Visit Lombok’s Vanilla Farms

Discover the Sweet Secrets of Lombok: Full Day Vanilla Farm Tour with Lombok Heritage

Uncovering Lombok's Fragrant Treasure

When most travelers think of Lombok, visions of turquoise beaches, Mount Rinjani, or Sasak cultural villages come to mind. But hidden amidst its rich volcanic soil and cool highland breezes lies a fragrant secret waiting to be explored — Lombok's Vanilla Farms.

Through Lombok Heritage’s immersive full-day tour, visitors have the rare opportunity to step into the heart of Tetebatu and Jeruk Manis, where local farmers have nurtured organic vanilla in harmony with nature for generations. This is not just a tour; it’s a sensory journey — filled with earthy aromas, village stories, farm-to-table tastings, and hands-on learning.

Whether you're a spice lover, nature enthusiast, or someone seeking authentic cultural encounters, this Visit Lombok’s Vanilla Farms Full Day Tour is a must-add to your travel itinerary.

Why Visit Lombok’s Vanilla Farms?

Vanilla is often referred to as the “queen of spices” — and for good reason. It's the second most expensive spice in the world, after saffron, due to the intricate pollination and curing process. What makes Lombok’s vanilla unique is the sustainable, organic, and community-based approach to cultivation, especially in the Tetebatu highlands.

You’ll gain an intimate understanding of how climate, patience, and tradition come together to produce a flavor that’s used worldwide — from Michelin-starred desserts to natural perfumes.

Tour Overview

• Tour Name: Visit Lombok’s Vanilla Farms – Full Day Tour

• Brand: Lombok Heritage

• Duration: Full Day (Approximately 8 hours)

• Departure Point: Tetebatu Village or pickup from selected areas (additional cost)

• Price: IDR 850,000 per person (group discounts available)

• Includes: Transportation, guided farm visit, vanilla tasting, traditional lunch, farmer activities, souvenir vanilla pod

• Suitable For: Families, couples, solo travelers, culinary enthusiasts, eco-tourists

Full-Day Vanilla Farm Tour Itinerary

8:00 AM – Pickup & Scenic Drive to Tetebatu Highlands

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel (available from Tetebatu, Pringgasela, or Selong). As we wind through verdant rice terraces, traditional Sasak villages, and cool forests, your Lombok Heritage guide shares captivating tales about vanilla's arrival in Lombok, local agricultural traditions, and the importance of sustainable spice farming.

Bonus: We make a short photo stop at the panoramic viewpoint overlooking Mount Rinjani — Lombok’s majestic volcano.

9:30 AM – Welcome Ceremony at the Vanilla Farm

Arriving at a family-owned vanilla farm tucked in the lush highlands, you're welcomed with a traditional Sasak herbal drink infused with—you guessed it—vanilla! Your host, a third-generation farmer, shares the rich story of how their ancestors began growing this delicate crop.

Fun Fact: Vanilla orchids must be pollinated by hand within a 12-hour blooming window. You’ll try it yourself during the farm walk!

10:00 AM – Guided Vanilla Walk & Pollination Experience

Accompanied by your local guide and a vanilla specialist, stroll through shaded agroforestry plots where vanilla vines climb naturally alongside coffee trees and cacao plants. You’ll witness:

• The hand-pollination process

• How farmers naturally fertilize the soil using compost

• The intercropping system that preserves biodiversity

• Pest management using lemongrass and other native plants

Here’s your chance to try hand-pollinating a vanilla flower (seasonal) and feel the connection to nature that defines the island’s slow farming philosophy.

11:30 AM – Traditional Lunch with Vanilla-Flavored Delights

After the farm visit, enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a bamboo hut, surrounded by views of Mount Rinjani and the vanilla groves. All ingredients are sourced locally — many from the farm itself.

Menu Highlights:

• Grilled fish in banana leaf with vanilla-lime marinade

• Organic rice with sautéed wild fern (pakis)

• Vanilla and tamarind sambal

• Vanilla coconut pudding for dessert

Vegetarian and vegan options available.

1:00 PM – Curing House Tour: From Pod to Perfume

Step into the vanilla curing house, where the transformation from fresh green pods into fragrant brown beans takes place. Your guide explains:

• The sweating and drying process

• How moisture content determines flavor intensity

• Storage secrets for maintaining premium quality

• Uses of vanilla in aromatherapy and natural remedies

You’ll even sample vanilla-infused oil, used for traditional massage and skincare.

2:00 PM – DIY Workshop: Make Your Own Vanilla Product

Get creative in the Vanilla Workshop where you can:

• Infuse your own vanilla extract (take-home souvenir)

• Make a mini vanilla-scented candle or natural soap

• Learn how to use vanilla in daily cooking or drinks

Our instructor provides easy, eco-friendly recipes and packaging using local bamboo and banana fiber.

3:00 PM – Tea, Talk & Vanilla Farmers’ Q&A

Over cups of vanilla tea and banana fritters, sit down with your host family and learn about:

• The economic challenges and fair-trade opportunities in the vanilla market

• How climate change affects harvest cycles

• The role of youth and women in vanilla farming cooperatives

This candid conversation gives travelers a deeper appreciation for the human side of vanilla — beyond its commercial value.

4:00 PM – Farewell Ceremony & Gift Exchange

Before leaving, receive a hand-tied gift of one premium vanilla pod and a handwritten thank-you note from your hosts. Guests are encouraged to support the farm by purchasing ethically priced vanilla products directly — ensuring 100% of profits go to the farmer.

We end with a short walk through the rice fields, a blessing chant, and group photo in traditional attire (optional).

5:00 PM – Return to Tetebatu / Drop-off

You’ll return to your hotel, heart full and senses awakened, carrying not just souvenirs — but a new story of connection, culture, and respect for nature.

Tour Highlights at a Glance

• 🌿 Visit a working vanilla farm in the Tetebatu highlands

• ✋ Try pollinating vanilla orchids by hand

• 🍽️ Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with vanilla-infused recipes

• 🔥 Witness the vanilla curing process

• 🎁 Create your own extract or product to take home

• 🗣️ Engage in meaningful conversations with vanilla farmers

• 🏞️ Experience the landscape of Lombok beyond the beaches

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

• Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent

• Refillable water bottle (water provided)

• Camera or phone for photos

• Light jacket (mornings can be cool in Tetebatu)

Sustainability Promise

Lombok Heritage partners only with small-scale, eco-friendly farms and cooperatives. Each tour supports:

• Local income generation

• Cultural heritage preservation

• Organic farming practices

• Gender-inclusive employment

We strive to make every travel experience beneficial for both visitors and hosts.

Booking & Contact Information

Ready to smell, touch, and taste the story of vanilla?

👉 Reserve Your Spot: tetebatutour.com

📞 WhatsApp: Mr. Ibrahim

📞 WhatsApp: Mr. Ukenk