Top Things to Do in Komodo National Park, Flores Island, and Sumba Island

Discover the Best Adventures, Culture, and Nature in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Eastern Indonesia is a treasure trove of pristine landscapes, ancient cultures, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. From dragon encounters in Komodo, to volcano sunrises in Flores, to soulful traditions and savannahs in Sumba — this region offers rich experiences for all types of travelers.

Here’s your ultimate list of things to do across these three captivating islands:

🐉 Things to Do in Komodo National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park is world-famous for its iconic dragons and stunning marine life. It’s a haven for divers, trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

🌟 Highlights:

1. See the Komodo Dragons (Komodo & Rinca Islands)
   Take a ranger-guided trek to see the largest lizards on Earth in their natural habitat.
2. Trek Padar Island at Sunrise
   Hike to the top of Padar for one of Indonesia’s most iconic viewpoints, with crescent-shaped beaches below.
3. Snorkel or Dive with Manta Rays
   Visit Manta Point to swim with majestic manta rays — a highlight for snorkelers and divers.
4. Relax at Pink Beach
   Lounge or snorkel on the famous blush-colored sand beach with coral gardens right off shore.
5. Explore Taka Makassar & Kanawa Island
   A sandbank in the middle of turquoise water (Taka Makassar) and a peaceful island with coral reefs (Kanawa) offer the perfect escape.
6. Cruise the Park by Liveaboard or Speedboat
   Enjoy multi-day or full-day tours through the park’s remote beauty, islands, and marine sanctuaries.

⛰️ Things to Do in Flores Island

Flores is an island of mountains, volcanic lakes, traditional culture, and wild beauty. It’s the perfect place for hiking, cultural immersion, and natural wonders.

🌟 Highlights:

1. Watch Sunrise Over Kelimutu’s Tri-Colored Lakes
   Hike to Mount Kelimutu to see three volcanic lakes, each with different, changing colors — a surreal sight.
2. Trek to Wae Rebo Village
   A remote hilltop Manggarai village known for its conical houses and cultural preservation. A must-do for nature and culture lovers.
3. Climb Mount Inerie in Bajawa
   For adventurous souls, this dramatic volcano offers stunning views over Ngada’s valleys and villages.
4. Visit Bena & Traditional Villages
   Explore Ngada tribal culture through centuries-old villages with megalithic stones and animist rituals.
5. Soak in Malanage Hot Springs
   Unwind after trekking in a hot river where volcanic heat meets mountain streams.
6. Dive or Snorkel in Maumere or 17 Islands Marine Park (Riung)
   Pristine underwater sites for marine lovers, often far from crowds.
7. Explore Caves & Waterfalls
   Visit Rangko Cave (a glowing blue water cave near Labuan Bajo) or Cunca Wulang Canyon for an adventurous day trip.

🌾 Things to Do in Sumba Island

Sumba is wild, soulful, and steeped in tradition. Famous for its rolling savannahs, stone tombs, and serene beaches, this is a place for travelers who seek deeper, quieter, and more meaningful journeys.

🌟 Highlights:

1. Visit Traditional Villages (Ratenggaro, Tarung, Praijing)
   Explore villages with thatched high-roofed houses and ancient stone tombs — a living museum of Sumba’s rich animist culture.
2. Chase Waterfalls (Tanggedu, Lapopu, Waikacura)
   Hike through canyons and jungles to find epic waterfalls and natural swimming holes.
3. Relax at Mandorak & Weekuri Lagoon
   A surreal, turquoise-blue lagoon perfect for floating, sunbathing, and photography.
4. Enjoy Sunset at Wairinding Hills
   These rolling green or golden hills change colors with the seasons — perfect for hiking or horseback riding.
5. Attend the Pasola Festival (Seasonal)
   A unique ritual warfare game involving horseback spear-throwing, held in West Sumba (Feb–March, depending on the moon).
6. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
   Ride the iconic Sumba horses along vast, empty stretches of white-sand beaches.
7. Surf the Southwest Coast
   For surfers, Pero and Marosi beaches offer world-class waves with fewer crowds.

🧭 Best Time to Visit:

• April to November (Dry Season) – Ideal for trekking, beach trips, and exploration
• December to March – Rainy season; some areas harder to access, but fewer tourists

🚤 Travel Tips:

Guided tours are recommended for remote treks, village visits, or volcano climbs

Start your adventure from Labuan Bajo, the main gateway to Komodo and Flores

Domestic flights connect Labuan Bajo, Maumere, Ende (Flores), and Tambolaka or Waingapu (Sumba)