If you’re planning a trip to Sumba, one of the first things to know is that the island isn’t exactly a digital nomad hotspot. Internet exists, of course — but it’s patchy, unpredictable, and often very slow once you leave the main towns.
For many travelers, that’s part of the charm: less screen time, more real adventure. But if you’re counting on reliable Wi-Fi for work or keeping the kids entertained, you’ll want to set your expectations right.
Internet in Towns vs. Rural Areas
In Waingapu (East Sumba) and Tambolaka/Waikabubak (West Sumba), you’ll find decent enough connectivity for basics like WhatsApp, email, and light browsing. Speeds can drop during peak hours, but generally, you can send photos, make video calls if the signal is strong, and check maps without too much frustration.
Once you head out into the countryside — to villages, beaches, and hills — the story changes. Mobile data often slows to a crawl, and sometimes you won’t have a signal at all. Don’t expect to stream or upload videos from a remote beach; it’s better to download maps, music, and movies before you go.
SIM Cards, eSIMs & Coverage
Two main providers operate in Sumba: Telkomsel and XL Axiata. Telkomsel still offers the strongest and most reliable coverage across the island, especially outside towns. XL works fine in Waingapu and Waikabubak, but signal can quickly drop once you head into rural areas.
While you can technically buy a SIM card at the Telkomsel GraPARI outlets in Waingapu or Waikabubak, we don’t recommend waiting until you arrive. Staff there often speak limited English, and some visitors have reported problems registering SIM cards with just a passport — even though this is standard practice elsewhere in Indonesia.
It’s much easier to buy and register your SIM card before flying to Sumba — for example, in Bali, Jakarta, or Lombok, where staff are used to assisting foreign travelers. That way, you’ll land ready to go, with data already working.
Tourist SIM cards in Indonesia must be registered against your phone’s IMEI. Without registration, the SIM may stop working after a short period. Read Guide to SIM Cards & IMEI Registration in Indonesia.
If you’d rather avoid the hassle, an eSIM is a good alternative. Providers like Airalo or Klook connect to Telkomsel’s network, so you get the same coverage without waiting in line or dealing with paperwork. It costs a bit more, but it’s by far the easiest option if you just want to land, switch on your phone, and get connected.
Backindo Tip: Thinking about getting an eSIM from Airalo? Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 at checkout to get 15% off if you’re a new user.
Even with Telkomsel (whether SIM or eSIM), don’t expect seamless coverage everywhere. In towns and along major roads, data is usually fine for WhatsApp, maps, and social media. But once you head into rural areas, the signal often slows to a crawl — or disappears completely.
Wi-Fi at Hotels & Cafés
Hotels and guesthouses in Waingapu, Tambolaka, and Waikabubak usually provide free Wi-Fi, but the quality varies wildly. Some resorts and higher-end hotels offer more stable connections, while homestays may only have a single router shared by all guests. In rural areas, you’ll often find no Wi-Fi at all.
Cafés with strong internet are rare. If you need to upload files or do work, your best bet is to stay in town and test a few spots until you find one that works for you.
Staying Connected in Practice
- Download offline maps before you fly — Google Maps works fine offline once saved.
- Use WhatsApp — it’s the go-to app for everything in Indonesia, from chatting with drivers to confirming hotel bookings.
- Plan for blackouts — power cuts and weak signals happen. Don’t rely on the internet for critical plans.
- Digital detox — see spotty signal as a chance to disconnect. Many travelers find it refreshing to step away from constant connectivity.