Bena Village: Exploring a Living Heritage in Bajawa, Flores.
Tucked away in the lush highlands of Central Flores Island, Bena Village is one of the most iconic and best-preserved traditional villages in Indonesia. Located near Bajawa, in the Ngada Regency, Bena Village offers a deep cultural and spiritual experience for those seeking more than just beautiful landscapes.
Surrounded by volcanoes, forests, and centuries-old traditions, Bena Village is a must-visit for travelers exploring Flores Island. In this guide, we’ll dive into the unique features of Bena, how to visit, and why it remains one of the top cultural destinations in Flores.
Where is Bena Village?
Bena Village is situated about 19 kilometers south of Bajawa, a small town in Central Flores. Located on the slopes of Mount Inerie, the village enjoys a cool mountain climate and spectacular natural surroundings. It takes about 30–40 minutes to reach Bena from Bajawa by car or motorbike.
The journey offers scenic views of hills, valleys, and coffee plantations — setting the stage for a truly immersive cultural experience. Flores Island Tour 5 Days 4 Nights.
Culture and Ancestral Beliefs
Bena Village is more than just a historical site — it is a living cultural museum. The Ngada people practice animism, blending their ancestral beliefs with some Catholic influences brought by missionaries. Every house in the village is connected to a specific clan, and each clan has its own Ngadhu (totem pole) and Bhaga (miniature ancestral house).
These symbols play a vital role in ceremonies like weddings, funerals, and harvest festivals, making Bena Flores a sacred place for the local community.
Visitors are welcome to observe daily life, learn about local traditions, and even purchase handmade ikat weavings, which are rich in symbolism and made using natural dyes and traditional techniques. See what is Wae Rebo Village.
How to Visit Bena Village
To visit Bena Village, you can base yourself in Bajawa, which offers a range of guesthouses and homestays. From there:
- Rent a motorbike or hire a local driver.
- The road is paved and accessible year-round.
- A small entrance fee (usually IDR 25,000–30,000) is collected to support the community.
It’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography and the mountain air is cool and pleasant. Frequently Ask Questions about Flores & Komodo Island Tour.
MMB KOMODO TOUR
MMB Komodo Tour is your trusted local travel partner for unforgettable adventures in Komodo National Park and beyond. Based in Labuan Bajo, Flores, we specialize in Komodo Island tours, offering a wide range of curated packages such as Komodo tour 3 days 2 nights, private boat charters, open trips, and luxury cruises. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, MMB Komodo Tour provides safe, comfortable, and well-organized tours with experienced local guides. Get in touch for more informations.
Our most popular package, the Komodo tour 3D2N, takes you to the most iconic spots in the park, including Padar Island, Komodo Island, Pink Beach, Manta Point, and more. Enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, and meeting the legendary Komodo dragons all from the comfort of our traditional Phinisi boats or modern speedboats.
At MMB Komodo Tour, we prioritize authentic experiences, local sustainability, and guest satisfaction. We work closely with local communities and licensed guides to ensure every journey is both memorable and respectful of nature and culture.
With flexible booking options, transparent pricing, and a commitment to excellent service, MMB Komodo Tour is here to make your dream trip come true. Whether you’re looking for a Komodo Island private boat tour, a budget-friendly open trip, or a tailor – made Flores adventure, we’ve got the perfect package for you.