TRIP TO FLORES AND KOMODO

Flores Island is an island in the Indonesian archipelago, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, which lie between the islands of Sumbawa and Timor. Flores is approximately 370 km long and is bordered by the Flores Sea to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. The island is mountainous and volcanic, giving it spectacular scenery, including mountains, volcanoes, lakes and beaches. The island is home to several active volcanoes, including the famous Kelimutu, with its three color-changing lakes and Mount Inerie, a towering cone-shaped volcano.

Flores is inhabited by several ethnic groups, with varied languages ​​and cultures. The best-known groups are the Ngadha, Lio, Ende, Manggarai and Komodo. The main language is Bahasa Indonesia, but there is also a wide variety of local languages. The island is rich in cultural traditions, including animist rituals that often coexist with Christianity, which is predominantly Catholic. Some of these traditions include dances, purification ceremonies and funeral rituals.

Like many Indonesian islands in the eastern part, Flores was influenced by the Portuguese during the colonial period. Portuguese missionaries introduced Christianity to the region, and traces of their presence can be found in churches and architecture.

Kelimutu, A Must-See Volcano

Kelimutu is an impressive natural site located on the island of Flores. It is particularly famous for its three volcanic lakes, which are located at the top of the Kelimutu Volcano (1639 meters above sea level). What makes Kelimutu Lake unique is the changing color of its three lakes. Each of them can vary in color depending on the volcanic activity and the chemical composition of the water. Local inhabitants, mainly the Ngadha and Lio people, believe that the lakes are the resting places of the souls of the deceased.

Due to the chemical reactions between the water, volcanic gases and the minerals present, the 3 Kelimutu Lakes change color and are given the name of Lake:

Lake Tiwu Ata Bupu: The blue lake, generally the most stable colour.
Lake Tiwu Ata Polo: The red lake, sometimes seen as darker or more intense.
Lake Tiwu Ko’o Fai: The green lake, often brighter.

Bena, The traditional village of the ancestors

Bena is the fascinating traditional village located near the town of Bajawa. It is one of the most iconic villages on the island, especially for its unique architecture and well-preserved cultural traditions. The village is located at an altitude of 1,100 meters on the slopes of Mount Inerie, an active volcano, offering a magnificent view.

The village of Bena is home to the Ngadha people, an ethnic group that maintains strong animist traditions, although much of the population is also Christian today. Animist traditions center on ancestor worship, and this ritual is an integral part of daily life. Spiritual rituals take place in the village, including purification ceremonies, births, marriages, and funerals. During these ancestors.

Waerebo, a Unique Village

Waerebo is one of the most famous and picturesque traditional villages on the island of Flores. Situated in the mountains at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters, the village offers exceptional views. Waerebo is also a significant cultural site for the Manggarai region, regarded as a symbol of their ancestral way of life. The village is particularly renowned for its traditional houses known as "Mbaru Niang." These houses feature a unique conical shape, with roofs constructed from thatch and natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and palm leaves. The conical roofs symbolize sacred mountains and represent the extended family.

 The houses are built on a family model, with each Mbaru Niang housing several generations of the same family. They are arranged in a circle around a central square. The culture of Wae Rebo is very connected to nature and spirituality. Villagers practice traditional ceremonies to honor their ancestors and their animist beliefs, although Christianity is also practiced. These ceremonies may include traditional dances, songs, ritual sacrifices, and community gatherings.

Lingko, The Spiderweb Rice Paddies

The Lingko Spiderweb Rice Fields is one of the most remarkable landscapes on the island of Flores. It is an iconic symbol of the Manggarai region. This unique and impressive cultivation system is an example of the ingenuity of local farmers, who have developed a method of rice cultivation adapted to the mountainous topography and climatic conditions of the region.

Lingko rice fields are famous for their spiderweb shape, a radial arrangement where rice fields are divided around a central point, like the threads of a spider’s web. From the air, they create a fascinating pattern, with rice plots arranged concentrically around a center. This particular arrangement is called “Lingko,” a Manggarai term meaning “spider’s web.” The rice fields are demarcated by irrigation channels, creating a complex network of small cultivated plots.

The Lingko rice fields play an important role in the culture and traditions of the Manggarai, an ethnic group on the island of Flores. Rice farming is central to their way of life, and the rice fields are considered a valuable resource, essential to the survival of the community. The rice fields are often associated with agricultural rituals and religious ceremonies to ensure good harvests. Rice planting and harvesting are community events, where community members come together to work together, strengthen social bonds, and celebrate the prosperity of the land.

Riung Islets - 17 main islands

The Riung Islets are a small archipelago located off the northern coast of Flores, about 60 km from the town of Bajawa. This archipelago is part of the Komodo National Park, but is often less frequented by tourists, offering a quieter and more unspoiled experience. It is an ideal location for those looking to experience spectacular seascapes and snorkeling. The Riung archipelago consists of 17 main islands, some of which are uninhabited. Some of the best known are Pulau Tiga (island number 3), Pulau Kondo, Pulau Rusa, and Pulau Babi. These islands are surrounded by pristine coral reefs and crystal clear waters, making them an ideal destination for snorkeling.

Komodo, a Favorite Destination in Indonesia

Komodo Island is one of Indonesia’s most famous destinations, renowned for its unique wildlife, including the famous Komodo dragons, as well as its natural beauty and stunning beaches. It is part of the Komodo Archipelago, a group of islands located in the province of Nusa Tenggara (Lesser Sunda Islands), and is also part of Komodo National Park, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.

Komodo National Park is spread across three large main islands: Komodo, Rinca, and Flores, as well as many smaller surrounding islands. The park is known not only for its Komodo dragons, but also for its exceptional marine biodiversity. The park covers approximately 1,733 km² and offers a variety of landscapes, from dry, rugged hills to white sand beaches, coral reefs, and crystal clear waters.

The island of Rinca, the habitat of Komodo

Rinca Island is one of the main islands in Komodo National Park, located in Indonesia, and is part of the Komodo Islands archipelago. Less visited than Komodo Island, but just as fascinating, Rinca is a must-see site for spotting the famous Komodo dragons and exploring spectacular scenery. The island is just a short boat ride from Labuan Bajo on neighboring Flores Island, and attracts many travelers seeking outdoor adventure and wildlife viewing.

Rinca Island is a fascinating and wild destination, offering visitors an authentic experience in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. The opportunity to observe Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, combined with breathtaking landscapes and rich marine biodiversity, makes the island a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. With its tranquil atmosphere, pristine beaches and adventure opportunities, Rinca is a hidden gem in Komodo National Park, perfect for travelers seeking a complete immersion in Indonesian nature.

Padar Island, Paradise in the Archipelago

Padar Island is one of the most spectacular and iconic destinations in the Komodo Archipelago. Located between Komodo Island and Rinca Island, Padar is the third largest island in the Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is famous for its breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches and stunning viewpoints, making it an ideal place for hikers and nature lovers.

Padar Island is a natural paradise that offers the perfect combination of spectacular hiking, beautiful beaches, and exceptional scuba diving. With its breathtaking landscapes, pink and black sand beaches, and impressive panoramic viewpoint, Padar is a must-see for any traveler exploring the Komodo Archipelago. Whether for an outdoor adventure, a quiet stay, or an underwater exploration, Padar is a place that will be remembered forever.

The islets for snorkeling - Manjarite, Kanawa, and Manta Point

Manjarite Island is a small island located in Komodo National Park, part of the Komodo Archipelago. Although less well-known than neighboring islands like Komodo and Padar, Manjarite is a beautiful and peaceful place, loved by visitors for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and marine life. It is often included in boat tours of the cruise along with other islands in the park, including Rinca and Kelor. Manjarite Island is an ideal destination for those seeking natural beauty, tranquility and marine biodiversity. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, Manjarite is perfect for a day of exploring or relaxing in Komodo National Park. Whether you are a scuba diver, hiker or simply looking for a peaceful beach, Manjarite offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most spectacular regions of Indonesia.

Kanawa Island is a small island paradise located in the Komodo Archipelago of Indonesia, about 15 kilometers from Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. It is part of the Komodo National Park and is often visited for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and excellent diving and snorkeling. The island is particularly popular with travelers looking for a quiet place to relax, while enjoying marine life and breathtaking scenery. Its easy access from Labuan Bajo makes it a popular destination for travelers exploring the Komodo region, and its peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal place to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of Indonesian nature.

Manta Point in Flores is a true paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to its crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and, most importantly, the chance to see the majestic manta rays in their natural habitat. This must-see site in Komodo National Park attracts travelers from all over the world for a unique experience of encountering marine life in one of the most ecologically diverse regions on the planet.

Kelor Island

Kelor Island is one of the most beautiful islands that is part of Komodo National Park in Indonesia. Located near Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, Kelor is a small island known for its stunning scenery, pristine beaches, and crystal clear waters, ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking. Although Kelor is one of the smaller islands in the park, it offers a peaceful and immersive experience in Indonesian nature.

Kelor Island is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, tranquility and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, Kelor offers a peaceful and immersive travel experience in the Komodo Archipelago. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure with a scenic hike, an underwater exploration of its coral reefs or simply looking for a quiet place to relax, Kelor Island offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of Indonesia.

The highlights

  • Komodo dragons (unique fauna)
  • Spectacular volcanic landscapes (Kelimutu)
  • Paradise islands & iconic views (Padar)
  • Exceptional snorkeling and diving (manta rays)
  • Authentic traditional villages
  • Unique spiderweb-shaped rice paddies
  • Complete experience: adventure + cruise

OUR GUARANTEES

Local Expertise

Tailor-Made Experience

Secure Payment

Responsible Commitment

When to Leave?

The best time to travel is during the following months:

Rates start at €1,580, based on a minimum of 4 people during the standard season.

The rate is per person and subject to availability. We will send you a personalized quote with the fixed price. This rate may vary based on several factors (number of participants, travel dates and hotel availability, vehicle size, guide specifications, and service levels).

If you are interested in this itinerary and the price indicated does not correspond to your budget, we can customize the quote according to your wishes.

General Terms and Conditions

  • Starting price: From 1.580 € per person, on a basis of 4 participants in the low season (and subject to availability).
  • Custom made : The final price is calculated per person. We will send you a personalized quote with a fixed price.
  • Factors of variation: The final price may vary depending on several factors:

✓ The exact number of participants.
✓ The travel period (high/low season, school holidays).
✓  Hotel availability and category.
✓ The type of vehicle required.
✓ The guide's specialization and the overall quality of the services.

The price includes

  • Accommodation: Overnight stays in the hotels mentioned in the program, with breakfasts included.
  • Private transport: A private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver throughout the stay.
  • Accompaniement : A local guide (English or French speaking, depending on your choice) throughout the stay.
  • Visits: Entrance tickets for the sites, monuments and all activities mentioned in the program.
  • Transfers: All land and sea transport (connections between the islands).
  • Equipment: The equipment needed for the planned activities (snorkeling, mountain biking, rafting, etc.).
  • Assistance: An emergency number is available. 24/7.

The price does not include

  • Flights: International flights and domestic (internal) flights.
  • Formalities & Insurance: The tourist visa must be paid for upon your arrival in Indonesia (approximately 500,000 IDR / ~€33 per person) as well as your personal travel insurance.
  • Meal : Lunches and dinners not explicitly mentioned in the program.
  • Extras: Optional activities and personal expenses.
  • Tips: Expect to pay approximately €10 to €20 per couple and per day (recommended for the driver and guide).
  • Modifications: Any change to the program or itinerary initiated by you.
  • Any service not mentioned in the "The price includes" section.

Supervision and Support

For your comfort, we offer different levels of support depending on the stage of your trip:

Private drivers (Logistics)

They handle the logistics of your stay. They know the routes perfectly and drop you off directly at the different sites.

  • Language: They speak basic English (generally not French).
  • Role: They are happy to share anecdotes about their island, manage the logistics, and buy your entrance tickets. However, they do not accompany you on visits and activities, where you remain completely independent.
The guides (French-speaking or English-speaking)

They work in addition to the local drivers. They accompany you during visits and activities throughout the trip, as detailed in your itinerary.

Important note: The guides are not the drivers, they are two separate people.

Local specialist guides (On site)
  • At major sites(e.g., Borobudur, Prambanan, Sultan's Palace): Official local guides (English or French speaking) will explain in detail the culture, history and philosophy of the places.
  • East of Java (e.g., Mount Bromo, Kawah Ijen, Madakaripura and Tumpaksewu waterfalls): It is impossible to find local French-speaking guides on site. You will therefore be accompanied by a English-speaking local guide.
Sites open for self-guided visits (without a local guide)

Some smaller sites do not have guides on site. In this case, your driver will buy your entrance tickets and you will visit independently, at your own pace.

Transport & Vehicles

Transportation is a key element to the success of your trip. On islands like Java, Sumatra or Flores, journeys are often very long. We select spacious and comfortable vehicles to ensure your travels remain pleasant.

Vehicle typeIdeal CapacityRecommended configuration

Toyota Innova Reborn

(2.0L – 2.5L engine)

2 to 3 passengers (with guide on board)

Maximum 4 passengers (without a guide on board)

Very comfortable vehicle. Has 6 seats in the rear, configured to leave room for luggage and suitcases.

Toyota Hiace Minibus

(2.5L – 2.8L engine)

4 to 9 passengers (with guide on board)

Ideal for 6 to 7 people + 1 guide

Large space. Features 9 seats in the rear with dedicated luggage space for all passengers.
Bus / Coach10 people or moreWe provide buses for you 30 seats or 40 to 50 seats depending on the size of your group.

*) Please provide the exact number of participants so that we can best adapt your vehicle and offer you the fairest price.

Accommodation

We select our accommodations according to several categories to best suit your expectations and budget:

Guest Houses / Homestays

Our criterion is to find simple and welcoming places.

  • Services: Clean accommodation with private bathroom, garden and small terrace to enjoy nature. Some establishments have a small swimming pool ideal for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Mid-Range (Superior Category)

Establishments offering excellent value for money with more space.

  • Services: Spacious, nicely decorated, clean room with a private bathroom. You will enjoy a lovely garden, a small terrace and, for some rooms, a children's pool.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Superior Range (Charm and Authenticity)

For travellers seeking artistic details and a more typical setting.

  • Services: Spacious rooms with charming and tasteful décor, private bathrooms (sometimes open to the outdoors in harmony with nature). The hotels boast beautiful terraces overlooking magnificent gardens and are situated in prime locations. They generally feature lovely swimming pools suitable for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (4 out of 5)
Luxury Hotels

Ideal for families seeking absolute serenity or for an unforgettable honeymoon.

  • Services: Charming accommodations with exquisite artistic touches in the rooms, on the terraces, and in the bathrooms. These are often small, intimate, and welcoming establishments nestled in lush natural surroundings. They feature a magnificent swimming pool in the middle of a large garden, offering a perfect romantic setting for honeymooners.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (5 out of 5)
Hotels of International Standards (3 to 5 Stars / Resorts)

If you prefer the infrastructure of large hotel chains to local charm.

  • Services: Large complexes or resorts offering a multitude of services and facilities: huge swimming pool, large landscaped garden, sometimes even a golf course.

Please do not hesitate to let us know your specific requirements so that we can offer you the ideal establishment.

Food & Drinks

  • Breakfasts: They are almost always included and served directly by your hotels.
  • Lunches and Dinners: They are generally excluded from our packages in order to leave you free to choose where and what you want to eat, according to your desires and the type of restaurant you like.
  • Water safety: Never drink tap water or water from local springs. When hiking, water should always be treated. In town, drink only bottled water with a sealed cap.
  • At your disposal: For your comfort and safety, your driver will provide you with the following every day: bottled mineral water.

Tips

Tips are not never mandatoryHowever, they are a much-appreciated gesture of gratitude. In Indonesia, it is customary to leave one when you are satisfied with the service provided.

The amount of a tip depends on your discretion and should be in line with the local economy. Tips that are too high relative to the country's standard of living can destabilize local economies.

Indicative benchmarks:

  • In hotels: Expect to pay approximately 1 € for the porter who carries your luggage to your room. At check-out, you can leave approximately 1 € for the cleaning staff.
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver (for example: €10 for the guide / €5 for the driver), corresponds to local standards.

Important reminder: A tip is a small token of appreciation for good service. It does not replace our team's salary. Everyone involved in your trip receives a fair and fixed wage from us.

 

General Terms and Conditions of Sale (GTC)

Booking and Payment

Registration for one of the activities or a trip offered by the agency Java Exotic Tour implies full and complete acceptance of our general terms and conditions of sale.

  • Booking confirmation: Your reservation is definitively confirmed upon receipt and acceptance of a deposit representing 30% of the total amount of the trip, subject to availability.
  • Last-minute booking: If registration takes place less than 32 days before the departure date, the full price of the trip must be paid at the time of booking.
  • Payment methods: You can make your payments by international bank transfer (SWIFT/IBAN) or by credit card via a secure online payment link. A booking confirmation will be sent to you by email as soon as possible.
  • Payment of the balance (70%):
    • It can be adjusted in cash (in Euros) upon your arrival in Indonesia.
    • If you prefer to pay the balance by bank transfer, we ask that you do so upon your arrival in the country or 1 week before departure if it is a mini-tour (stay of less than one week).
  •  Important banking clauses:
    • The payment is net of fees: all bank transfer fees (sender and recipient fees) remain exclusively your responsibility.
    • The name of the bank beneficiary provided is unique. To avoid failure or rejection of your transfer, you must not change this name under any circumstances.

Cancellation Terms and Fees

If, for any reason, you are forced to cancel your trip, the refund of sums paid will be made less the following cancellation fees (calculated based on the date your notification is received):

Cancellation deadline before departureFees retained (% of the total amount of the file)

Up to 31 days

From 30 to 21 days

From 20 to 14 days

From 20 to 14 days

In less than 8 days

30 % of the total amount (equivalent to the deposit)

40 % of the total amount

50% of the total amount

75% of the total amount

100% of the total amount

Cancellation by the agency:

  • Insufficient number of participants: If the agency Java Exotic Tour If the company is forced to cancel a group departure due to a lack of participants, the decision will be made and customers will be informed as soon as possible. 20 days before departure.
  • Cases of force majeure: The agency may also cancel a departure due to exceptional and unavoidable events constituting force majeure (volcanic eruptions, civil unrest, strikes, severe weather) that could compromise the safety of participants. In these situations, participants will be reimbursed for the sums paid, less any compensation and expenses already incurred and non-refundable with service providers (such as hotels).
Reminder: Tips

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a highly appreciated gesture of gratitude in Indonesia when customers are satisfied with the service. The amount should be reasonable and in line with the local economy so as not to destabilize the country's overall standard of living.

  • At the hotel: Approximately 1 € for the baggage handler and about 1 € for the cleaning staff at the time of departure (check-out).
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver, corresponds to local standards.
  • Remuneration: Gratuities are an additional service and in no way replace the salaries of our staff. All individuals involved in our trips are properly compensated separately.
  1. Encourage interaction with the residents Throughout this tour, you will have regular contact with local people. Learning a few simple Indonesian words like "Terima kasih" (thank you), "Selamat pagi" (hello), or "Permisi" (excuse me) is always greatly appreciated and facilitates communication. These small gestures make encounters more authentic and enriching.
  2. Protect yourself from the tropical sun Indonesia has a sunny climate all year round. Remember to pack:
    • ✓ A high SPF sunscreen
    • ✓ A hat or a cap
    • ✓ Sunglasses
    This will allow you to fully enjoy outdoor activities: hiking, cultural visits and sea excursions.
  3. Choose appropriate clothing For temples and traditional villages, it is advisable to wear:
    • ✓ Clothing that covers the shoulders
    • ✓ Trousers or skirts below the knee
    • ✓ A sarong can be very useful (and is often provided on site at temples)
  4. Recommended footwear Some tours include walks, hikes, or walks through wetlands (waterfalls, volcanoes). Please plan accordingly:
    • ✓ Comfortable shoes
    • ✓ Non-slip sandals
    • ✓ Possibly water shoes
  5. Respect for local customs Indonesia is a welcoming country that respects traditions. A few simple gestures:
    • ✓ Avoid overly visible displays of affection in villages
    • ✓ Ask permission before photographing the inhabitants
    • ✓ Use your right hand to give or receive
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