What to do in Ruteng in Flores, Indonesia

If you’re planning a trip to Flores, Indonesia, then Ruteng is a destination that should be on your list. This charming town is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Many people just use it as a pitstop in their itinerary between Bajawa and Labuan Bajo, but Ruteng is a great destination with lots to offer in its own right. There are so many things to do in Ruteng, from visiting traditional villages and coffee shops to exploring waterfalls and hiking trails. Let’s discover what to do in Ruteng in this post!

You can easily see many things in Ruteng in one day so I suggest that you save at least 1 night of your Flores itinerary for it. However, if you want to get to know this hidden gem a little better, spend at leas 2 nights in Ruteng. This post is part of a series from our perfect 10-days Flores itinerary. Check it out!

Perfect 10 days Flores itinerary in Indonesia

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8 great things to do in Ruteng, Flores

1. Explore Ruteng Pu’u traditional village

Flores is all about misty mountains, incredible coral reefs and, most importantly, an incredible cultural heritage that has been carefully maintaned for centuries. The Ruteng Pu’u traditional village is a fascinating place to learn about the culture and history of the Manggarai people. The village is home to traditional clan houses, which are octagonal with a conical straw roof, compared to other house shapes found in other regions in Flores such as Bajawa or Moni.

Price: 20k IDR (1,2€).

The town is built around the Compang, an elevated earthen altar surrounded by stone and with a tree in the center (it used to be a banyan tree but now it is a dadap tree). This altar is where the local community gathers for ceremonies and social events. You’ll also see intricate carvings and sculptures, traditional textiles, and other handicrafts. The village is easily accessible by car or motorcycle (just 15 minutes from Ruteng), and the locals are welcoming to visitors who want to learn about their way of life.

Other traditional villages around Ruteng

There are other traditional villages in Ruteng and the Manggarai region. The most famous is Wae Rebo, featured below in section 4. Another option is Todo traditional village.

2. Discover the Homo floresiensis at Liang Bua cave

One of the most fascinating places to visit in Ruteng is the Liang Bua cave, where the remains of Homo floresiensis, also known as the “hobbit”, were discovered. This species of human lived on Flores over 50,000 years ago and stood little more than 1m in height. In the cave you can see the excavation sites where the bones were found as well as the rock formation and narrow passages that have a magical aura.

Price: 20k IDR (1,2€).

After exploring the cave, head over to the nearby Homo floresiensis museum, which features exhibits about the discovery, excavation, and research surrounding the hobbit. You’ll learn about the fascinating history and scientific significance of this unique species of human. The museum is very simple but really informative. It’s an unforgettable experience and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and archaeology.

3. Watch the unique spiderweb rice terraces of Ruteng in Cancar village

Another village worth visiting is Cancar, known for its impressive spiderweb rice terraces. These fields, called lingko, are designed to look like a spiderweb and shared among the community, with the center point being a tall bamboo pole. The best time to visit is during the harvest season, from June to July, when the fields are at their most vibrant and the villagers celebrate with traditional music and dance at the center of the field.

Price: 20k IDR+ (1,2€)

Travel tip: be careful because the entrance to the viewpoint can be through many private homes and the locals ask for an entrance fee (understandable). However, prices range from 20-100k IDR, so choose your entrance wisely. There is really no benefit from getting in through one or the other so you can try to haggle the price down to 20k or just try another one. I read that at some point it was 10k IDR but I think prices in general have increased after Covid-19.

4. Spend the night at the secluded Wae Rebo traditional village

Ruteng is home to several traditional villages that have retained their unique culture and way of life for generations. However, none is more famous than Wae Rebo, located in the nearby mountains. This village is only accessible by a challenging four-hour trek, but the journey is worth it for the chance to experience the authentic way of life of the Manggarai people. You’ll see traditional houses with steeply sloping roofs made of palm fiber, and be welcomed by friendly villagers who will share their stories and customs with you. Make sure to try some of the local food, such as the delicious corn cakes known as “kolo”.

You’ll also get the chance to stay in the village overnight! For that you’ll have to give a generous donation to the tribe, but it’ll give you access to a common hut for sleeping (with any other tourists visiting) and meals for the day (mainly dinner and breakfast). Waking up to the misty hilltops of the Manggarai regions will be an experience that you’ll never forget.

Price: 200k IDR (12€), including lunch (day visit) or 325k IDR (20€), including dinner and breakfast (overnight stay).

Honest review: the town has enjoyed touristic fame for quite a while now and visiting it is no longer the authentic experience it used to be. That being said, its singular location, beauty and uniqueness still retain a lot of charm for those who are willing to make the effort. Alternatively, there are many other traditional villages, both in Ruteng and in Flores as a whole, that will give you more authentic experience.

5. Shop at the Ruteng traditional market

No trip to Ruteng is complete without a visit to the traditional market, where you’ll find an array of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors calling out to customers and bargaining over prices. It’s a great place to sample some local snacks, such as “jajanan pasar,” sweet and savory snacks made from rice flour and coconut milk.

6. Taste the local coffee at Kopi Mane

If you’re a coffee lover, then a visit to Kopi Mane in Ruteng is a must. This local coffee shop is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, serving up some of the best coffee in town. The coffee is made from locally grown beans, which are roasted and ground on site, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful cup possible. They even make coffee from juria beans, a variety that only grows in the Manggarai region of Flores. You can choose from a variety of brewing methods, including the traditional Indonesian “sock” method or a more modern pour-over technique.

The cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the shop, combined with the friendly staff and delicious coffee, make for an unforgettable experience. They also make food, so it is also a nice place to have dinner!

7. Attend a local festival in Ruteng

Ruteng is home to several cultural festivals throughout the year, which offer a great opportunity to experience the local traditions and customs. One of the most famous is the reba festival, held in December, which celebrates the harvest season and features traditional music, dance, and food. It is very special to visit the traditional villages at that time.

Another festival worth attending is the Caci festival, which is held in several villages throughout Flores. Caci is a traditional martial art of the Manggarai region that involves using whips and shields, and the festival is a colorful and energetic celebration of this unique sport.

8. Hike in Ruteng’s stunning nature

Despite being much less popular with tourists than its neighbor Bajawa, Ruteng boasts amazing hikes and incredible natural landscapes that are definitely worth a try if you are in the area. One of the most popular destinations for hiking is Mount Ranaka, which offers a challenging climb but rewards with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. For a more leisurely hike, head to Ruteng Nature Recreation Park, where you can explore the lush forests and spot local wildlife such as birds, monkeys, and deer.

Another fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Ruteng is by visiting the stunning waterfalls and lakes in the area. Some of the most popular are Cunca Rede and its nearby lake Danau Ranamese, Cunca Rami, Cunca Tara and Todo Tumbur. Lesser known but absolutely stunning, I suggest that you visit Cunca Renging. On a bigger scale, you can visit Air Terjun Tengkulese or Air Terjun Pangkadari. These waterfalls offer a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. The hikes to the waterfalls are relatively easy, making them suitable for all levels of fitness. Overall, there are endless opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Ruteng, with stunning views and unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered.

Of course, we cannot forget about the stunning and rewarding hiking trail to Wae Rebo traditional village, already covered above in section 4.

How to get to Ruteng in Flores, Indonesia

Getting to Flores

To get to Ruteng you’ll have to get to the island of Flores. There is a small airport in Ruteng, although it won’t be of any use to regulr travelers. The closest national airport to Ruteng is Labuan Bajo.

If you’re going to Ruteng as part of a Flores itinerary, you’re probably coming from either Labuan Bajo or Bajawa. If you’re coming from Sumba or Timor by boat, you’ll be coming to Ruteng from Aimere.

Travel tip: for updated fares and schedules, ask your accommodation for the latest info!

Getting to Ruteng from Labuan Bajo

You can get to Ruteng from Labuan Bajo in about 5h with the public bus. It’ll cost you 80-120k IDR (5-7€).

Getting to Ruteng from Bajawa

From Bajawa it’ll take around 4h with the public bus and it’ll cost 75-100k IDR (5-6€).

Getting to Ruteng from Aimere

Aimere is relatively close to Bajawa, so you can get there in 1.5h for 50k IDR (3€) with the public bus.

Hiring a driver for the entirety of your trip in Flores

While hiring a driver for your trip in Flores is much more expensive than taking the public buses, it really pays off in terms of comfort and saves a lot of time. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to see much more since you’ll have freedom of movement in each of your stops as well as in between. To give you an example, check out the these cafés with a view that we saw on our way from Ruteng to Labuan Bajo:

We had a great time with our driver Gusti in our Flores trip. You can contact him through WhatsApp and get a quote in this number +62 82147244300. He is an excellent driver and, even though he will tell you he’s not a guide, he is very knowledgeable and will recommend you places to visit and help you communicate with the locals.

Alternatively, if you’d like a driver and a guide, you can contact Sipri at sipri.muda@gmail.com.

Where to stay in Ruteng in Flores, Indonesia

Being a less popular destination than its neighbors Labuan Bajo and Bajawa, there are fewer options in terms of accommodation. However, there are still some really nice guesthouses and hotels to choose from when visiting Ruteng. In terms of which area to choose, I think there’s only the decision of whether to stay in the city (great for those on a budget and traveling with public buses), or outside the city (perfect for nature lovers and those driving a car).

Booking.com

Budget

If you’re on a budget, the cheapest option in town is Carleta Homestay, offering double rooms for as little as 100k IDR (6€) including breakfast. The homestay has a nice patio with views to the mountains. Alternatively, check out Chacha Homestay & Dormitory, a really nice and social hostel offering beds in a 4-bed dormitory for 130k IDR (8€) including breakfast.

Mid-range

For those willing to spend a bit of gold in exchange for comfort and setting, I really recommend Hobbit Hill. This guesthouse offers nice clean rooms with a gorgeous garden and view to the rice fields and mountains. The hosts are also really welcoming and social. 100% recommended. Double rooms with breakfast start at 230k IDR (14€). Another option in a similar price range and similar characteristics is Sun Rice Homestay.

Luxury

If you want something more upscale, you definitely should try Ara Garden Inn, Accommodation, Yoga studio & Spa, because yes, it offers all of that! This villa hotel has beautiful clean ensuite rooms with some of the best bathrooms you’ll find in the island of Flores and beautifully landscaped gardens. You can get a la carte massages, join their yoga session and much more! Another option is Spring Hill Hotel Ruteng, a nice wooden hotel with big terraced rooms, a hot tub and a beautiful wooden open air dining area.

Where to eat in Ruteng in Flores, Indonesia

In Ruteng, the place to be is definitely Kopi Mane Inspiration. This cozy café is a cute wooden establishment offering some of the best local coffee in the island. This includes beans of the juria variety, which only grows in this region. They also have several ways to prepare coffee, including ginger coffee. On top of that serve delicious food, so don’t skip this Ruteng star! I really recommend the goat soup.

If you’re looking for good Indonesian food, check out Rumah Makan ChaCha. This Balinese owned restaurant serves very cheap and delicious food such as sweet and sour crab. They make many Indonesian staples such as soto ayam or gado-gado and their specialty bubur ayam (chicken porridge). For fish, check out Ikan Bakar Special Cianjur. This seafood restaurant offers different kinds of fish and squid grilled on charcoal. If you want to try many Indonesian dishes without breaking the bank, check out Rumah Makan Salero Minang. It is a Padang establishment, meaning an Indonesian sort of buffet in which many small dishes are on display and you pay for what you eat. It is very cheap and delicious, with Indonesian specialties such as beef rendang or fried fish. For a late breakfast, head to Kopi Dari Hati Ruteng, an establishment with delicious coffee and satisfying and elaborate toasts. 

Closing statement

Ruteng is a hidden gem in Flores that is just waiting to be discovered. Don’t just use it as a pit stop and discover its cultural heritage, stunning nature and a real life hobbit! And don’t forget to wake up to the amazing coffee in Ruteng.

If you’re planning a trip to Flores, check out this amazing itinerary and a few posts about the region:

Perfect 10 days Flores itinerary in Indonesia

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