When mentioning the Flores name, surely everyone will focus on the beautiful exotic island of Komodo dragons and the phenomenal Pink Beach. Moreover, Flores is also known for its beautiful underwater scenery with complete marine life and still maintained its authenticity.
Although Flores is a beautiful archipelago, it is also known for its grasslands that produce so many burly horses known as the Sumbawa horses. The area of Flores known for its pastures is called Gili Lawa Darat. What and how beautiful is Gili Lawa Darat?
Gili Lawa Darat is a vast desert that stretches like a natural carpet across the hills. Gili Lawa Darat is one of the tourist destinations that is often visited by local and foreign tourists. The uninhabited island is still in the Komodo National Park area in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. Precisely, north of Komodo Island and directly facing the Flores Sea.
Gili Lawa Darat is also known by the name Gili Laba. This small island offers a unique experience in enjoying the natural beauty of Flores from a spectacular height.

Credit: Fimela.com
Gili Lawa is located in the Komodo Archipelago, which is famous for its underwater biodiversity and iconic Komodo dragon population. However, the island offers more than just underwater beauty.
With an elevation of about 200 meters above sea level, Gili Lawa presents a breathtaking and enchanting panoramic view.
To reach the top of Gili Lawa, it takes a little effort and some light trekking in the afternoon. The journey to the top can take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your speed and fitness. However, upon arrival at the summit, all fatigue will be rewarded by the spectacular views that await.
The summit of Gili Lawa offers stunning views. You’ll be greeted by a vast landscape, with barren land and rocks, contrasting with the beauty of the vast ocean. The surrounding small islands look dazzling amidst the clear blue water.
From this height, you can witness spectacular sunrises or sunsets, which paint the sky with beautiful colors and create stunning silhouettes of the surrounding scenery.
In addition to the stunning natural scenery, Gili Laba also offers an incredible snorkeling experience. After descending the peak, you can dive into the beautiful and stunning waters surrounding the island. The colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life create an amazing underwater world to explore.
Keep in mind that as part of Komodo National Park, Gili Lawa Darat is protected and preserved. It is important for visitors to keep clean and not damage the island’s ecosystem. Do not leave any trash behind and do not disturb the flora and fauna.

Credit: Phinemo.com
To visit Gili Lawa Darat, you can reach it via travel routes from Labuan Bajo or surrounding villages in Flores. There are various tours and travel packages offered by local tour operators that can help you enjoy this experience comfortably and safely.
Gili Lawa Darat is the perfect place for nature and adventure lovers who want to combine the beauty of natural scenery with physical activities. Trekking to the top of Gili Laba will provide a satisfying challenge as well as an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Flores from a height.
On the way to the top, you can also encounter various types of flora and fauna that live around the island. Perhaps you’ll spot rare birds flying in the blue sky, or perhaps you’ll encounter groups of monkeys frolicking in the trees.
The overnight experience on Gili Lawa Darat is also an interesting option for adventurers. Some tour operators provide tents or simple lodgings on the island, so you can experience the sensation of spending the night in the middle of enchanting nature. Spending the night on Gili Lawa Darat gives you the opportunity to see the sky full of stars without the interference of city lights.

Credit: dolanesia.travel
Moreover, Gili Lawa is also an ideal place for diving and snorkeling. The waters around the island hold stunning underwater beauty, including beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. You can dive with colorful fish and witness the hidden beauty that lies beneath the surface of the sea.
It is important to remember that when visiting Gili Laba, we must preserve nature and the surrounding environment. Do not litter, keep clean and avoid damaging the ecosystem. We all have a responsibility to preserve this natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
With spectacular natural scenic beauty, challenging trekking and amazing snorkeling activities, Gili Lawa Darat is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
This small island offers an unforgettable and mesmerizing experience, which will leave a beautiful mark in your memory. So, don’t miss the chance to visit Gili Lawa Darat while you’re in Flores and enjoy its alluring charm.