About This Place
Moyo is a 349-square-kilometre island off the north coast of Sumbawa. Forest, dry savannah, villages and reef-fringed bays give it enough scale for more than a single beach stop, while Mata Jitu Waterfall is its best-known inland feature.
Labuhan Aji in the south and Sebotok in the north are the island's main village areas. Access is by boat from the Sumbawa Besar coast or by selected liveaboard itinerary, with weather and sea state shaping the landing.
Moyo and Satonda were designated as a national park in 2022. Visitors should use local guides, respect village routes and treat reef and forest access as managed protected-area activities.
At a Glance
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Also known asPulau Moyo, Mojo Island
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TypeIsland, Beach, Snorkel Site, Wildlife Site
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Inside Komodo National ParkNo
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How to get thereLiveaboard, Fast Boat
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Travel time from Labuan BajoReached by boat from Sumbawa Besar or on selected liveaboard routes
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LandingJetty
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Last checked2026-09-12
What to Expect
The island is larger and less road-connected than many photos imply. Transfers between a landing, village, waterfall and snorkel site may combine boat, motorcycle and walking.
Dry forest and savannah dominate much of the landscape, with greener conditions after rain. Coastal reefs support snorkeling and diving where guides confirm entry, current and conservation rules.
Accommodation ranges from village-based simplicity to high-end resort stays. Services outside a booked property are limited.
Crowds and Timing
Moyo rarely feels crowded away from Mata Jitu and major resort landings. Day boats can converge at the waterfall in the morning. Staying overnight creates more flexibility for village timing, reef conditions and quieter forest access.
How to Visit
Arrange boat transport, accommodation and a local guide before leaving Sumbawa. Common mainland staging points are on the coast near Sumbawa Besar. A liveaboard may visit one bay without providing access to every inland attraction, so confirm whether Mata Jitu is actually included.
Boats That Sail Here
Compare 5 bookable boats that include Moyo Island on published itineraries.
Who This Suits
Good for couples, wildlife travellers, snorkelers and visitors comfortable with boat and rural logistics. Families need confirmed transfers and suitable accommodation. Mobility limitations should be discussed before booking the waterfall route.
What to Bring
- Dry bag and waterproof footwear or sandals
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat and insect repellent
- Cash, water and essential medication
- Modest clothing for villages
- Mask and fins only for guide-approved reef access
Safety Notes
Boat access can be delayed by wind and sea state. Carry essential medication, dry storage and enough schedule margin for the return to Sumbawa.
Use a local guide inland, stay on agreed trails and do not enter waterfall pools or reef zones that management closes. Medical facilities are limited on the island.
Photography Notes
Mata Jitu, forest paths, fishing villages, savannah and reef all need different equipment. Use a polariser cautiously around water, protect gear from spray and humidity, and ask permission before photographing village residents or private resort areas.
Entrance Fee
Moyo is part of Moyo Satonda National Park. Park, guide, village, boat and activity charges may be collected separately; confirm the current authorised process before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Moyo Island?
It lies off the north coast of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara and is reached by boat.
Is Moyo a national park?
Moyo and Satonda form Moyo Satonda National Park, designated in 2022. Access and activity rules should be confirmed locally.
How large is Moyo?
The island covers about 349 square kilometres, so attractions are not all beside one landing.
How do I reach it?
Arrange a boat from the Sumbawa Besar coast or join a liveaboard route that explicitly lists Moyo. Weather affects departure and landing.
Is Mata Jitu easy to reach?
It usually requires an island transfer followed by motorcycle or walking access from the Labuhan Aji side. Use a local guide.
Can I snorkel around Moyo?
Yes at suitable reef sites, but tide, current and protected-area rules determine the actual entry.
How long should I stay?
One full day can cover one inland and one coastal activity. Two or three nights give a more realistic island experience.
Are services widely available?
No. Services concentrate in villages and booked accommodation. Confirm meals, transport and payment before arrival.
Marine Life
Activities
Cruise Areas
Location
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Moyo Island, Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
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