Labuan Bajo is widely known as the main gateway for travellers visiting Komodo National Park. However, beyond the popular destinations in the area, several lesser-known locations offer equally impressive landscapes.
One of these is Nuca Molas Island, located in West Satar Mese District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
Nuca Molas is part of Mules Island, a destination that has gradually gained attention for its natural scenery and quiet atmosphere. The island features green savannas surrounding a small mountain that rises in the centre of the landscape.
Hills, clear blue waters, and stretches of white sand combine to create a setting that many visitors say resembles Isla Nublar, the fictional island from the Jurassic Park films.
The name itself comes from the Manggarai language. “Nuca” means island, while “molas” means beautiful, which together can be interpreted as “beautiful island”.
Location and How to Reach Nuca Molas Island
Nuca Molas Island is located in Nuca Molas Village, West Satar Mese District, Manggarai Regency, on the southern side of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara.
Travelling to the island requires a combination of land and sea transport. From Labuan Bajo, visitors must travel by road for approximately four hours to reach the coastal area of Dintor.
From there, travellers continue the journey by boat to Mules Island, which usually takes around 30 minutes depending on weather conditions.
Visitors departing from Ruteng, the capital of Manggarai Regency, can reach Dintor in two to three hours. Two main road routes are commonly used:
Mena Terminal – Cancar – Todo – Dintor
Ruteng – Iteng – Dintor
Once in Dintor, travellers can hire a small boat or speedboat to reach the island. Speedboat fares generally start from IDR 125,000.
View this post on Instagram
Entrance Fees and Visitor Information
Tourists visiting Nuca Molas Island are required to pay an entrance fee set by the local authorities.
Domestic tourists: IDR 50,000
International tourists: IDR 75,000
Visitors who wish to explore the island with a guide can hire a local guide for IDR 200,000 per group, with a maximum of eight people per group.
The destination is open 24 hours, although most travellers visit during daylight hours to enjoy outdoor activities and natural views.
Natural Attractions of Nuca Molas Island
Nuca Molas Island covers an area of approximately 18,029 hectares, offering a mix of forests, savanna landscapes, cliffs, and beaches.
The island’s terrain is often compared to Isla Nublar from the Jurassic Park films because of its open hills and surrounding ocean views. From higher ground, visitors can see wide stretches of coastline and nearby islands.
The beaches on Nuca Molas are known for clear turquoise waters and fine white sand. The calm setting makes the island suitable for travellers seeking a quieter destination away from busy tourist areas.
Wildlife can also be seen in several parts of the island. Animals such as deer, maleo birds, and local cattle roam freely across the landscape.
The waters around the island also contain coral reefs and marine life.
Snorkelling and diving are popular activities, and visitors may encounter fish species, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins.
Activities to Do on Nuca Molas Island
Several outdoor activities can be enjoyed while visiting Nuca Molas Island.
Snorkelling and Diving
The surrounding waters offer coral reefs and marine biodiversity, making snorkelling and diving common activities for visitors interested in exploring the underwater environment.
Trekking and Hiking
One of the popular trekking routes leads to Bukit Bendera (Flag Hill). From the summit, visitors can see a wide panorama of Mules Island and the surrounding sea. The hill is also a well-known spot for sunrise and sunset views.
Beach Exploration
The island’s beaches provide space for swimming, walking along the shore, or simply relaxing while observing the coastal scenery.
Photography and Wildlife Observation
Nuca Molas is often visited by photography enthusiasts because of its open landscapes and wildlife. The island offers opportunities for nature photography, especially for those interested in documenting animals and coastal scenery.
Facilities on Nuca Molas Island
Tourism development on Nuca Molas Island is still in its early stages. However, several basic facilities have been introduced by the local government to support visitors.
Available facilities include:
- Public restrooms
- Prayer rooms
- Small restaurants
- Limited accommodation options
Despite these improvements, dining and lodging choices remain limited. Travellers planning to visit the island are advised to bring sufficient supplies, including drinking water, food, and personal necessities.
