Located in the eastern part of Indonesia, Flores Island may not be the most well-known tourist destination, but it’s definitely one that shouldn’t be missed. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, Flores Island offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking outdoor thrills, a history buff interested in ancient ruins and temples, or a foodie eager to taste the local cuisine, Flores Island has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top Thing to do in Flores Island, so you can start planning your dream trip to this hidden paradise.
Explore Ancient Ruins and Temples
Flores Island has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many ancient ruins and temples that offer a glimpse into the island’s past. Here are some of the top sites to visit:
- Komodo National Park: Located on the neighboring island of Komodo, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its namesake Komodo dragons, the world’s largest living lizard. But that’s not all – the park also boasts pristine beaches, clear waters for snorkeling and diving, and rugged terrain for trekking.
- Bena Village: Nestled in the highlands of Flores Island, Bena Village is a traditional village that showcases the Ngada people’s unique architecture and way of life. The village is surrounded by lush green hills and has many traditional houses and megalithic monuments that date back centuries.
Visiting these sites is a great way to learn more about the culture and history of Flores Island while taking in the stunning natural scenery.
Experience Natural Wonders
Flores Island is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in Indonesia. Here are some of the top places to visit:
- Kelimutu National Park: This national park is home to the famous Kelimutu three color lakes, which has three craters that each contain a different-colored lake. The colors of the lakes change depending on the time of day and the season, making for a stunning and ever-changing view.
- Cunca Wulang Waterfall: This hidden gem is located in a secluded area near Labuan Bajo and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Flores Island. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear pools at the base of the waterfall or hike to the top for an even more impressive view.
- Batu Cermin Cave: This unique cave is located near Labuan Bajo and is known for its stunning rock formations that reflect light in a way that resembles a mirror. Visitors can also see fossils of prehistoric animals and coral inside the cave.
Visiting these natural wonders is a must-do activity on Flores Island. The island’s unique geology and biodiversity make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
No visit to Flores Island is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Flores Island’s cuisine is a fusion of traditional Indonesian dishes with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and Chinese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Nasi Babi Guling: This dish consists of roasted suckling pig served with rice and various side dishes, such as sambal (spicy sauce) and lawar (vegetable salad). It’s a popular dish in Bali and Lombok, but Flores Island has its own unique version.
- Seafood: Flores Island is surrounded by the Flores Sea and is known for its fresh seafood. Some popular dishes include grilled fish, squid, and lobster.
- Sate Maranggi: This dish is a type of satay (grilled meat skewers) made with beef or goat meat that’s marinated in a spicy sauce made from shallots, garlic, chilies, and tamarind.
Visitors can try these dishes at local restaurants and food stalls, as well as at night markets and traditional markets. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals – they’ll be more than happy to help you find the best places to eat on the island.
Outdoor Activities
Flores Island’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a range of outdoor activities. Here are some popular options:
- Snorkeling and Diving: The Flores Sea is home to a diverse range of marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and manta rays. Snorkeling and diving trips can be arranged through local tour operators.
- Hiking: Flores Island has many hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. One popular route is the trek to Mount Kelimutu, which is known for its three-colored lakes.
- Beaches: Flores Island has many beautiful beaches, including the famous Pink Beach, which gets its name from the pink-hued sand. Other popular beaches include Bena Beach, Watu Cermin Beach, and Paga Beach.
- Waterfalls: Flores Island has many stunning waterfalls, including Cunca Rami, Cunca Wulang, and Cunca Lolos. Visitors can swim in the cool waters or simply enjoy the scenic views.
- Komodo Island: While not technically part of Flores Island, a visit to Komodo Island is a popular day trip from Flores. Visitors can see the famous Komodo dragons, as well as enjoy hiking and snorkeling in the surrounding waters.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from on Flores Island, and visitors are sure to find something to suit their interests and abilities.
Conclusion
Flores Island is a hidden gem in Indonesia, offering a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. From ancient ruins and temples to stunning beaches and waterfalls, visitors can experience a range of activities that showcase the island’s unique beauty.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to hike or dive, a foodie looking to sample local cuisine, or a culture enthusiast looking to explore ancient history, Flores Island has something to offer. With a variety of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, it’s easy to find a comfortable base from which to explore the island.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Flores Island today and discover all the amazing things this beautiful destination has to offer!
