Located high in the Rinjani valley at over 1,100 meters above sea level, Sembalun is a remote and peaceful mountain village. Because of its high altitude and distance from the main tourist hubs on the coast, planning your transportation in advance is highly recommended.
The drive to Sembalun is incredibly scenic, taking you through winding jungle roads, monkey forests, and traditional Sasak villages.
Here is everything you need to know about getting to Sembalun and Bukit Selong from Lombok’s main entry points.
1. Private Car with Driver (Highly Recommended) The easiest, safest, and most comfortable way to reach Sembalun is by hiring a private car with a driver. This takes the stress out of navigating steep mountain roads. You can arrange this through your hotel, local travel agencies, or directly with drivers at harbors and airports.
2. Scooter / Motorbike Rental (For Adventurers) Riding a scooter to Sembalun offers incredible freedom to stop for photos along the way. However, this is only recommended for experienced riders. The roads are winding, sometimes steep, and you must ensure your scooter’s brakes are in excellent condition.
3. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab / Gojek) While you can easily book a Grab or Gojek car from the airport or Senggigi toSembalun, do not rely on them for your return trip. Ride-hailing drivers are rarely available in the Sembalun valley. If you use a taxi app to get here, be sure to arrange a private driver for your journey back.
If you are arriving by fast boat from Bali or the Gili Islands, Bangsal is your starting point.
Distance: ~80 km
Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
The Route: The most scenic route takes you along the northern coast through Bayan. It is a beautiful drive where you can see the ocean on one side and Mount Rinjani on the other before turning inland to climb the mountain roads to Sembalun.
Senggigi is Lombok’s most established resort town.
Distance: ~95 km
Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
The Route: You can either head north along the coast (connecting to the Bangsal route) or drive inland through the Pusuk Monkey Forest. Both routes eventually merge and take you through the lush northern slopes of Rinjani.
If you are flying into Lombok, you will land in the central-south part of the island.
Distance: ~75 km
Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
The Route: The quickest way is to head northeast through the towns of Praya, Kopang, and Aikmel. After passing Aikmel, the road begins its steep and winding ascent into the Rinjani caldera.
Kuta is the vibrant surf hub on the southern coast of the island.
Distance: ~95 km
Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
The Route: You will drive north towards the airport and follow the same route through Praya and Aikmel. It’s a transition from dry, coastal landscapes into lush, cool highlands.
Avoid Driving at Night: The mountain roads leading to Sembalun lack street lighting and can be prone to thick fog. It is strongly advised to make the journey during daylight hours.
Check Your Brakes: If you are renting a scooter, test the brakes thoroughly before leaving. The descent from Sembalun back to the coast is incredibly steep.
Motion Sickness: The final hour of the drive into Sembalun is very twisty. If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before starting the mountain ascent.
Dress in Layers: You might leave Senggigi or Kuta in 30°C (86°F) heat, but temperatures in Sembalun can drop to 15°C (59°F) or lower. Bring a jacket for the arrival!
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