Pulau Flores Travel Guide

Flores Travel Guide

Flores is one of the most beautiful and diverse islands in Indonesia, part of the East Nusa Tenggara region. Known for its rugged landscapes, volcanic peaks, traditional villages, and proximity to the famous Komodo National Park, Flores offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Getting to Flores

• By Air: The main entry point to Flores is through Komodo International Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, a town on the western tip of the island. Direct flights are available from Bali (Denpasar), Jakarta, and other major cities in Indonesia.
• By Sea: Ferries and boats from Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa also reach Labuan Bajo, but this option can take longer.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for outdoor activities such as diving, trekking, and visiting Komodo National Park.
• Wet Season (November to March): Expect heavier rains and potential travel disruptions, although the landscape becomes lush and green.

Major Attractions

Komodo National Park

• Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards. The park spans several islands, including Komodo and Rinca, with opportunities to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
• Activities:
  • Komodo Dragon Trekking: Guided tours on Komodo or Rinca islands.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Pristine coral reefs and marine life, including manta rays and turtles, around Komodo and Padar Islands.
  • Hiking on Padar Island: Known for its stunning panoramic views over crescent-shaped bays.

Labuan Bajo

• Overview: A vibrant harbor town and the gateway to Komodo National Park.
• Activities:
  • Sunset at Bukit Sylvia: Offers a panoramic view of the harbor and surrounding islands.
  • Boat Tours: Numerous options to explore the nearby islands, snorkel, and dive.
  • Culinary Delights: Try fresh seafood at the local restaurants.

Mount Kelimutu

• Overview: Located near the town of Moni, Mount Kelimutu is famous for its three striking volcanic crater lakes that change colors due to volcanic gases.
• Activities:
  • Kelimutu Sunrise Trek: A short trek to the summit to see the stunning sunrise over the three lakes—each one with a different color (turquoise, green, and black).
  • Explore Moni Village: Experience local culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Bajawa

• Overview: A town in the central highlands of Flores, known for its traditional villages and surrounding natural hot springs.
• Activities:
  • Visit Bena Village: An ancient Ngada tribe village with traditional thatched houses and megalithic structures.
  • Soa Hot Springs: A relaxing natural hot spring nestled in a forested area.

Riung 17 Islands Marine Park

• Overview: Located on the northern coast of Flores, this marine park is a hidden gem for snorkeling, island-hopping, and wildlife viewing.
• Activities:
  • Island Hopping: Explore the pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
  • Snorkeling: Experience the vibrant coral reefs.
  • Flying Foxes: Visit Ontoloe Island at dusk to see the spectacular flying fox colonies.

Wae Rebo Village

• Overview: A remote and traditional Manggarai village located in the mountains, known for its iconic conical houses (Mbaru Niang).
• Activities:
  • Cultural Experience: Stay overnight in the village to experience local life, learn about traditional weaving, and interact with the villagers.
  • Trekking: A 3-4 hour trek through dense forest to reach the village.

Ruteng

• Overview: A cool, mountainous town surrounded by rice terraces and traditional villages.
• Activities:
  • Spider Web Rice Fields (Lingko Fields): Unique rice fields shaped like a spider web, located near Cancar Village.
  • Golo Curu Hill: Offers panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside.

Ende

• Overview: A coastal town in eastern Flores, known for its role in Indonesian history as the place where the nation’s first president, Sukarno, was exiled.
• Activities:
  • Sukarno's House: Visit the house where Sukarno stayed during his exile.
  • Penggajawa Beach (Blue Stone Beach): A beach covered in blue stones that locals collect and sell as souvenirs.

Activities in Flores

• Diving & Snorkeling: The waters around Flores are home to world-class dive sites, particularly in Komodo National Park. Explore coral reefs, manta ray cleaning stations, and more.
• Trekking: Flores is a paradise for trekkers, with hikes ranging from multi-day excursions like Wae Rebo to shorter hikes such as Kelimutu.
• Cultural Immersion: Visit traditional villages like Bena, Wae Rebo, and Luba to experience the local customs, architecture, and handicrafts.
• Island Hopping: With its proximity to Komodo National Park and the 17 Riung Islands, island hopping is a popular activity, allowing you to explore remote beaches and wildlife.

Where to Stay

Labuan Bajo

• Luxury: Ayana Komodo Resort, Plataran Komodo Resort.
• Mid-range: La Cecile Hotel and Cafe, Le Pirate.
• Budget: Seaesta Komodo, Ciao Hostel.

Bajawa

• Mid-range: Manulalu Bed and Breakfast, Happy Happy Hotel.
• Budget: Silverin Hotel, Korina Hotel.

Moni (Near Kelimutu)

• Mid-range: Kelimutu Crater Lakes Eco Lodge, Bintang Lodge.
• Budget: Estevania Lodge, Maria Inn.

Wae Rebo

• Traditional Stay: The best option is staying in a Mbaru Niang (the traditional conical house), offering a simple and authentic experience.

Getting Around

• Public Transport: Flores has limited public transportation, mostly buses or shared minivans (bemos). The roads are often winding, and travel can be slow.
• Private Hire: Hiring a car with a driver is a popular option to explore the island at your own pace. Scooters are also available for rent in towns like Labuan Bajo.
• Boats: For island hopping, boat tours are easily arranged from Labuan Bajo or Riung.

Local Cuisine

• Se’i: A traditional smoked pork dish.
• Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish): Common along the coast, often served with sambal (chili sauce) and rice.
• Kolo: Grilled rice, cooked in bamboo.
• Sopi: A traditional distilled palm liquor.

Tips for Travelers

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cash is preferred in remote areas, though ATMs are available in major towns.
• Language: Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken, though many locals in remote areas speak their own regional languages.
• Electricity: 230V with European-style plugs.
• Respect Local Customs: In traditional villages, it’s important to dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.

Safety

• Komodo Dragons: When visiting Komodo National Park, always go with a guide, as Komodo dragons can be dangerous.
• Volcanic Activity: Flores is a volcanic island. Stay informed about any potential volcanic activity, particularly if visiting areas like Kelimutu.
• Travel Insurance: Due to the remoteness and outdoor activities, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking and diving.

Flores offers a wealth of experiences, from adventure and wildlife to rich culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you're diving with manta rays or exploring ancient tribal villages, Flores will captivate you.