyn Rhia and all the horsemen and their care.. Moria !! To awesome Adam, who tolerated my surfing lesson with patience and a smile Thanks to the spa folks... Freya and Rainy.. and Yena... Mariana and the healer from India Vijaya. To Satria the GM well done! I'In Farida, Petronella, Mary... Hooray! and to the talented Philip, a singer of endless range... wow. I apologize for the spelling of many of the above names...:)

The Best in the World This absolutely the best hotel I've stayed with, no wonder it is rated to be among The Best in The World. The property, views, experience, service are just beyond exceptional. It was absolutely The Best at every aspect of it. Every moment, every experience was very unique at its emotions, quality and authenticity. I never had such amazing, high quality service as from every member of Nihi staff. Absolutely the best from the moment you land to Indonedsia (though we arrived a week before our arrival to Nihi, the staff helped us to go through express arrival clearance) until you depart Sumba. I highly recommend this hotel.

We would like to thank the Nihi Sumba team for the opportunity to experience Nihi. It has truly been incredible. We now feel completely prepared to inform our clients and sell Nihi with confidence. We have gained a clear understanding of Nihi's concept: the mind-blowing experiences they offer, the wave management system, surf trips to other breaks, the culinary experience, the different types of villas, and how they can be integrated into a single booking, among many other aspects. It’s a concept that stands out from many of the resorts we sell in the Maldives, making this experience highly enriching for our sales approach. Thank you very much once again.