Welcome to the wild west. Waikabubak, the largest town in West Sumba, is just over an hour east of Tambolaka airport. By large town, we mean a collection of dusty streets with a sprawling traditional market, a few Chinese-run shophouses and government offices.
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Keep reading to learn more about Waikabubak!
Waikabubak has the edge on other small Indonesian towns of this type, as dotted amongst the more recent streets, every forested hill is home to traditional villages. A little cooler here than the coast, highland Waikabubak is a good place to base yourself for a day or two to explore, and is a gateway to the central and southern areas of Sumba.
Welcome to Bondo Ede village Photo: Sally Arnold
You need not venture far to see some sights, as within the centre of town, Tarung and neighbouring Waitabar village, along with Bodo Ede, Tambelar and Elu villages are all easily reached on foot (or more quickly by ojek). These villages are familiar with the strange habits of foreign tourists, however have a read of our guide to visiting traditional villages, as the rules still apply. If this is your first stop in Sumba, or your first time visiting traditional villages here, it may be a good idea to employ a ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 700 words.)
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By
Sally Arnold.
Last updated on 18th November, 2016.
