Flores Essentials

Flores is defined by dramatic volcanic landscapes and ancient cultural traditions. This selection features the tri-colored crater lakes of Kelimutu and the archaeological site of Liang Bua, where remains of the prehistoric Homo floresiensis were discovered. The list includes the megalithic Bena Village and the unique spider-web rice terraces of the Manggarai people. Natural highlights range from the fossil-filled Batu Cermin Cave to the geothermal Malanage Hot Springs and the panoramic volcanic views from Wolo Bobo.

Kelimutu

Kelimutu is a volcano close to the small town of Moni in central Flores island in Indonesia.

Liang Bua cave (Hobbit cave)

An archaeological limestone cave where remains of the prehistoric human species Homo floresiensis, known as the "Hobbit," were discovered in 2003.

Batu Cermin Cave

A limestone cave where sunlight reflects off salt crystals in the rock walls to create a mirror-like effect. The site contains fossilized coral and sea turtles.

Bena Traditional Village

A megalithic village of the Ngada people featuring two rows of thatched houses, ancient stone altars, and ancestor shrines known as ngadhu and bhaga.

Malanage Hot Springs

A natural bathing spot where a hot volcanic stream converges with a cold river, allowing visitors to choose their preferred temperature at the point of mixing.

Rice Terraces

Traditional "lingko" fields shaped like spider webs, a Manggarai land division system where plots radiate from a central point used for communal ceremonies.