Saifana Organic Farm — Hotel in Lombok

From when we were first greeted by Atias - with such genuine mirth and kindness - to our parting day and waving goodbye to Herna as we looked our last upon that wholesome haven we came to call home, our stay at the farm was marked by a feeling of being out of time; as though we had slipped between worlds and left the rest of Lombok behind ✨

What to tell of Saifana? Four nights we passed at the farm, and ventured out of the gates but once. For the remainder, we read, and wrote, played board games, rested, or ambled through the grounds - stopping to greet the many growing things, or cats, or dogs, or chickens, or cows. Thus did our days pass, and long was the crimson streak of the sunset over the thick fields of corn, as we watched it sink low behind the bulk of the mountain each night.

Many of the family live on the farm, and the staff operate almost as an extension of them, so closely knit are they all, and so do they treat one another. Much could we tell you about the team; of their peerless kindness, the warmth of their smiles, the clear sound of their laughter through the open kitchen, or how at ease we felt around them all.

Ever were we well fed from the harvests of the farm, with a changing menu depending on what was available. The kitchen team served up meals that were nourishing, creative, and scrumptious, and we never wanted for anything. One morning, we had the good fortune to harvest some rosella with Elle (I think!), and it was used to make jam that very night.

The room was comfortable, the bed large, the mosquito net strong against invaders, and the bathroom tidy and quick to draining. Many were the geckos around the grounds, and not easily did my partner abide the presence of the 3 tokays in our room - but to her credit, she managed it well. You may want to consider how well you deal with tokay geckos, or things that go bump in the night 🦎

Loathe we were to part from the people or the grounds themselves, but know that we will keep them ever in our hearts. To have such a space as this to rest within, and share in the generosity and compassion of the people there, whilst knowing that Saifana exists to make a real impact in the community and country-at-large is miraculous.

Visiting Saifana is a simple way to support organic, regenerative agriculture; grassroots organisations; community care and organisations that can uplift the web of being they operate within 🙌🏼

Plus the pancakes are yummy and the people...

"There is no wifi, but you will get good connection here ... with the people."||That's what Mr Tekno, the owner said, when I called to book the place, and I was sold. I ended up staying at Saifana for 5 days, a peaceful and beautiful retreat in north Lombok, 20 mins from Senaru, 2 hours from Senggigi. There are 4 little bungalows, each with a queen size bed, solar powered, with a sunlit modern toilet, and accompanying bale. Enjoy beautiful views of Rinjani in the day, and clear views of Milky Way at night. This place is a showcase for organic farming, experimenting successfully with growing different crops in this dry clime, with cashew nut trees, chillis, spinach, eggplant etc, and beautiful pink kambodja trees. Get used to the natural night sounds of geckos rustling through the thatched roofs and loud "tokays", and morning rooster crows. ||The owners stay at the farm mainly on weekends, and that is a good time to meet Tekno and Sophie, and hear the story of Saifana firsthand. On weekdays, the local staff taking care of the farm don't speak much English, but are kind and friendly. The manager Muliadi was the main translator, and is also a trekking and tour guide, and took me sightseeing and trekking in the area. The farm has a scooter for rent. His wife, Hernawati, prepares yummy home cooked Indonesian meals (ooh, lovely sambal!). Take a walk through the neighbouring village of Sambik Elen to see quiet village life and meet curious locals (they may invite you to sit at their doorstep and chat, or give an impromptu class at the local school!). This is a good place for a quiet retreat, an educational experience, and as a base to see north and...

I recently had the opportunity to visit Saifana Organic Farm, and overall, it was an interesting experience. The farm is located in a quiet area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, which made it an ideal place to unwind and relax.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the friendly staff and a few big dogs who roamed around the facilities. It was evident that the farm was well-maintained as I saw workers busy planting vegetables, which was quite a sight to behold.

However, one thing to note is that the farm is quite far from Sembalun, which is not ideal if you plan to visit Rinjani or Sembalun valley. So, if you are looking for a place that is conveniently located near these attractions, Saifana Organic Farm might not be the best option.

As for the accommodation, I stayed in a small room that had a lot of mosquitoes and geckos. While I found the geckos to be fascinating, I was also a bit worried that they might bite me. The sound of the geckos was also quite loud and annoying, which made it difficult to get a good night's sleep.

Despite the issues with the accommodation, I must say that the farm itself was a unique and fascinating experience. It was amazing to see how the vegetables were grown organically and how the staff took care of the farm with great passion.

Overall, I would recommend Saifana Organic Farm to anyone who is interested in experiencing life on an organic farm. However, if you are looking for a place with more modern amenities and closer proximity to popular tourist destinations, this might not be the best...