NIHI Sumba: A perfect island fantasy filled with horses

Longing to ride a horse on the beach at sunset? Or go for a swim with the horses? Just less than an hour flight from Bali, NIHI Sumba luxury resort provides a stunning environment and world-class facilities for equestrian activities, including horse whispering and horse surfing at the resort’s own stables. 

Each morning, the resort releases the horses from Sandalwood stables to gallop freely along the 2.5 km-long white-sand beaches and then swim in the sea. It is an extraordinary sight to watch, an experience that will set your heart racing with excitement!

The ‘Soul of Sumba’

The people of Sumba believe their soul is connected to the horse, and the horse is “The Soul of Sumba.”

Horses are highly intelligent and majestic creatures and play an important role in Sumbanese culture and human therapy work worldwide.

Since ancient times, people have used horses for therapeutic purposes. Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the Father of Medicine, even wrote about the therapeutic potential of horseback riding. And where better to experience this than the wild beach of Nihiwatu?

Horses require peace and a sense of calm when handling. Under the guidance of horse whisperer Carol Sharpe, soften your steps and be absorbed by the innate wisdom and soothing nature of the horse.

Whether you are a passionate horseperson or simply a lover of nature and wildlife, NIHI Sumba’s invitation will open your eyes to the beauty of Sumba’s most famous wild residents.

NIHI reminds us to live in the moment, discover time-honored values, respect nature, and take part in the preservation of our world. 

NIHI Sumba: A haven for the adventurer

Horses look for strong leadership within their herd, and NIHI Sumba invites you to be part of this special relationship by learning how to guide your horse with purely your voice and energy.

Fully immerse yourself in the interactive activities to reveal a greater understanding of interpersonal dynamics through the eyes of a horse, resulting in an incredible sense of empowerment and self-confidence.

There is nothing quite like the feeling of commanding respect of an animal such as this, and the benefits to humans are vast — from reducing blood pressure to helping to calm physical symptoms of conditions such as anxiety and stress. 

With the riding element, NIHI invites guests to collaborate on a deeper level with the horses through interactive activities both on and off the horse.

Suitable for guests with some riding experience, this is an utterly unique experience. 

A unique yoga activity at NIHI Sumba

Take time to be mindful while on horseback.

Become fully present in both the horse’s movement and your own through gentle stretching, breathing, and stillness.

Take in the sound of the waves and connect with the magical creature that is well-versed in working alongside you in this calm state of being. 

Suitable for all levels of riding experience, this meditative movement with horse and rider promises to enrich and balance the body and soul.

Prices start from £2360 (based on today’s exchange) for two persons sharing a villa (£1180 per person per night) based on a minimum three-night stay.

The offer includes:

• 1x equi-spective groundwork and equi-reflective groundwork and riding.
• 1x yoga meditation on horseback
• 1x swimming with horses
• 1x beach horse ride
• 3 daily meals and all non-alcoholic drinks
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and mini-bar 
• Tour of the Sumba Foundation projects
• Sea activities, including stand-up paddle boarding and snorkeling
• Scheduled non-equine yoga and meditation classes

A vacation with a purpose

NIHI Sumba in Indonesia is not just a hotel; it is a way of life. Here, you will have a glimpse into a bygone era, centuries of rituals, unspoiled landscape, and unlimited freedom to explore.

At NIHI, you will feel connected and useful and feel a part of something larger than yourself.

With philanthropy at the core of its business model, the NIHI legacy stands for more than just a destination. Many guests ultimately become benefactors of the Sumba Foundation, creating a connection to the island’s pure culture while promoting the health and welfare of its society by supporting basic needs such as health clinics, school lunches for children, and access to clean water.

NIHI encourages volunteer opportunities that introduce guests to these projects and give them a glimpse of the local life.

NIHI Sumba, an award-winning luxury resort on remote Sumba Island in Indonesia, is co-owned by investor and entrepreneur Chris Burch and international hotelier James McBride.

All images: courtesy of Oliver Relations & Equine Collective