How to get from Bali to Flores

Flores, part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, is famous for its Komodo National Park, stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and traditional villages. Located approximately 500 km (310 miles) east of Bali, Flores is accessible by flight, ferry, or a combination of land and sea travel. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Bali to Flores:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Ferry + Bus: A budget-friendly but long alternative.
• By Liveaboard or Cruise: The most scenic and adventurous way.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Bali to Flores.

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Bali to Flores is the quickest and easiest way to reach the island.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), Bali.
• Arrival Airport:
  • Komodo Airport (LBJ) – For Labuan Bajo (gateway to Komodo National Park).
  • Frans Seda Airport (MOF) – For Maumere (east Flores).
  • Ende Airport (ENE) – For central Flores.
• Duration: 1.5 hours.
• Price: 900,000–2,500,000 IDR (~$60–$160 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Garuda Indonesia (full-service, most reliable).
  • Wings Air, Lion Air (budget airlines, frequent delays).
  • Nam Air, TransNusa (regional airlines).
• Flight Frequency: Multiple daily flights from morning to evening.

Airport Transfer in Flores

• Labuan Bajo to Komodo National Park: 20 minutes by speedboat.
• Maumere to Kelimutu Volcano: 3 hours by car.

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~1.5 hours).
• Multiple flight options per day.
• Avoids long ferry and land journeys.

Cons:

• Flights can be delayed due to weather.
• Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Ferry + Bus: A Budget-Friendly but Long Alternative

For budget travelers who prefer an overland and sea journey, taking a ferry from Bali to Flores via Lombok and Sumbawa is possible, though it is time-consuming.

Step 1: Take a Ferry from Bali to Lombok

• Departure Point: Padang Bai Harbor, Bali.
• Arrival Point: Lembar Harbor, Lombok.
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
• Price: 60,000–80,000 IDR (~$4–$6 USD).
• Ferry Operators: ASDP Indonesia Ferry.
• Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours, 24/7.

Step 2: Take a Bus from Lombok to Sumbawa

• Route: Lembar → Mataram → Kayangan Port (East Lombok).
• Duration: 3–4 hours.
• Price: 50,000–150,000 IDR (~$3–$10 USD).

Step 3: Take a Ferry from Lombok to Sumbawa

• Departure Point: Kayangan Port, Lombok.
• Arrival Point: Poto Tano, Sumbawa.
• Duration: 1.5 hours.
• Price: 50,000 IDR (~$3 USD).
• Departure Frequency: Hourly departures.

Step 4: Take a Bus Across Sumbawa to Sape Port

• Route: Poto Tano → Sumbawa Besar → Sape Port (East Sumbawa).
• Duration: 10–12 hours.
• Price: 200,000–400,000 IDR (~$13–$25 USD).

Step 5: Take a Ferry from Sape to Labuan Bajo (Flores)

• Departure Point: Sape Port, Sumbawa.
• Arrival Point: Labuan Bajo Port, Flores.
• Duration: 8 hours.
• Price: 60,000–150,000 IDR (~$4–$10 USD).
• Departure Frequency: Once per day (morning departure).

Total Duration: 36+ hours (depends on connections).

Total Price: 600,000–900,000 IDR (~$40–$60 USD).

Pros:

• Cheaper than flying.
• Scenic island-hopping journey.

Cons:

• Takes over 1–2 days.
• Multiple transfers and overnight stops required.

Booking Tip:

For better convenience, book a combined ferry and bus ticket in advance. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules and book your ticket.

By Liveaboard or Cruise: The Most Scenic and Adventurous Way

For those who want an unforgettable experience, taking a multi-day liveaboard cruise from Bali to Flores is an exciting option.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Serangan Harbor, Bali.
  • Benoa Harbor, Bali.
• Arrival Point: Labuan Bajo, Flores.
• Duration: 3 to 5 days, depending on the itinerary.
• Price: 3,000,000–10,000,000 IDR (~$200–$700 USD).
• Liveaboard Cruise Operators:
  • Kencana Adventure (budget).
  • Komodo Liveaboard (luxury).
• Included Activities:
  • Komodo Island visit (Komodo dragons).
  • Snorkeling/diving at Manta Point.
  • Exploring remote beaches and waterfalls.

Pros:

• Beautiful scenic journey through Indonesia’s islands.
• Includes activities like snorkeling and island-hopping.
• Great for adventure travelers.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to flights.
• Weather-dependent—rough seas can cause cancellations.

Booking Tip:

For better deals, book during the low season (March–May, September–November). Use our online search form to check available cruises.

Final Tips for Traveling from Bali to Flores

• Best Option for Speed: Flight (~1.5 hours, from 900,000 IDR).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Ferry + Bus (~36+ hours, from 600,000 IDR).
• Best Option for Adventure: Liveaboard Cruise (~3+ days, from 3,000,000 IDR).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Flights and cruises sell out quickly during high season (June–August, December–January).