Looking for a destination other than Bali? Just a one hour flight from Bali lies Flores Island, a place that has been getting a lot of attention lately thanks to Labuan Bajo and its access to Komodo National Park. So, the question is: Is Flores better than Bali? Many travelers are wondering what makes Flores stand out from Bali. Is it a more authentic and adventurous vacation experience?
In this article we will dive into why Flores is getting popular, if it’s part of Bali and what makes it unique compared to the island of the gods. If you’re looking for a destination other than Bali, keep reading to find out if Flores is for you.
Exploring What Makes Flores Famous
Flores Island, in the East Nusa Tenggara province (NTT), is not only known for its landscapes but also for its culture and history. The name Flores means “flower” in Portuguese, which fits the island’s natural beauty. One of Flores’ main attractions is Labuan Bajo which is the gateway to Komodo National Park, home of the famous Komodo dragons – ancient reptiles found only in this region.
Besides Komodo, Flores is also famous for Mount Kelimutu which has the Tri-Color Lake – three volcanic lakes that change color naturally, giving a stunning view. The island is rich in traditions and cultures, seen in places like Wae Rebo Village where you can experience life in traditional cone-shaped houses and immerse yourself in local customs. Flores’ underwater beauty is also remarkable, with diving and snorkeling spot that showcase pristine coral reefs and marine life.
All these make Flores a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking for a more authentic and off the beaten path experience.
Is Flores Island Part of Bali?
Geographically and administratively, Flores is not part of Bali. Bali is a province and Flores is an island in East Nusa Tenggara. Both are part of the Lesser Sunda Islands but separated by a long distance of water. To get to Flores most travelers fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo which takes about an hour. This route is popular because Labuan Bajo is the starting point to explore Komodo National Park. If you’re up for a longer journey you can also travel by land and sea and add an adventure to your trip.
This clarifies that Flores is not part of Bali. Both have their own unique characteristics – different cultures, languages and landscapes. So when people ask is Flores part of Bali the answer is no. They are separate destinations each with its own attractions and charm.
Is Flores Better Than Bali?
This is a question that sparks a lot of curiosity: Can Flores outdo Bali as a tourist destination? The answer is subjective and depends on what you’re looking for in your travel experience. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
- Crowd vs. Serenity
Bali is well developed with excellent infrastructure and many international tourists. So you won’t have trouble finding luxury hotels, international restaurants and plenty of activities. But if you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful environment Flores could be the better choice. The island’s beauty is still relatively untouched, giving a more serene and adventurous experience. - Cultural Diversity
Bali is known for its strong Hindu culture with vibrant arts, dance performances, ceremonies and traditional crafts. Flores, on the other hand, offers an even more diverse cultural experience with Catholic influence from the Portuguese, traditional rituals from local tribes, and local cuisine. Western Flores, in particular, is rich in cultural attractions, such as the traditions of the Manggarai people and their Caci dance. If you enjoy exploring culture in depth, Flores gives you the opportunity to visit remote villages and experience unique customs. For an authentic cultural experience, consider visiting a traditional village like Wae Rebo, where you can engage with the community through activities such as cooking, weaving, and enjoying traditional food amidst breathtaking landscapes. - Tourist Attractions
Bali has beautiful beaches, rice terraces, temples and nightlife. Flores doesn’t have nightlife as vibrant as in Kuta or Seminyak but you can enjoy breathtaking sunrise at Mount Kelimutu, hike through hills and encounter Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. If you’re tired of touristy spots Flores offers a wilder and more adventurous experience. - Tourism Development
The government is promoting Flores particularly Labuan Bajo as the “new Bali.” So tourism infrastructure is improving and more facilities are available every year. But Bali is still ahead in terms of development. If you like luxury and variety of dining options Bali is probably the better choice. But if you’re looking for something more exotic and off the beaten path Flores could be the alternative.
So is Flores better than Bali? It depends on your personal preferences and what kind of vacation you’re looking for. Both have their own strengths and unique offerings. But if you’ve been to Bali several times and looking for something different Flores could be worth exploring.
Read more: The Best Time to Visit Flores Island
Tourist Attractions in Flores Island
Flores is a stunning island with much to explore beyond its famous Komodo National Park. Here are some must-visit attractions on your Flores itinerary:
- Wae Rebo Village
Nestled in Manggarai, Wae Rebo is famous for its traditional cone-shaped houses, called mbaru niang. A few hours of hiking will reward you with stunning landscapes and a deep dive into the local culture. - Danau Kelimutu
The sunrise over the three differently colored lakes at Kelimutu is a breathtaking experience. Be sure to bring warm clothes, as temperatures can drop in the early morning at the top. - Cunca Rami and Cunca Wulang Waterfalls
These two waterfalls, located near Labuan Bajo, are surrounded by lush jungle. Both offer natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim after a rewarding hike. - Goa Rangko
A hidden gem, Goa Rangko is a mesmerizing cave with crystal-clear turquoise water. A short boat ride from Labuan Bajo, it’s a great spot for swimming and exploring its unique limestone formations. - Goa Batu Cermin
Known as the “Mirror Stone Cave,” Goa Batu Cermin in Labuan Bajo features fascinating rock formations that reflect sunlight beautifully. It’s a perfect spot for photography and exploring the natural wonders of Flores. - Komodo National Park
Of course, no trip to Flores is complete without visiting Komodo National Park. Famous for the Komodo dragons, the park also boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredible snorkeling and diving spots.
If you have time you can also explore other part of Flores such as Riung in Ngada Regency famous for its 17 Islands or visit Larantuka in the eastern tip of the island during Semana Santa. Every corner of Flores has its uniqueness from its various customs to its art and friendly people.
Read more: Island-Hopping Around Flores and Komodo: Exploring Indonesia’s Island Paradise
Time to Discover Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara!
There’s no answer to whether Flores is better than Bali. Both have their own charm. Bali has well developed tourism infrastructure, many activities and nightlife. Flores has more adventure with untouched nature and authentic cultural experience. Western Flores, known for its cultural richness, offers attractions like the Manggarai people and their traditional Caci dance. Visiting traditional villages such as Wae Rebo provides an authentic cultural experience, with opportunities to engage with the community through activities like cooking, weaving, and enjoying traditional food.
Flores is getting popular especially with Labuan Bajo as the gateway to Komodo National Park. Interested to visit Flores especially for an adventure in Komodo National Park? You can explore the park in luxury and comfort by joining the Komodo Island Tour by Komodo Luxury. Enjoy premium facilities on board, experienced guides and itinerary designed to maximize your adventure. With this tour you can explore Flores’ natural wonders without worrying about accommodation and transportation.
