Signal verified · updated 2026-09-03
Flores
Large volcanic Indonesian island famed for the tri-coloured crater lakes of Kelimutu and as the gateway to Komodo National Park.
- Formation
- volcanic; part of the Sunda volcanic arc with active volcanoes (Kelimutu, Egon, Lewotobi)
- Population
- 2M
- Water
- Pacific Ocean
- Access
- moderate
Every required movement
The passage
to Flores.
Fly to Labuan Bajo (LBJ) or Maumere (MOF) from Bali/Jakarta; PELNI and ASDP ferries link Flores with Sumbawa, Sumba, Timor and Sulawesi.
- 01Komodo Airport, Labuan Bajo (LBJ)
Nearest recorded air access
Schedule or condition may change · verify - 02Water crossing
PELNI long-distance ships and ASDP Indonesia Ferry (e.g. Sape–Labuan Bajo, Aimere–Waingapu).
Schedule or condition may change · verify - 03Entry check
Indonesia visa-exemption or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities.
Schedule or condition may change · verify
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What the chart cannot hold
What becomes visible when you follow kelimutu crater lakes beyond the familiar map?
Flores (Portuguese for 'flowers') is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands and the largest island of East Nusa Tenggara. Its rugged volcanic spine holds the colour-changing crater lakes of Kelimutu, while Labuan Bajo on its west coast is the main gateway for Komodo dragon tourism. Predominantly Catholic, it hosts the famous Semana Santa Easter procession in Larantuka.
Named by Portuguese traders in the 16th century; Portuguese Larantuka enclave, then Dutch control from the mid-19th century; Japanese occupation in WWII; part of independent Indonesia since 1945.
Field ledger
The useful
details.
- Coordinates
- 8.67° S · 121.38° E
- Sovereignty
- Indonesia · part of country
- Nearest mainland
- Sulawesi (~300 km north across the Flores Sea); Sumbawa immediately west
- Best recorded window
- April–October (dry season).
- Permits / entry
- Indonesia visa-exemption or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities.
- Languages
- Indonesian, Manggarai, Ngadha, Lio, Sikka, Lamaholot
Community intelligence
Notes from
the crossing.
Share firsthand conditions, access changes, respectful observations, or a question for someone who has been.
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The empty ledger is part of the mystery—and an invitation to be useful.Travel information changes quickly. This field file was last revised 2026-09-03. Confirm all transport and permit details before booking.
Official source