Set off on an expedition throughout Flores, combining cultural exploration and exhilarating mountain biking, concluding in the Komodo islands. First, start in Ende with visits to Wolotopo's traditional village and Kelimutu's tri-coloured crater lakes at sunrise. Then ride through Flores' challenging terrain - 50% road, 50% broken tarmac - backed by vehicle support, passing villages like Bajawa and Ruteng and Cancar's unique rice fields. Conclude the biking journey in Labuan Bajo with a farewell dinner.
Next, proceed to a live-aboard adventure in Komodo National Park. Visit Rinca Island for Komodo dragons and Kalong Island for a bat spectacle before exploring Komodo Island, trekking Banunggulung and snorkelling at Pink Beach and Manta Point. Finally, finish with snorkelling at Gili Laba Island, before returning to Labuan Bajo and departing for Denpasar. This tour blends adventure, culture and natural beauty in Indonesia's captivating landscapes.
Upon arrival at Ende Airport, you'll be greeted by your local biking team. From there, you'll head to Wolotopo traditional village to explore Ikat weaving before returning to Ende for lunch. Afterwards, continue your journey with a two-hour drive east to Moni. (D)
Early in the morning, around 4:00am, depart from your hotel in Moni by car for the short journey to Mount Kelimutu. Witness one of Flores' most astonishing natural wonders: three crater lakes, each with a distinct colour ranging from aquamarine to ochre red and chocolate brown. These colours, which periodically change, are attributed to varying mineral compositions and hold spiritual significance for local beliefs.
After exploring Kelimutu, return to your hotel for breakfast before continuing by car to Nduaria. From there, go on a biking journey towards Ende. Later in the afternoon, enjoy cycling through Ende to the harbour, where you can unwind and witness a stunning sunset. (B,L,D)
Begin your cycling journey from the hotel towards Nangapanda, with a stop en route at Penggajawa Beach on the southern coast. Take time to stroll along the beach, known for its striking blue-hued pebbles and volcanic black sand. Afterwards, continue by car to Boawae for lunch at a local restaurant.
Then proceed by car to Rowa, followed by a cycling excursion to So’a Hot Spring. Later, drive to Bajawa where you'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before checking in at your hotel. (B,L,D)
Start your morning with a bike ride from your hotel to Bena Village, renowned for its impressive stone formations, ancestral shrines and traditional houses, symbolising Ngada culture. Located at the base of Mt Inerie, Bena features two rows of traditional thatch-roofed houses. Central to the village are megalithic formations used by the Ngada people for rituals connecting them with the supernatural realm and ancestors, often involving animal sacrifices.
Continue biking to Waebela and then proceed by car to Aimere, where you can explore local "Arak" wine distillation methods. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant on your route to Ruteng, stopping along the way at Ranamese Lake in the forest. Upon arrival in Ruteng, settle in for an overnight stay. (B,L,D)
This morning, cycle for four hours from Ruteng to Kenda, passing through Ting village and Watu Alo. Along the way, enjoy views of the scenic rice field terraces.
In the afternoon, continue cycling to explore the Ruteng Pu'u traditional houses. These villages feature round stone platforms surrounded by traditional houses, serving as focal points for local ceremonies and rituals. Historically, a notable Ficus tree named Ruteng stood at the village centre. Return to your hotel afterwards to relax and enjoy leisure time for the remainder of the day. (B,L,D)
Leave your hotel and drive to Cancar to see the distinctive Lingko rice fields, organised in circular terraces resembling a spider web. These fields, unique to the Manggarai people, symbolise unity between male and female, heaven and earth, and serve as sites for traditional ceremonies. Cycle around the rice fields and villages in Cancar for an hour before continuing your journey to Labuan Bajo.
Enjoy a downhill bike ride from Roe to Labuan Bajo, lasting about 1.5 hours. Conclude your day with a farewell dinner with your local biking team. Then check-in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Later in the evening, you'll meet your cruise guide for a briefing before beginning your adventure on the water the next day. (B,L,D)
Transfer to Labuan Bajo harbour for your boat journey to Rinca Island. Enjoy lunch served on board as you cruise. Rinca Island is renowned for its Komodo dragon population, alongside wild pigs, buffalo, and diverse bird species. Go on a guided trek with a ranger to see these impressive lizards in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, the boat sails and anchors near Kalong Island, known for its expansive mangrove forest and stunning vistas. Witness a breathtaking spectacle as thousands of bats emerge at dusk to search for fruits, creating a mesmerising sight against the evening sky. Spend the night on board the local boat and enjoy dinner.
Note: The specific houseboat name will be provided during the booking confirmation. Rest assured, it is a locally operated vessel that has been thoroughly assessed by our team. (B,L,D)
Rise early this morning for a full-day boat excursion in Komodo National Park.
Start your day with a trek to Banunggulung, where Komodo dragons were historically fed fresh goats. The trek offers spectacular scenery and opportunities to spot unique plants and animals. The island hosts approximately 2,000 dragons, alongside diverse wildlife like wild boar, deer and buffalo. Birdwatchers can also delight in sightings of cockatoos and gosong birds (megapodius reindwardti). Komodo Island features flat terrain with seasonal changes in flora, from dry and sparse vegetation to lush greenery scented with wild basil during the wet season.
Enjoy lunch onboard before arriving at Pantai Merah (Pink Beach), named for its pale pink sands formed by red coral mixed with the sand during tidal shifts. Snorkel in the clear waters, where you can encounter a variety of marine life including parrotfish, clownfish and possibly turtles. Spend some time swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach. Next, proceed to Manta Point for an opportunity to snorkel with magnificent manta rays. Then continue your adventure with a sail to Gili Laba Island. (B,L,D)
Wake up early to reach the Laba Island viewpoint and witness the sunrise, offering a panoramic view of Komodo National Park. Afterwards, enjoy snorkelling at Laba Island before heading back to Labuan Bajo. If time allows, there may be a stop on the way to Kanawa Island.
Disembark in Labuan Bajo and transfer directly to the airport for your onward flight GA7029, departing at 4:25pm and arriving at 6:00pm. Upon arrival in Denpasar, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Sanur, where you'll spend the rest of the day at leisure. (B,L)
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure until check-out time, when you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
Consider extending your holiday! Contact one of our Travel Specialists, who can provide guidance on your next destination, activities and the updated itinerary with accurate costs. (B)
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