3-Day Komodo & Flores Adventure

DAY PROGRAM

• Day 1 / Arriving Flores, Traditional village and hike

  Today begins one of your great adventures as you catch an early flight to the island of Flores, located directly east of Bali. Despite the short distance between the two islands, they feel like entirely different worlds. The religion and customs are distinct, and Flores is far less developed in terms of tourism, which only adds to its charm.
  
  Flores, approximately 14,300 km², offers a unique blend of ancient tribal cultures and Catholicism introduced by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century - a fascinating cultural mix you'll explore in the coming days. The island is also famous as the home of the prehistoric Flores Man (Homo floresiensis), a hobbit-like creature discovered in a cave in 2003. These beings are believed to have lived between 38,000 and 13,000 years ago. Flores boasts dramatic landscapes - towering volcanoes, green mountains, and hidden beaches - but its biggest attraction is the sea around Komodo National Park, home to Komodo, Kelor, Rinca, and Padar Islands.
  
  You’ll land at the small airport outside Labuan Bajo, a charming, authentic town that has preserved its exotic appeal. Today, you’ll dive into Flores’ rich cultural heritage, shaped by ancient tribes who have preserved their traditions for centuries. The locals still follow ceremonial calendars unique to their tribes - you could say they’re Catholics in daily life and tribal people during celebrations. Your local guide and driver will meet you at the airport and take you to CeCer Village, one of the many traditional highland villages. Typically, someone from the tribe will be there to welcome you, possibly dressed in festive clothing, performing dances, demonstrating hunting techniques, or sharing other customs. You’ll likely be offered coffee or tea - a gesture rooted in the community’s deep sense of hospitality.
  
  Next is a scenic hike through the hilly landscape, where you'll gain insight into the local agriculture. Vanilla - the "black gold" - is a key crop here, with prices soaring globally. You’ll see vanilla pods drying in the sun, guarded carefully to prevent theft by curious animals. You’ll also visit a local family’s home for a glimpse into the simplicity of village life - and, if open, drop by the local school. After an inspiring day in CeCer Village, you’ll head back to your hotel. The drive offers time to relax and reflect on the day’s encounters - the cultural exchanges, traditional ambiance, and striking natural scenery. Upon arrival, enjoy a well-deserved break and a calm evening.

  You will receive detailed information about Bali, including practical tips, recommendations for excursions, and suggestions for great places to eat. Our team of guides  consists of knowledgeable, English-speaking guides. The materials provided will also include details on how to contact us if you need assistance during your stay.

  Meals: (-/-/-)  •  Overnight: Labuan Bajo

• Day 2 / Full-Day Speedboat Tour of Komodo National Park

  Get ready for an unforgettable journey to some of Komodo National Park’s most breathtaking spots. Traveling by speedboat allows you to maximize your time exploring both sea and land. The tour starts with Padar Island - home to one of the world’s most stunning viewpoints. There are three hiking levels, and you decide how far you’d like to go. Even at the first stop, the views are spectacular. Most visitors make it to level two; the final stretch is more challenging, especially on the descent, but not impossible. From any point, the view is mesmerizing: emerald hills, curved bays, sandy beaches, distant islands, and endless turquoise waters.
  
  Next, you’ll visit Komodo Island, where a local ranger will guide you through the natural habitat of the legendary Komodo dragons. At the park entrance, your ranger - knowledgeable and well-prepared - will explain safety tips and guide you through the terrain. He’ll find a good spot for observing these fascinating creatures. Komodo dragons can exceed 3 meters in length and weigh up to 165 kg, making them the world’s largest lizards. They are infamous for their brutal hunting method - ambushing prey, delivering a toxic bite, and waiting days for the animal to weaken. They often eat carrion, and their saliva is believed to contain dangerous bacteria that slowly disable their prey. Facing such a creature can be intense, but your guide is experienced and in control. You’ll hike for about an hour through the island, hoping to catch a glimpse of these ancient reptiles.
  
  Afterward, head to the famous Pink Beach, named for its rosy sand tinted by tiny fragments of red coral. You’ll land for a couple of hours to enjoy the beach and crystal-clear waters. Then it’s off to Taka Makasar, a dreamy sandbank in the middle of the sea, surrounded by brilliant turquoise water. At Manta Point, there’s a good chance of snorkeling with graceful manta rays gliding through the water in search of plankton.
  
  Your last stop is Siaba Snorkeling Point - a peaceful location teeming with colorful corals and sea turtles. This day combines extraordinary nature, rare wildlife, and world-class snorkeling - an experience you won’t soon forget. By late afternoon, you’ll return to Labuan Bajo and enjoy the rest of your evening at the hotel.

  Meals: (B/-/-)  •  Overnight: Labuan Bajo

• Day 3 / Flores - Bali: From Adventure to Relaxation

  Enjoy a slow-paced morning with time to appreciate your surroundings at your leisure. Later in the morning, you'll visit the local traditional market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and explore colorful stalls filled with fresh produce and local crafts.
  
  The excursion continues to Goa Batu Cermin (Mirror Cave), where sunlight filters through rock crevices to create a magical, mirrored glow inside the cave. After the visits, you’ll enjoy lunch in Labuan Bajo while soaking up the final impressions of your adventure before heading to the airport for your return flight to Bali. (Lunch is at your own expense)

  Meals: (B/-/-)