Top 6 Reasons Why You Must Visit Flores, Indonesia, Now.

Now that our family has visited Flores, Indonesia, I want to share why it is a must-visit destination.

Many of you may have never heard of this island in East Nusa Tenggara, which is in the eastern part of Indonesia. But why do you have to visit Flores now?

There are hundreds of smaller islands surrounding Flores, and most of them are uninhabited. Since a decade ago, more tourists from all over the world started coming in to enjoy the islands. The sea, the land, the culture, the mountains, and the famous Komodo dragons attracted them.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links meaning I receive commissions for purchases made through those links at no cost to you. Please read my Privacy Policy for more information.

I still vividly remember our trip to Flores, Indonesia. It feels like we came back from the island last week. Swimming with the turtles, watching the manta rays playing at the bottom, up close to the Komodo dragons, sleeping in a traditional house, watching the three-color lakes, and many more.    

So, here are my six reasons why you must visit Flores now.

6 Reasons Why You Must Visit Flores, Indonesia, Now.

1. Flores is the island of the Komodo dragon.

You may have seen the Komodo dragon many times on social media, television, or in magazines. However, did you know that the only place on Earth where you can see them in their natural habitat is Flores?

Four smaller islands surrounding Flores are homes of the Komodo dragons: Komodo Island, Rinca Island, Gili Montang, and Gili Dasami. 

These islands are part of Komodo National Park, and it is mandatory to accompany a ranger whenever you visit the dragons in their natural habitat. 

My husband said that visiting the Komodo dragons in their habitat was the highlight of our six-week holiday in Indonesia. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Check out these tours for a day trip to Komodo Island and surrounding islands: One Day Komodo Trip with Speedboat or 1 Day Komodo Trip by shared Fast Boat.

2. Beautiful Islands in Flores

Flores is the main island, surrounded by many smaller islands. Several of these are uninhabited, featuring pristine beaches and breathtaking views from the hills.

You should go island hopping to enjoy them. You can rent a boat for a day or live on board for one, two, or more nights.

The sunset is spectacular, whether viewed from the top of the hill, the beach, or the boat.

My family spent 3 days and 2 nights on the boat and wished we could stay longer.

While island hopping, don’t forget to hike to the top of Padar Island, Kelor Island, and Gili Laba Island. The views are just spectacular.

Check out these private live aboard tours for a more personal experience: Private tour 4 days 3 nights Komodo on a boat or Private boat trip Komodo 2 or more people for 3 days 2 nights.

3. Flores boasts an incredible underwater life.

Whether you choose to snorkel or dive, you will love the incredible underwater life of Flores. You will see colorful corals, and fish are abundant. 

One of the most popular activities is diving or snorkeling to encounter majestic manta rays, along with the chance to spot sea turtles. Additionally, you can admire the sea stars that blanket the ocean floor.
 
It’s truly a paradise for both divers and non-divers alike.

Check out this One Day Komodo Trip with Speedboat for exploring Flores’s underwater world.

4. Traditional Villages of Flores

In central Flores, you will see traditional villages where you can even spend a night in their traditional house. 

You will spend hours on beat-up roads to reach the villages, but beautiful rice fields and lush green jungle will be your view. 

Part of Central Flores reminded me of my childhood. (I was born and grew up in Sumatra, an island in the western part of Indonesia).

Check out this 2 days trekking to the wonderful Wae Rebo Village from Labuan Bajo.

 

5. Flores is home to the three colorful crater lakes.

Located east of Flores, Mt. Kelimutu is an active volcano famous for its three colorful crater lakes: green, blue, and black. 

The best time to see it is at sunrise or sunset. But sometimes the craters are covered by fog, so you will not see the lakes after you wake up at 3.30 a.m. and hike to the top. 

There is a small town below the volcano for buying Flores’ ikat weaving. It is called Moni.

Check out this 2 days amazing Kelimutu Lake tour.

6. Flores is still far from the crowds.

Regardless of the number of tourists visiting the island grows every year, we didn’t see many people at the various attractions we explored, except at the volcano and the village. It was even during the summer vacation season! 

If you’re tired of the crowds and seeking new adventures in Indonesia, Flores is an excellent alternative to Bali and Lombok.

Of course, my childhood friend will add another reason why you must visit Flores now: “Because that’s where I came from.”

How to get to Flores

• If you fly from Jakarta, there’s a choice of nonstop or connecting flights daily to Labuan Bajo, the hub of the Komodo Islands. That’s where we started. We flew with Garuda nonstop from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

• When you’re already in Bali or Lombok, there are more choices of airlines and times to go to Labuan Bajo.

• Alternatively, you can take a ferry and bus from Bali. It takes two days, though.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your itinerary and book the ticket now. Flores is awaiting you.

If you are a budget traveler, know that Indonesia is one of the best countries for backpacking. Flores is one of the places for backpackers.

And if you plan to go to Bali with your family – and why not, because it’s just next ‘door’ – here’s a list of what you need to pack with you. It’s always good to check whether you have everything needed.