Flores

A Personal Journey Through One of Indonesia’s Most Enchanting Islands

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Over the past 35 years, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Flores many times. For me, it is one of the most beautiful and captivating islands in Indonesia — a place where nature, culture, and history blend into something truly special.”

 

Where Is Flores?

Located in the eastern Indonesian archipelago, Flores is part of the Nusa Tenggara island chain. The island stretches approximately 380 kilometers, bordered by the Flores Sea to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Its landscapes are dramatic — shaped by volcanic activity, lined with pristine beaches, and teeming with life both above and below the water.

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Volcanoes and Natural Wonders

As a photographer and explorer, I’ve hiked many of Flores’ volcanoes over the years, and the experiences remain some of the most breathtaking of my life.

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A highlight is Mount Kelimutu, home to three otherworldly crater lakes that shift in color due to mineral content. These sacred lakes are believed to be the resting place of ancestral spirits — a place where geology and spirituality meet.

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Equally unforgettable is Komodo National Park, which I’ve had the joy of visiting over 50 times. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers encounters with the world-famous Komodo Dragons, vibrant coral reefs, pink beaches, and unforgettable sunsets over rugged island landscapes.

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The Discovery of Homo Floresiensis

In 2003, Flores became the focus of global attention when scientists discovered the remains of a previously unknown human species in Liang Bua Cave. Nicknamed the “Flores Man” or “Hobbit”, Homo floresiensis stood just over a meter tall and lived around 50,000 years ago. This remarkable discovery has challenged long-standing theories about human evolution and migration — and highlighted Flores as a key site in the story of humankind.

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Culture, People, and Spirituality

The people of Flores are among the most welcoming I’ve met during my travels. Their culture is a rich blend of Catholic faith — introduced during Portuguese colonial times — and ancestral traditions that are still practiced today in rural villages.

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Ethnic groups like the Manggarai, Sikka, and Lio each have their own language, customs, and artistry. Their vibrant ikat weaving, ceremonial dances, and storytelling traditions offer a deep connection to the island’s soul.

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Walking through traditional villages, you’ll find a lifestyle that honors the past while adapting gracefully to the present. It’s this balance — between old and new, nature and community — that makes Flores so captivating.

 

Why I Keep Coming Back

From towering volcanoes to ancient human history, from underwater worlds to deeply rooted spiritual traditions — Flores offers something rare: authenticity.

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Whether you're trekking across remote highlands, diving with manta rays, or sharing coffee with local families, Flores invites you to slow down, listen, and connect.

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I invite you to discover Flores not just as a destination, but as a journey

one that will stay with you long after you’ve left its shores.