Sustainability

Tourism on Sumba is gradually and steadily developing. If left unchecked, it could easily threaten the unspoiled landscapes and ancient culture that Sumba possesses. However, tourism can also be an incredible opportunity. We believe responsible tourism is the only way to protect undeveloped islands in a way local communities can benefit. Sumba has everything to become a world leader in responsible tourism development.

Young people are the future of Sumba. Only they can end the circle of poverty. That is why we not only encourage young adults to dream big, we also empower them by education, training, and work experience. We run a hotel school and educational training restaurant for the underprivileged youth of Sumba.

Next to general and vocational education, our students enjoy on-the-job training at our social projects: Maringi, a small training resort with 5-star service, and Makan Dulu, a one-of-a-kind training restaurant specializing in Indonesian food with a Sumbanese flair.

Every year, our graduates start their new lives either with a 6-month internship in renowned hotels or restaurants or immediately finding employment in well-established businesses. Whichever path they take, one thing is for certain, their lives will never be the same.

We aim to raise environmental awareness with students, tourists, and local communities. And, we show the way. You might have seen us on a trash walk to the beach or around town, but most of our efforts are less visible. Our buildings are all made from fast-growing bamboo. The whole campus and resort are off-the-grid, powered by 288 solar panels.

We re-use 90% of our wastewater and don’t use chemicals. A large part of our terrain is dedicated to the growth and maintenance of a sustainable, organic farm. At the farm, we teach students and the local community new organic farming methods, with long-term sustainability in mind.