Seven days is the right amount of time to drive Flores from Labuan Bajo in the west to Maumere in the east without rushing. It lets you cover the highlights, spend time in the highlands, and finish at an airport with connections back to Bali. Here is a practical day-by-day version.
Who This Is For
Travellers with at least 7 nights who want to go beyond Labuan Bajo and explore the wider island of Flores. A private driver is strongly recommended.
Before You Begin
Book a private driver before leaving Labuan Bajo. Arrange accommodation in Ruteng, Bajawa, and Moni in advance during busier months. Bring the cash you will need for the route, as ATMs become less common once you leave the main towns. A local SIM card with data is also worth having.
Day 1: Labuan Bajo to Ruteng
Distance: about 130 km. Driving time: roughly 3.5 hours.
Leave Labuan Bajo after breakfast and drive up into the Flores highlands. Stop at Liang Bua Cave on the way, the archaeological site where Homo floresiensis was discovered. Continue to Ruteng and settle in for the night.
Day 2: Ruteng, Spider Rice Fields, and Wae Rebo Decision Point
Start early and drive to the Lingko viewpoint above Todo Village to see the spiderweb rice fields. This is one of the most visually distinctive landscapes on Flores.
If you plan to include Wae Rebo, this is where the itinerary branches and two extra days are usually needed. If not, spend the afternoon around Ruteng and keep moving east the next morning.
Day 3: Ruteng to Bajawa
Distance: about 110 km. Driving time: roughly 3 hours.
The road to Bajawa is one of the most scenic stretches on Flores, climbing through volcanic highland country and traditional villages. Arrive in Bajawa around midday and visit Bena Village in the afternoon, one of the most intact traditional villages in Indonesia.
Day 4: Bajawa, Villages, and Hot Springs
Use the day for nearby village visits, including places like Tololela, and for wider views of Inerie Volcano. In the afternoon, head to the Soa hot springs for a slower finish to the day.
Day 5: Bajawa to Riung or Ende
If you want a detour to the coast, Riung is the classic optional side trip and works well for a different marine environment. If not, continue directly east toward Ende.
Day 6: Ende to Moni
Spend some time in Ende if you like, then drive to Moni, the village below Kelimutu. This is the standard base for a sunrise visit the following morning.
Day 7: Kelimutu Sunrise and Fly Out
Leave Moni very early for Kelimutu. The walk from the parking area to the viewpoint is short, and sunrise over the crater lakes is one of the most memorable sights on Flores. After the visit, return for breakfast and continue on to Ende or Maumere airport for your outbound flight.