Welcome to Sumba, the mystical Sandalwood Island, where the air is spiced with aromatic woods and fiery red ginger. Where yuletide traditions play out to the rhythm of the tides. Where the jingle of sleighbells blends with the jungle call of hornbills. Where native horses gallop with the same magic as flying reindeer.
Join us for an unforgettable festive experience at the Edge of Wildness.
Younger guests are in for a full day of festive fun. Activities start with Christmas card-making followed by a joyful and colorful experience with NIHI’s majestic Sandalwood horses. Our young ‘wildlings’ can even help us decorate the stunning resort Christmas tree, or craft beautiful turndown gifts for the family, together with children from the Sumba Foundation.
The scent of gingerbread fills the morning air as our young VIPs transform cookies into magical creations. A thrilling outdoor adventure awaits with a treasure hunt in NIHI’s lush grounds at the Edge of Wildness. As the sun disappears into the waves, the resort gathers for festive cheer at Happiest Hour before our outdoor movie theater screens a Christmas classic under the stars.
Western traditions meet Sumbanese heritage. Witness exhilarating spectacles of speed and horsemanship at the mini Pasola show and beach horse race. Nightfall brings the comforting sound of carols and heart-warming hymns performed by the Sumba Foundation choir – the perfect prelude to a festive feast for Christmas Eve.
Christmas morning starts with a tropical surprise as Santa makes a grand entrance on the waves, Sumba style. We celebrate with an unforgettable open-air barbecue brunch, where sea breezes mingle with the scent of fresh seafood and familiar festive flavours. The afternoon offers a precious opportunity to share the joy of Christmas with children in a nearby village, culminating in an elegant a la carte dinner and a mesmerizing cultural dance performance.
The majesty of nature is on full show as our iconic Sandalwood horses and powerful water buffalos parade along the shore. On the last evening of 2025, we follow local tradition by lighting a bonfire and casting wishes into the flames, before indulging in a masterful six-course Indonesian feast. The new
year is celebrated in true NIHI fashion with a vibrant beach party featuring a live DJ, tribal percussion, spellbinding fire dancers, and magnificent fireworks over the moonlit ocean.
As the celebrations draw to a close, may the memories of shared laughter, traditions, and oceanfront magic carry into the year ahead. From our NIHI family to yours, we wish you a joyful Christmas and a soulful beginning to 2026, filled with light, adventure, and connection at the Edge of WildnessTM.
