While most travelers to Indonesia flock to Bali, there’s a whole other side of this country waiting to be explored rich in tradition, natural wonders, and real human connection. Welcome to hidden Indonesia. From ancient villages in the highlands to secret caves by the sea, East Indonesia offers travelers an opportunity to go beyond sightseeing and into soulful experiences.
At Ina’s Kitchen and Tours, based in Labuan Bajo, Flores, we’re not just tour guides we’re locals. We know the footpaths, flavors, and faces that make this part of Indonesia so magical. Let us show you our favorite places and stories—the ones you won’t find on postcards, but will stay in your heart forever.
🌿 1. Waerebo Village – Where Tradition Lives Above the Clouds
Waerebo isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey into living history. This remote Manggarai village sits high in the Flores mountains and can only be reached by trekking through lush rainforest. Seven iconic cone-shaped houses form the heart of the community, where generations still gather around wood fires and share tales of their ancestors.
What to Expect:
- An unforgettable hike through nature
- A warm welcome into a communal home (Mbaru Niang)
- Learning customs, rituals, and traditional weaving techniques
💡 Travel Tip from a Local: Bring small gifts (tea, coffee, school supplies) as tokens of gratitude appreciated, but never expected.
🐉 2. Komodo National Park – Wild Beauty, Above and Below Water
Most people know Komodo for its dragons, but locals know it as a place of harmony between land, sea, and life. Whether hiking the ridges of Padar Island or floating over coral gardens off Sebayur, every moment in Komodo feels like a brush with the extraordinary.
What to Expect:
- Spotting the world’s largest lizards in Komodo or Rinca
- Snorkeling or diving with manta rays and turtles
- Hiking to jaw-dropping island viewpoints
💡 Local Insight: Avoid midday heat. We recommend early morning visits for the best lighting, fewest crowds, and active wildlife.
🍲 3. Traditional Cooking in a Flores Home Kitchen
Forget cooking schools in tourist centers. In our family-run cooking class, you’ll learn to prepare traditional Flores dishes in a real village kitchen with local ingredients and local stories. From sambal mangga (spicy mango chili) to grilled fish in banana leaves, every bite carries generations of flavor.
What to Expect:
- Market visits and foraging for ingredients
- Cooking over firewood with traditional tools
- Tasting dishes prepared with heart and heritage
💡 Pro Tip: Join during the harvest season (June–August) for the freshest herbs and root vegetables.
🚣 4. Rangko Cave & Mangrove Kayaking – Serenity Off the Grid
If you want a break from crowds and noise, this half-day adventure is your answer. Start by kayaking through the tranquil mangrove tunnels just outside Labuan Bajo, where you’ll spot herons, crabs, and reflections that feel surreal. Then, hike to Rangko Cave a hidden saltwater pool with glowing turquoise water.
What to Expect:
- Peaceful paddling through lush ecosystems
- A natural swimming pool in a cave lit by the sun
- Photography heaven for nature lovers
💡 Local Advice: Wear water shoes and bring a dry bag especially if you bring your phone or camera.
💦 5. Cunca Plias Waterfall & ATV Adventure
Few places blend nature and adrenaline quite like Flores. Ride an ATV through jungle trails, rice fields, and small villages before arriving at the roaring Cunca Plias waterfall. Cool off with a swim or simply enjoy the jungle sounds.
What to Expect:
- A fun mix of off-roading and natural hiking
- A dramatic, lesser-known waterfall
- Authentic encounters with villagers along the way
💡 Our Guide’s Note: Most local kids will wave and shout hello. Don’t be surprised if they ask for a selfie with you!
🌍 Why Trust Ina’s Kitchen and Tours?
We’re from here. Our families live here. And our passion is sharing the real Indonesia with respectful travelers like you. When you travel with us, you support local communities, honor local traditions, and experience this beautiful land in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Whether you have one day or one week, we’ll help you find your own hidden story in Indonesia.
🧭 Travel Tips & Common Questions
Is Flores Island safe for travelers?
Yes, Flores is known for being welcoming and peaceful. Locals are respectful and friendly toward guests.
How do I get to Labuan Bajo?
Take a domestic flight from Bali (Denpasar) or Jakarta. Labuan Bajo Airport (LBJ) receives daily flights.
Do I need to be fit to join the Waerebo trek or waterfall hike?
Moderate fitness helps, but we pace the hikes with breaks. We also offer alternative experiences if trekking isn’t ideal for you.
What languages do your guides speak?
All our guides speak Indonesian and English, with some fluent in local dialects and conversational Spanish.
Can I book tours once I arrive in Flores?
Yes, but during peak season (June–September), pre-booking is highly recommended to secure permits and spots.
Plan Your Labuan Bajo Adventure with Our Top 3 Tour Packages
Imagine a perfect evening on the shores of Flores, where the sky paints a masterpiece as you savor a delicious grilled dinner with the rhythmic sounds of the ocean and the warm glow of a bonfire. This unique tour combines the tranquil beauty of Pasir Panjang Beach with the private serenity of Wae Ri I Beach for an unforgettable sunset dining experience. Indulge in freshly prepared local cuisine, cruise on a traditional fishing boat, and witness a spectacular tropical sunset, all culminating in a cozy bonfire under the stars. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking a magical evening in paradise.
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day, 1-night Komodo adventure aboard a traditional wooden boat, exploring the breathtaking wonders of Komodo National Park. From pristine snorkeling spots and panoramic viewpoints to encounters with the legendary Komodo dragons and mesmerizing flying fox sunsets, this tour offers an immersive experience into Indonesia's natural beauty. Enjoy delicious authentic Indonesian meals, relax under the stars, and create lasting memories in this biodiverse paradise.
Embark on a delightful culinary and cultural journey with our traditional village cooking class! Your adventure begins at 6:30 AM with a convenient pickup from your Labuan Bajo hotel in a comfortable, airconditioned vehicle. We'll transport you to a charming, nearby traditional Flores village, where you'll receive a warm welcome onto the property of a local villager – the setting for your authentic cooking experience
