Luxury Travel Spotlight
Nihi Sumba with Chris Burch
By Nikko Karki
April 14, 2025

Nihi Sumba offers an unparalleled escape that combines raw natural beauty with uncompromising comfort. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in warmth and genuine kindness. Guests stay in one of 28 uniquely designed villas, where beautiful Sumbanese architecture meets modern luxury. Think private plunge pools, ocean views, and direct access to world-renowned surf breaks.

The Magic of Sumba

Sumba Island itself feels otherworldly. Wild horses gallop along the powder-soft sand, waterfalls and lush rice fields create postcard-perfect scenes, and traditional villages sit perched in the highlands. Whether you’re surfing some of the world’s best waves, exploring the island’s lush landscape, or simply relaxing in your villa, Nihi Sumba offers something for everyone.

A Philanthropic Core

Nihi is also a philanthropic venture, contributing a significant portion of its profits to the Sumba Foundation, which supports community initiatives in healthcare, education, and clean water projects. It’s a beautiful balance of giving back to the local community while delivering a high-end experience for guests.

Q&A with Chris Burch

How does Nihi represent your vision of what luxury travel can be?

CB: Nihi is all about adventure and authenticity. It’s about journeying to far-off places and immersing yourself in the local culture while enjoying the luxuries we provide. We’ve gathered an incredible team of extraordinary individuals who are passionate about delivering unparalleled experiences. Our guests love the Sumba Foundation, the wild horses, the Spa Safari – it’s all about connecting with something real and profound.

How do you envision the ideal trip for discerning travelers from the US? What will they love the most about Nihi?

CB: For travelers from the States seeking a truly exceptional experience, we suggest starting with a couple of days in Dubai or Tokyo. It helps to acclimate, get over any jet lag, and adds another layer of adventure to the journey. Once at Nihi, they’ll travel in luxury – business-class comfort – and then immerse themselves in the Spa Safari, relaxation, and a host of adventures. They’ll love the balance of serenity and excitement, the personalized service, and the feeling of discovering a hidden gem.

As you expand the Nihi brand, what would you say is the ‘secret sauce’ behind its success? What exciting developments or new destinations can discerning travelers look forward to next from Nihi?

CB: The ‘secret sauce’ is our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our locations while providing exceptional experiences. It’s about finding the right pieces – the land, the activities, the community – and bringing them together seamlessly. We’re excited about our upcoming projects in Costa Rica and Rote Island. Each new destination will offer the same level of adventure and luxury that our guests have come to expect from Nihi.

Nihi Treasured Memories

Nihi is a place that surpasses imagination. Every aspect – from the spectacular setting to the heartfelt service – remains etched in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s a testament to what can happen when luxury, nature, and community come together.

 

Where Next?

If you’re inspired to visit Nihi Sumba or want to combine cruising in Indonesia with a stint on land, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable journey. Contact Explorers to get started.

 

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Beyond its breathtaking cliffside and beachfront settings, Nihi blends authenticity with indulgence. You’ll experience world-class surfing, spa safaris, and immersive cultural moments, all while supporting sustainable initiatives that benefit local communities.

There’s so much on offer: horseback riding, waterfall hikes, cooking classes with local ingredients, spa treatments in open-air pavilions, and simply soaking up the island’s natural beauty. Sumba’s diverse landscape appeals to every kind of traveler.

It’s wonderfully flexible. Families appreciate the broad range of activities and spacious villas, while couples love the romantic seclusion. Even solo adventurers find it welcoming, thanks to group excursions and the resort’s laid-back, inclusive atmosphere.