All reviews
Review Author: Izzy Pickles
Review Date: 22 Jul 2023
Review Body: We had a wonderful day with Ignas. He is a very knowledgeable guide and told us all about Flores and the area we were travelling through. We started with a short hike to Cunca Waterfall, and we all enjoyed jumping off the rocks and swimming in the beautiful canyon. Afterwards we went to a small village to watch a Caci whip dance by local Mangarrai people. They were so welcoming and friendly, and seemed to enjoy the visit as much as we did! We felt very lucky to get a glimpse of traditional life. I was worried that it might feel very touristy or exploitative but it was not that way at all - they seemed genuinely happy and interested to meet us. Highly recommended for seeing a less-visited and authentic part of Flores - and Ignas is a great guide.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Brandy
Review Date: 26 Jun 2025
Review Body: My kids and I had so much fun jumping off the rocks by the waterfall. And, the pictures came out amazing with them jumping with the waterfall in the background.i have seen many waterfalls but this one was special due to the canyon that surrounds it. My kids and I also loved dressing in the traditional clothes and watching the whip dance at Melo village. The pictures were awesome and my kids loved being able to whip the shield and join in the dance. We had a great experience.just note that the clothes and dance are an additional cost.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Lee
Review Date: 04 Nov 2024
Review Body: Excellent trip! We had a lot of fun. Melo Village was so-so and everything else is amazing!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: M&M Holiday
Review Date: 30 Jun 2026
Review Body: Great to see the countryside of Labuan Bajo and meet locals in natural surroundings. Beware there are a lot of steps to the waterfall but well worth the visit.
Review rating: 4
Review Author: Jw
Review Date: 10 May 2024
Review Body: Went for the cancu waterfall and melo village tour
The waterfall was really nice and non touristy which is perfect, water was breathtaking , u could jump in from the rocks, do note there is a 30 min hike to go in and abit of climbing (stairs) but all manageable.
For the melo village tour I would not really recommend, prob read it wrong prior to the booking as I thought it was the actual village with the tribe.
it’s not the actual village more like a glimpse (touristy) , the actual village is further up in wae rebo another 3 hours ride up (prob do check out the 4 days trip to flores instead) as infd by the guide but still this offers a rly quick glimpse of village life and how they built their huts.
Price for the tour is a little pricey but Big thumbs up to the guide Roberto who spoke great and very knowledgeable , appreciate the explanation and history by him which made the whole tour well spent . They do run tours further up to wae Rebo and the other more untouch flores which I would really love to see so don’t hesitate to book the said company for further adventures
Review rating: 3
Review Author: Anna maria
Review Date: 16 Jul 2025
Review Body: Melo village wasn’t that great , I didn’t know it supposed to be booked in advance to see them dancing , it was saying I could have tried a wine palm but it didn’t happen . I appreciate the effort of the tour guide to adapt the tour on my need as I couldn’t visit the waterfalls .
Review rating: 3
Review Author: Anon
Review Date: 05 Dec 2025
Review Body: Here’s a clear, firm, and polite review you can send to the travel agency:
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Review / Feedback on Tour – Melo Village Experience
I would like to share my feedback regarding the Melo Village portion of the tour. Unfortunately, the experience was very disappointing and did not match the value of what we paid for.
During our visit, we were only brought into a single hut, had a short conversation with one lady, and there were no cultural performances or activities provided. This fell far short of what we expected from a village experience.
When we asked the guide, we were told that there was no performance because no advance request had been made and that this was a quiet period. However, as paying customers, we believe that such arrangements should have been made on our behalf. We paid for the full experience, so it was disheartening to learn that essential parts of the visit were simply not prepared for us.
Overall, we left Melo Village feeling unsatisfied and that the portion of the tour was not worth the cost. We hope you will look into this matter to ensure that future guests receive the complete experience they are promised.
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Review rating: 2
Review Author: Michael Norwood
Review Date: 18 Jul 2026
Review Body: WARNING TO PROSPECTIVE VISITORS TO CUNCA WULANG WATERFALLS & MELO VILLAGE
My first tip for the tour operator, Seek Sophie and Komodo Fantastico Tour is to let people know before they book that the Cunca Wulang Waterfalls has been closed for a month and that the Cunca Prial Waterfall has been substituted.
Second tip the Melo Village experience is somewhat underwhelming in that it is only a single house and NOT a village. The visit in the house itself with the village custodian was of interest.
Third tip, billing this as a full day tour is a misrepresentation. We were back in Latuan Bajo by noon after starting out at 08.10.
Fourth tip, charging IDR2,400,000+ or A$194 for this short excursion is exorbitant so I will NEVER BOOK through Seek Sophie again.
Fifth tip, the one saving grace was our guide Robert who was most helpful and knowledgeable about the waterfalls and Melo village culture.
A pretty poor experience overall. I only hope others read this review so as not to have a poor experience.
Whinge over!!
Review rating: 2
Review Author: Lovely way to experience the non-aquatic sights of Komodo!
Review Date: 05 Jun 2025
Review Body: I wanted to see Rangko Cave but was worried about finding and organising the ferry across. That's when I stumbled across Seek Sophie's Tour. A great way to see multiple sights without stress.
Our tour started by visiting Batu Cermin Cave. Once there we were met by a lovely local guide who took us through the greenery (with the occasional monkeys) to the Cave and explained all the fossils and history behind this area. He kindly gave us some helmets that came with torches. Once equipped you'll duck crawl through some right spots to see an ancient fossilized turtle, beautiful caves and what are the most humongous crickets I've ever seen!
After we headed to a small town to grab a boat across to see Rangko Cave. After walking across a beautiful little beach, we managed to arrive at the Cave before the crowds, so we got to take a few photos with just us in the Cave and explore it a little before the sun came into the cave. If you don't have a torch, you might think there are bats in the Cave, but it's actually just 50+ sparrow nests hidden in the back of the Cave. Nothing to be scared of!
After that, we went back to our hotel for a midday break. The drivers then came to grab us before sunset and take us to Sylvia Hill to enjoy the sunset views. We sadly had a bit of a cloudy day, but the views were nice regardless!
Overall a great way to see lots of sights without the hassle of having to find them or organise anything. We just got to sit back and relax while our tour guides took care of us!
My one recommendation - if you have a waterproof Torch, bring it! The first Cave provides torches, but they're not very strong, and the second Cave doesn't have much light until midday, so the torch makes it easier to see the insight of the pool area. (We took our dive torch, and it helped a lot)
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Jen
Review Date: 07 Apr 2026
Review Body: we enjoyed both Rangko and Mirror caves and i would recommend to do both as they are different experiences. Going to Rangko was special as you had to take a boat ride with nice views and clear water as you approach the cave. The cave is just one cavern where you have the option to swim/dip which i did with my son! we enjoyed it. Mirror cave involved a little bit of walk in the open and it was very hot at 1pm. the cave guide said that if you were inside the cave at 12pm, the sunlight will be directly on top of this opening casting nice light inside. we were there past 1pm but it was still ok. for the rangko cave, our guide said the afternoon light will make the cave brighter (tho i read somewhere to go before noon) so im not sure which is which anymore. in any case, it wasnt an issue when we there there before noon. bring anti mozzie spray as there are mozzies.
as this was a private tour, there was flexibility wrt pick up time, drop off time and some spots we added that were nearby like a local cafe, the komodo statue in town. the town is small and nearby so you can also pop by a starbucks if you want to.
The last stop was Sylvia hill but my kids were tired to hike up so we did Amelia hill which was a shorter walk (really short!). these hills are next to each other that you can really do both if you want to except the sun was still up at that time (we finished the caves and lunch fast). Bajo was quite sunny/hot when we were there (im not complaining as i would rather that than rains in the komodo islands). Bonus was a pick up truck in Amelia hill selling durian which i tried but it wasnt as sweet as what i had before.
The guide was very friendly, kind, helpful and knowledgeable. i would recommend this tour.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Jana
Review Date: 08 Jul 2026
Review Body: I booked this tour through Seek Sophie because I had a fantastic experience with them in Bali last year, and once again they exceeded my expectations.
I was very lucky because I was the only person booked on the tour that day, so I had a private experience. My guide, Darso, was wonderful. He paid attention to every detail, shared lots of interesting information throughout the day, and we had some lovely conversations. It was great getting to know him, and his knowledge really added to the experience.
The caves were absolutely amazing, especially swimming inside Rangko Cave, which was a real highlight of the trip. I was also looked after by our driver, Yanto, who was just as friendly and kind. Both Darso and Yanto made the day so enjoyable, and they even kindly stopped at a local fruit market for me, which I really appreciated.
The day ended with a breathtaking sunset, making the experience even more special. I felt incredibly lucky because the following day was very cloudy, and it wouldn't have been possible to see the sunset. Everything came together perfectly, and it truly was an amazing day.
Thank you, Darso and Yanto, for such a memorable experience. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Flores!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Faizad
Review Date: 18 Feb 2026
Review Body: We had a great experience on our SeekSophie tour with Pak Darso as our guide. Communication over WhatsApp in the lead-up to the tour was easy, with prompt replies and clear instructions provided throughout.
Pickup was timely and the day’s itinerary went exactly as planned. We had a smooth and comfortable ride to Rangko Village, where we took a fisherman’s boat to Rangko Cave and enjoyed a fun swim in the cave. After that, we visited Batu Cermin before heading to a nearby local restaurant for lunch (at our own request and expense).
We were dropped back at the hotel with enough time to rest and shower before being picked up again for the sunset tour at Sylvia Hill. Although the views weren’t the best due to cloudy weather, Pak Darso was a great conversationalist and made the experience enjoyable nonetheless.
Overall, a pleasant and well-organised tour — would recommend!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Lise
Review Date: 16 Sep 2026
Review Body: We had a great tour. Our guide told us about lot about both the sights we saw and his life and family in Labuan Bajo, which was a great insight for us into the culture.
The trip to Rangko Cave was through a village and then by boat. It was less touristy and organized than we initially thought there. But we had faith in our guide and it turned out really good. We were at the cave quite early, so we didn’t see the water as super turquoise, but in exchange we were there alone at first and only a few other people came after a while. Our guide even joined swimming, as we were a bit scared in the beginning.
The Mirror cave was surprisingly cool, we saw bats and fossils inside the cave, as well as the mirror effect.
Then we went back to our hotel for lunch and relaxing. We got picked up again for the sunset at Sylvia Hill, which was really nice.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Martin F
Review Date: 27 Jun 2025
Review Body: My wife and I had an incredible day with Robert from Komodo Fantastic Tour. He was warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about the islands. You could tell he really knew his stuff—whether it was Komodo dragons, local history, or the best time to hit each spot, Robert had it covered.
He made the whole day feel effortless. Nothing was too much trouble—he adjusted the pace for us, helped with gear, and somehow always found the perfect angle for a photo. (Seriously, his photos were way better than mine. I’ve basically just been reposting his all week.)
We got to see all the major highlights and somehow never felt rushed or stuck in a tourist crowd. Just a really special, smooth, memorable day. Highly recommend booking with Robert if you want the trip to feel personal and stress-free.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Jia Lin Foo
Review Date: 17 May 2023
Review Body: Didn't know that a day trip around Labuan Bajo like this existed but it was actually a really fun day out! Swimming in Rangko cave was such a cool experience and a cool IG photo worthy spot when the light comes in around 12-3pm. The next cave we explored, Batu Cermin cave, didn't have a pool but we had to wear helmets and duck crawl around the intricate tunnel systems. Definitely felt like we were explorers on a mission. Took many IG worthy photos as well! The last spot — Sylvia Hill during sunset was the highlight for me. The landscape and view was absolutely gorgeous, especially during golden hour. We also loved this day because it wasn't too crowded!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Amanda Khoo
Review Date: 17 May 2023
Review Body: This was such an unique experience! The whole trip was well planned with ample time for photo taking and sight seeing. The swim at Rangko cave was so peaceful and it was a perfect photo spot. It was such an amazing experience where you get to swim in a cave with perfect lighting. Batu Cermin was extremely breathtaking. It was also safe to explore the cave as you will be given helmets to protect your head against bumpy rocks. Last but not least the beautiful sunset at Sylvia Hill. The sunset there was beautiful and I love how it's so untouched by tourists and a perfect place to end the day.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Céline
Review Date: 30 Jan 2024
Review Body: We came to Labuan Bajo for visiting Komodo, but this tour is such a gem it is worth staying a little longer for! Exploring Batu Cermain Cave was such a fun adventure, and the beach on which we landed to visit Ranko Cave looked like paradise. The guide was so obliging, taking pictures for us and explaining the local culture. He also took us to a local veg and fish market and named all the ones we did not recognise. The sunset on Sylvia Hill was magnificent. Make sure to wear good shoes, the Ranko Cave was slippery in the wet season when we visited!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Vivian Chan
Review Date: 17 May 2023
Review Body: Rangko and Batu Cermin were such hidden gems. The whole journey felt so special from the moment we got onto the local boat, till we got to the caves.
We got the whole place to ourselves for a while, and swimming there was refreshing after our small hike through the forest.
The whole place was so untouched - great for someone looking for something different outside of the usual Komodo Island attractions.
Sylvia Hill had the best sunset I've seen in awhile, and is definitely worth going. Beautiful way to end the day.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Eshton Chua
Review Date: 17 May 2023
Review Body: Such an enjoyable adventurous tour! The Rangko Cave was amazing, ticking of a bucket list activity of swimming in a cave! The waters were so clear, and it was really peaceful floating in it! Batu Cermin Caves felt like a real adventure, we even got to explore the caves and there were so many nice photo spots! Sylvia Hill was the perfect lookout point to end the day, the little trek up was worth it and it gave a panoramic view of the whole area, letting you catch the sunset with a perfect backdrop!
Review rating: 5
Review Author: Pavel
Review Date: 17 Aug 2026
Review Body: We enjoyed our day with Komodo Fantastico Tour and the wonderful Pance. He was very knowledgeable, punctual and extremely helpful. The caves were amazing and the sunset on Sylvia's Hill was simply unforgettable! And Pance showed us the local dance competition on the gourds of the school where he had studied, which was a deeply moving cultural experience. It is a pity that we only had time for one tour with Pance as there are so many things and places to explore around Labuan Bajo.
Review rating: 5
Itinerary
Itinerary Day 1
Itinerary Summary: Explore the hidden canyon waterfalls & traditional village life of Flores
Itinerary Description: Arrive at Cunca Wulang Waterfall offering Impressive waterfalls cascade into beautiful, fresh-water pools and lead into a series of smaller waterfalls and rivers a few kilometers downstream.
Lunch
Arrive at Melo Village to get a taste of the hospitality of the people. You can watch a local Caci dance (with additional charge) and learn about their interesting cultural traditions.
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Melo Village and Cunca Wulang Waterfalls Trip
See a different side of Flores with hidden waterfalls and authentic village life
4.6
|29 Reviews
Group size
Up to 10 guests

DURATION
8 hours

Booking type
Private trip

MEET UP
Free pick-up

Group size
Up to 10 guests
- Experience highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- More Info
- Host
- Reviews
Explore the hidden canyon waterfalls & traditional village life of Flores
Most people come to Flores just for Komodo. But if you’ve got extra time, this private day trip shows you a completely different side of the island.You’ll head into the forest to find the hidden Cunca Wulang Waterfalls. Because it's located in a canyon, you'll get these beautiful cascading waterfalls from the rocks, which leads to a series of smaller waterfalls and rivers downstream. To us, it looks like a mini Grand Canyon, but with turquoise waters!Then, you'll head to Melo Village, where you’ll learn about the Maggarai people's traditions and customs, see what daily life looks like in the village, and interact with the locals.Great for travellers who want to get away from the crowds and experience a more authentic side of Flores!Optional Add-on: Caci Dance PerformanceYou can also add-on a Caci dance performance while you’re in Melo Village to get a deeper understanding of the Manggarai people. Caci is a traditional Manggarai martial arts dance which involves whip fighting, traditional costumes. It represents bravery, respect, and community and is usually performed during important ceremonies and celebrations.Things to note about the Caci dance add-onNeeds to be booked at least 3 days in advance to secure availabilityIf the performance is cancelled by the host, you’ll receive a full refund for the add-onNo refunds for guest-initiated cancellations
Experience highlights
What You’ll be Doing
Explore the hidden canyon waterfalls & traditional village life of Flores
Show Details
What’s Included
English or Indonesia Speaking Guide
Local Guide
Entrance Fee
Mineral water
Travel Insurance
Toll Tax
Not included
Lunch
Dinner
Caci dance experience (available as add-on)
Available Add-ons:
Seeing Traditional/Local Dance ( (Rp6.520.500)
Show Details
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Free pick-up from Hotel Lobby in Labuan Bajo or Airport (Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia)
- Start time is flexible. Do let us know which time you prefer
- Notes: An Ideal time to start would be 09:00 am and end would be 01:00 pm.
End Point
- End at Start Point(s)
Start & Ends
Daily
08:00AM - 05:00PM
Suitability / Accessibility
- Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)
Cancellation & other policies
Cancellation
Cancel 7 days before activity for a full refund
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothes
- Comfortable footwear
- Hat
- Personal Needs
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
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Meet your host
Ignas is a local operator based in Labuan Bajo. Willing to provide best services, he can best handle anyone from a single traveller to a group of 250 people. No matter if you travel solo, in a little group or huge group, Ignas will show you around with his best knowledge and expertise.
Experience: 14 years
Speaks: Basic English
Acceptance rate: 100%

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