The Journey: Flores

Detailed Planning

A structured approach to your Flores adventure, from arrival to exploration.

Pre-Trip Planning

Essential steps to take well before your departure.

Three Months Ahead

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity (6+ months). Research visa needs (VoA, B211A).

International Flights

Book flights to Jakarta (CGK) or Denpasar (DPS) early for better rates.

Health & Insurance

Consult travel doctor for vaccinations. Purchase Travel insurance.

One Month Ahead

Domestic Flights

Book flights to Komodo Airport (LBJ) or other Flores airports.

Tours & Accommodation

Reserve Komodo National Park tours/liveaboards and hotels.

Detailed Schedule

Plan day-by-day itinerary with transport options.

Final Week

Booking Confirmation

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour arrangements.

Packing & Funds

Start Packing bags. Inform bank of travel dates. Arrange local currency.

Digital Readiness

Download offline maps, translation, and ride-hailing apps.

Arrival Procedures

Streamline your initial hours in Flores.

Upon Landing

Complete immigration procedures, including visa application.
Clear customs with electronic declaration form.
Purchase local SIM card for immediate connectivity.
Withdraw local currency or exchange money.

Orientation & Purchase

Get familiar with your surroundings quickly.

Initial Exploration

Familiarize yourself with immediate vicinity.
Locate nearby ATMs, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Ask hotel staff for local insights and directions.
Purchase bottled water and immediate necessities.

Departure & Post-Trip

A smooth departure marks a positive end to your adventure.

Souvenir Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a few days prior.
Inquire about shipping costs and procedures.
Be aware of customs restrictions in home country.
No comprehensive VAT refund scheme in Indonesia.

Airport Timing

Arrive at Komodo Airport (LBJ) 1.5-2 hours early.
Check-in and security can be slow at times.
Always check flight status before heading to airport.
Reconfirm onward international flights.

Final Checks

Pack luggage securely, valuables stored safely.
Settle all outstanding bills at accommodation.
Have passport, boarding passes readily accessible.
Share itinerary with family or friends back home.

Effective Planning

Diligent adherence to this checklist prepares you for Flores, setting the stage for a memorable journey.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Flores set the tone for your trip. A quick checklist aids the initial steps.

First Steps

1
Immigration:
Complete immigration procedures and pass through counters.
2
Customs:
Clear customs with the electronic customs declaration form.
3
SIM Card:
Acquire a local SIM card (e.g., Telkomsel) at the airport or in Labuan Bajo.

Currency & Transport

Currency:
Withdraw local currency (IDR) from an ATM or exchange money.
Orientation:
Familiarize with the vicinity, locate ATMs, stores, restaurants.
Transport:
Use pre-arranged transfers, airport taxis, or Gojek to accommodation.

Initial Purchases & Local Insights

Immediate Needs

Acquire bottled water upon arrival.

Purchase any immediate necessities like snacks or insect repellent.

Hotel Staff Insight

Ask hotel staff for local insights and directions.

They can offer valuable tips for navigating your immediate surroundings.

Transportation from Entry Point

Use pre-arranged airport transfers or official airport taxis.

Ride-hailing apps like Gojek can also be an option for comfort.

Smooth Start

Efficient initial steps upon arrival contribute to a positive start to your Flores journey.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure ensures a positive end to your Flores adventure.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase remaining souvenirs a few days prior.
Inquire about shipping costs and procedures for larger items.
Be aware of customs restrictions in your home country.
Indonesia does not have a comprehensive VAT refund scheme.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at Flores airports (LBJ) at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior.
Check-in and security processes can sometimes be slow.
Always check your flight status for potential delays or cancellations.
Confirm your onward international flights from Bali or Jakarta.

Departure Checklist

Final checks for a seamless exit.

Final Actions

Pack luggage securely
Ensure all valuables are safely stored
Settle all outstanding bills at your accommodation
Have all necessary travel documents accessible

Online Check-in

Check in online for your flights to save time at the airport.
This reduces waiting times at the check-in counters.
Receive mobile boarding passes for convenience.

Final Confirmation

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents (passport, boarding passes) readily accessible.

A smooth departure completes your positive Flores adventure.

The Flores Journey