Indonesia has 17,508 islands, but only 13,558 have been mapped.[1] These islands are spread throughout the country, including in East Nusa Tenggara, where there are around 566 islands in East Nusa Tenggara, and Alor Island is one of them. In terms of size, this island is not that big, considering that the area is only 2.928,56 km².[2] But, when it comes to charm, you can’t beat it easily.
Uncover the comprehensive guide to Alor Island, a treasure trove of information for travelers. Learn about the island’s location, how to visit, the myriad activities to indulge in, the best accommodations, and essential travel tips. With this guide, you’ll be well-informed and ready to explore Alor Island!
Where Is Alor Island?
The Alor Island is located in the easternmost area of East Nusa Tenggara. It is the fourth largest island in the province, after the west side of Timor (Indonesia), Flores, and Sumba. This island borders directly with Timor Leste in the south. It makes them one of the 92 outermost islands of Indonesia.
How to Get to Alor Island
As one of the outermost islands of Indonesia, access to Alor Island is a bit challenging. Because there are no direct flights to the island, you can come via Jakarta or Bali.
Here’s how to get to Alor Island!
1. Jakarta/Bali – Kupang
First of all, you need to come to Jakarta or Bali. So, you can book a flight to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali or Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. After that, book a domestic flight to El Tari Airport in Kupang.
2. Kupang – Alor Island
You can choose three options to come to the island from Kupang:
- Airplane: book a domestic flight from El Tari Airport in Kupang (Timor) to Mali Airport in Kalabahi (Alor). The travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. There are usually two flights a day, but the schedule can change daily.
- Pelni Ferry: book a Pelni Ferry from Perikanan Tenau Harbor in Kupang (Timor) to Kalabahi Harbor in Kalabahi (Alor). The ticket price is cheaper, but the travel time is longer (approximately 13-17 hours). The sailing schedule is also limited, usually only once a week.
Top Things to Do on Alor Island
Even though the travel time is long, it will feel worth it when you get here. The reason is that there are too many things to do on Alor Island, such as:
1. Snorkeling and Diving Paradise
Alor Island diving and snorkeling are a dream come true. This area is situated in the Coral Triangle, which has the most complex and diverse marine life. So, it is unsurprising that Alor’s underwater world looks like a paradise.
There are so many diving sites in Alor Island that it’s worth a try. However, the best ones are Pura Island, Kepa Island, and Pantar Strait. There is so much marine biodiversity there, including stunning coral reefs and unique species such as Mola-Mola and mandarin fish.
2. Visit the Traditional Villages
Besides its diverse and complex marine life, the island is also rich in culture. Two villages, Takpla, and Alor Besar Village, offer an extraordinary cultural experience.
- Takpala Village
The most interesting thing in this village is the Lopo, the traditional house of the Abui Tribe. It is made of natural materials, such as bamboo and reeds. Its shape is also unique, similar to a pyramid. A distinctive feature of this house is the absence of walls.
When visiting this traditional village, you can experience living in a Lopo while interacting with the locals. If you come around July, you might have the opportunity to witness a traditional ceremony before the planting season called Tifol Tol (entering the garden). You can also enjoy Lego-lego and Cakalele dances, etc.
- Alor Besar Village
Another cultural tourism you can experience on this island is Alor Besar Village. This village is famous for Alor Island ikat weaving. The ikat weaving looks very colorful and eye-catching. You can witness the making process of this stunning ikat weaving in very close proximity.
Usually, the women in this village (you can call them mama) make ikat weaving every day. You can learn from them, buy the ikat weaving, and take it home as a souvenir.
3. Explore Beautiful Beaches
If you like chilling on the beach, you will definitely love Alor Island beaches. It’s because you can find a lot of beautiful beaches here, including Sebanjar Beach and Batu Putih Beach.
Sebanjar Beach is perfect for those of you who love white sand and blue ocean. The water looks crystal clear to the point that you can see the corals from the shore. This place is ideal for chilling and healing.
There’s also Batu Putih beach, which looks astonishing. The most interesting part of this beach is its white rock formation. You can witness when strong waves often crash against the white rocks, presenting a picturesque view.
4. Trekking and Adventure
This island also offers an unforgettable journey and adventure, with mountains and waterfalls. It’s perfect for those who love nature and want to be closer to it.
You can trek to Sirung Mountain, an active volcano with spectacular views. The starting point for trekking is at Mauta Village. So, you can rent a car or ojek (taxibike) to come to the village before trekking to the mountain.
Alor also has multiple waterfalls hidden in nature, such as Mataru Totue, Manna, Buona, Bientali, Pandai, and Katangta. You can also trek to one or more waterfalls during your trip. However, make sure not to visit those waterfalls alone. For your safety, you can hire a local guide.
Experience the Culture of Alor Island
Aside from their nature, you can also experience their culture.
1. Alor’s Unique Languages
Indonesia has more than 800 languages, almost 700 unique, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.
The unique thing is that there are more than 15 regional languages on Alor Island. It’s so impressive, considering the size of the island. Their language is important because it’s like an identity for them.
2. Traditional Dance and Music
The traditions and culture of the Alor Island people are also prominent in their traditional dances and musical instruments. For example, there’s a Lego-lego Dance, a traditional dance involving many dancers. People also play gongs and moko musical instruments when performing Lego-lego.
Lego symbolizes unity, as everyone can join the dance regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, tribe, social status, etc. While dancing, they also sing. The song is mainly about mutual respect between tribes and clans and maintaining harmony between religious communities.
3. Alor Weaving and Crafts
The island’s people also have Alor weaving and multiple handcrafts that you can bring to your home as souvenirs. Ensure to bring some cash because most locals don’t accept debit or credit cards.
Where to Stay on Alor Island
Exploring the island in one day will definitely not satisfy you. That’s why you can stay in some homestays or hotels on Alor Island for a better experience. There are 15 accommodations that you can find on this island.[3]
The most recommended ones are:
- Simfony Hotel Alor
- Tamala Homestay
- Mokkolipa Guesthouse
- Alami Alor Dive & Snorkel Resort
- Alor Tanapi Dive Resort
- Alor Divers
Travel Tips for Visiting Alor Island
To get the best experience, here are some tips for you!
- Best Time to Visit. If you want to dive or snorkel, visit during the dry season, usually from April to October.
- Essential Packing List: Only bring what you need, such as clothes, toiletries, a camera, dive or snorkel equipment, mosquito repellent, and personal medication.
- Respect Local Customs. Please respect the locals and their customs while visiting the island, especially if you visit a traditional village. Follow all the existing rules, don’t be rude, and listen to the local guide. You can’t offend the locals.
FAQs
There are some FAQs for you!
1. Is Alor part of Flores Island?
No, Alor has its own island, separated from Flores Island.
2. What’s Alor Known for?
The island’s beautiful underwater and the locals traditions. Don’t forget to get an Alor Island ikat weaving when visiting.
3. Are There Any Dive Sites in Alor?
Yes, multiple of them exist, including Pura Island, Kepa Island, and Pantar Strait.
There’s everything that you need to know before visiting Alor Island. You can visit the island by yourself or hire a local guide. If you want to use a local guide, make sure to book them ahead of your trip with Letstravelntt. Let’s explore, connect, and create memories that last a lifetime easier and smoother with us!
