Ratenggaro Village
A traditional village on the Kodi coast with the tallest roof towers in Sumba and rows of megalithic tombs facing the sea.
What sets it apart
Ratenggaro sits in Umbu Ngedo, Kodi district, where a river meets the sea. What distinguishes it from other traditional villages in Sumba is the height of its roofs — the tallest reach around 30 metres, the highest on the island. Megalithic stone tombs stand in the village square and along the beach, older than the houses around them.
The Marapu faith
The shape of these houses is not decorative. The tower stores heirlooms and serves as a link to the ancestors in Marapu, the belief system still practised here. For that reason the upper level is not open to visitors.
How to visit respectfully
Entering requires permission from the village elders, usually accompanied by an offering of betel nut. Some areas may not be photographed, and when the village is in mourning or holding a ritual, visits are postponed. Entry fees and offerings are included in our packages, and your guide will explain the etiquette before you walk in.
When to come
Late afternoon gives better light and cooler air — the Kodi coast is hot at midday. The dry season, roughly July to October, makes the approach road more comfortable.
Tours that include Ratenggaro Village
3D2N · Package 1 · day 1
Sumba Tour 3 Days 2 Nights
Southwest Sumba – West Sumba
3D2N · Package 2 · day 1
Sumba Tour 3 Days 2 Nights
Southwest – West – East Sumba
4D3N · Package 1 · day 1
Sumba Tour 4 Days 3 Nights
Southwest – West – East Sumba
4D3N · Package 2 · day 1
Sumba Tour 4 Days 3 Nights
Southwest Sumba – West Sumba
Other places in Southwest Sumba
Lagoon
Weekuri Lagoon
A turquoise saltwater lagoon fed by seawater seeping through the reef, calm enough to swim in safely.
Beach
Mandorak Beach
A small white-sand cove guarded by two limestone headlands, a few minutes from Weekuri Lagoon.