Sumbawa & Komodo

2 Days Sumbawa Whale Shark Tour From Lombok

inforinjaniwonders@gmail.com

Embark on an unforgettable marine adventure with our 2 Days Sumbawa Whale Shark Tour From Lombok. Nestled in the pristine waters of Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh), Sumbawa, this unique experience offers you a rare opportunity to swim and snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks—the largest, most gentle fish in the ocean.

Designed for ocean enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers, this seamless 2-day excursion takes care of all logistical arrangements from Lombok so you can focus entirely on enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Tour Highlights

  • Swim with Whale Sharks: Get up close and personal with majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat in Saleh Bay.

  • Hassle-Free Overland & Sea Transfers: Complete round-trip transfers from your hotel in Lombok, including land transport and ferry crossings to Sumbawa.

  • Traditional Outrigger Boat Experience: Sail out early morning to the bagans (traditional floating fishing platforms) where whale sharks gather to feed.

  • All-Inclusive Package: Includes meals, comfortable overnight accommodation in Sumbawa, snorkeling gear, expert local guides, and entry fees.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Lombok to Sumbawa Overland & Ferry Transfer

  • Morning Pick-Up: Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Lombok (Senggigi, Kuta, Mataram, or harbors) and transfer you to Kayangan Harbor in East Lombok.

  • Ferry Crossing: Board the public ferry for a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour crossing across the Alas Strait to Poto Tano Harbor, Sumbawa.

  • Drive to Saleh Bay / Sumbawa Besar: Journey through Sumbawa’s countryside toward the coastal area near Saleh Bay.

  • Check-In & Rest: Arrive at your hotel/guesthouse, relax, enjoy dinner, and rest early for the morning boat departure.

Day 2: Whale Shark Snorkeling & Return to Lombok

  • Early Morning Departure (04:00 AM): Board a traditional wooden outrigger boat and cruise into the tranquil waters of Saleh Bay toward the bagans.

  • Snorkeling with Whale Sharks: As dawn breaks, enter the crystal-clear water to swim and snorkel beside these gentle giants as they feed around the fishing platforms.

  • Breakfast & Transfer Back: Enjoy breakfast on the boat or shore, then return to the harbor.

  • Return Journey to Lombok: Drive back to Poto Tano Harbor, board the ferry to Lombok, and drop off at your hotel in the evening.

Why Book with Rinjani Wonders?

At Rinjani Wonders, we prioritize responsible wildlife tourism, safety, and guest comfort. Our experienced local crew ensures respectful interaction with the whale sharks while providing high-quality snorkeling equipment, safety briefings, and personalized service from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. Where is the Whale Shark tour located?

The tour takes place in Saleh Bay (Teluk Saleh), located in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara. Saleh Bay is famous for being a pristine, protected sanctuary where whale sharks gather year-round near traditional floating fishing platforms known as bagans.

2. Is it guaranteed that we will see and swim with Whale Sharks?

While whale sharks are wild animals in their natural environment, the sighting rate in Saleh Bay is exceptionally high (over 90–95%). Local fishermen work closely with our boat crew to track the location of the bagans where whale sharks actively feed in the early morning.

3. Is swimming with Whale Sharks safe?

Yes, absolutely! Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are gentle filter-feeders that eat plankton and small fish. They have no sharp teeth, are non-aggressive, and pose no danger to humans. However, to protect both guests and whale sharks, we enforce responsible wildlife interaction rules (e.g., maintaining a safe distance and not touching the animals).

4. Do I need to be an experienced swimmer or scuba diver?

No. Swimming experience is helpful, but non-swimmers and beginners can also enjoy the experience! We provide life jackets, snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel), and our local guides are always in the water to assist you. Scuba diving certification is not required as the whale sharks swim near the surface.

5. What is the itinerary schedule from Lombok?

  • Day 1: Pick-up from your hotel in Lombok, land transfer to Kayangan Harbor, a 1.5–2 hour public ferry crossing to Sumbawa, drive to your hotel/guesthouse near Saleh Bay, and rest.

  • Day 2: Early morning boat ride (around 04:00 AM) to Saleh Bay bagans, snorkel with whale sharks at sunrise, return for breakfast, drive back to the ferry, and transfer back to your hotel in Lombok by evening.

6. What is included in the Rinjani Wonders package?

Our all-inclusive package covers:

  • Round-trip private hotel transfers in Lombok and Sumbawa.

  • Public ferry tickets between Lombok (Kayangan) and Sumbawa (Poto Tano).

  • 1-night accommodation (hotel/guesthouse) in Sumbawa with breakfast.

  • Private traditional outrigger boat charter in Saleh Bay.

  • Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, life jacket) and local marine guide.

  • Entrance permits, bagan contribution fees, and meals as specified.

7. What should I pack for the 2-Day Sumbawa Whale Shark Tour?

We recommend bringing:

  • Swimwear / rash guard and a towel.

  • Dry change of clothes for the overland journey.

  • Sun protection (reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).

  • Waterproof camera or GoPro with an underwater casing/float strap.

  • Personal toiletries, medications, and cash for personal expenses.

Book Your Whale Shark Adventure Today!

Ready to cross swimming with whale sharks off your bucket list? Contact our team at Rinjani Wonders today to check availability, request a quote, or customize your Sumbawa tour itinerary!