Ruteng Travel Guide
This lesser port town on Flores Island in Indonesia is east of the more prominent Labuanbajo community. Like its neighbor, this port is also used as a stepping off point for komodo dragon wildlife tours, though it isn't nearly as close to Komodo National Park.
- Worth It?
- As there isn't much to do or see here, Ruteng is most valuable as a stopover on a trip to Komodo National Park.
- What to Do
- charter a boat and tour the islands, visit Komodo Island, enjoy the view from Welcome Mountain.
- Best Time to Go
- during the April to October dry season.
- How Long?
- One day is more than enough time here.
- Trivia
- whip-fighting is a peculiar local tradition staged during Ruteng weddings.
Golo Curu (also known as 'Welcome Mountain') is Ruteng's major highlight. Visitors can cross the bridge out of town and then hike up the mountain to a lovely overlook point.
Ruteng is known in local circles as a market town. The streets are broad and shaded, and the market on Kartini Street hosts consumers and merchants from the surrounding hill country. Anyone staying overnight in Ruteng has a great chance to explore the local culture.
Travel to Ruteng - Getting There
The bus station is about two miles out of town, making it slightly inconvenient. Buses regularly depart for Ende (9 hours), Bajawa (5 hours) and Labuanbajo (4 hours). The latter operates a minor air strip with flights to Denpasar on Bali (1 hour) where onward connections to Jakarta International Airport are regularly offered.
Ruteng Things to Do
Ruteng Attractions
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