Full Day Tour  Melo Village

Start & End Point: Labuan Bajo

Overview

Discover the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Flores on this full-day journey to Melo Village, a traditional Manggarai highland village located about 18 km east of Labuan Bajo.
Perched on a hillside, Melo offers stunning panoramic views over Labuan Bajo Bay and the Komodo Islands, as well as a deep insight into the local way of life, traditional houses, and authentic cultural performances.

This tour invites you to connect with the Manggarai people, experience their Caci Dance (the iconic whip-fighting ritual of Flores), taste local coffee, and enjoy the warm hospitality that defines Flores culture.
It’s the perfect day trip for travelers seeking cultural immersion and scenic tranquility beyond the coastal town.

Itinerary

08:00 – Pick Up from Hotel (Labuan Bajo)

Your guide will meet you at your hotel. After a short briefing, depart for a scenic drive to Melo Village, located about 45 minutes uphill from Labuan Bajo.

09:00 – Arrive at Melo Village

Arrive at the hilltop village and receive a warm traditional welcome from the villagers. You’ll be greeted with local songs and coffee as a symbol of hospitality.

09:30 – Cultural Introduction

Your local host will introduce you to the Manggarai culture, explaining traditional village life, architecture, and farming practices.
You’ll see the Mbaru Niang, traditional cone-shaped houses unique to the region, and learn about the community’s customs and beliefs.

10:30 – Traditional Caci Dance Performance

Enjoy a live performance of Caci, the famous Manggarai whip dance — a ceremonial performance that represents strength, respect, and brotherhood.
Accompanied by gongs and drums, the dancers wear colorful costumes and masks, offering a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

12:00 – Local Lunch

Savor a traditional Flores-style lunch prepared by the villagers, often featuring local rice, vegetables, grilled fish or chicken, and fresh tropical fruit.

13:30 – Coffee & Interaction with Locals

After lunch, relax and enjoy local Flores coffee or palm wine (sopi) while chatting with the villagers. You may also participate in light activities such as weaving demonstrations or photo sessions with the performers.

15:00 – Scenic Stop at Sylvia Hill

On the return trip to Labuan Bajo, stop at Bukit Sylvia for a panoramic view of Labuan Bajo town, the harbor, and the Komodo Islands in the distance.

16:30 – Return to Hotel (Labuan Bajo)

Arrive back at your hotel in the late afternoon.
End of tour.

Included

• Round-trip transportation (Labuan Bajo – Melo Village – Labuan Bajo)
• English-speaking guide
• Village entrance fee and local guide
• Traditional Caci Dance performance
• Lunch in Melo Village
• Drinking water

Excluded

• Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
• Travel insurance
• Tips for guides, drivers, or performers
• Optional cultural activities not listed in the itinerary

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Light jacket (the village is cooler than Labuan Bajo)
• Camera or phone for photography
• Extra drinking water
• Cash for local purchases (no ATMs in the area)

How to Book

1. Choose your travel dates and preferred route
2. Contact the operator with details: full name, number of participants, and desired start/end point.
3. Receive the itinerary proposal and quotation.
4. Confirm availability and secure your booking with a deposit (typically 30–50%).
5. Receive your invoice and final itinerary.
6. Meet at the agreed pickup point on the tour start date.

Recommended Payment Methods

• PayPal – Fast and secure for international payments.
• Wise – Best exchange rates and low transfer fees.
• Bank Transfer – Local or international transfer to the operator’s Indonesian bank account.