VOLCANOS, DRAGONS & ISLAND HOPPING IN INDONESIA

Today is the start of your Tripmates adventure! On arrival, self-transfer to your accommodation and settle in. If you arrive early, take some time to explore the area on foot and get a feel for your surroundings.

In the evening, we suggest meeting up with your fellow travellers to break the ice - maybe even over a sunset beer. Be sure to meet at reception by 18:00 to connect with your guide and officially kick off the program.

Choose to sleep in or get out there and explore during today´s free day.

Some suggestions from us: 

Surfing at Kuta Beach: Whether you´re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, Kuta Beach is a great spot to catch some waves. The long, sandy beach has gentle waves, perfect for beginners.

Explore Uluwatu Temple: Head to Uluwatu Temple, located on a stunning cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The views are breathtaking, and if you stick around until evening, you can catch a traditional Kecak dance performance.

Discover Secret Beaches: Ask a local or your guide about nearby hidden beaches like Nyang Nyang or Balangan. These spots are less crowded and offer crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings for a peaceful day by the sea.

You´ll be picked up at your hotel for a transfer to the airport - a new island is waiting for you! Get ready for your flight to Ende, on the island of Flores. Once you arrive in Ende, it´s time for a little road trip to the town of Moni. On the way you will pass small villages, green and lush forests, and many, many rice fields. Of course you´ll get the chance to snap some pretty pictures, and marvel at the nice panorama´s. Open up the windows and enjoy the cool breeze as you enjoy the views en route.

Early in the morning, you´ll head out to see the Kelimutu volcano, where the views are truly incredible. On a clear day, it’s one of the most stunning sights you’ll ever get to see. The volcano is famous for the three lakes at the top, they change colours due to the minerals in the water. The colours really pop when the sun hits them making for an amazing sight.

In the past, this place has been an important site for rituals. People used to believe the lakes are where the souls of the dead find their final resting place: one lake for the elderly, one for the young, and one for the witches. After taking it all in and learning a bit more about the lakes, you´ll make your way back to the hotel after which you´ll travel from Moni to Bajawa. The drive will take you through winding roads, small villages, and forests, with views of mountains and churches along the way. As you get closer to Bajawa, you’ll start to see Mount Inerie, which will be your base for the coming days.

Today, you’ll get to stay with and learn from the locals - a special experience. In the morning, our guide will meet you, and you’ll head straight to the local market. Try some of the amazing fruits you can find here - thank us later! After the market visit, you´ll drive along the base of Mount Inerie. Take some time to visit Luba Village, where your local guide will share stories about the village’s traditions. From there, it´s a short walk to Bena Village, which is the most photogenic and well-known traditional village in the Ngada area. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing on foot to Tololela Village, a hike that takes about 2 hours. On arrival you’ll have the chance to interact with the local community. Dinner will be served at the village, and you´ll spend the night there.

Just a heads-up: you’ll be staying overnight in a local villager’s home in Tololela. This is a great way to experience the local culture, connect with the people, and learn about their way of life. It’s what makes this part of the trip special. Keep in mind that the facilities are very basic, and the bathroom might be outside.

Today, the journey continues with a drive through beautiful countryside, passing active volcanoes, dense jungle, and lush rice fields. You´ll travel from Central Flores to the Manggarai district in Western Flores, where Ruteng is the main town. Known for its cool, pleasant climate due to its high altitude, Ruteng is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The area features not only stunning rice fields but also scenic views of rolling hills and traditional villages.

Along the way, you´ll make a stop in Aimere to witness the traditional process of making ´´arak´´, a local palm wine. Once in Ruteng, you’ll have the chance to explore the renowned ‘spiderweb’ rice fields, which are an intricate network of terraced fields unique to the area. These fields are not just beautiful but also proof of the local farmers’ skill and ingenuity. 

Continue your tour of Flores all the way to Labuan Bajo - the Western tip of the island. Along the way, you´ll make stops in Lembor and Cancar, two highlights of the journey. In Lembor, you´ll have the chance to see vast expanses of rice fields that stretch out like a green carpet against a backdrop of rolling hills. As you move towards Cancar, you´ll once again encounter the unique ´spiderweb´ rice fields.

Arriving in Labuan Bajo, you’ll find yourself at a vibrant port town that serves as the gateway to the stunning Komodo National Park. Labuan Bajo is known for its lively atmosphere, local markets, and beautiful coastal views, making it the perfect spot to relax and prepare for your upcoming island adventures.

In the morning, you´ll be picked up at your hotel in Labuan Bajo for a transfer to the local harbour, where an adventure-filled boat awaits. You´ll set sail for an exciting two-day island-hopping tour through Komodo National Park. Your first stop is Kanawa Island, where you’ll have time to explore its pristine beaches and clear waters.

After soaking in Kanawa Island’s beauty, you´ll continue to Kelor Island. Onboard the boat, you´ll enjoy a delicious lunch as you cruise between islands - life doesn’t get much better than this! Next, you´ll visit Menjerite Island for some snorkeling. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life here offer a spectacular underwater experience.

As the day winds down, the boat will anchor at Kalong Island. Here, you’ll witness a stunning sunset and watch as thousands of bats take to the sky in search of food on Flores island. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner on board, gaze at the stars, and relax as you settle in for a good night´s rest surrounded by the tranquil waters of Komodo National Park.

Early in the morning, you´ll set sail for Padar Island, a scenic journey that takes about two hours. Upon arrival, you´ll hike to the island´s highest point, where you´ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, you´ll return to the boat and continue your journey to Pink Beach.

At Pink Beach, you´ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world with the provided snorkels and fins. The coral reefs and marine life here are truly spectacular. Enjoy the lunch on board as you move towards your next destination.

The trip continues to Komodo Island, where you´ll navigate through crystal-clear tropical waters and pass by small, picturesque islands. On Komodo Island, you´ll go on a guided hike with a local ranger in search of the famous Komodo dragons. Along the way, you might also spot wild buffalo, deer, pigs, and a variety of tropical birds, including the colourful Cockatoo. After an exhilarating day, you´ll return to Labuan Bajo by boat. Once back at the harbour, you´ll be transferred directly to your hotel in Labuan Bajo for a well-deserved rest.

Today is a free day, spend it however you like. Visit the market, chill at the beach, or try some local cuisine - it´s up to you!

Onwards to Sumbawa island

Today you´ll be transferred to the harbour where you´ll take a public ferry to Sumbawa. The journey will take about 8 hours in total, but the sights along the way more than make up for it. With the exceptional views of Komodo National Park it´s a lovely slow travel experience. However, we do recommend bringing a card game, conversation starters or a good book to read - it´s a long ride!  Once you arrive on Sumbawa island, we´ll take you to your hotel in Sape.

As you make your way towards Sumbawa Besar, you´ll ride along scenic volcanic slopes and vast plains dotted with lush rice fields. Along the way, you´ll have the opportunity to visit Labuhan Jambu, a charming and quiet fishing village on the northern coast of Sumbawa. This peaceful stop offers a glimpse into local life and the coastal beauty of this region. You´ll also make up stop at a ´´tambak garam´´, where salt is harvested from seawater using traditional methods. Upon reaching Sumbawa Besar, you´ll get to see the impressive Sultan’s Palace of Bima, which also houses a museum. 

Today is a free day for you to enjoy as you please. You can snorkel in the ocean, right in front of the hotel, where the waters are packed with marine life. If you’re in the mood to explore, consider visiting the local market or the Sultan’s Palace for a taste of local culture and history. Alternatively, take this chance to unwind and enjoy a relaxing day at your own pace.

Hello Lombok!

In the morning, you´ll be transferred from your hotel to the Poto Tano Harbour, where you´ll catch a public ferry to Lombok. Upon arrival on Lombok, we’ll take you to the mountainous region of Tetebatu.

Tetebatu is a charming area surrounded by lush gardens and tobacco plantations, nestled at the base of Mt. Rinjani. From your hotel, you´ll enjoy stunning views of the forested landscape, bright green rice paddies, and the majestic Mt. Rinjani towering in the distance.

Today, you´ll get a ride from Tetebatu to Senaru, passing through charming local villages and breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you´ll stop at Pusuk Sembalun and Sembalun Village, where you can take in stunning views of Mt. Rinjani before arriving at your accommodation in Senaru.

Today you´ve got a full program! Guided by local women, this one-day tour takes you through the foothills of the stunning Rinjani Volcano in Lombok´s northern Bayan district. Starting near the edge of Gunung Rinjani National Park, you’ll follow ancient paths through shady bamboo groves and vibrant village gardens, eventually arriving at expansive rice terraces and palm landscapes.

The route leads you along a winding irrigation channel to the lush rainforest of Senaru Reserve, home to the famous Sindang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls. Local legend has it that bathing behind these powerful falls can cure various ailments. As you explore, your guide will introduce you to tropical plants and their uses, and you might spot cheeky long-tailed monkeys or, with some luck, the rare ebony leaf monkey.

You´ll pass through small settlements where age-old traditions are still alive, gaining a glimpse into the village life of the Sasak people. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you interact with locals and admire traditional houses. After this experience, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Senggigi.

Free day in Senggigi, but there is lots to see and do - like taking a boat trip to the Gili Islands. You´ve been moving around a lot though, so there´s no shame in taking it slow today and just enjoy the town. 

In the morning we´ll take you to the harbour in Teluk Kodek, where you´ll take a boat to Gili Trawangan. Here you´ll switch to a speed boat taking you to Padangbai on Bali. On arrival in the port, we will transfer you to your hotel in Canggu for your last night of the tour! 

Sadly, today is your departure day. Say goodbye to the friends you’ve made along the way as you prepare to head home or continue your travels.

If you have a late departure, take advantage of your last hours in Canggu. Explore the local markets for some unique souvenirs, unwind at one of the trendy beachfront cafes, catch some last-minute waves at the famous surf spots, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session before you go.