“Wae Rebo Village is known from the group of seven Mbaru Niang houses which have steep, cone-shaped roofs, and are a living cultural heritage which is located in the deep, lush valley.”
Wae Rebo Village is a traditional tribal village of the Manggarai people. It is located on a high area approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, on Flores Island. The outstanding feature of the village is the traditional houses or what is called Mbaru Niang which have a steep cone shape and are built from bamboo, roofed with palm leaves. Normally, they have five floors, each floor has a different function. This village has been praised by UNESCO and still strictly maintains traditional customs and ways of life.
The important unique feature is the structure of the seven Mbaru Niang houses that face each other surrounding the central village courtyard used for religious ceremonies and social activities. This village is the center of the Manggarai culture and is a rare example of harmony between humans and nature. Visiting here must pass a traditional welcoming ceremony called Waelu'u by the village elders, to ask for permission from the ancestors.
The most interesting time is visiting during the dry season (April-October) when the sky is open and the weather is cool, suitable for trekking and photography. The atmosphere here is peaceful and friendly. Tourists are treated like guests and can experience a simple way of life, agriculture, weaving, and living together closely. Overnight stay in the Mbaru Niang house is an experience not to be missed, which includes eating meals with the host family.
For photographers and those who love the art of photography, Wae Rebo Village presents a beautiful landscape of morning fog covering the valley and the unique house structure. Travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle and couples looking for a quiet and romantic place amidst pure nature will find this place a perfect destination.Wae Rebo Village is a hidden cultural jewel, which offers a travel experience full of precious memories and accessing the essence of the Indonesian spirit.
How to Get There
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Airplane and car: Fly to Komodo Airport at Labuan Bajo City, then travel by rented car or public transportation to Denge Village which is the starting point for trekking.
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Trekking: From Denge Village, must trek up the mountain for a distance of approximately 7-9 kilometers, taking about 3-4 hours, passing through beautiful tropical rainforest and a challenging route.
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Guided travel: Recommended to use local guide services from Labuan Bajo City for convenience in travel and preparation of the welcoming ceremony in the village.
Travel Tips
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Suitable seasons: Should travel between April and October, which is the dry season. There is a chance to find clear sky, morning fog, and the trekking route will be drier than in the rainy season.
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Attire and equipment: Should prepare durable trekking shoes, raincoat or umbrella, flashlight, and warm clothes, because the temperature at night will drop very low.
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Photography and sightseeing: Be prepared for spectacular views, but should respect the privacy of the villagers. Should ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially during ceremonies.
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Local culture: Visiting the village is a special opportunity. Should prepare polite attire and be conscious when entering sacred areas and during ceremonies.
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Travel planning: The journey to Denge is quite long. Should plan the trip at least 2 days 1 night for visiting and staying overnight in the village.
Admission Fee:
- The expense for the overnight visit (including food and accommodation): Approximately 325,000 IDR per person
- Day-only admission fee (no overnight stay): Approximately 200,000 IDR per person
- Prices may change at any time, therefore you should check with local tour operators or the village directly to confirm the latest prices before traveling.
Opening Hours:
- General daily hours: Open every day, 24 hours (because it is a village where people actually live)
- Special note: Visiting is recommended during the daytime and overnight stay must be managed in advance with the village.