Bajawa, Ngada Highlands, Flores
Gateway to Traditional Villages and Volcano Landscapes
Bajawa is a hill town in the central highlands of Flores and the capital of the Ngada region. Located at around 1,100–1,500 metres above sea level, it is one of the coolest towns on the island and surrounded by forested mountains and volcanoes.
Bajawa serves as the cultural centre of the Ngada people, whose traditional architecture, ritual life, and village structure remain strongly preserved in the surrounding highlands.
Ceremonial Life
The Ngada highlands host several important cultural events throughout the year.
Reba is the traditional Ngada New Year celebration and one of the most important thanksgiving ceremonies, involving extended ritual activities across multiple villages.
From roughly May to July, traditional boxing known as Sagi takes place. These ritual fights are part of ceremonial life and are not staged performances. Dates vary and are usually tied to local community schedules.
Landscape and Hiking
The highlands around Bajawa are ideal for trekking. Ancient footpaths connect villages through plantations and forested hills.
Nearby volcanic landscapes include:
- Mount Inerie, the dominant cone-shaped volcano south of town
- Wawo Muda, a crater field formed during a 2001 eruption
- Several hot spring areas fed by geothermal activity
The cooler climate makes Bajawa one of the most comfortable places for hiking on Flores.
Hot Springs and Natural Sites
Several geothermal springs are located within short driving distance:
- Malanage Hot Springs, where volcanic water mixes naturally with a mountain stream
- Man-made hot spring pools near the road toward Bena
Waterfalls can also be found in the surrounding valleys, often combined with visits to traditional villages.
Practical Information
Bajawa lies on the Trans-Flores Highway between Ruteng and Ende.
The town offers guesthouses, small hotels, local restaurants, and transport options to nearby villages and natural sites.
For updated information about ceremonies, it is best to ask locally upon arrival.
