Nature Highlights Along the Flores Overland Tour Route
Travel Story with Flores Indah Tour
A few months ago, I received a WhatsApp message from an English couple who had just found my website — Flores Indah Tour. They were searching for an authentic Flores Overland Tour, hoping to experience Flores culture & nature, visit Flores traditional villages, and feel the real essence of local life. After discussing the itinerary and finalizing the price, we began a memorable Flores Trip — a five-day Flores Island travel experience from Labuan Bajo to Maumere tour, guided by me as their private Flores tour guide. It became more than just a holiday — it was a journey of discovery, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Journey Begins — Labuan Bajo to Ruteng
Our adventure started with a warm welcome and pickup from their hotel. Soon after, we left the coastal town of Labuan Bajo and headed into the highlands. As a result, the air turned cooler, offering a refreshing contrast to the tropical heat. At that point, this marked the true beginning of their Flores Indonesia itinerary.
First of all, our first stop was Cancar Village. There, we hiked to a viewpoint overlooking the famous Lingko spider-web rice fields. Meanwhile, I shared the meaning behind this unique land division. For example, it symbolizes the balance between heaven and earth, as well as male and female. Therefore, this pattern is considered a sacred tradition among the Manggarai people.
Next, we visited Liang Bua Cave, the archaeological site where the fossils of Homo Floresiensis (the “Flores Hobbit”) were found. They said it felt like “stepping into another era of human evolution.”
Before reaching Ruteng, our final stop was Golo Curu Hill, offering stunning views over the town and surrounding mountains. The peaceful atmosphere and fresh highland breeze set the tone for the rest of their Flores journey.
History & Highlands — From Ruteng to Bajawa
Leaving Ruteng after breakfast, we headed toward Bajawa, enjoying the scenic drive through Flores’ highlands. Our first stop was Ranamese Lake, a peaceful crater lake surrounded by dense rainforest — a perfect place to breathe in the fresh mountain air.
After breakfast, we continued our Flores Island travel toward Bajawa, passing through lush highland scenery. Our first highlight was Ranamese Lake, a tranquil crater lake surrounded by dense rainforest — a beautiful reminder of Flores’ untouched nature.
Cultural Encounters During the Flores Overland Tour
We also explored Bena Traditional Village, one of the most iconic Flores traditional villages. Walking through Bena felt like entering a living museum — megalithic stones, ancestral shrines, indigenous architecture, and a strong sense of cultural identity still preserved today.
As the afternoon light softened, we continued to Bajawa town and checked into our accommodation for a well-deserved rest after a full day of exploration.
From Bajawa to Moni — The Journey to the EastThis day highlighted the diversity of Flores culture & nature. Our journey from Bajawa to Ende offered scenic views of Flores’ southern coastline and beautiful hills.
We stopped at Penggajawa Blue Stone Beach for lunch — a coastline covered entirely with blue pebbles, creating a unique and colorful landscape.
Later, we explored:
Ndua Ria Traditional Market – full of local spices, fresh produce, and authentic daily life
Wologai Traditional Village – home to the Lio tribe and known for its preserved traditional architecture
By late afternoon, we arrived in Moni, a quiet village at the foot of Mount Kelimutu — the perfect base for the sunrise adventure tomorrow at the famous tri-colored lakes.
Sunrise Above the Clouds — Moni to Maumere
Early morning, we started our journey up to Kelimutu National Park. As the sun rose, the three colored lakes slowly revealed themselves — each with different colours that often change over time. They stood in silence for a while, and one of them simply said:
“This is why we travel.”
After descending through Koanara Village, we visited a local waterfall and hot spring before breakfast. The rest of the morning was free — they chose to walk around the village and talk with locals.
Later, we continued towards Maumere, stopping at:
- Koka Twin Beach — perfect for swimming
- Sikka Village — known for its 1899 church and intricate ikat weaving
It was a day filled not just with sightseeing, but real connection with people and places.
Farewell & Reflection — Maumere to Bali
We shared breakfast and talked about the journey before heading to the airport. They told me Flores cannot be understood through photos — it must be experienced with all senses.
Before leaving, they said:
“Thank you for not just guiding us — but sharing your Flores with us.”
A few weeks later, they sent another message from England — along with a friend who also wants to experience a Flores Overland Tour with Flores Indah Tour.
Final Thoughts
This trip was more than a tour — it was a story. Flores offers culture, untouched nature, warm people, and moments that stay in your heart long after you leave. As a Flores local guide, it’s an honor to introduce this island to the world.
If you’re looking for an authentic Flores Indonesia itinerary with a private Flores tour guide, I’ll be happy to design your very own Flores Trip.
Flores Indah Tour — Let the island tell your story.
See you in Flores — the Island of Wonders.