About Melo Village
Melo Village is a traditional Manggarai cultural village located in Mbeliling District, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, about 15-20 km from Labuan Bajo. Perched on a hill, it is known as a center for preserving Manggarai culture, particularly the Caci whip dance, traditional houses, and panoramic views over the surrounding hills and islands near Labuan Bajo.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hillside traditional village with Manggarai traditional houses, a communal performance area for the Caci whip dance, and scenic viewpoints overlooking valleys and distant islands. The setting is rural and elevated with agricultural surroundings. Visitors can explore the village compound, observe cultural demonstrations, interact with local residents, and take photographs of the landscape and architecture with a local guide.
Key highlights
- 01
Caci whip dance cultural performance by local Manggarai performers
- 02
Panoramic hilltop viewpoint overlooking Labuan Bajo and surrounding islands
- 03
Traditional Manggarai houses and village layout
- 04
Authentic cultural interaction with Melo community
- 05
Proximity to Labuan Bajo as a cultural stop en route to other attractions
History of Melo Village
Melo Village is a long-established Manggarai settlement that has maintained traditional customs and architecture. It has become recognized as a cultural preservation village for the Manggarai people of western Flores, particularly for maintaining the Caci tradition.