Overview

Why you should take this tour?
The reason is: you can see the caci dance performance which is the signature of the traditional Manggarai dance.

What is Caci Dance?

Caci Dance is a traditional war dance from the Manggarai region in Flores, Indonesia, particularly associated with the Manggarai people. It is a ceremonial performance that combines elements of martial arts with dance and is traditionally performed as part of a ritualistic event or festival, often to settle disputes or to mark significant cultural occasions.

Key Features of the Caci Dance:

1. Warrior Ritual: The Caci Dance involves two male participants who act as “warriors.” Each dancer wields a whip (known as a “caci”) in one hand and a shield in the other. The whip is used both as a weapon and as a tool to create dramatic movements and sound.
2. Physical and Symbolic Battle: The two participants face off in a mock battle, where they attempt to strike each other with their whips while protecting themselves with their shields. The dance is a symbolic representation of a fight, but it is performed with careful control to avoid injury. In the past, it may have been used in actual combat or to settle conflicts between villages, but today it is performed primarily for cultural and ceremonial purposes.
3. Rituals and Costumes: The dancers wear traditional attire, which often includes ornate headgear, intricate body paint or tattoos, and colorful clothing. The costumes, along with the use of whips and shields, enhance the ritualistic and dramatic nature of the performance.
4. Performance Setting: The dance is often accompanied by music, including drumming and chanting, which adds to the intensity and energy of the event. The dance can be part of larger festivals, such as agricultural harvest celebrations, weddings, or other community events.
5. Cultural Significance: The Caci Dance is not just a performance; it is a way of expressing the values of strength, bravery, and honor. It is deeply ingrained in the identity of the Manggarai people, serving as a celebration of their history, warrior culture, and sense of community.
6. Whip Techniques: The technique of handling the whip is a key element of the Caci Dance, requiring skill, precision, and strength. The whips themselves are crafted carefully, and their use in the dance is both a display of artistry and martial prowess.

The Caci Dance is one of the most recognized cultural expressions of the Manggarai people, and its dramatic, intense nature makes it a captivating spectacle for both locals and visitors.

Tour Highlights

• Ease of Choosing Transportation in Labuan Bajo
• Visiting destinations in the city of Labuan Bajo
• Plan a Good In-City Trip