Flores is one of the most spectacular and least touristy islands in Indonesia. Known for Kelimutu’s tri-colored crater lakes, traditional villages, spider rice fields, and Komodo National Park, Flores offers raw landscapes and deep cultural immersion far from Bali’s resort scene. Flores is one of the best islands in Indonesia for volcano landscapes, cultural immersion, and Komodo boat adventures.

Based in Indonesia since 2020, I’ve crossed Flores twice from east to west and have completed numerous dives in Komodo National Park, exploring both its remote villages and some of the richest marine ecosystems in Indonesia firsthand.

This Flores travel guide covers the best places to visit, Komodo tours, itinerary ideas, where to stay, and practical tips for exploring the island.

Is Flores Worth Visiting?

Yes — Flores is absolutely worth visiting if you want to experience Indonesia beyond mass tourism.

Flores is best for:

• Kelimutu’s tri-colored crater lakes
• Komodo National Park & Komodo dragons
• Traditional villages (Ngada & Manggarai)
• Scenic road trips across mountains and coastlines
• Fewer crowds than Bali

Compared to Bali, Flores feels:

• Wilder and less developed
• More culturally immersive
• Slower and more remote
• Less nightlife-focused

If you enjoy road trips, volcano landscapes, and authentic local encounters, Flores is one of Indonesia’s most rewarding islands.

Best Places to Visit in Flores

Kelimutu: The Tri-Colored Crater Lakes

Kelimutu is the most iconic natural landmark on Flores — and one of the most unique volcanic sites in Indonesia. The volcano features three crater lakes, each displaying a different color that changes over time due to mineral reactions and volcanic activity. Shades of turquoise, emerald, rust, or even dark brown can appear depending on chemical composition and oxidation levels.

Beyond its geological fascination, Kelimutu holds deep spiritual significance for local communities. The lakes are believed to be the resting place of departed souls, with each crater traditionally associated with different spirits and symbolic meanings.

Most visitors hike to the summit before sunrise. As the first light breaks over the horizon, the changing colors of the lakes emerge through the morning mist, creating one of the most surreal panoramas in Indonesia. The walk from the parking area is short and accessible, but temperatures can be cool before dawn.

And if you bring snacks for sunrise — keep an eye out. The local monkeys are quick and opportunistic.

Base yourself in Moni village for easy early access.

Bajawa & Ngada Traditional Villages

Bajawa is the cultural heart of central Flores and one of the best places to experience the island’s living traditions. It serves as the gateway to several Ngada villages, including Bena and Wogo, where centuries-old customs are still practiced today.

These villages are known for:

• Traditional thatched houses arranged around communal courtyards
• Megalithic ancestral shrines and stone monuments
• The dramatic backdrop of Mount Inerie rising above the landscape

The architecture reflects deep ancestral beliefs, with symbolic structures representing lineage, hierarchy, and spiritual protection. Visiting these villages offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that has changed little over generations.

Beyond culture, Bajawa is also surrounded by lush hills and unspoiled forests. After long scenic drives across Flores, it’s the perfect place to unwind in nearby natural hot springs, often with Mount Inerie dominating the horizon.

Bajawa combines cultural depth, volcanic scenery, and peaceful highland atmosphere — making it one of the most rewarding stops on a Flores road trip.

Ruteng & the Spider Rice Fields

Ruteng is best known for its unique “lingko” rice fields, often called spider rice fields because of their circular, web-like pattern. Seen from above, the plots radiate outward like spokes, reflecting the traditional communal land system of the Manggarai people.

These rice terraces are not only visually striking but also represent a sustainable farming tradition that has shaped life in central Flores for generations.

Surrounded by cool highlands and green hills, Ruteng offers peaceful countryside walks and a glimpse into everyday rural life — making it a meaningful stop on a Flores road trip.

Koka Beach

Along Flores’ northern coast lies one of the island’s most beautiful coastal landscapes: Koka Beach. Located near the village of Wolowiro, this remote stretch of coastline feels untouched and wonderfully wild.

Koka is actually a double beach, with two crescent-shaped bays separated by a small hill. From above, the contrast between the two sides is striking — both feature soft white sand, but the water often shifts between different shades of turquoise and deep blue depending on the light and tides.

What makes Koka truly special is its minimal development. There are no large resorts, no loud beach clubs — just palm trees, gentle waves, and wide open space. It’s a peaceful stop where you can swim, relax, and feel far removed from Indonesia’s busier destinations.

On weekends, local families often come for lunch, enjoying freshly grilled fish by the shore. If you stay a little longer, you can ask Blasius, who runs a small homestay nearby, to prepare a simple and delicious seafood meal — one of the most authentic ways to experience the beach.

Maumere

For many travelers, the journey across Flores begins in Maumere, the island’s largest town. Life moves at a slower pace here, making it an ideal place to ease into the rhythm of Flores before starting the long scenic drive west.

Local markets offer a glimpse into everyday life, with fresh produce, fish, and warm interactions that reflect the island’s genuine hospitality. On one visit, the driver who picked me up at the airport invited me to his home for an impromptu grilled fish dinner — a simple but memorable reminder of how welcoming Flores can be.

If you have an extra day, Maumere Bay offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. From Nangahale village (about 45 minutes away), local wooden boats take you to nearby reefs around Kojadoi Island, Panga Batang Island, and Babi Island, where coral gardens and clear waters remain largely untouched by mass tourism.

Labuan Bajo

Located on the western tip of Flores, Labuan Bajo has transformed into the island’s main tourism hub thanks to Komodo National Park. Once a quiet fishing town, it is now the departure point for nearly all boat trips to Komodo.

Today, Labuan Bajo offers:

• A wide range of hotels and guesthouses
• International and local restaurants
• Numerous tour operators for Komodo cruises
• Scenic sunset viewpoints overlooking the harbor
• Daily boat departures to Komodo National Park

While the town has grown rapidly, it remains a practical and lively base for exploring western Flores. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront — grilled ikan bakar (fish) is a local favorite — before preparing for your Komodo adventure.

Komodo National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary natural destinations. It is the only place on Earth where you can see the legendary Komodo dragons in the wild — the world’s largest lizards, known locally as ora, capable of growing up to three meters (10 feet) long.

Seeing these prehistoric reptiles in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Guided walks on islands such as Komodo and Rinca allow visitors to observe them safely while learning about their behavior and ecosystem.

But Komodo is far more than dragons. The park is made up of dozens of rugged islands, dramatic viewpoints, and pristine beaches — including the famous Pink Beach. Beneath the surface, the marine life is equally spectacular. The surrounding waters are among the richest in Indonesia, offering world-class diving and snorkeling with manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral gardens.

Komodo National Park combines wildlife, landscapes, and exceptional underwater biodiversity — making it one of the true highlights of Flores and Indonesia as a whole.

Many travelers combine Flores with a 2–3 day liveaboard in Komodo National Park.

Culture & Traditional Life in Flores

Flores is one of Indonesia’s most culturally diverse islands.

Unlike Bali, which is predominantly Hindu, Flores is largely Catholic due to Portuguese influence in the 16th century. Churches and Catholic rituals remain deeply embedded in local life.

Traditional Villages

Villages such as:

• Bena (Ngada region)
• Wae Rebo (Manggarai highlands)

offer insight into traditional architecture, ancestor worship, and village hierarchy.

Caci Dance

In Manggarai culture, the traditional whip-fighting dance known as caci symbolizes strength, ritual, and community celebration.

Homo Floresiensis

Flores is also famous for the discovery of Homo floresiensis, nicknamed the “Hobbit,” a prehistoric hominin species discovered in Liang Bua cave.

Few islands combine such archaeological, religious, and living cultural depth.

How Many Days in Flores?

Minimum: 5–6 days
Ideal: 7–10 days

With 5–6 days, you can:

• Visit Kelimutu
• Explore Bajawa villages
• See Ruteng’s spider fields
• Finish in Labuan Bajo

With 7–10 days, you can:

• Slow down the road trip
• Add Mount Inerie hike
• Include a 2–3 day Komodo boat tour

Flores is larger and slower-paced than many travelers expect. Scenic roads are beautiful but winding and time-consuming.

Suggested 7-Day Flores Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Maumere
Day 2 – Kelimutu sunrise & drive to Bajawa
Day 3 – Ngada villages & hot springs
Day 4 – Drive to Ruteng
Day 5 – Spider rice fields & transfer to Labuan Bajo
Day 6 – Komodo boat tour
Day 7 – Return & relax in Labuan Bajo

This east-to-west route is the most logical way to cross Flores.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Flores?

The best time to visit Flores is during the dry season, from May to October.

Dry season advantages:

• Clearer skies for Kelimutu sunrise
• Calmer seas for Komodo boat trips
• Easier road travel

Rainy season (November–April):

• Greener landscapes
• Fewer tourists
• Possible rough seas and cloudy sunrises

For volcano views and Komodo tours, dry season is strongly recommended.

Where to Stay in Flores

Maumere

Good for first night arrival.

Moni

Best base for Kelimutu sunrise.

Bajawa

Stay here for village visits and hot springs.

Ruteng

Short overnight stop for spider rice fields.

Labuan Bajo

Best base for Komodo tours and final relaxation.

Because Flores is long and mountainous, staying strategically along the east-to-west route makes the trip far more comfortable.

How to Get Around Flores

The best way to explore Flores is by hiring a private driver. Roads are scenic but winding, and distances take longer than expected.

Motorbike rental is possible, especially between Maumere and Labuan Bajo, but only recommended for experienced riders.

Labuan Bajo and Maumere both have airports with connections to Bali and Jakarta.

During my first crossing of Flores in 2021, I was often the first foreigner locals had seen in over a year. The island felt incredibly raw and untouched. On my second trip, tourism had grown slightly — but Flores still remains far less developed than Bali. Read my page about how to get around Indonesia to learn more.

Why Flores Is One of Indonesia’s Most Unique Islands

Flores combines volcanoes, traditional villages, Catholic heritage, prehistoric discoveries, and Komodo dragons — all on one island.

It’s not polished. It’s not easy. But that’s precisely what makes it unforgettable.

If Bali shows you Indonesia’s beauty, Flores shows you its depth.

For a broader trip, explore my complete Indonesia Travel Guide or combine Flores with Bali and Java for a truly diverse Indonesian itinerary.

Flores is not just a stop on the way to Komodo — it is one of Indonesia’s most extraordinary destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flores

Is Flores touristy?

No. Outside Labuan Bajo and Komodo tours, most of Flores remains quiet and local.

Is Flores safe?

Yes, Flores is generally very safe for travelers.

Can you visit Komodo without staying in Flores?

Most visitors depart from Labuan Bajo in Flores to access Komodo National Park.

Is Flores better than Bali?

They are very different. Bali is easier and more developed. Flores is wilder and more authentic.

How do you get to Flores?

Most travelers fly to Labuan Bajo or Maumere from Bali or Jakarta.