Looking at a map of Indonesia you will see a long chain of islands with Bali in the middle. These islands are close together making an overland trip very easy. What can you expect on a short trip heading east? Well the Lombok Strait, separating Bali and Lombok is the major transition line for the change from a fertile Asian landscape into a drier Australia type of landscape. Flora and fauna change and some of the local characteristics become more Melanesian nand Polynesian as you head east.
Bali is mainly Hindu, whereas neighboring Lombok is strongly Muslim. Ferries connect these islands and after 4-6 hour crossing you can ride your motorbike across the island to the port of Lebuhan Lombok which wil take 3-4 hours depending on how fast you go. The ferry to Sumbawa takes 3 hours.
Sumbawa is predominantly Muslim, with strong animist undercurrent and Flores further east is 85% Christian. Having your own transport is the way to go whether you hire a motorbike or a small Suzuki. Local buese will get you from port to port but not afford you the mobility that the adventure demands.
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G’day Nick,
East Nusa Tenggara has such a diverse array of cultures and all of the islands are worth a visit, although at the moment, East Timor is a tad iffie.
The Peli shipping line used to run cargo ships through these islands. Hopping on one of those used to be really cheap and uite an adventure.
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