For those willing to travel, a private island can be rented for $1,000 per night.

Four years ago, when Richard Kvech first arrived on Pinang, the only indication of human presence on the island was a run-down bungalow utilized by traveling fishermen.

The four of them, all hailing from the Czech Republic, spent their time in hammocks and cooking on the beach, envisioning the establishment of an eco-retreat on the 50-hectare Indonesian island situated off the western coast of Sumatra.

A year prior to their current conservation efforts on Bangkaru island, Tomas Ouhel, a group member, discovered Pinang while working on the nearby island.

Kvech stated that after a year of negotiations with the two island-owning families and photographer Stephan Kotas and fertility clinic co-owner Martin Mrazek, the group signed a 50-year lease to establish a small eco-resort on the island.

Building an eco-resort

The group constructed a guest bungalow using locally sourced wood and dug wells for fresh water, then installed solar panels for electricity, all funded by their own pocket, according to Kvech.

Kvech stated that they constructed staff quarters, a communal beachfront area, and four additional guest bungalows, which can accommodate a total of 12 people. The larger bungalows have their own bathrooms, while the smaller ones share facilities. These structures are linked to an organic septic waste system.

The group established a fruit and vegetable garden using permaculture, introduced chickens for fresh eggs, composted organic food waste, and recycled glass and cans, he stated.

Kvech, who was previously a medical travel coordinator, now manages marketing and permaculture at Pinang Island, where the previously uninhabited island welcomed its first paying guests two years ago.

Kvech recounted to CNBC Travel that prior to their arrival in Pinang, the island was largely untouched by humans, featuring only a narrow path, a dilapidated bungalow, and a small field. The pristine jungle had not been disturbed by human activity.

"We are making every effort to minimize interruptions. This island is so stunning, and we don't want to disturb its pristine environment. Our presence occupies only a small fraction of it. There are swamps, bamboo forests, coconut trees, hills, and a variety of wildlife, including hermit crabs, lizards, and gumtree snakes. The jungle is bustling with activity."

The cost to stay

Pinang Island has been an appealing destination for yoga and surf retreats since it opened to the public two years ago, with Kvech receiving interest from various groups such as writers, martial artists, DJs, and gardeners.

For eight people, the island costs $999 per night, while up to four extra guests can stay for $125 each per night.

The rate covers all meals, daily cleaning, weekly towel and linen changes, Starlink satellite reception and 4G Wi-Fi, as well as activities such as snorkeling, fishing, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking.

Guests can enjoy guided surf trips to the Bay of Plenty or Bangkaru and other nearby islands for an additional $500 per night.

Getting there

Pinang Island is a long journey with multiple stops for guests, Kvech said.

A typical itinerary for a trip from a major city to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur involves a long-haul flight, followed by a short flight to Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, where many visitors spend the night. The following morning, guests board another flight to Singkil, in Indonesia's Aceh province.

The final leg of the journey is a perilous boat ride to Pinang Island, as evidenced by the tragic incident in August 2023 when a boat en route to Pinang from Nias Island capsized during a storm. Seven people went missing at sea for two nights and one day, as Kvech and the group confirmed in a statement. A large-scale search and rescue mission recovered six of the passengers, a group of Australian surfers. However, the captain, a local Indonesian, was unfortunately not found.

We deeply sympathize with the distress caused by this unfortunate event and recognize the significance of collaborating with the broader Pulau Banyak community to enhance marine safety standards and captain training in the region.

The sea's unpredictable nature and the need for advanced safety measures were highlighted by this incident. We want to assure our community that we are taking decisive action.

Kvech stated that the resort temporarily closed, but it reopened after the group, who had previously relied on local vessels, purchased their own fiberglass boat. The boat is equipped with a marine VHF radio, a Garmin Inreach satellite communications device, an Ocean Signal GPS transmitter, smoke flares, flashlights, floating rings, life jackets, and whistles.

In addition to the boat transfer point change from Nias Island to Singkil, the group established the Fifan Foundation to enhance safety training for local sea captains, as per Kvech's statement.

'For adventurous souls'

Kvech expressed the hope that Pinang Island would remain exclusive and small in the future.

Kvech stated that it would be a logistical and environmental disaster to run a hotel for 50 or more people.

He added that the island isn't suitable for travelers seeking a luxurious vacation.

"For those seeking to reconnect with nature and achieve equilibrium, as well as for adventurous spirits who desire a remote experience with a certain level of comfort and quality, this is the perfect option."

Kvech divides his time between Pinang Island and the Czech Republic, and admitted that life on a desert island is not always the fantasy many people imagine.

"Kvech stated that the project was not a fairy tale, but the most challenging he had ever worked on. The team had to adapt to the culture and island of the people they were working with, and encountered daily challenges that required quick problem-solving skills."

"When guests provide feedback about their enjoyable experience on Pinang after a long journey, it brings me joy."