Alvina ChanAttention all nature lovers!! If you’re thinking of where to jet off for your next retreat, why not escape to Flores? Though its lush landscape is contrary to its name (you won’t find any violet hydrangeas nor scarlet roses here), you’ll encounter some of the most beautiful multi-hued natural wonders in the world. Most travellers to Indonesia never make it this far down its chain of islands, so if you’re looking to go away from the hustle and bustle of life, this is is it.
With glittering waters teeming with aquatic life, breathtaking hikes, dreamy beaches and even fearsome-looking Komodo dragons, Flores is indeed the gateway to another dimension. Check out the amazing sights waiting for you down below; you’ll be booking those flight tickets in no time!
1. Step onto Komodo Island, home of the Komodo dragons
Image credit: Chez Julius Livre 1
2. Lose yourself in the greenlands of Komodo National Park before enjoying a quick dive or snorkelling session
Image credit: Christopher Harriot
3. Get up close and personal with its famous residents – Komodo Dragons
Image credit: Reptile Hunter
Just not too close, their bites can be fatal.
4. Conquer Padar Island, where rolling hills meet a crescent-shaped pink beach
Image credit: Irdan nofriza nasution
The sunsets don’t get any better than this.
5. In case you were wondering about the Pink Beach…
Image credit: Explore Komodo
Don’t forget your cameras, you can’t miss out on this picturesque Instagram opportunity!
6. Sunsets on Kalong Island are a lovely meld of lavender, orange and pink, and they’ll be one of the most beautiful you’ve ever seen
Image credit: Jorge Lascar
If you’re lucky, catch the resident bats dotting the sunset views as they flock towards their next destination.
7. Float in the saltwater pool of Rangko Cave and observe natural wonders like stalactites, stalagmites and even fossils
Image credit: KomodoKu Awesome Tour & Transport
This little-known gem is best visited in the afternoon, where the sun filters through the mouth of the cave, bathing the waters in an ethereal glow.
8. Nightlife at Seraya Kecil comes in the form of night dives
Image credit: Seraya Hotel & Resort
Swim with pygmy seahorses, turtles, stonefish, eagle rays and more!
9. Not a night owl? Kanawa Island offers daytime snorkelling!
Image credit: Kleur Kleur
10. Float away with the rays at Manta Point
Image credit: scubadin
11. Go island hopping around 17 Islands Marine Park
Image credit: Bryn Pinzgauer
Watch the fish and turtles thrive in the park’s azure waters as you island-hop with your guides to interesting coves and inlets that catch your eye.
12. Let the vibrant colours of the Kelimutu volcanic crater lakes take your breath away
Image credit: roy sinaga
What’s more, you can create a one-of-a-kind experience by camping overnight close to the crater and get up early to watch the sun peek out slowly over the rim.
13. Or slip into another dimension with rust-coloured mercury lakes and ashy terrain while hiking the Inielika Volcano
Image credit: serenade
14. For those into photography, check out the strange and beautiful phenomena that is Blue Stone Beach
Image credit: Christian Ostrosky
15. But stones are no place for a rest; kick back on the white sands of Koka Beach
Image credit: Abdinillah Massa
16. Be entertained by the pride of the Caci community, the Whip Fighting Dance
Image credit: florestourism
17. Stargaze atop an idyllic mountain at your overnight homestay in the traditional village of Wae Rebo
Image credit: Gong Komodo Tour
18. Witness the intricate process of making naturally-dyed ikats at Ndona village
Image credit: florestourism
If you like seashells, Lewokluok Village specialises in seashell-decorated ikats.
19. Pamper yourself on Seraya Island, where marine life flourishes next to a quaint fishing village
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20. Rejuvenate your muscles and soothe your soul with a hearty soak at Bajawa Hot Springs, known for its healing properties
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Time to pack a good pair of shoes, sunscreen and casual beachwear! With so much to marvel at and more, no back-to-nature getaway chases away the tiredness in your bones better than a visit to Flores – one of Indonesia’s best kept natural secrets.
