Riung

Riung is a small coastal town located on the north coast of Flores, in the province of East Nusa Tenggara. It is chiefly known for the archipelago of the 17 Islands of Riung, a protected marine park where mangroves, coral reefs and deserted beaches coexist just minutes by boat from shore. Far from mass tourism circuits, Riung attracts travellers seeking pristine nature and tranquillity.

Quick practical guide

• Access: Riung is approximately 3-4 hours' drive from Bajawa and about 5-6 hours from Ruteng; the road is partially paved.
• Marine park entry: an entrance fee is charged to visit the islands (tariff to be confirmed on site).
• Recommended duration: 1 to 2 days to explore the islands by boat.
• Essentials: swimwear, sun protection, hat — the sun is intense on the water.
• Season: the dry season (April to November) offers the best conditions for sailing and snorkelling.

What to see

The 17 Islands of Riung marine park actually comprises around twenty islets depending on tides. Some are home to colonies of giant fruit bats perched in trees during the day. The seabed offers corals, tropical fish and, depending on season, sea turtles. On the beaches, a few islets remain entirely uninhabited.

History and context

Riung is a fishing village whose economy has traditionally relied on the sea. The marine park was officially designated as a protected area to preserve the region's coral ecosystems and marine species. The presence of giant fruit bats — emblematic animals of Flores — gives the site a singular character rarely observed elsewhere in the archipelago.

Highlights of your visit

The islets and their beaches

Each islet has its own personality: some are fringed with white sand, others covered in dense mangroves. Navigating by local boat between the islands is in itself an experience, with views of Flores' volcanic coastline in the background.

Giant fruit bats

On several islets, thousands of fruit bats (frugivorous bats) cling to trees during the day. The spectacle is striking and utterly silent — they take flight only at dusk.

Snorkelling and marine life

The reefs around the islands shelter varied marine fauna. Snorkelling is accessible from the beach at several sites, without requiring professional diving equipment.

Photography tips

Morning light is ideal for photographing the islets from the boat, before heat haze sets in. Dusk, when the fruit bats take flight en masse, offers spectacular silhouettes against the light. Bring protection for your camera against sea spray.

Location and access

Riung is located on the north coast of Flores, accessible by road from Bajawa to the south or from Ruteng to the west. There is no airport in Riung; the nearest airports are Bajawa or Labuan Bajo to the west of the island. Local boats are available in the village to organise visits to the islands.

Nearby

• Bajawa — nearby mountain town, departure point for Ngada villages and hot springs at Soa.
• Ruteng — town in western Flores, known for its spider-web rice paddies (lingko).
• Labuan Bajo — gateway to Komodo Island, at the western tip of Flores.