Looking to do Sustainable Travel? Visit These 5 Villages around Labuan Bajo!

A tropical paradise in the west of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, known as Labuan Bajo is famous for its otherworldly sceneries. Entering the harbor, you can find countless wonders, from panoramic hills, and beaches with pink-colored sands, to the lair of dragons. However, did you know that Labuan Bajo is also surrounded by truly fascinating cultures?

Other than being filled with stunning natural wonders, the area is also home to Manggarai Tribe. Around Labuan Bajo you can find several villages where you can have a chance to learn more about the traditions of Manggarai. Visiting these villages is also a sustainable way to spend your holiday in East Nusa Tenggara too. Now let’s take a look at 5 of these traditional villages!

1.  Wae Rebo Village

Having earned the Top Award of Excellence from UNESCO in the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Awards 2012, Wae Rebo Village is one of the most iconic places in Flores. Standing atop a lush green hill among mountains and dense forests in West Satar Mese, Manggarai, this traditional village is known for its tall black cone-shaped houses. These unique houses are called Mbaru Niang by the locals. Covered in lontar thatchings from top to bottom, these houses have become a rare sight these days. Other than witnessing Mbaru Niang, you can also see the daily activities of the locals and mingle with them. The people of Wae Rebo welcome anyone who wishes to learn more about their culture.

2.  Bena Village

Have you ever been to a megalithic site before? Located at the top of a hill that faces the glorious Mount Inerie in Ngada Regency, Bena Village has stood since 1200 years ago. Inside, there are about 45 traditional houses each inhabited by 9 different tribes, namely Dizi, Dizi Azi, Wahto, Deru Lalulewa, Deru Solamae, Ngada, Khopa, and Ago. Arranged in a U shape, these tribes distinguish their houses by the level. The residents of Bena Village still cling to their ancestors' tradition. Inside, you can have a chance to see traditional ceremonies. Do also buy a souvenir of handcrafted fabric made by the locals here!

3.  Tololela Village

Lying in the foothills of Mount Inerie, particularly in Tololela Village is a must-visit destination for those who love seeing a fantastic cultural performance. As you set your foot in the village, you will be immediately greeted warmly by the locals. The village usually holds a traditional music performance of Bombardom, a traditional wind instrument made from bamboo that produces a unique sound. After watching the Bombardom musical performance, you can also see how the locals weave traditional fabrics and browse a great selection of bamboo souvenirs to bring home with you.

4.  Cancar Village

Do you want to witness astonishing scenery different from what you usually see in Labuan Bajo? Take some time to visit Cancar Village in Ruteng District, Manggarai! The residents of this village mainly work as rice farmers. So it’s no surprise that you can find a vast rice field here. Unlike the rice fields in Bali and other places throughout Indonesia which are usually laid out like terraces, the rice fields of Cancar Village are laid out like a spider web. Known as lodok by the locals, this spider web rice field has become an essential part of Cancar Village.

5.  Wologai Village

Another traditional village you need to check out during your holiday in Labuan Bajo can be found in Ende Regency. The village that stands at the top of a hill surrounded by stretching green hills is estimated to have existed since about 800 years ago. Like the previous villages, Wologai Village also has traditional houses. What makes them different from other villages is how each of them is decorated with carvings showing the daily lives of the locals. As you witness these houses, you can also learn about various rituals, such as a harvest ritual in April known as Keti Uta as well as a rice mashing ritual in September known as Ta’u Nggua.

Are you prepared to delve into the culture of Labuan Bajo on your next holiday? As you arrived at Labuan Bajo, remember to always comply with the CHSE (cleanliness, health, safety, and environmental sustainability) protocols. Make sure to wear your mask in public, keep your distance from others, and wash your hands from time to time.

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