If you’re planning to explore Flores but only have limited time, don’t worry. You can still experience the breathtaking beauty of Kelimutu National Park in just 2 days and 1 night. Famous for its three colorful crater lakes that change hues over time, Kelimutu is one of Indonesia’s most magical natural wonders.
Here are some practical tips and route options for your 2D1N trip to Kelimutu depending on where you start your journey.
1. Start from Labuan Bajo
Day 1
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Morning: Take a short flight from Labuan Bajo to Ende (±30 minutes).
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Meet your driver at Ende Airport.
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Visits along the way: Hanga Turek Market, Wologai Traditional Village, and Saga Village (Pemalu Limoni).
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Afternoon: Continue to Moni and check in at your accommodation.
Day 2
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04:00 AM: Depart early to Kelimutu to catch the sunrise.
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Return to hotel for breakfast.
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Final option: Head back to Ende for your next flight or continue your trip to Maumere.
2. Start from Bali
Day 1
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Fly from Bali (transit via Labuan Bajo or Kupang) to Ende.
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Driver pick-up, then visits to Wologai Village, Hanga Turek Market, and Saga Village.
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Afternoon: Proceed to Moni, check in at your hotel.
Day 2
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04:00 AM: Sunrise at Kelimutu’s crater lakes.
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Breakfast at your hotel.
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Final option: Return to Ende or travel onward to Maumere.
3. Start from Bajawa
Day 1
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Pick-up from your hotel or Soa Airport (Bajawa).
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Overland trip to Ende with scenic stops:
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Blue Stone Beach
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Ende Town
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Hanga Turek Market
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Wologai Village
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Saga Village
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Afternoon: Continue to Moni, check in at your accommodation.
Day 2
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04:00 AM: Sunrise at Kelimutu.
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Breakfast at hotel.
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Final option: Return to Ende or continue to Maumere.
4. Start from Maumere
Day 1
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Pick-up from Maumere Airport or your hotel.
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Drive to Moni with scenic stops along the way:
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Koka Beach
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Wolowaru Village
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Afternoon: Arrive in Moni and check in at your hotel.
Day 2
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04:00 AM: Sunrise at Kelimutu.
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Breakfast at your hotel.
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Final option: Return to Ende, back to Maumere, or continue your journey to destinations such as Larantuka or even Java.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you start—Labuan Bajo, Bali, Bajawa, or Maumere—each route offers a chance to witness the unforgettable sunrise at Kelimutu National Park. Even with just 2 days and 1 night, you’ll experience not only the mystical beauty of the crater lakes but also the cultural richness of traditional villages and stunning landscapes of Flores.
So, if you’re short on time but still want a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these tips for a 2D1N trip to Kelimutu will help you make the most of your journey.
