Maringi Sumba is more than just a beautiful eco-resort — it’s a place where your holiday directly supports local youth through the Sumba Hospitality Foundation. The staff, many of whom are students, were warm, professional, and truly inspiring. Our room was thoughtfully designed using sustainable materials, offering the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity. The gardens were serene, the food was fresh and locally sourced, and we loved their signature non-alcoholic Sumba Beer! What made the stay truly special was learning how the foundation empowers the local community. It added such depth and meaning to our visit. Highly recommended for anyone who values authentic travel experiences and wants to make a positive impact while enjoying a peaceful island retreat.

Beautifully peaceful! The staff were so friendly and helpful. The food was delicious and service was exceptional. After 3 days we felt very at home :) we visited the nearby beaches - stunning white sand. We did a tour of the village which was very informative and we loved seeing the local life. Eka was our guide, along with Dini, and both were amazing to spend the day with, we loved their sharing of Sumba knowledge and history. We even forgot something when we left and they drove it to us. This was not only lovely accommodation but a super enriching experience that we will never forget. Thank you!

The only thing that could be improved is the air con!

Founded on a meaningful cause, we love how Maringi Sumba is a teaching school and training hub for the locals going into hospitality. You get staff who are professional, and eager to provide excellent service. Hotel is close to the airport, airport pick up is provided, it is located in a private area so getting on full board is needed. We love that there are tours (additional cost) with knowledgeable guides to show us the beauty of Sumba, and we love that there is a farm growing our meals. What stood out is the impressive staff, we have learnt so much about Sumba’s culture through our guest captain! Great way to start our trip! Highly recommend.

We were well taken care of! Nothing we did not like. :-)

The property was beautiful and all the architecture was made out of bamboo. Everything was made so that it is an eco friendly resort. The staff were so sweet and it’s a training school for them so all the money goes to help their eduction in the hotel service industry. I loved that concept about the hotel. The food was amazing and fresh because it came from their gardens. I loved everything about this place and would come again to support this organisation if I come back to Sumba.

That the shower water never got hot.

food was fine dining - did not expect that. The staff are incredibly proactive, positive, and a happy bunch to be around - a lovely atmosphere!

Wld be good to be able to buy dried fruit or nuts etc from the honor bar. When kitchen is closed it is slim pickings to be able to eat anything....there is nothing outside the hotel to buy (zero stores).

We loved the concept of this foundation. A place for locals to get professional training in hospitality sector and for guests, a proper comfortable stay in Sumba.

One of the night, there was late night party, till 1 am or something, in a nearby home or property. It was difficult to sleep with such loud music that night. I hope the neighbors will understand the importance of this foundation and respect quiet hours for the surrounding.

We absolutely LOVED it here! The Sumba Hospitality Fund initiative is so wonderful, and the students went above and beyond to take care of us and make our stay very special. The rooms are very unique and the food ans drinks are all delicious (a lot grown in their own farm) and food included in the price. The outdoor bathroom is super cool. We really really recommend everyone to stay here. Thank you so much Maringi!

There wasn’t anything we didn’t like about the property.

Fantastic experience, what a pleasure it was to be looked after by these amazing students. The fact that the resort teaches sustainability and permaculture just add so much to the overall experience and it makes so much sense. Sumba is in good hands if these students are the people who will be running hospitality and resorts in the future. Absolutly loved our stay here.

Incredible experience, owned by a foundation forming young students for the tourism industry. They give an exceptional service, beautiful rooms and campus. All, delicious, meals included

The location, not many things to do around. Good to make day trips and relaxing a little there, not to stay a full day on site.

SHF is the perfect place to explore Sumba and be part of a social impact project. The trainees are incredible young adults ready to learn from those who stay in SHF and share their knowledge about the island. Its a 5-star hotel at accesible prices and impact.