You know how sometimes trips just… happen? That’s exactly how I ended up in Flores, Indonesia.
I was in Bali, totally fine with my plan to just hang around the beaches, maybe do some surfing, and then head home. But then, one random evening in a hostel common room, this guy says to me, “Forget Bali… go to Flores. It’s the real deal.”

At first, I laughed. I mean… Flores? Never even crossed my mind. But something about the way he said it stuck. Next morning, I booked a one-way ticket. No itinerary. No hotel. Just vibes.

Landing in Labuan Bajo  First Impressions

The flight was short. I had a window seat, and honestly, the view was insane — endless blue ocean sprinkled with tiny green islands like someone had just dropped them there for fun.

Labuan Bajo airport? Small. Like, really small. No chaos, no big announcements blasting in your ears. Just warm air hitting you like someone opened an oven door. Outside, a taxi guy waved and asked where I was going. I told him I had no idea yet. He laughed. I laughed. We agreed on a price anyway.

Driving into town, I saw rolling hills, sudden flashes of the ocean, and little villages with kids waving like they knew me.

First Evening – The Moment It Hit Me

I found a guesthouse on a small hill. Room was basic, but the balcony view? Unreal. The harbor lay below with rows of wooden boats and calm, glittery water.

By sunset, I was walking along the waterfront. Kids were playing soccer, fishermen fixing their nets, and the sky turned this insane orange-pink mix that I’ll never be able to describe properly. Dinner was fried noodles — a bit too salty, but somehow perfect — and sweet tea. I sat there thinking, Yeah… I made the right call.

Beyond the Dragons

Of course, Flores Indonesia is famous for the Komodo dragons. And yeah… they’re massive. They walk slowly but can suddenly move way faster than you expect. The park rangers tell you stories that make you respect them even more.

But here’s the thing — Flores is way more than just dragons:

• Climbing a volcano before sunrise, cold air mixing with the heat of your climb.

• Riding a motorbike through villages where kids yell, “Hello mister!” like it’s the highlight of their day.

• Sitting on an empty beach and wondering why no one else is there.

How to Get There

Most people fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo. There’s also a ferry, but it’s long and unpredictable. Once you’re there, rent a scooter or hire a driver. Public buses exist… but they’re slow and don’t go everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season — May to October — is the easiest. Clear skies, calm seas, cooler nights. Rainy season means slippery roads and sometimes canceled boat trips, but the waterfalls and greenery go wild during this time.

Places You Can’t Miss

1. Komodo National Park
Not just for dragons — climb Padar Island for a mind-blowing view, chill at Pink Beach, and snorkel with manta rays.

2. Kelimutu Lakes
Three lakes, three different colors. At sunrise, they almost glow through the mist. Feels unreal.

3. Bajawa Villages
Traditional homes, simple living. I sat with an old man in Bena village, didn’t understand a word he said, but it still felt like a conversation.

4. Waterfalls
Cunca Wulang, Cunca Rami… sometimes an easy stroll, sometimes a muddy slip-and-slide adventure. Always worth it.

5. Riung Islands
Flying foxes, coral reefs, crystal-clear water. Don’t even bother counting the islands.

My One-Week Itinerary (No Rush)

• Day 1–2: Labuan Bajo + Komodo dragons

• Day 3: Padar hike, Pink Beach swim

• Day 4–5: Bajawa + hot springs

• Day 6: Moni + Kelimutu lakes

• Day 7: Chill in Maumere before heading back

The Food

Forget fast food. Here, you eat fresh grilled fish, rice, veggies, and sambal so spicy it makes your eyes water.
Try se’i — smoked meat — and ikan kuah asam, a tangy fish soup.

First-Timer Tips

• Bring cash.

• Internet can be slow.

• Learn a few Bahasa words.

• Don’t rush. Flores isn’t going anywhere.

Why I’ll Go Back

Flores Indonesia gets under your skin. It’s not just the landscapes — it’s the quiet moments.
Drinking coffee while rain hits the tin roof. Sitting on a boat with nothing but wind in your ears. Strangers who become friends in a single day.

Next time, I’m staying longer. That’s the only plan.