Flores Island Travel Guides

GEOGRAPHY
Flores island is one of the island on East Nusa Tenggara province. It stretches between the east longitudes of 118° and 125°, and between the latitudes of 8° and 11° south. The east Nusa Tenggara cover the area 49,880 sq km and it has a population of 3,500,000. Flores becomes one of the biggest island on the territory of East Nusa Tenggara or NTT which comprises 566 islands, including many smaller islands which are not in-habitated and unnamed. The three main islands are Flores, Sumba and Timor from which comes the term 'Flobamor', which has been familiar as one of the names of NTT.

Flores is the volcanic island and has unique and spectacular attractions. Mount Kelimutu has become a favourite destination, with its three crater lakes of different colours. Sumba is the island famous for its arts, handicrafts, particularly the textile weaving, and cultural assets. Timor, being the principal island with Kupang as its capital, serves as the centre of government and economic activities.

The other permanently inhabitated islands are Lembata, Adonara, Solor, Palue, Nules, Komodo, Rinca, Sumba, Sabu, Raijua, Rote, Semau, Alor and Pantar.

Roughly 57 percent of the territory is hilly with mountains rising to 2427m (Gunung Mutis) in Timor and 1792m (G. Kelimutu) in Flores. The mountains of East Nusa Tenggara are not as high as in West Nusa Tenggara where the highest mountain of all of Nusa Tenggara is G. Rinjani in Lombok (3726m).

Geologically, East Nusa Tenggara can be regarded as being divided into two zones:
a volcanic inner curve formed by the islands of Rinca, Komodo, Flores, Alor, Pantar, Adonara, Lembata and Solor, which have fertile soils; and

an outer curve of limestone and other rock formations, made up up of Sumba, Sabu, Rote, Semau and Timor.

Flora and fauna
The west coast of Flores is one of the few places, aside from the island of Komodo itself, where the Komodo dragon can be found in the wild. The Flores giant rat is also endemic to the Island.

In September 2004, at Liang Bua Cave in western Flores, paleoanthropologists discovered skeletons of a previously unknown hominid species. Homo floresiensis, affectionately termed hobbits after the small characters in the Lord of the Rings, appear to be miniaturized versions of Homo erectus standing about one metre tall. They may have existed until as recently as 11,000 BC. Local reports of elf-like people, the Ebu Gogo, or the Orang Pendek of Sumatra, have caused speculation that Flores man may have survived into the historical period, or even to the present. The discovery has been published in the October 28, 2004, issue of Nature magazine and the April 2005 issue of the National Geographic Magazine. [1] However, on August 21, 2006, the National Geographic Newsletter published an article reporting that several scientists now believe that the remains discovered in 2004 were not of a different species but were pygmies. Flores was also a habitat of the extinct Stegodon dwarf elephant until approximately 18,000 years ago.

Culture
There are many languages spoken on the island of Flores, all of them belonging to the Austronesian family. In the centre of the island in the districts of Ngada and Ende there is what is variously called the Central Flores Dialect Chain or the Central Flores Linkage. Within this area there are slight linguistic differences in almost every village. At least six separate languages are identifiable. These are from west to east: Ngadha, Nage, Keo, Ende, Lio and Palu'e, which is spoken on the island with the same name of the north coast of Flores. Locals would probably also add So'a and Bajawa to this list, which anthropologists have labeled dialects of Ngadha.

Portuguese traders and missionaries came to Flores in the 16th century, mainly to Larantuka and Sikka. Their influence is still discernible in Sikka's language and culture.

Flores is almost all Catholic and represents one of the "religious borders" created by the Catholic expansion in the Pacific and the spread of Islam from the west across Indonesia. In other places in Indonesia, such as in the Malukus and Sulawesi, the divide is more rigid and has been the source of bloody sectarian clashe

Tourism
The most famous tourist attraction in Flores is Kelimutu; three coloured lakes in the district of Ende. These coloured lakes change colours on a regular basis. The latest colours (late 2004) were said to be turquoise, brown and black.

There is good snorkelling and diving on several locations along the north coast of Flores, most notably Maumere and Riung. However, due to the destructive practice of local fishermen using bombs to fish, and locals selling shells to tourists, combined with the after effects of a devastating tsunami in 1992, the reefs have slowly been destroyed.

Labuanbajo (on the western tip of Flores) is a town often used by tourists, from where they can visit Komodo and Rinca. Labuanbajo also attracts scuba divers, as whale sharks inhabit the waters around Labuanbajo.

Seraya Island Bungalows - Flores Island Travel Guide

Island Information:

* Excellent beach, calm water, outstanding swimming and snorkeling.

* Basic bungalow accommodation available.

* Beach restaurant serving local food and drinks.

* A small fishermen village is located on the southern tip of the island (see map) provides a chance to view the bagan style of traditional fishing from bamboo structures erected over the open sea.

How to get there:

* Distance from Labuan Bajo to Seraya Island is 10 km.

* Only 50 minutes by .local boat from Labuan Bajo

* Please note that for Seraya Hotel guests the boat transfer is not normally included in the accommodation package. Please check on sea transport arrangements when booking.

* Charter boats;

Come to Seraya Island and spend some wonderful days in an unspoiled, tranquil environment away from Kuta's hassle and bustle and enjoy the beauty of white sandy beaches, blue waters, and exotic coral life.

Seraya Island (official name: Seraya Kecil) is about 1,3 km long and up to 200 m wide and is situated about 10 km north of Labuan Bajo at the western end of the island of FLORES, Indonesia.

Our bungalows are built directly on the superb white beach. The water is clean & clear and the drop-off is around 60 m from the beach. The corals are just great and there is an abundance of fish and other marine life making Seraya Island the ideal location for snorkeling and other activities. Our bungalows are furnished with a double bed and mosquito net, bathroom (mandi) and porch. The restaurant specializes in fresh fish dishes.

Activities
Enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, fishing (we provide the equipment) and canoeing around the island or rent our motorized boat and be your own captain to discover the uninhabited surrounding islands. (You will be given a crash course on how to operate the boat. It is easy).

ROOM RATE:
1 Bungalow incl. breakfast

Rp. 200 ,000 / single
Rp. 250,000 / double

High season surcharge 15% from room rates apply from July 01-September 15 and December 01-January 15

Transfer to/from Labuan Bajo 75,000 rp/one-way and only leave at 08.00 AM ones a day.

Seraya Island Bungalows is operated by Gardena Hotel Labuan Bajo in related with Pt. Lombok Tropic Holidays Indonesia.

Note:
From January 1st until March 1st the island will be closed in case there is bad weather. Should you plan a visit during this time please contact us for a confirmation.
High season is in July and August.
Bali and Flores are 6/7 hours ahead of Central European summer/winter time.

Flores Island Tours

07 Days 06 Nights

DAY 01 : LABUAN BAJO - ARRIVAL
On arrival at Airport of Labuan Bajo, our guide will meet you then transfer to GOLO HILLTOP HOTEL for accommodation. Afternoon half-day tour in down town of Labuan Bajo. (L,D)

DAY 02 : LABUANBAJO - RUTENG
Breakfast at hotel. Start to explore the distinct tribes in Flores Island (Mangarai, Bajawa, Lio, Sikka etc.), Drive overland to Ruteng - a cool and small town as the capital city of Manggarai Regency where major Mangarainese tribe dwelt. On the way stops will be made at Lembor and Cancar where you can enjoy the beautiful panorama of rice fields with lush and dry hills as the back ground, and other places according to local happenings. On arrival direct check-in at HOTEL DAHLIA or similar. Onto Ruteng Puu - Manggarainese traditional village to see their unique slander-shaped houses and be with local people. Return to hotel. (B,L,D)

DAY 03 : RUTENG - BAJAWA
Breakfast at hotel Continue drive to the East to Bajawa - another cool and small town as a capital city of Ngada Regency (home of Ngada and Nagekeo tribes). Stops will be made "Ranamese" Lake, and snapshot at magnificent peak of Mt. Inerie - an active volcano and Aimere for having lunch. On arrival at Bajawa drive 2 km to Boloji to attend dance performance of Bajawanese followed by "Suling" - cluster of Bamboo flute concert music. Return to HOTEL KEMBANG or ARIESTA for accommodation and meals. (B,L,D)

DAY 04 : BAJAWA
Breakfast at hotel. Explore traditional village of Bajawa tribes. Visit Bena - a megalithic village where people do preserve their ancestral spirits believed and way of life, which can be seen in their "Ngadhu" and "Bhaga". That are conical thatched roof huts symbolized their Male and Female ancestral spirits. On the way stop on the slope of Inerie active volcano for taking pictures. Return to Bajawa for Lunch at Local Restaurant. Afternoon drive to the North to Soa sub district to see Masu, Seso and Mude traditional village. Onto Mengeruda - a natural hot spring water for relaxing and taking bath.. Return to hotel. (B,L,D)

DAY 05 : BAJAWA - DETUSOKO
Breakfast at hotel. Continue drive overland for 5 hours to Detusoko (175 km) through scenic road where you can enjoy beautiful panorama of the valley with sea as the background. Stops will be made at Wogo, another traditional Bajawanese village and Boawae - village of Nagekeo tribes to observe their tradition and culture, Ende for having lunch at a local restaurant, Onekore village - the center of "Ikat" hand-weaving with Endenese typical style. Proceed to Detusoko. Accommodation and meals at Missionary GuestHouses - ST. FRANCISKUS. (B,L,D)

DAY 06 : DETUSOKO - KELIMUTU - MAUMERE
After an early morning breakfast at 5.30 drive up to Kelimutu volcano to see the three colored lakes. Upon arrival walk for 1,5 km and then ascend 127 steps to top to view Kelimutu's green, blue and black lakes. A Dutch Geologist discovered Kelimutu in 1914; at the time the lakes were red, blue and white. Descend to Moni village to view beautiful hand woven clothes and to visit Kowanara village famous for its traditional Lionese houses. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Paga Beach. . Proceed to Maumere with several stops made according to local happenings. Accommodation and meals at FLORES SAO RESORT or SEA WORLD CLUB. (B,L,D)

DAY 07 : MAUMERE - OUT
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to the Airport to depart for your next destination. (B)

End of services

Price per person in USD 650 Minimum 02 person

Kelimutu Colour Lakes Tours Information

Kelimutu Color Lakes Package Tours

04 Days /03 Nights

DAY 01 : BALI/LOMBOK - MAUMERE
Transfer to Ngurah Rai Airport to catch MZ 6558 at 12.25 for a two-hour flight to Maumere in Flores Island. On arrival at Waioti Airport of Maumere at 14.30 directly drive to Moni and overnight at FLORES SARE HOTEL. (L,D)

DAY 02 : MAUMERE - KELIMUTU - MAUMERE
After an early morning breakfast at 3.30 AM drive up to Kelimutu volcano to see the three colored lakes. Upon arrival walk for 1,5 km and then ascend 127 steps to top to view Kelimutu's green, blue and black lakes. A Dutch Geologist discovered Kelimutu in 1914; at the time the lakes were red, blue and white. Descend to Moni village to view beautiful hand woven clothes and to visit Kowanara village famous for its traditional Lionese houses. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Wolowaru. After lunch, continue to Wolosoko - a village perched on a hill overlooking the main road. Proceed to Maumere with several stops made according to local happenings.Transfer to SAO WISATA RESORT in Waeara beach (B,L,D)

DAY 03 : MAUMERE
Breakfast at hotel. Visit Wuring village to see the houses built on stilts over the sea. Next, drive up to Ledalero - a major Catholic Seminary - to visit the museum with its various collection of local royal families' old portraits, antique hand woven clothes, stagedeon fossils, etc. Proceed to Sikka village - a center of "Ikat" weaving to see the traditional weaving process and an old church built in the 16th Century. Return to hotel. (B,L,D)

DAY 04 : MAUMERE - OUT
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to the Airport to depart for your next destination. (B)

End of Services

Price per person in USD 420 Minimum 02 Person

Puri Komodo Dive Resort - Flores Island Travel Guides

Puri Komodo Resort is situated 100 miles to the east of Bali. It is 2,5 hours traveling time by airlines from bali to Labuan Bajo Flores and 30 Minutes from Labuan Bajo to Puri Komodo Resort.

Puri Komodo Resort is spacious but with sophisticated details that combine in themselves as special atmosphere and motive of the islands of Bali and Flores. In its entire composition, Puri Komodo Resort is designed to be fun and relaxed

Relax with the peace and quiet nature.
Our lush gardens and pristine beach enhance this tranquil setting and reflect our appreciation of the nature.
One hundred year old trees camouflage thatched roof bungalows while providing shade and refuge to a wide variety of birds.

Containing 6 rooms with fully wood interior design. Laid out with shared terrace

12 exquisite bungalows offer comfort and privacy of sunny garden and private terrace over viewing the beach

All rooms have individual ceiling fan, private shower, fresh water and extra bed can be arranged in Chalet room only
Bedding : Bungalow - 7 Double & 5 Twin
Chalet - 6 Double

Restaurant & Bar : 1 Restaurant featuring Indonesian, Asian and European cuisine and 1 Bar Featuring Flores Cocktails and Mocktails.

Recreation Facilities : water Sport and Dive Centre facilities on the site

Relax with a tropical drink in our open air bar and restaurant. The second level overlooks the gardens to the sea where several small islands await your discovery.

The organic garden produces most of the ingredients used to serve our delicious family style meals

The privillege of owning a piese of property blessed with crystal clear waters, fertile soil and an abundance of wildlife does not come without the responsibility to preserve and protect it for future generations. Puri Komodo Resort is dedicated to conservation of the enviroment.
Tour guides are responsible for ensuring the flora and trekking trails remain undisturbed and litter free.
Food scraps become fish food to enrich our sea garden or compost to feed the organic vegetable garden.
Coral gardens in front of the resort are being natured to maturity. Visiting boats are forbidden to drop their anchor within the reef area.
Special rest platforms have been designed for snorkelers in an effort to eliminate potential coral damage. All wildlife surrounding Puri Komodo Resort is protected. Hunting and fishing is not permitted.

Puri Komodo Resort is located on the northwest tip of Flores, Indonesia, the location is referred to as Batu Gosok. This isolated peninsula is a home to Puri Komodo Resort. 250.000 square metres of land hideaway Guaranteed to thrill snorkelers, divers and adventurers. A magnificent secluded cove with over 1.000 meters of white sandy beach and a wooden jetty protruding 450 meters into the coral rich turquoise waters. Opulent sea gardens in colors of purple, yellow,blue and fuchsia blend with brightly colored tropical fish drifting aimlessly amongst the coral.

HOW TO GET TO PURI KOMODO RESORT

Merpati & Pelita Air flies on Monday, Thursday and Saturday
Denpasar - Labuan Bajo
Merpati/MZ 6570	dep. 09.35 am	arr. 11.55 am
IAT/003	dep. 10.40 am	arr. 13.00 am
Labuan Bajo - Denpasar
Merpati/MZ 6570	dep. 12.30 pm	arr. 14.50 pm
IAT/004	dep. 11.30 pm	arr. 12.50 pm
Leaving from Denpasar as the above schedule and arrive at Labuhanbajo airport same as the above schedule and another 10 minutes by car to harbor. It will takes 20 minutes from harbor to Puri Komodo Resort.

Room Rate:

Chalet Room

US$ 100/Night/Double or Single including breakfast

Bungalows

US$ 120/Night/Double or Single including breakfast

Come and Discover Indonesia Islands with us!

Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge - Flores Island Travel Information

The Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge is located near Labuan Bajo on Flores. It is an ideal place to base yourself for visits to Komodo National Park, or for diving or snorkelling.

The lodge features the island's best amenities, including:
* 6 rooms with AC, fan, hot water and phone
* 4 rooms in two cottages with AC, fan and hot water
* Complimentary breakfast
* Pool
* Free airport transfers
* A restaurant serving three meals per day at reasonable prices
* A simple bar
* Bottled drinking water supplied
* Information, books and binoculars for bird and butterfly watching
* Affordable vehicle hire with modern vehicles and experienced drivers
* Masks/Snorkels for hire (no fins)
* Storage area for diving gear
* Tour information to Komodo National Park
* Boat pick-up from the beach for snorkelling, diving or river safari

NOTE on MALARIA: It is wise to take a prophylactic in Flores, to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers at night, preferably in light colours. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark blue and black! All rooms have mosquito nets, screens, electric mosquito plugs and complimentary insect repellent.

Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge has developed environmentally friendly buildings with the use of solar power for hot water, an extensive rain water storage system, and the use of a biological sewage treatment plant where all waste water is returned to the gardens through irrigation.

The Bajo Eco Lodge is under control of Iniradef non profit organization where to participate in developing the human resources on the area and also building the natural environment conservation. This program have fully accepted by locals.
The Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge features a restaurant and bar with a view out to sea. There is an ala carte menu and a featured complete meals of the day. Fresh fish is a specialties. Restaurant hours are : Breakfast 0730 - 1000, Lunch 1230 - 1400, Dinner 1930 - 2100
A fully stocked bar is also available.

The lodge features the island's best amenities, including: 6 rooms with AC, fan, hot water and phone, Complimentary breakfast, Pool, Free daily laundry, A restaurant serving three meals per day at reasonable prices, A well-stocked bar, Bottled drinking water supplied, Information, books and binoculars for bird and butterfly watching, Affordable vehicle hire with modern vehicles and experienced drivers, Masks/Snorkels for hire (no fins), Storage area for diving gear

The Lodge contains 6 tastefully decorated guest rooms, each room contains the following amenities: IDD phone service, coffee table, comfortable chairs, western style toilet and shower, bottle drinking water supplied, complimentary 24 hours coffee and tea from a central location, mosquito net and screens, mosquito repellant plug.

Lombokmarine.Com does not provide individual room rate..!! All rates quoted together with the package.

Rooms
The Lodge contains 6 tastefully decorated guest rooms.
Each room contains the following amenities:
* Air Conditioning and fan
* Hot Water
* International Direct Dial (IDD) Phone Service
* Coffee table
* Comfortable chairs
* Western-style toilet and shower
* Bottled drinking water supplied
* Complimentary 24-hour coffee and tea from a central location
* Mosquito net and screens
* Mosquito repellent plug

RATE:

US$ 85/Room/Single or Double including Breakfast, Taxes and Airport Transfer.

The Environment
The Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge has developed environmentally friendly buildings with the use of solarl power for hot water, a rain water storage system, and the use of a reed-bed and water garden sewage treatment system where all waste water is returned to the gardens through irrigation.

The lodge is considered an "eco hotel" because it fulfils the six main components of eco tourism, namely:
1. it depends on the natural environment
2. is ecologically sustainable
3. is proven to contribute to conservation
4. features an environmental training program
5. incorporates cultural considerations
6. provides a net economic return to the local community.

Restaurant
The Bajo Komoo Eco Lodge features a restaurant and bar with a view out to sea. There is an ala carte menu and a featured complete meal of the day. Fresh fish is a speciality.

Restaurant hours are:
Breakfast: 7:30 - 10:00
Lunch 12:30-14:00
Dinner 19:30-21:00

A fully stocked bar is also available.
Special need are catered for.

VISIT THE GREATEST ARCHIPELAGO ON EARTH : INDONESIA :

Come and Discover Indonesia Islands with us!