The Indonesian island of Flores is a stunning destination, and it can be found in the province of East Nusa Tenggara. The name Flores comes from the Portuguese word “Flores,” which literally translates to “flower.” The Portuguese gave this island its name, Flores, because of its breathtaking scenery, its beaches with white sand, and its abundance of natural beauties. Volcanoes dot the landscape of Flores, which is otherwise dominated by a mountain range. The many areas of Flores are each separated by this chain.
Tribal groups on the island of Flores maintain and celebrate their own histories, dialects, and cultures. The people have been able to preserve their own culture over the years and continue to observe the traditions and practises that they have developed through time. One of the most exciting aspects of Manggari culture is the practise of whip fighting. You may see traditional bouts of boxing in Bajawa, which are referred to as “sagi” by the locals. You may discover remnants and antiques from the Portuguese culture all across the area, as well as experience the impact of Portuguese culture at many of the events.
Main Tourist Attractions in Flores Island, Indonesia
Labuanbajo Village
At the furthest westerly point of the area is where you’ll find this fishing town. The area around the settlement is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Waicicu Beach. As a result of the presence of whale sharks in the seas around the beaches, the beaches are frequented by scuba divers. The port in the settlement is protected by a number of smaller islands, making it a very picturesque location. In addition to this, travellers often make use of the hotel as a home base while exploring Komodo.
Ruteng
This is a classic example of a hill town and it can be found to the east of Labuanbajo. It is a calm and soothing environment. Paddy fields and forested hills of volcanic origin surround the town on all sides. You may get a great view of the farms, hills, and valleys in the area if you ascend the hill that is located to the north. Another point of interest that is situated in close proximity to the town is the active volcano known as Gunung Ranaka.
Gunung Inerie Volcano
This is an active volcano that may be found in the vicinity of Bajawa. The trek is challenging but well worth the effort. From the highest point, in the event that the weather is clear, you will be able to view all the way to Sumba. When the sun begins to drop in the west, Gunung Inerie provides visitors with yet another breathtaking panorama. You may also see the nearby extinct volcano Gunung Wolobobor, which is located nearby.
Bena Village
The settlement of Bena may be found around 19 kilometres to the north of Bajawa. It is a charming community that retains some of its historic allure. The Flores homes that have been preserved in their original form draw visitors to the community.
Riung
This village is located to the north of Bajawa and is well known for the beautiful beaches and large inuanas in the area. Snorkeling and scuba diving in large “aquariums” may be fun things to do on the white sandy beaches that are found in the vicinity of Pulau Tujuh Belas. You could also see bat colonies dangling from the branches of the trees.
Keli Mutu Volcano
This volcano is extinct and may be found close to Moni. The crater of the volcano has three lakes, each of which is an impressive sight in and of itself. These lakes have hues that range from bluish-green to olive green to almost black. As time passes, the chemical and biological make-up of the crater’s water and soil changes, which causes the lakes to transform into a variety of different hues. They are also capable of altering their hues when it rains. The location is most enjoyable to explore in the wee hours of the morning. The hues of the lakes may only be noticed in the afternoon when the sunshine is very intense.
Wolowaru
The distance between Wolowaru Village and Moni is about 13 kilometres. Jopu, Wolonjita, and Nggela are three communities that may be found along the route that leads from Wolowaru to the seashore. In these areas, you may purchase sarongs that have amazing and intricately woven designs. From Wolowaru, it is not difficult to walk to these settlements, where you can take in the breathtaking view of the landscape, which is dominated by a number of volcanoes.