Nuca Molas Island: The Hidden Jurassic Paradise of Manggarai, Flores

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Hidden away in the southern part of Flores lies Nuca Molas Island, a remote paradise that few travelers have ever heard of, yet it’s one of the most breathtaking destinations in East Nusa Tenggara. Also known as Mules Island, this secluded spot belongs to Manggarai Regency and remains one of Indonesia’s best-kept natural secrets.

Imagine an island that feels like something straight out of Jurassic Park with dense tropical forests, towering cliffs, and pristine white-sand beaches untouched by mass tourism. That’s Nuca Molas. Its landscapes evoke the wild charm of Isla Nublar, offering travelers a rare chance to experience nature in its purest form.

Unlike the bustling streets of Labuan Bajo or the famous Komodo Islands nearby, Nuca Molas remains quiet, authentic, and largely unexplored. This makes it a perfect destination for adventurers, photographers, and eco-travelers who long for peace, isolation, and unspoiled beauty.

If you’re searching for an island escape that combines dramatic scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of discovery, Nuca Molas is the hidden gem you’ve been waiting to find.

Where Is Nuca Molas? The Hidden Gem in Southern Flores

Nuca Molas Island is located in the Satar Mese Barat District, part of Manggarai Regency in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. What makes it truly unique is the fact that it’s the only island owned by Manggarai Regency, setting it apart from the mainland regions that stretch across central Flores.

Positioned about 70 kilometers south of Ruteng, the regency’s capital, Nuca Molas sits quietly off the southern coast of Flores. The island, also known locally as Pulau Mules, covers an area of roughly 18,000 hectares, featuring a blend of tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and scenic coastlines.

Because of its remote location, Nuca Molas has remained largely untouched by mass tourism. Unlike popular destinations such as Labuan Bajo or Komodo National Park, this island offers a rare sense of tranquility. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in the sounds of nature, the waves, the rustling leaves, and the occasional bird calls without the distractions of crowds or modern noise.

Though still under the radar, its beauty and ecological diversity make it one of the most promising new destinations for eco-tourism and sustainable travel in Flores. For explorers who crave authenticity and raw adventure, Nuca Molas is a destination waiting to be discovered.

The Natural Charm of Nuca Molas Island

Spanning over 18,000 hectares, Nuca Molas Island (also known as Mules Island) is a place where nature reigns supreme. Every corner of this island radiates untouched beauty from dense tropical forests to dramatic coastal cliffs and wide stretches of unspoiled beaches. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, and the natural world unfolds in its most pristine form.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Nuca Molas is its cinematic landscape, often compared to the fictional Isla Nublar from Jurassic Park. The resemblance isn’t just poetic, it’s real. The island’s terrain is covered with thick green canopies, rugged rock formations, and hidden coves that make it look like a prehistoric world brought to life.

As you explore, you might encounter wildlife roaming freely, adding to the island’s raw and authentic atmosphere. Birds, small mammals, and marine creatures thrive here thanks to the island’s limited human interference.

The surrounding waters are just as captivating, crystal-clear, shimmering in shades of turquoise and emerald. From the shoreline, you can see coral reefs beneath the surface, hinting at the rich underwater world waiting to be explored.

For nature photographers and eco-travelers, Nuca Molas is a dream come true. The island offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning landscapes, sunrises over the sea, misty hills at dawn, and dramatic cliffs against the backdrop of the Flores Sea.

Unlike most tourist-heavy islands, Nuca Molas doesn’t try to impress with luxury; it mesmerizes with purity, peace, and authenticity. This untouched charm is what makes it one of the last true wilderness destinations in Flores.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Nuca Molas

Though still a hidden gem, Nuca Molas Island offers plenty of experiences for travelers who crave adventure and connection with nature. Whether you love the ocean, the forest, or simply the peace of untouched landscapes, this island has something special waiting for you.

1. Snorkeling and Diving

The crystal-clear waters around Nuca Molas are a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Beneath the surface lies a vibrant marine ecosystem filled with colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and other sea creatures. Since the area remains largely undisturbed, the corals are healthy, and visibility is excellent.

It’s an ideal spot for underwater photographers and anyone seeking a tranquil, crowd-free dive experience in Flores’ lesser-known waters.

2. Hiking and Island Exploration

For those who prefer land adventures, Nuca Molas offers several scenic hiking trails that cut through tropical forests and lead to breathtaking viewpoints. From the hilltops, you can admire panoramic vistas of the island, the turquoise sea, and the surrounding coastline.

The trails range from easy walks to moderate hikes, making them accessible to most travelers who enjoy exploring the wild outdoors. Don’t forget to bring a camera, every turn reveals a postcard-perfect landscape.

3. Relaxing on Secluded Beaches

Nuca Molas is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Flores, untouched, quiet, and naturally beautiful. The white sands are soft and powdery, the waters are calm and inviting, and the atmosphere feels completely private.

It’s the perfect place to unwind, swim, or simply lie back and listen to the soothing sound of waves. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach escape away from the crowds, Nuca Molas delivers exactly that.

4. Nature and Wildlife Photography

With its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, Nuca Molas is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Whether you’re capturing sunrise over the hills, the turquoise waters shimmering under the sun, or native animals in their natural habitat, every shot tells a story of untouched wilderness.

For travelers seeking inspiration and serenity, this island offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature through the lens.

5. Enjoying the Serenity

Perhaps the most rewarding experience in Nuca Molas is simply being there, feeling the peace, breathing in the ocean air, and realizing that you’re standing in one of the last truly wild places in Flores. It’s a place to disconnect from the world and rediscover the simple joy of being surrounded by pure nature.

How to Get to Nuca Molas

Reaching Nuca Molas Island requires a bit of effort, but every step of the journey is part of the adventure. The trip rewards you with breathtaking scenery, local culture, and a sense of discovery that makes the destination even more meaningful.

The journey typically starts from Labuan Bajo, the main tourism hub in western Flores and gateway to Komodo National Park. From here, you’ll travel inland and then south toward Manggarai’s coastal region.

1. From Labuan Bajo to Ruteng

Begin your journey by taking a car or private transfer from Labuan Bajo to Ruteng, the capital of Manggarai Regency. The drive takes around 4 to 5 hours, offering spectacular views of mountains, rice terraces, and small traditional villages along the way.

2. From Ruteng to Dintor

Once you arrive in Ruteng, continue the journey by road to Dintor, a small coastal village that serves as the main access point to Mules Island. The drive takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on your route and road conditions.

There are two main routes you can take:

• Route 1: Ruteng – Cancar – Tondo – Dintor
• Route 2: Ruteng – Iteng – Dintor

Each route passes through scenic landscapes, making the drive as enjoyable as the destination itself.

3. Boat Trip to Nuca Molas (Mules Island)

From Dintor, you’ll need to cross the sea by a small local boat or speedboat to reach Nuca Molas Island. The boat ride usually takes less than an hour, depending on the weather and sea conditions.

While the journey may feel remote, the stunning coastal views and the sense of adventure make it a highlight of the trip.

4. Travel Tips and Recommendations

For comfort and flexibility, it’s highly recommended to rent a private car in Labuan Bajo. Most car rental services include a driver who knows the routes well and can help you navigate local roads easily.

Travelers looking for a more seamless experience can also combine their visit to Nuca Molas with a private yacht charter from Komodo Yacht, which allows for a more luxurious and scenic approach via sea.

Facilities and Accommodation in Nuca Molas

Because Nuca Molas Island remains one of the most untouched destinations in Flores, its facilities are still basic and limited, which is precisely what makes it so appealing to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Unlike the more developed areas of Labuan Bajo, this island offers simplicity, authenticity, and a deep connection with nature.

You won’t find luxury resorts, beach clubs, or modern tourist infrastructure here. Instead, you’ll find quiet landscapes, traditional hospitality, and essential amenities built to support small-scale tourism.

1. Available Facilities

At present, the island has only a few essential facilities, such as:

• A small pier for local boats and visitors
• Public toilets maintained by the local tourism office
• Basic homestays operated by local residents and supported by the Manggarai Tourism Department

These modest accommodations provide a genuine village experience, allowing visitors to interact with locals and learn more about their culture and daily life on the island.

2. Preparing for Your Visit

Since the island is still in an early stage of tourism development, it’s important to plan ahead and bring your own supplies.

Here’s what you should prepare:

• Drinking water and snacks
• Personal hygiene items and sunscreen
• Cash (as there are no ATMs or digital payments available)
• Light camping gear if you plan to stay overnight outdoors

This simplicity is part of Nuca Molas’s charm; it offers a raw and authentic experience that most tourist destinations have long lost.

3. Sustainable and Responsible Travel

When visiting Nuca Molas, travelers are encouraged to respect the environment and local community. Dispose of waste properly, avoid disturbing wildlife, and support local homestays or guides when possible.

By traveling responsibly, you help preserve the island’s pristine condition and ensure that tourism benefits the local people directly.

In Nuca Molas, comfort doesn’t come from luxury; it comes from peace, authenticity, and the rare opportunity to experience nature exactly as it is.

Why Visit Nuca Molas Over Other Flores Destinations

Flores is home to some of Indonesia’s most spectacular destinations, from the world-famous Komodo National Park to the cultural village of Waerebo. Yet, among all these wonders, Nuca Molas Island stands out as a truly unique and untouched escape.

While places like Labuan Bajo have grown into bustling tourist hubs, Nuca Molas remains pure, quiet, and wild, offering travelers something increasingly rare: solitude and authenticity.

1. A True Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

Nuca Molas is not your typical island getaway. Its remote location and limited accessibility mean that only a handful of visitors make it there each year. This exclusivity gives the island a special sense of discovery, the feeling of finding a place that few have ever seen.

If you’re the kind of traveler who seeks adventure beyond the ordinary, Nuca Molas offers an experience you won’t find in more commercial destinations.

2. Untouched Natural Beauty

Unlike Labuan Bajo, where tourism has transformed much of the landscape, Nuca Molas remains in its natural state. Here, the beaches are empty, the waters are clear, and the forests are alive with the sounds of nature.

It’s the ideal place to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with the raw beauty of the earth.

3. Perfect for Eco-Travelers and Adventure Seekers

For those passionate about sustainable and nature-based travel, Nuca Molas is a dream come true. The island offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation, all within an environment that remains unspoiled by mass tourism.

Every visit helps support the local community, promoting responsible tourism that preserves the environment and benefits local families directly.

4. The Luxury of Silence and Space

In a world where so many destinations are crowded, silence has become a luxury. On Nuca Molas, you’ll find space to breathe, think, and explore without the constant buzz of traffic or tour groups.

Whether you’re sitting on a white-sand beach or hiking through the hills, you’ll be surrounded by nothing but nature and peace.

5. An Ideal Addition to a Flores Itinerary

For travelers exploring Flores or sailing through the region on a Komodo yacht charter, Nuca Molas is a perfect side trip. It complements the iconic Komodo Islands with something completely different, a tranquil, hidden island that captures the wild spirit of Flores.

In short, Nuca Molas isn’t just another destination; it’s a reminder of what travel used to feel like: raw, real, and deeply rewarding.

Travel Tips Before Visiting Nuca Molas

Because of its remote location and undeveloped nature, a trip to Nuca Molas Island requires a bit more preparation than your usual island getaway. But that’s also what makes it so rewarding; the journey itself becomes part of the adventure.

To help you make the most of your experience, here are some essential travel tips before heading to Nuca Molas.

1. Plan Your Transportation in Advance

Reaching Nuca Molas involves multiple routes, typically by car from Labuan Bajo to Ruteng, then to Dintor, and finally by boat to the island.

Since public transport is limited, it’s highly recommended to hire a private car with a driver from Labuan Bajo. This allows you to travel at your own pace, stop at scenic viewpoints, and avoid the hassle of figuring out local transfers.

Tip: You can book a Komodo yacht or boat charter if you want to include Nuca Molas as part of a longer Flores sailing itinerary.

2. Pack Essentials and Personal Supplies

There are no shops or convenience stores on Nuca Molas. Make sure to bring enough supplies, including drinking water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal toiletries.

If you plan to stay overnight, pack light camping gear or confirm your homestay arrangements beforehand.

3. Respect the Local Community and Environment

Nuca Molas is part of Manggarai’s local territory, and the community plays an important role in preserving the island’s natural environment.

Always ask for permission when taking photos of locals, and follow eco-friendly travel practices such as not littering, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting local customs.

4. Bring Cash (No ATMs Nearby)

There are no ATMs or card payment options in or near Nuca Molas. Bring enough cash from Labuan Bajo or Ruteng to cover your expenses, including transportation, accommodation, and meals.

5. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nuca Molas is during the dry season (April–October) when the sea is calm and the skies are clear. During this period, hiking trails and beaches are easier to explore.

Avoid visiting during the peak of the rainy season (December–February), as some roads may become slippery or flooded.

6. Safety First

While Nuca Molas is safe and peaceful, it’s always best to travel with a guide or local companion, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Bring a fully charged phone, a power bank, and inform someone of your travel plans before departing.

7. Embrace the Simplicity

Visiting Nuca Molas isn’t about luxury; it’s about returning to nature. The lack of modern facilities is part of its charm. Disconnect from digital distractions, breathe in the fresh sea air, and let the raw beauty of Flores remind you why you travel.

Nuca Molas rewards those who come prepared and open-minded. With the right mindset, this hidden island will give you one of the most authentic travel experiences in all of Flores.

Nuca Molas, A True Hidden Paradise of Manggarai

Tucked away in the southern part of Flores Island, Nuca Molas (Mules Island) remains one of Indonesia’s last untouched paradises. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Labuan Bajo or the iconic cultural villages of Waerebo, Nuca Molas offers something entirely different: pure, unfiltered nature and a deep sense of peace that’s increasingly rare to find.

Here, time seems to slow down. The sound of waves replaces city noise, and the horizon stretches endlessly with shades of blue and green. It’s a place where travelers can reconnect with nature, explore pristine beaches, and experience Flores in its most authentic form.

From its Jurassic-like landscapes and vibrant coral reefs to the warm hospitality of the Manggarai people, every corner of Nuca Molas tells a story of untouched beauty. The island may not have luxury resorts or crowded attractions, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Nuca Molas is not just a destination; it’s a journey back to nature, a reminder of the simple joys of exploration. Whether you’re diving among untouched coral reefs, hiking through lush hills, or simply relaxing on a deserted beach, you’ll find that Nuca Molas embodies the essence of Flores’ wild and timeless spirit.

So, if your heart longs for a place where adventure meets serenity, make sure to put Nuca Molas Island on your travel list. This hidden gem of Manggarai, Flores, is waiting to be discovered, and once you’ve been there, it will stay with you forever.