From Crater Lakes to Mystical Dragons – Bali, Flores & Komodo

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Ubud - Maumere - Kelimutu Volcano - Bajawa - Ruteng - Labuhan Bajo - Komodo National Park - Jimbaran
Duration:
14 days / 13 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 2,695.- per person (excluding flights)

Beginning in bohemian Ubud, you’ll start your trip relaxing amidst the rice terraces, before heading for an adventure through remote Flores. After a couple of days on a quiet beach, you’ll travel west to climb to the top of the Kelimutu Volcano with its three rainbow-coloured crater lakes, and visit villages which are virtually unchanged by tourism as you journey across this incredible island. Afterwards, you’ll explore Komodo and Rinca islands, home to the giant Komodo dragon, before ending your trip on Jimbaran in Bali with a sizzling seafood barbecue at sunset.

Days 1-3 – Tumbling rice paddies of Ubud

Ubud is the bohemian centre of Bali, an atmospheric world of small artist studios, yoga schools, restaurants and cafes. Spend two nights ambling amongst the rice terraces that flow down the hills and into the valleys like rich green waterfalls. Watch daily life unfold in authentic villages, learn about coffee production and soak up the inspiring spirit of the place.

Today, you’ll be transferred back to Denpasar airport, where you’ll catch a flight to Maumere on Flores. Flying time today takes roughly 2 hours. On arrival in Maumere you’ll be transferred to your comfortable, locally run hotel right next the beach, along the coast from the town itself. The hotel has a pool, restaurant and good snorkeling straight from the beach – everything you need for a relaxing stay! During your time here we’ll arrange a boat trip which takes you a little away from the coast, and to some of the best and most untouched snorkelling spots in the area. The rest of your time here is free to sit back and enjoy.

Days 5-9 – Remote Flores

Trek to rainbow crater lakes, explore bamboo forests and meet the local tribespeople of remote Flores. Soak in natural hot springs and scale smoking volcanoes. While it’s short on tourists, it’s big on scenery, timeless tribal rituals and a culture which is entirely unique and incredibly welcoming.

Over five days, you’ll travel from the east to the west of Flores, meaning ‘The Cape of Flowers’. It’s a rustic adventure with staggering landscapes and eye-opening local traditions. The island is home to a number of ethnic groups still living in partial isolation, as well as endless spice plantations, cascading rice paddies and flower-filled valleys.

Days 9-11 – In search of the dragon

Seek out giant Komodo dragons on the mystical islands of Rinca and Komodo. Following your guide, you’ll set out on foot to find the largest reptile on the planet, so keep your eyes peeled at all times. Staying on nearby Flores, you’ll take a boat trip to Komodo and Rinca, tiny islands topped with forested hills and packed with astounding wildlife.

This morning, you’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport at Labuan Bajo for a flight back to Denpasar. It’s just under a 2 hour flight. When you arrive, you’ll be transferred to Jimbaran Bay on Bali’s south coast, a short 40 minute drive. Pull up a seat at a rickety seafood warung for a blazing Balinese sunset on Jimbaran, a crescent bay with gentle surf, local markets and real character. South of the hedonistic beaches of Kuta, Jimbaran has a relaxed vibe, sizzling seafood grills and some of the best sunsets in Bali. It’s the perfect place to end an Indonesian trip. Collapse on a lounger, bodysurf in the foam and soak up the tropical sunshine.

At the end of your stay on Jimbaran, you’ll be transferred back to the airport to begin your journey home.