Flores Travel Guide
The East Nusa Tenggara island of Flores, meaning ‘flowers’, is known for its stunning volcanic scenery and scuba diving. The tri-colored lakes of Kelimutu are here along with unbeatable diving in Maumere.
Flores is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with a capital, Ende, and its largest town is Maumere. Most people arrive in Flores during the dry season between June and August, although coming in May and September/October is much better as there are fewer tourists and cheaper prices.
Apart from the superior diving and the trekking up Mount Kelimutu (from Moni), Flores is also known for its western town of Labuanbajo, which is the launch point for visits to nearby Komodo Island. Ende is the slow capital which resides in the south, while Bajawa is good for a look at traditional villages. Riung is also good for diving and snorkeling.
Getting There & Away
There are several small airports on Flores, with Maumere in the east having the best connections and facilities. Flights arrive here regularly from the nearest main airport in Denpasar, Bali (2 hours), and from Jakarta. Other airports in Flores are in Ende, Bajawa, Ruteng, Labuan Bajo, and Waingapu. Ferries arrive at ports all over Flores, with Ende being the main recipient of services from West Timor.