Mau Hau Brotherhood Hill (Bukit Persaudaraan Mau Hau) is a scenic hilltop destination in Mauliru Village, Kambera, East Sumba, Nusa Tenggara Timur. This underrated gem offers sweeping views of terraced rice fields, remnants of Japanese WWII caves, panoramas of Waingapu City, and wild horses roaming freely — all in one easy half-day trip just 48 km from Waingapu (about 1.5 hours by road).
Why Visit Mau Hau Brotherhood Hill in East Sumba?
Mau Hau is often overlooked in favour of Sumba's beaches and waterfalls, but this hillside destination packs a surprising punch. Whether you're after nature, history, or a peaceful picnic spot with stunning views, Mau Hau delivers. Locals even call it the "Sembalun of Sumba" — a nod to the famous Sembalun Hills in Lombok — thanks to its lush terraced landscape.
Top Attractions at Mau Hau Brotherhood Hill
Mauliru Rice Field Terraces — Bali Vibes in East Nusa Tenggara
Think you need to go to Bali for a stunning rice terrace view? Think again. From the top of Mau Hau Hill, you'll be greeted by beautifully layered green rice paddies stretching across the valley below. Tall lontar palms and coconut trees dot the landscape, adding to the artistic, almost painterly feel of the scenery. It's a photographer's dream — and you won't have to share it with the Bali crowds.
Japanese WWII Cave — History Meets Nature
At the summit of Mau Hau, you'll find the remains of Japanese defensive cave bunkers from the colonial occupation era. These historic holes in the hilltop are a fascinating reminder of Sumba's wartime past. If you're the type of traveller who wants more than just pretty views, Mau Hau gives you a genuine history lesson alongside your nature walk. Just be careful around the openings — more on that in the tips section below.
Panoramic Views of Waingapu City and the Kambaniru River
Mau Hau's location near Waingapu makes it an ideal vantage point for city panoramas. Settle in for a picnic with family or friends while gazing out over the rooftops of Waingapu. On a clear day, you can also spot the winding flow of the Kambaniru River snaking through the city — a beautiful bonus that most visitors don't expect.
Activities: Trekking, Picnicking, and More
Mau Hau isn't a demanding hike — it's a gentle, accessible climb suitable even for beginners or families with kids. The trail is great for a relaxed trekking experience if you're not yet ready for tougher mountain routes. Many visitors come simply to picnic, relax on the grass, and soak in the views. The vibe here is calm, social, and refreshingly unhurried — pure chill-out territory.
Location and How to Get to Mau Hau Hill
Mau Hau Brotherhood Hill is located in Mauliru Village, Kambera District, East Sumba, Nusa Tenggara Timur. The most convenient way to get here is by private vehicle or a rented car.
Start from Sumba Regency and head toward Waingapu City, then continue in the direction of Mau Hau Hill. The route follows Jl. Nusa Cendana and covers approximately 48 kilometres, with a travel time of around 1.5 hours. The route is relatively straightforward, but note that not all roads are paved — a four-wheel-drive vehicle or at minimum a sturdy car is recommended.
Practical Tips Before You Visit Mau Hau
- Check your vehicle before you go. Make sure your rental or private car is in good condition — some stretches of road can be rough. If you need a reliable rental, Bajo Rental has you covered.
- Ask locals for directions. There are no signposts along the route, so don't hesitate to ask villagers if you're unsure of the way — Sumbanese locals are genuinely welcoming and happy to help.
- Bring your own food and drinks. There are very few stalls or warungs near the hill, so pack snacks, lunch, and plenty of water before heading out.
- Watch your step at the summit. The old Japanese cave openings are still present at the top. Enjoy exploring, but stay alert and keep children close — it's easy to stumble near the cave edges.
Mau Hau Brotherhood Hill is one of those rare destinations that surprises you in the best way possible — history, nature, views, and good vibes all rolled into one easy trip from Waingapu. Whether you're building an East Sumba itinerary or just looking for your next off-the-beaten-path stop, put Mau Hau on the list. You won't regret it.
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