With its abundance of lush green forests, it’s not hard to work out how this island got its name. Add this to its white-sand beaches, temperate bays ideal for snorkelling and diving, a skyline rimmed by volcanoes, and countryside dotted with multi-hued lakes, and it’s easy to see why Flores has a reputation as a tropical paradise. Quieter and more remote than many of its counterparts, the island is still something of a hidden gem, although it is increasingly regarded as the country’s ‘next big thing’. A visit here wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Komodo National Park, where you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with magnificent, if somewhat intimidating, Komodo ‘dragons’.
As one of the islands forming the Komodo National Park, Rinca provides the
opportunity to see magnificent and fearsome Komodo dragons in their natural
habitat, along with other indigenous animals from buffalo to deer, monkeys and wild
boar. Guided hikes through the mangroves are possible, although very trying in the
overwhelming heat. The waters surrounding the island also offer a wealth of marine
diversity, with snorkeling in the coral reefs at its finest, and diving providing the
opportunity to encounter pelagics, dolphins, sharks and manta rays.
Situated in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores, the Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of three major islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar, and a number of smaller islands. These volcanic islands are inhabited by numerous animal species including wild boar, water buffalo, monkeys, wild horses, deer, and the impossibly large prehistoric lizards known as Komodo dragons. There is also much to see below the waterline with the park’s rich marine environment forming an ideal habitat for a diverse range of marine life including: 1,000 species of fish, dugongs, sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. With its exquisite unspoiled beaches, crystal clear waters, and pristine coral reefs, it is no surprise that the Komodo National Park is considered by many to be one of the world’s best diving destinations.
A scenic view awaits travellers to the small Gili Lawa Darat island, floating in the northern part of the Komodo National Park curled around the Flores sea, protected from winds and waves, and surrounded by a crystal-clear turquoise ocean. The island is almost brown during the dry season, with parched golden-brown meadows. However, during the rainy season, the island changes into a green paradise with lush hills. A 30-minute trek to an hour is all it takes to reach the hilltop, with easy hiking trails and two viewpoints to suit spectacular sunrise and sunsets. Prepare your snorkelling and diving gear to experience the vibrant coral reefs, colourful clownfish, surgeonfish, and starfish. The calm waters are also ideal for stand-up paddling, kayaking, snorkelling, swimming and relaxing on the beautiful white sandy beach.
Batu Moncho Bay is a popular destination for tourists located in Indonesia. The area features stunning clear waters, incredible views of the surrounding islands, and lush hillsides. Visitors can experience abundant outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkelling, fishing and diving. Batu Moncho Bay is also home to some of the most exotic wildlife and bird species. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Batu Moncho Bay has something for everyone. With its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, Batu Moncho Bay is an unforgettable destination in Indonesia.
Sumbawa is a little visited island in eastern Indonesia which has long attracted surfers with its world-class surf conditions. But it's not just the waves that draw them; it's the whole package. With its exquisite beaches, clear warm waters, jungle-clad interior, quiet villages and friendly locals, the island epitomises an idyllic tropical paradise. It remains far less developed than its neighbours of Bali and Lombok, which makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure. The island features a number of fascinating archaeological sites and offers a range of exhilarating activities, including hiking to the top of the volcanic Mount Tambora, swimming and snorkelling in the island's calm tropical fish-filled waters, or trekking through the lush forest to discover some breathtaking waterfalls.
West Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Barat, or often just NTB) is a province which incorporates the western half of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. There are two notable destinations in this region, the islands of Lombok and Sumbawa, both of which offer paradisal beaches, first-class snorkelling and diving opportunities and some interesting cultural sights. The capital of the province is Mataram, located on the island of Lombok. Here you can explore the wonderful early-1700s temple complex of Pura Lingsar before visiting the natural hot springs of Mount Rinjani and the spectacular area of Kuta Beach. Be sure to sample the local fare, as Lombok’s cuisine is highly regarded. Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara’s other main tourism hub, is known for its pristine white-sand beaches and excellent surfing opportunities.
As previously described
As previously described
Saleh Bay cradled along the shores of Sumbawa in Indonesia, is a coastal haven that boasts pristine white-sand beaches that gently meet the turquoise embrace of the sea, creating a tranquil paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. The bay is fringed by lush greenery and swaying palms, adding a touch of tropical allure to the landscape. Snorkelers and divers are drawn to its underwater wonders, where vibrant coral reefs and marine life thrive beneath the surface. Saleh Bay also holds a historical mystique, with remnants of ancient civilisations that hint at its rich cultural heritage.
A protected wildlife reserve since 1976, Moyo Island lies east of Bali in Indonesia’s West Sumbawa regency. This tiny island has miraculously remained firmly off the beaten tourist track, and is the epitome of a remote, untouched island paradise. While accommodation is available at a number of full-board homestays and at Amanwana, an internationally famous luxury resort, it is also possible to explore the island on a day trip from Sumbawa Besar. Visitors can look forward to scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, hiking and biking in this exquisite natural landscape featuring lush forests, impressive waterfalls, secluded beaches and pristine coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life.
