Labuan Bajo Explore 3 Destination (Kelor, Manjarite, Kalong)

Exploring Labuan Bajo in a Day: A Practical Review of the 3-Destination Tour

If you’re short on time but eager to experience some of the best spots around Labuan Bajo, this 8-hour tour promises a mix of scenic views, underwater beauty, and a touch of magic at sunset. While the overall rating is modest at 2.3 out of 5 based on three reviews, the experience offers genuine opportunities for memorable moments—especially for those who prioritize diverse activities in a single day.

What we like about this tour is how it packs trekking, snorkeling, and sunset watching into a compact itinerary. The easy 10-15 minute trek on Kelor Island rewards you with panoramic views that are well worth the short walk. The snorkeling at Manjarite provides a safe, calm environment perfect for families or beginners, offering vibrant coral reefs and abundant fish. Finally, the spectacle of thousands of flying foxes taking flight at Kalong Island during sunset is a surreal, photo-worthy experience.

However, one consideration is that the overall value depends heavily on your expectations. Some travelers reported quieter spots and personalized service, but a few felt the tour could be more organized or engaging. If you’re after a quick, varied taste of Labuan Bajo’s natural beauty—especially if you prefer private tours—this might suit you well.

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a flexible half-day adventure without multiple days or extensive planning. It’s ideal for those who enjoy combination trips blending light trekking, snorkel sessions, and sunset views, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with family.

Key Points

• Short but Diverse: Combines trekking, snorkeling, and sunset in just half a day.
• Accessible Activities: Easy trek and calm waters make it family-friendly.
• Stunning Vistas and Wildlife: Panoramic views from Kelor Island and flying foxes at sunset.
• Private Group Flexibility: Ensures a more personalized experience.
• Limited Duration: Suitable for travelers with limited time, but expectations should be realistic.
• Good Value for Money: Compared to multi-day tours, offers a compact, varied experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour spans roughly 8 hours, starting from your hotel or designated pickup point. The private guide (who speaks English) ensures you’re well-informed at each stop, which is a plus—many reviews appreciated the knowledgeable guides, like the one who pointed out local flora and fauna during the trek.

Kelor Island: The journey begins with a brief 10-15 minute trek to the island’s highest point. The trail is gentle enough for most, but reviewers recommend proper shoes rather than sliders for comfort and safety. Once at the top, you’re greeted with a 360° panoramic view of the bay, scattered islets, and the shimmering sea. The sight is lively with color—blue waters, green islands, and the sky above—perfect for photos or just soaking it all in. One reviewer mentioned, “The views from the hilltop are simply stunning, and the short walk was well worth it.”

Manjarite Snorkeling: After descending, the tour takes you to a sheltered spot for snorkeling. The waters here are crystal clear and calm, making it safe and enjoyable for beginners and families. Expect to see colorful tropical fish among vibrant coral reefs. The reviewer from the UK described the experience as “beautiful,” noting the presence of baby sharks and plentiful fish, which added a fun element. The calmness of the water and good visibility make it ideal for those wanting a relaxing, low-stress underwater experience.

Kalong Island Sunset: The last stop is Kalong Island, famous for its spectacular sunset bat flight. As the boat anchors near a mangrove forest, you’ll sit back and watch thousands of flying foxes emerge from the trees, soaring across the horizon in unison. It’s a magical sight, capturing the wild beauty of Flores. One reviewer mentioned how “cool it was to see the bats in action and enjoy the sunset from the boat’s roof,” which highlights how this part of the tour offers a unique, memorable moment.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The pickup is arranged at your hotel lobby or a designated point, which saves you the hassle of arranging your own transport. The group size is kept private, which most reviews appreciated for the personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere.

Duration and Timing

The 8-hour schedule is designed for efficiency, balancing activity and downtime. Check the availability to find the starting times, but expect the day to be paced to include travel, activity, and some leisure. Early mornings might be the best bet to beat crowds and enjoy the tranquility at each spot.

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Price and Value

Pricing isn’t explicitly mentioned, but considering the inclusion of private transport, a guide, and multiple activities, it offers a fair value. You’re paying for a tailored experience that is different from larger, group tours—something many travelers find appealing, especially those valuing personalized service.

What Reviewers Say

One verified guest from the UK praised the quiet spots and personalized service, mentioning their guide, who was helpful and knowledgeable. They appreciated the timing of stops for less crowded experiences: “Each spot was quieter than other excursions we’ve done here, which was worth it,” they said. Another pointed out the comfortable boat ride and the spectacular sunset as highlights.

However, some travelers felt that the organization could improve or that the tour could be more engaging. Managing expectations is key: this is not a full-day adventure with multiple activities but rather a curated, scenic, and relaxing half-day experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a snapshot of Labuan Bajo’s beauty without dedicating multiple days. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a mix of light activities, excellent vistas, and wildlife. If you’re after high-energy, extensive exploration, or want to visit more remote spots, this might not be the best fit.

It offers good value if you’re after a private, flexible, and scenic tour that captures some of Flores’ best features—just keep in mind the short duration and moderate pace.

The Sum Up

This Labuan Bajo Explore 3 Destination tour delivers a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights, ideal for those pressed for time but eager for variety. The easy trek on Kelor Island rewards with breathtaking views, while the snorkeling introduces you to Flores’ vibrant underwater life in a safe environment. The sunset bat flight at Kalong Island provides a truly magical finish, making for a memorable photo and wildlife moment.

While the overall rating suggests some room for improvement, the experienced guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to connect with nature make this a worthwhile option—especially if you value personalized service and a flexible schedule. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a manageable, scenic day out, blending adventure and relaxation seamlessly.

For those seeking a short, authentic experience that showcases some of Labuan Bajo’s natural wonders without the fuss of longer excursions, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a laid-back pace and moderate crowds, and you’ll leave with plenty of great memories.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, activities, and downtime.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the snorkeling spot at Manjarite is safe for beginners and families, and the activities are generally light and accessible.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
It’s recommended to bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them, but check if the provider supplies equipment—most reviews mention calm waters ideal for beginner snorkelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised for the trek, and don’t forget sunscreen, a camera, and water for hydration.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transport from your hotel or a designated pickup point is included, making the experience hassle-free.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions?
Babies under 1 year and people over 95 years are not suitable for this tour.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English, ensuring clear communication throughout the trip.

Is this a group or private experience?
The tour is designed for private groups, enhancing comfort and personalized attention.

How are the spots chosen for this tour?
They cover some of the most iconic and accessible sites: Kelor Island, Manjarite, and Kalong Island, offering a balanced experience of scenery, underwater, and wildlife.

In summary, this tour offers an engaging, flexible way to see some of Labuan Bajo’s best sights in just half a day. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a combination of easy hikes, snorkeling, and sunset wildlife viewing, all with a private guide to enhance the experience. While it may not satisfy those seeking a full-day or more intense adventure, it definitely provides a memorable taste of Flores’ natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: