RRI.CO.ID, Kupang - The Lembata Regency Administration in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has recorded a promising start to the year, with 12,514 tourists visiting the region during the first quarter (January–March) of 2026.

According to Head of the Lembata Tourism and Creative Economy Agenct, Yakobus Andreas Wuwur, the visitor count consists of 12,420 domestic tourists and 94 international travelers. While these figures are based on official reports from specific sites, officials believe the actual number of visitors across the island may be even higher.

The data highlights three specific locations as the most popular spots for travelers during the first three months of the year. Bukit Cinta Lembata led the rankings by welcoming 932 visitors, while Woi Pedan Beach followed as a significant draw with 353 visitors. Additionally, Wewan Belan Beach remained a key destination for tourists, recording a total of 264 visitors during the same period.

Lembata has seen significant growth in its tourism sector over the past few years. In 2023, the regency recorded 15,293 total visitors. That number surged to 37,899 in 2024 and reached a peak of 42,470 visitors in 2025.

Yakobus emphasized that the future of Lembata’s tourism relies heavily on the quality of hospitality provided by local communities and industry players. He noted that modern travelers are increasingly drawn to authentic, village-based experiences rather than just scenic views.

"Tourists are also interested in directly experiencing activities such as feeding livestock, weaving, and catching fish, therefore, hospitality is the key to service," Yakobus said on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He urged all tourism stakeholders, including associations like ASITA, PHRI, and HPI, to ensure that every guest feels comfortable and immersed in the daily lives of the local farming and seafaring communities.

The regency is currently preparing for its flagship event, Festival Lamaholot 2026, which is scheduled to take place from July 1–4. For the third consecutive year, the festival has been included in the Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN), Indonesia's national calendar of premier tourism events.

The festival serves as a critical promotional window for Lembata. International travel packages are already being sold, with a dozen foreign tourists confirmed and many more domestic visitors from Jakarta and other regions currently in the confirmation phase.

To maintain the momentum, the administration is encouraging the diaspora and families living outside Lembata to return home during the festival, which coincides with the national holiday season. Beyond the event itself, the promotion of Lembata will continue through digital storytelling, photography, and video content to ensure the island remains a top-of-mind destination for global travelers. ***