Things To Do
in Bima
Bima is a coastal city on the western tip of Sumbawa Island in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It functions as a gateway to nearby islands, beaches, and volcanic landscapes while retaining a strong fishing heritage. The city blends indigenous Bima culture with welcoming coastal life and growing tourism infrastructure.
Visitors are greeted by warm hospitality, lively markets, and scenic sea-and-mountain views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bima fortress, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of the region. Stroll through the nearby traditional markets and engage with local vendors to experience Bima's vibrant culture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of 'nasi kuning' (yellow rice) and local fish.
In the afternoon, explore the famous Sangiang Island which is just a short boat ride away. Spend your time swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, discovering diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs. Relish a picnic lunch on the beach while soaking in the sun.
As the sun begins to set, return to Bima city and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting authentic Sasak cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the cool evening breeze and socialize with locals. Cap off your day with a traditional music performance showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Embark on an early morning hike to Mount Tambora, one of the most famous volcanoes in Indonesia. The trek begins with guided routes winding through lush forests and beautiful landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities to photograph breathtaking vistas. A hearty breakfast will give you the energy needed for the hike ahead.
Once you reach the summit, enjoy a packed lunch while taking in panoramic views over the caldera and the surrounding islands. Spend some time exploring the unique geology and ecosystems that characterize this fascinating area. The descent offers a different perspective and more incredible vistas.
Return to Bima to unwind after your adventurous day, freshening up before dinner at a local eatery. Engage with fellow travelers or locals to share stories of your day. Wind down the evening enjoying a cup of 'kopi Bima' while gazing at the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-25 |
| 🚤Boat tour or snorkeling trip | $25-60 |
| 🧳Souvenir purchase | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery and seafood
- Friendly, hospitality-focused culture
- Gateway to nearby islands and Tambora
- Limited nightlife and transport options outside the city
- Smaller selection of international-brand facilities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Bima
Visit one of these nice places.
A working harbor with fishing boats, masts, and pastel skies—great for early-morning silhouettes.
Wide sandy shoreline and calm waters at low tide, ideal for long exposure and sunset shots.
Scenic pull-off spots along the coast offering panoramic sea and mountain views.
Bustling streets and stalls as vendors prepare seafood and produce for the day.
Terraced hills meeting the ocean—dramatic compositions with a sense of scale.
Food in Bima
Bima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish with a tangy sambal and lime; best enjoyed at coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Shrimp cooked in a spicy chili sauce with garlic and coconut milk, served with rice.
A simple mixed rice plate featuring local vegetables and fish or chicken.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market where locals buy fresh seafood, produce, and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs, dress modestly in public and at religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or mosques if requested.
Greet with a smile and use simple Indonesian phrases; avoid loud behavior in markets and religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips (IDR 5,000–20,000) for good service in restaurants or with guides.
Cash is widely used (IDR). Some hotels, larger restaurants, and tour operators may accept debit/credit cards; mobile payments are less common outside towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny days, light rains rare; ideal for beach days, hikes, and outdoor photography.
More frequent rain and higher humidity; seas may be rougher and some roads can be muddy.
Bima at Night
Hiking in Bima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging multi-day hike to the crater rim of a historic volcano; dramatic crater views and diverse landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Bima by plane.
Domestic flights with connections to Bali, Makassar, and other Indonesian cities; better connections through Lombok or Denpasar.
Major hub with broader domestic connections; transfer by road or ferry to Bima.
Main gateway for international travelers to NTB; frequent domestic connections to Bima area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous community with their own language and customs; primarily Muslim with strong maritime traditions.
Residents from neighboring islands and Indonesian archipelago communities contribute to a diverse cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local clubs; community leagues exist across the city.
Popular indoor activity with casual courts and local tournaments.
Traditional coastal activities that locals enjoy and that visitors can experience with guides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based dishes, tofu or tempeh, and fruit; ask for no shrimp paste in dishes and request oil-free options if needed.