responsible travel komodo

How to Be a Responsible Traveler in Komodo Island

I’ve always dreamed of visiting Flores, Indonesia and seeing Komodo Dragons in the wild. When I knew I was returning to Indonesia on assignment last year to visit  Raja Ampat  and  Yogyakarta  I decided it was finally time to make this dream come true. It might have also been my last chance to do so as rumors were swirling that the Indonesian government was considering shutting down tourist access to Komodo National Park. This is how to be a responsible traveler in Komodo Island.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KOMODO DRAGONS

You’ve surely heard of these deadly beasts.  Komodo Dragons , officially called Varanus komodoensis, are the largest lizard species that still roam the Earth. They’re a type of monitor lizard and only live in Indonesia. They have no predators—though eagles sometimes eat the babies which are about a foot long when they hatch. The prehistoric creatures are an endangered species but tourism is credited for helping with the preservation of the species as visiting Komodo National Park is strictly regulated. Park rangers are with guests at all times to protect the animals and visitors.

Komodo Dragons can kill humans with a single bite that delivers a venom ridden with toxins that cause blood clotting and the body to go into shock. Komodo Dragons hunt everything—even each other and their young. Komodo dragons can grow up to 10-feet-long and weigh up to 300 pounds but they can still outrun humans. Unless you can run 13 miles an hour? Their tail is more dangerous than their venom as it’s the strongest part of the body and often used to beat prey.

The park rangers won’t let you get close to the dragons but they also don’t allow any weapons on the island. It’s not recommended to go if you’re menstruating as they can  smell blood as far as five miles away . Don’t take your chances. There is no anti-venom for a Komodo Dragon bite.

WHY KOMODO ISLAND WAS GOING TO CLOSE

Indonesian authorities were going to  close Komodo Island  to tourists for a year after they said over 40 Komodo dragons were stolen and sold for $35,000 each. The park rangers I interviewed at Komodo Island said that they weren’t convinced any of their inhabitants had been stolen. They showed me the data scientists had pulled on a recent visit which proved that the numbers of the endangered animals were increasing at a healthy rate. At the time, they were anxious about what the closure would mean for their jobs. Everyone in the village relies on tourism for their income.

Ultimately, the government enlisted a  limit to the number of visitors  that can enter the Komodo National Park daily which seems quite sensible as it’s a fragile place and the natural habitat of an endangered species. In 2018, Komodo National Park had  176,000 visitors .

SAILING WITH WANUA ADVENTURES

As a responsible traveler, I had to consider my impact. Often humans prioritize our bucket lists over considering the destruction we may bring upon a destination. I’d always dreamed of seeing these creatures that are distant relatives of dinosaurs. Was my need to see Komodo Dragons more important than the preservation of the archipelago?

I consulted with some friends who had done liveaboard boat trips from Lombok to Flores (which is one of the Komodo islands). This trip can be treacherous. Some local ferries and budget tour boats have had horrific occurrences of their boats breaking down, or worse, capsizing and guests drowning at sea. It was also important to me that if I were to make this trip, I do it with a locally operated company that is mindful of both environmental and social sustainability.

Wanua Adventures  was the best option I could find within my budget for cabin class—this was not a press trip but a travel experience I was paying for myself out of pocket. It’s especially important to support local tour vendors in Indonesia as many entities are suffering as a result of a decrease in tourism after the earthquakes and volcanic activity that has plagued the archipelago in the last few years. As a bonus, they always prepare a few vegetarian dishes at each meal and most are vegan-friendly.

The private cabin was 3.0 million IDR. While it was nice to have my own space, the cabin is very basic and the fan didn’t work at night as it required the generator so it was incredibly hot, stuffy, and claustrophobic. However, I do think I would have been more uncomfortable sleeping like sardines next to strangers. Not all of their boats have lockers and I didn’t feel secure leaving my camera and laptop in the open so having a private room to lock them seemed worth the cost. I spent most of the days on the very top of the boat (avoiding drunk teenagers) just taking in my surroundings.

FIRST STOP: KENAWA ISLAND

After boarding the ship will take off for a few hours at sea towards Kenawa Island. You’ll arrive in time for sunset. There’s the option of doing a mellow hike to the top of a hill but I was enticed by the empty beach and decided to have some time alone to do yoga and soak up the beautiful nature that surrounded me. To reach the shore we had to swim through the sea which was quite joyous after an afternoon cooped up on the boat.

SECOND STOP: MOYO ISLAND

The next day will take you to Moyo Island. Here you can take a short 10-minute hike inland to a beautiful waterfall. There are many natural baths you can soak in or you can use the rope to trek up the sticky waterfall. After the waterfall, head back to the shore before the boat leaves for a chance to snorkel along the reef wall that surrounds the lush island. The rest of the day is spent at sea. The landscapes are incredible and the sunsets are otherworldly.

THIRD STOP: SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS

The third day you will begin your day swimming through wild waters that are common feeding grounds for manta rays all year long. December to March is said to be the best time to see them but I saw plenty and it was the end of May. I’ve swum with manta rays before in  Bali’s Nusa Islands . The manta rays I’d seen before seemed tiny in comparison. Somewhere on the way to Flores, I saw the largest manta rays ever—they seemed to have a wingspan larger than the width of the boat. I felt like I was in Jurassic Park. It never ceases to amaze me the way these gigantic creatures glide so gracefully through the ocean.

I swam in the water with a pair of manta rays and quite a few spotted eagle rays. It was an incredible experience and the staff was very mindful of making sure everyone respected the space of the marine creatures. We also spotted dolphins and sea turtles en route to Komodo National Park.

FOURTH STOP: KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

On the third day, you’ll finally arrive at Komodo National Park, a 420,000 acre  UNESCO World Heritage Site . The initial visit to the park is at Komodo Island but Rinca, Padar, and other small islands are also part of the National Park. We’re guided by a ranger who is native to the island and says there are 3,000 Komodo Dragons within the park with the largest population in Komodo Island with 1,300 lizards. We saw four adults and one baby lizard on Komodo Island. Komodo Island is one of the  New 7 Wonders of Nature .

There are many regulations in place to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Boats are not allowed to drop anchor at Komodo National Park, they must dock on the jetty. Smoking is not allowed. Visitors are expected to follow the leave no trace policy and signs warn not to take even a grain of sand.

The lizards roam free. Keep your wits about you and follow your guide’s instructions at all times. As you walk through the park the guide will tell you about how Komodo Dragons mate, live, and hunt. They’ll point out tracks, nest, and other markers to help you learn how to spot a Komodo Dragon.

Although the lizards are huge it’s quite hard to spot them when they are in muddy and grassy areas as they camouflage quite well. The young ones are the hardest to spot and they’re the deadliest as they haven’t learned how to distribute their venom yet. You’ve been warned!

As we left Komodo Island a gigantic school of stingrays swam along the jetty. Komodo National Park truly is out of this world and a mecca of natural wonders.

FIFTH STOP: KOMODO’S PINK BEACH

It’s a bit hard to conceptualize how such deadly dragons share an island that is also home to a pastel pink beach. No, it won’t be a vibrant magenta color like you’ve seen on Instagram—those pictures are doctored. But the pastel color is stunning, and albeit a bit hard to capture on camera.

The pink beach in Komodo is the result of red coral mixing with pure white sand. At the beach, there’s a small hike you can take to a vista over the crescent-shaped shore. I opted to find my own space and do some yoga as I was craving solitude. I posed for these pictures but went through a sequence afterward and soaked up the feminine energy of the rose-hued sand that surrounded me.

Don’t forget to grab snorkel gear and go for another swim here. The coral reef is phenomenal and there are lots of small colorful fish to admire. This evening we anchored down somewhere near Padar Island. Local men on a wooden boat paddled up to sell us beer and left us with an astonishing site— Bioluminescence ! It was mystical to see the stars shining above us and the bioluminescence twinkling in the sea around us.

SIXTH STOP: PADAR ISLAND

Hiking in Padar Island is like being inside a screen saver. The photos you’ve seen at this place won’t set you up for disappointment. Indeed, they don’t do the vistas justice at all. The hike is short but a bit strenuous at 4 AM in the dark.

Keep going all the way up for the best views of the three bays. The sun will rise to the right over the tiny island. Color fills the sky as if you’re inside a painting. It’s truly mesmerizing.

As the new light shines on the coast you’ll be able to see the beaches are all different colors—black, white, and pink. The 360-degree views of the landscape are truly breathtaking. It’s one of the most stunning viewpoints in all of Indonesia—and the world.

SEVENTH STOP: RINCA ISLAND

This lesser-visited island is also home to a large population of Komodo Dragons. Again, a guide will take you around. You’ll go for a bit of a long up-hill walk through some grasslands. It’s a bit underwhelming as most of the lizards are on the low land by where the boat docks.

We saw 12 adults and one baby Komodo Dragon on Rinca Island. Some were lounging by the ranger station which makes me a bit nervous that perhaps they’ve been fed by humans.

There was a stack of about eight Komodo Dragons lounging on top of each other. They seem eerily comfortable around people. Our guides reassured us that these lizards were just full. They can eat some 200 pounds in one go and then stay full for a month. Maybe there had been a big hunt recently?

It’s astonishing to watch Komodo Dragons move. They walk as if it’s a serious chore to lift a leg. I only saw a baby run and it was shockingly fast.

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This Post Has 2 Comments

Seeing Komodo dragons is high on my bucket list, but I’ve read horror stories about people damaging their habitat. Love to see a post about RT there! I’m saving for when I plan my trip! ❤️

Komodo has been on my list of places to see for ages. Although never entirely sure how to get there. Thanks a lot for the helpful info!

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Magic happens when the adventure begins

Asia , Indonesia , Komodo , Travel Guide · July 11, 2019

The Ultimate Komodo Travel Guide: everything you need to know

Since a lot of people seem to think that chasing Komodo dragons is the only thing to do at the Komodo national park, I created this Komodo travel guide with everything you need to know about these beautiful Indonesian islands. There is way more to see and do at this wonderful piece of earth.

If you want to hike and see one of the most incredible views in your life, relax on a pink beach, snorkle to find Nemo and sea turtles or dive with Manta Rays, then Komodo is your place to be! The good news is that all these things are doable in one day, even though I recommend staying longer.

Don’t let the news of the 2020 park closure scare you off; there are enough places at the national park to explore and see the dragons besides Komodo island.

Komodo Travel Guide: everything you need to know

Where is Komodo?

Komodo National Park is situated between the Indonesian islands Sumbawa and Flores. It consists of three bigger islands Komodo, Padar and Rinca and several tiny islands.

How to get there?

The fastest and safest way to get to Komodo is to take a flight to Labuan Bajo, a small fishing town in the west of the island Flores. It is the nearest coastal town to the park. I flew from Bali with Garuda Indonesia, but there are also flights from other Indonesian islands and other airlines who provide flights.

Make sure to book your flight in time and keep in mind flights often get cancelled/changed, so you’ll probably end up on another flight. (I booked an early morning flight back to Bali and was transferred to an afternoon flight, so I had to change my travel plans to Nusa Penida, since I was too late to catch the last fast boat)

Where to stay?

There are several options to stay at Komodo; you can stay at a hotel at Labuan Bajo, sleep on a boat during a multiple day tour or even stay at a private island!

I stayed at Le Pirate hotel at the harbour of Labuan Bajo. From there it was easy to book day trips, since it is located on the main street. The rooms look like beach cabins and are rather small, but super clean.

What makes this hotel so special and fun is the rooftop bar with its little swimming pool. There you have a fantastic view on the bay and the sunset. They serve the best drinks and delicious food with lounge music always playing in the background.

Every evening they organize something different like live music or movie night (including free popcorn!) which is perfect to enjoy the warm evenings on the rooftop.

I met other people who stayed at Golo Hilltop Hotel and they were very pleased with this hotel also. It is situated on the hill and has a great view on the bay and the sunset.

If you are looking for something a little more adventurous you can also book a three day trip on a boat. There are a lot of tour options. Le Pirate also has its own boat: Le Pirate Explorer . If you don’t want to spend the night on a boat, you can also sleep at a private island! I visited Le Pirate island for just one day, but the sleeping huts looked very comfortable! The only downside is that if you want to explore Komodo that you first have to go back to Labuan Bajo by boat (about an hour) to start your day trip on another boat.

How to visit Komodo National Park?

I booked a one day boat tour twice, because I stayed at Labuan Bajo for 4 nights. I wanted to be sure to see dragons and I just loved being able to experience the fantastic landscapes above and under water twice!

You can book these day trips easily at the main street of Labuan Bajo where you will find a lot of little tour agencies. Most companies will pick you up between 5.30 and 6.00 am at your hotel and drop you back off between 4.00 and 5.00 pm. They often offer the same program. But there are also more specialized diving companies that focus more on diving areas.

You can also book multiple day trips, so you will sleep on a boat. Next time I’ll definitely consider doing that!

Komodo Travel Guide: What to see and do?

Padar island.

This was the first stop of the boat tour, since you have to do a serious hike up the hill to a view point. Once the sun rises it gets really hot, so the earlier you arrive, the better.

Make sure to wear some decent shoes and bring a water bottle (often offered on the boat), because the hike is no joke! The view is definitely worth it! Never before did I see a black, a white and a pink beach, magnificent hills and clear blue water all at once. It is for sure one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen!

DISCLAIMER: I found this (dead) coral on the beach. So no, I didn’t harm it. I would never do that. Just saying, because someone started a whole Twitter riot with my photo and blog name, claiming I had pulled it from the sea, which is a straight lie. I told him to get his facts straight. But some people just think it is OK to start some drama on someone else’s back.

There are several pink beaches at the Komodo National Park and most tours go to a bigger pink beach, but the ones I did took me to a smaller more private one. There were no other boats so the beach was ours! And yes the beach is really pink! It gets its color from a million pieces of shattered coral that wash ashore. The dry sand isn’t that pink, but the wet sand surely is. Especially when the waves hit the sand. The contrast of the pink sand with the sparkling blue water makes it even more magical.

It is also a wonderful place to snorkle. The corals are super pretty and there are hundreds of cute little fish.

Komodo dragons

This Komodo travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Komodo dragons, since they are the main reason for most people to visit the national park. You can only spot these giant lizards on several islands; Komodo, Rinca, Gili Motang and Flores. They are the biggest species of lizard (max. 3m) in the world.

Most tours will bring you to Komodo island. Your group will be guided by two rangers with a massive stick; one in the front and one in the back, to protect you from the dragons. They will take you along a path through the park to look for the dragons. On the way they share a lot of dragon facts and they are happy to answer all your questions. Once they find a Komodo dragon they will offer to take a photo of you with the dragon.

I swear they look creepy as hell and yes, they are dangerous even though they look super lazy. Apparently they can run 40 km per hour. So they advised us, if a dragon runs towards you, start running zig zag to slow them down. They are also venomous so if you get bitten, you are in serious trouble. I don’t know if those sticks are enough to protect you. I am just glad the rangers didn’t have to use them! If you are there, just stay with the group, because the tourists that got bitten in the past are the ones that went venturing out on their own.

On my first tour I only saw one big dragon. On the second tour I saw three big ones and two baby dragons, so I was very lucky!

Taka Makassar

Taka Makassar is a dreamy crescent beach in the middle of the sea where you can snorkle and find Nemo, triangle fish, sea turtles and many other sea creatures. I loved this spot!

Manta Point

On the way to the last island of the boat tour you will stop somewhere in the middle of the sea to dive with black manta rays. I was a little scared to jump into the dark blue water on the first tour since the boat was constantly on the move, leaving people alone in the water. On the second tour the manta rays decided to stay hidden, so I didn’t see them.

Kanawa Island

This island wasn’t very special, but it was another spot where you can snorkle. I found a lot of star fish here.

What to take with you?

• You will be in the sun all day, in and out of the water, so you’ll definitely need a lot of sunscreen !
• hiking shoes/sneakers to hike at Padar and Komodo island.
• cash for Komodo’s entrance fee and souvenirs
• underwater camera to take photos while snorkling
• breakfast box (most hotels offer these)

Where to eat and drink?

Apparently the rooftop bar of the hotel I stayed at was a very popular hang out place. I am not surprised because both the drinks and the food were delicious and fresh. I loved the quesadillas and the Rusty Anchor cocktail! Having dinner here while watching the sun set was magical!

This Mexican restaurant is situated on the main road of Labuan Bajo and it serves large portions of tasty Mexican food. The top floor has big open windows where you also have a great view on the harbour.

Komodo Travel Guide: extra information

• Take into account that domestic flights often allow less luggage. My flight allowed 20 kilos of checked luggage.
• Fast boats are way quicker, so if you want to be one of the first at Padar, take a fast boat. Tours with a fast boat also do more stops in one day.
• Do not harm/touch the corals. It will destroy them and they are very important to the marine ecosystem.
• If you don’t feel comfortable in the water or you get tired easily, but you don’t want to miss out on snorkling; ask for a life jacket. (I wore it most of the time)
• Water and soft drinks are often included in the price of your boat trip
• I booked my first boat tour online and the others I booked on the day of arrival at the tour agencies on the main street of Labuan Bajo.

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Your Cheat Sheet to Planning a Trip to Komodo Islands [2024]

Everything you need to know about planning your bucket list trip to komodo national park.

Komodo National Park is one of our favourite places in the world to visit. Over the years, it has become increasingly gentrified - from not having street lamps or pavements a few years ago, it now even has a Starbucks! It doesn't get easier to plan a trip there though as questions like how to choose a boat, what are the park fees etc, are still maddeningly opaque.

Here is everything you need to know about planning a trip. If you're ready to book, check out all the Komodo experiences here !

What are the Komodo Islands?

Most people don't know this, but the UNESCO heritage Komodo National Park doesn't just have one island, it has 29 islands. Komodo Island is just one of the many islands on Komodo National Park (more on that later).

When you visit Komodo National Park, you not only see Komodo dragons, you'll also head to other islands to see Pink Beaches, swim with Manta Rays and hike up to otherworldly view points.

How to Get There

The gateway town to Komodo National Park is Labuan Bajo (LBJ). Labuan Bajo airport has a few international direct flights, but most travellers will fly here via Jakarta or Bali (which has multiple flights a day to LBJ).

From Labuan Bajo town, it takes a couple of hours by boat to get to Komodo National Park. Most of the boat trips will offer a pick up from Labuan Bajo town.

Finally, for adventurous travellers, there is a boat that goes from Lombok to Labuan Bajo via Komodo National Park.

How to Explore Komodo National Park

You can only see Komodo National Park on an island hopping boat tour. You can either do a sightseeing boat tour or you can do a diving boat trip .

The sightseeing boat tours range from a day tour on a speedboat to a 3D2N liveaboard . Both will cover all the usual highlights like trekking with Komodo Dragons, seeing a Pink Beach, hiking to the viewpoint at Padar island and some snorkelling.

The diving boat trips range from one day leisure dives to 4 day liveaboards. They usually are only diving focused and they'll take you to some of the top dive spots but they won't go sightseeing to the various islands.

Staying in Komodo National Park

There are no hotels in Komodo National Park so generally travellers will stay in Labuan Bajo town. If you want to spend the night in Komodo National Park, you'll need to choose an overnight boat , and stay on board ( pictured ).

While there are resorts that are located on an island, and not in LBJ town, these resorts are not in Komodo National Park itself. The issue with staying in these resorts is that the join-in boat trips do not offer pick up from these resorts, so it'll be more logistically painful to do a sightseeing boat trip.

How Much Time to Spend Here

The shortest amount of time you need here is 3 days, even if you're only doing a one day speedboat trip . Because you'll fly in on the 1st day, do the speedboat trip on the 2nd day, and fly out on the 3rd day.

If you really want to see everything that Komodo National Park and Labuan Bajo has to offer, we would recommend 7 days if you're not diving (for 3D2N boat trip + 1 day road trip around LBJ + 2 days travel time). If you want to dive as well as sightsee, we would recommend at least 9 days (including travel time).

Note that the timings of the boat trips usually means you should fly in the day before your trip starts, and fly out the day after it ends.

Best Time to Go

Try to avoid the rainy season from January to March, as most boat trips don't run during this time, other than the one day speedboats. Even the one day speedboat trips may be cancelled on the day due to bad weather. If you do go then, plan for a couple of days' buffer time so you can reschedule your boat trip in case the original trip gets cancelled.

If your aim is only to see Komodo dragons, avoid mating season in July and August. You'll likely only see small Komodo dragons during this time as the large dragons are in the forest mating, and hard to find.

Finally try to avoid local holidays (for e.g. Raya) as it's way too packed then. You'll be queuing to hike up Padar, and crowding around the Mantas!

What to See & Do

Komodo island.

This is one of the two islands where Komodo dragons live, and the largest island in Komodo National Park. This is also the only island in Komodo National Park that's inhabited by humans, as Komodo village and the indigenous Ata Modo are here. Here you'll get to trek with a local guide (usually from the indigenous Ata Modo tribe!) and try to spot wild Komodo Dragons.

Tip: Usually boat trips will either visit Komodo Island or Rinca Island to see Komodo dragons. But it's a bit harder to spot them in Komodo Island as the island is larger and more wild.

Rinca Island

Home to over-1000 Komodo dragons, Rinca is the only island other than Komodo Island where you can find Komodo dragons. Though it's not as famous as Komodo Island, it's actually easier to spot Komodo dragons here as it's a smaller island with a larger population of dragons on the island!

Tip: Rinca Island is a bit more manicured, with a boardwalk and easier sightings. If you want something more wild, go to Komodo Island.

Padar Island

This is the most iconic viewpoint at Komodo National Park, and the picture you've probably seen everywhere. Here you'll do a 45 minute easy trek to the top, and get to see panoramic views of Komodo National Park. If you peek carefully in that picture, you'll see a pink beach, a black beach and a white sand beach!

Tip: If you do an overnight boat trip, you'll be able to come here for sunrise when it's a little less crowded.

There are several Pink Beaches in Komodo National Park. The Pink Beach that most boats go to is the one near Komodo Island, which is a little less pink recently as travellers take the red coral (which gives the sand its colour) home. To see the pinkest part of the beach, venture to the far end of the beach where travellers don't go, and you'll see it in a dark pink hue.

Tip: If you take a private boat or if currents permit, you can head to the pinkest (and more remote) Pink Beach near Padar Island - called Short Beach. Don't forget to leave the red coral behind 🙈

Manta Point

Here you can snorkel with giant Manta Rays! The waters here are colder, which is what the gentle Mantas like, and during Manta season you'll be able to swim with many Mantas around you.

Tip: The best time to come here is actually in rainy season from December to March where the waters are especially cold, but you'll be able to see them up to June. If you come here from July to September though the chances of seeing them are low.

Also known as Turtle Bay, Siaba Bay is home to gorgeous coral reefs and where giant turtles like to hang out because of their favourite food (sea grass!) here. Siaba Bay is one of our fave spots in Komodo - you can snorkel and dive here to see the super zen and gorgeous turtles.

Tip: Not all the boat trips go to Siaba Bay so if you do love turtles and want to come here, check the itinerary carefully or go for a private boat where you can customise your itinerary.

Kalong Island

This was our highlight when we went to Komodo National Park! Here you'll see the exodus of millions of bats at sunset and it's such a otherworldly sight. First you'll see just a handful of bats fly out, and before long the entire orange sky is entirely covered with bats.

Tip: Not all boat trips go to Kalong island. The 3D2N trips will go, but the one-day join-in speedboat trips and dive trips won't. Kalong island alone is a good reason to do a 3D2N trip or a private speedboat trip !

How to Choose a Boat Trip

Join-in vs private boat.

Most of the boat trips in Komodo are join-in boat trips , but you can charter your own private boat as well.

If you're solo/couple or want to make friends, do a join-in trip. But if you have 4 or more persons, or any time constraints, you may want to charter a private boat . It's more flexible, more comfortable and not a lot more expensive.

The join-in trips have a number of constraints that private boats don't. For e.g. if you want to do a 3D2N join-in trip you'll need to arrive by Thursday. And if you're looking to do a 2D1N trip, you'll only find basic boats willing to do that trip on a join-in basis. If you do a private trip you don't need to worry about any of this, and can customise your itinerary!

Day Trip vs Overnight

If you want to wake up with the incredible views of Komodo National Park, you'll have to do a liveaboard trip as there are no hotels in Komodo National Park. However if you would rather not spend the night on the boat, a one-day speedboat actually covers most of the destinations that the overnight boats do.

The only difference in itinerary is that on a one-day speedboat, you don't get to go to Padar Island at sunrise (which isn't the biggest deal really), and you don't get to see the exodus of bats at Kalong Island. If you really want to see Kalong Island on a one-day trip, you can charter a private speedboat .

Diving vs Sightseeing

You'll need to decide whether you want to dive or go island hopping to see all of Komodo's highlights. The dive boats usually only includes one or two highlights like trekking with Komodo dragons and Padar Island, and, on the other hand, the sightseeing boats will have snorkelling but not diving.

If you want to dive and sightsee, you'll need to do 2 separate trips. Either a 4D3N diving liveaboard trip and then a separate one day Komodo sightseeing boat trip . Or you can also do a 3D2N Komodo sightseeing boat trip and a one day leisure dive trip

Budget Boat vs Phinisi Boat

For overnight trips, you can choose between basic boats , or Phinisi boats (which is basically a deluxe or luxury boat - pictured).

A basic boat usually has on-deck sleeping and you can choose from either a 2D1N trip or a 3D2N trip. A Phinisi boat will have private rooms (some will have both private rooms and dorms), and generally have better food, and amenities.

Komodo is a complicated place, and every year, several basic boats do sink. So if you do go for a budget boat do check their safety credentials carefully.

Common Questions from Travellers

What are komodo park fees.

Generally park fees are excluded from your boat tour price, and you'll need to bring cash for the fees. Usually the amount is quoted as a range, not a fixed sum because, well, it's complicated!

Komodo park entrance fees depend on the island you're visiting, whether it's a weekday or weekend, whether you're foreigner or local, and even how many people there are on your boat. To complicate it more, there are constant talks about increasing the fees 🤷

Current fees per person/per day on weekdays: Foreigners/Kitas holders: IDR 400-500k / Indonesians: IDR 180-250k. Sundays/public holidays per person (Foreigners/kitas holders : IDR 450-550k / Indonesians : IDR 180-250k)

What should I pack?

Pack light if you're spending the night on the boat! The rooms on the boats aren't large so if you bring a large suitcase you may not even be able to open it in your room.

Pack swimwear for snorkelling (and a rashguard if you're sensitive to the cold), sea sickness pills if you're prone to motion sickness, and hiking sandals or sneakers (as you'll need grip for the Padar trek).

Can I fly out on the day my trip ends?

We don't recommend flying out on the same day. Usually the boat trips are scheduled to arrive back at Labuan Bajo between 4-6pm in the evening. However this is subject to the currents and weather, and is very unpredictable. So ideally you should plan to fly out the day after your boat trip.

Can I go on my period?

Yes you can. Some people are concerned that Komodo dragons may be aggressive towards people on their periods, but that is not a risk at all.

As with any wildlife, whether or not you're on your period, just keep a sensible distance away from the wildlife and you'll be ok.

Can I bring my drone?

Guests who bring their own drone for usage within the Komodo National Park are required to purchase a drone ticket at the National Park Office at Labuan Bajo 3 days prior to the trip. The cost of the ticket is 1 million rupiahs so please do prepare enough cash. 

Can I go from Bali to Komodo on Boat?

No you can't. You can only fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo (1.5 hours flight, multiple flights a day), which is the gateway town to all the Komodo boat trips. You can however take a sightseeing boat from Lombok to Labuan Bajo via Komodo National Park , which sails from April to December every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Komodo National Park in Labuan Bajo, Flores, Indonesia is a UNESCO World heritage site, and one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here you can see the prehistoric Komodo Dragon (basically a giant lizard!), swim with manta rays and turtles in crystal clear waters and see surreal pink sand beaches. You’ll do an island hopping boat trip here to visit all the highlights of Komodo National Park, and you can hike, dive and snorkel when you’re here.

To safely encounter Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, it is essential to visit the Komodo National Park with an experienced guide. These local guides are knowledgeable about the dragons' behavior and will ensure your safety while maintaining a respectful distance from the animals. Additionally, it is important to follow the guidelines provided by the park and your guide, such as not feeding the dragons, wearing appropriate footwear, and staying on designated paths.

• Manta Point - Known for its large population of manta rays, this site is perfect for observing these majestic creatures up close.
• Castle Rock - An underwater pinnacle teeming with fish, sharks, and other marine life, Castle Rock is ideal for experienced divers seeking a thrilling adventure.
• Batu Bolong - A coral-covered rock formation that attracts an abundance of marine life, including turtles, reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish.
• Cannibal Rock - This dive site features stunning soft corals, sea fans, and a variety of macro creatures, making it a favorite among underwater photographers.
• Tatawa Besar - With its gentle currents, Tatawa Besar offers a relaxing drift dive along a vibrant coral reef, perfect for divers of all levels.

We would recommend not visiting Komodo National Park during January to March as this is monsoon season and most boats don't run during this time, other than the one day speedboats. Even the one day speedboat trips may sometimes be cancelled if the weather is so bad that it's deemed unsafe to go out on the day. So if you visit Komodo National Park during this period, include more buffer time just in case your initially booked trip gets cancelled because of the weather.

Other than that, the other months are fine to visit Komodo National Park. The timing that you visit will determine what you'll get to see as some months are better for Komodo dragon sightings and other months are better for Manta Ray sightings.

• For Komodo dragon sightings, the ideal time to visit is during the dry season, which typically occurs between April and November. However, it is essential to avoid the mating season (July and August) when the dragons are less active. During mating season, the large dragons would be much more difficult to spot and you'll likely only see small, monitor-lizard sized dragons.
• Manta rays on the other hand love the rainy season. So if you only care about seeing them, the rainy season from December to February can be an excellent time to visit. Although the weather is wetter, manta rays are more likely to be spotted during this period as they tend to aggregate near the surface to feed on plankton.
• To maximize your chances of seeing both Komodo dragons and manta rays, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April, May, October, and November. These months generally offer favorable weather conditions and fewer crowds, increasing your chances of memorable wildlife encounters.

More Field Notes finds

Enter the dragon: exploring Komodo National Park’s wild attractions

Jun 12, 2018 • 6 min read

Christmas Island crabs? The adorable quokkas of Rottnest? There’s perhaps no place in the world as synonymous with its animal inhabitants as Indonesia’s Komodo National Park.

A 603 sq km archipelago, Komodo National Park is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, dotted between the Indonesian provinces of East and West Nusa Tenggara. Here the remarkable Komodo dragon – a beastly monitor lizard measuring up to 3m long – thrives on paradisiacal islands surrounded by a sparkling blue sea.

But spotting this famed lizard is only one of the park’s deluge of nature-based highlights, with visitors also treated to rich marine life, amazing (and accomplishable) forest hiking trails and pristine swimming beaches with strikingly-coloured sands.

To help in making the most of your visit, here’s our guide to experiencing Komodo National Park ’s multitude of wildlife attractions.

Making an entrance

The small town of Labuanbajo on the large island of Flores isn’t actually part of the park but functions as the gateway where all boats depart from, making it one of the most scenic transport hubs in the world; a fishing village staving off development and offering epic Indo sunsets and a ramshackle, tropical vibe to those passing through.

Highlights here include eating fresh lobster (for a few rupiah) at the night market, a selection of lovely snorkelling and swimming spots and – if the bright, burnt yellow coastal landscape starts to make your eyes ache – a placating trek through rural villages and farmland to the pale blue pools of Cunca Waterfall, hidden in the island’s interior.

You can only enter Komodo National Park on an organised boat trip from Labuanbajo. Some tours will tell you it’s possible to whip around ‘everything’ in a day, but it's far more rewarding, relaxing and responsible to stretch the adventure out to at least a few nights on a weather-beaten but sturdy liveaboard boat. A voyage around the Unesco-protected reserve with an experienced local crew not only gives a sense of authenticity to the adventure, but also directly benefits the local community and economy.

This style of touring also gives you more freedom over where you spend time in the water. The park may be named after its land-dwelling inhabitants, but the wildlife below the surface is equally as mesmerising. The waters here are rarely much deeper than 3m, so you can easily duck-dive through great schools of colourful fish that appear like crystals shimmering through translucent tides.

Manta Point lives up to its title, with divers pretty much guaranteed to see manta rays gliding along the ocean floor. There are actually two spots commonly known as Manta Point, but they each have similarly gentle currents and high visibility. Popular sites like Batu Balong and the Cauldron require a high level of experience to negotiate the swirling waters, but Castle Rock is a more manageable series of ledges where you’re likely to spot black and white reef sharks, seriously sizeable giant trevally and perhaps a dolphin or two. Beautiful green and hawksbill turtles frequent these waters too – expect at least a few to drift into your dive path at some point.

It’s worth noting the water moves a lot between the islands, so you should be a decent open water swimmer with some snorkelling experience to feel completely safe. A good captain will move with the current, so be ready to jump in at short notice.

The other islands

Many visitors to the park don’t actually make it to Komodo Island, especially if short on time, and instead opt for Rinca Island where dragon spotting is possible (and arguably easier due to the largely barren landscape) while undertaking hikes around the island. Other wildlife on offer includes buffalo, Timor deer, wild pigs and eagles. But it does heat up quickly, so come prepared with plenty of water and sun protection.

More popular for keen trekkers is Padar, a small, narrow island beside Komodo that boasts a wonderful 2-hour hike to a dramatic viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire park. Padar is also home to blissful Pink Beach which has, you guessed it, pink sand. The effect, which can also be seen on some of the park's other beaches, is caused by a red coral which thrives just off shore and stains the otherwise bright white sand.

Smaller and less well-known, Kalong Island is home to one of the park’s more eerie wildlife displays. Around sunset, ‘Bat Island’, as it is known in English, is enveloped by vast clouds of the nocturnal creatures rising above the mangroves in search of food. It’s a spectacular natural treat that typifies the visceral experience of visiting Komodo National Park.

Entering the dragon’s lair

Komodo Island is a juggernaut when it comes to wildlife destinations. The isle is home to some 25 endangered species, plus thousands of migratory birds that nest in the dense foliage scattered beneath Mount Satalibo.

Then, of course, there are the dragons. Spotting one is a bucket-list experience for many nature enthusiasts and there’s an added romance to seeing these beasts in their eponymous homeland.

Known as oras to the roughly 2000 local Muslim Bugis fishermen, this prehistoric monitor lizard pretty much has the lay of the land. Because the locals don’t eat the ubiquitous Timor pigs – the dragons’ main food source (alongside deer and water buffalo) – the reptiles have been left to flourish. It also helps that the Komodo dragon is enshrined in ancient folklore, stemming from an old legend that tells of a man falling in love with a dragon princess, who gives birth to twins: a human boy and a female komodo dragon. The story paints the animals and native humans as kindred spirits, and thus should live in harmony. The fact the Indonesian government banned hunting them in 1915 may have also had something to do with the reptile’s long-term survival.

The dragons on Komodo Island are not as easy to spot as Rinca, even though they are larger and more plentiful. But it shouldn’t take long on a guided hike – and you must visit with a guide –  to come across these scaly monsters, especially in the early morning when they move about their natural habitat with a quiet confidence. By noon, the dragons tend to rest in small groups in the forest shade or in their burrow. You don’t need to be closer than 10m or so to get a sense of the animal’s prehistoric origins, with their thick scaly skin and powerful whipping tails.

A word of warning though: the dragons can smell blood for miles, so be careful what’s in your rucksack and to clean any wounds before venturing out. The dragons have a fierce bite and have been known to startle and even attack some wayward travellers. Keep your wits about you.

Treading carefully

Komodo National Park is a living case study on the benefits of sustainable tourism. The wildlife here has been able to prosper thanks to progressive policies governing its management and the awareness of local communities on the need to protect and nurture their livelihood.

Tourist numbers are increasing though – the mood in Labuanbajo is a little restless – so it’s crucial to be mindful of how your visit impacts the local environment and economy. Stay on liveaboard boats, avoid plastic waste, employ local guides and celebrate the great biodiversity of this ancient playground (after all, tourism can be a force for good, too).

If we don’t tread lightly, the Komodo dragon may – like its mythical, fire-breathing cousin – soon exist only in works of fantasy.

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11 Tips for Planning a Trip to Komodo Island

One of Indonesia’s best-kept secret, Komodo Island has got the whole package for a rounded adventure, from ancient species to colorful exotic corals, idyllic beaches to lush hills. To get the most out of your adventure, read our tips for planning a trip to Komodo Island.

Plan your route.

Komodo Island is located in the lesser Sunda islands, east from Java and Bali . If you’re boarding an international flight, the island can be reached via Jakarta or Bali. From either of the two cities, you can take a domestic flight to Labuan Bajo (also known as Komodo Airport) in Flores, which is the hub for Komodo tours. A flight from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo will take about 2.5 hours while a trip from Bali will only take one hour. Another alternative route popular among backpackers is a multi-day trip by boat from Lombok.

Choose the best time of year

Choose the right time of the month.

Ladies, make sure to check your menstrual cycle before planning your visit to Komodo Island. Komodo is a wild beast that can smell blood as far as 12 miles, and sometimes it triggers their aggression and predatory instinct. It’s best to avoid exploring the island during your period, this may seem delicate but you can still try to discuss with the tour guide or park ranger in advance and they will advise what to do depending on the situation.

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Choose a tour

There are plenty of tour services operating around the islands of Komodo National Park . You may want to research their services and prices beforehand and book in advance, as each has their own advantage. Some services like Perama Tour offer several packages with different highlights. You can also choose a boat or tour service on-the-spot, but be ready to either be charged more or settle with the less-reputable ones.

Pack the right clothes

Exploring Komodo Island will involve a lot of trekking, so choose your clothes accordingly. Pick cotton-based clothes that absorb sweat and choose a comfortable pair of shoes or mountain sandals. Also, don’t forget your swimsuit — Komodo Island has the dreamiest beaches and a lively marine biodiversity.

Protection from the sun

The tropical weather on a small island can be scorching. The sun may be extremely hot, so don’t forget your sunblock and bring the highest SPF you have. Wearing a hat is also advisable when trekking in the open.

Cameras ready

You may not need to be reminded to bring a camera but if you want to go all-out in capturing the picturesque natural beauty of Komodo Island , you may also need your telephoto lenses, underwater camera, or even macro lenses for the wildlife.

Gather your adventurous friends

Visiting Komodo Island is cheaper with more people — you can share boats and tour expenses. Besides, it will be more fun and safe walking in a group, as the komodo dragons may be more tempted to attack lone prey! If you’re traveling alone, you can always ask to join another group in Labuan Bajo before departing for Komodo Island.

Prepare your cash

… and we don’t mean money in a general sense, but physical Indonesian bills. Komodo Islands and its nearby small islands do not have ATM machines, so withdrawing money beyond Labuan Bajo will not be possible. Even if you’ve paid your tour services, always have cash on you, in case you need to buy anything from food to souvenirs.

1. Create an itinerary

Komodo Island has many beautiful aspects, from green hills to underwater coral gardens. There are also stunning beaches including the otherworldly Pink Beach , not to mention the exotic small islands scattered around the main island. Unless you’re signing up for a fully operated tour, you may want to create a detailed itinerary in order to make the most of your adventure. Start as early as you can in the morning to cover more ground. Plus, you’ll get to see the glorious sunrise.

Komodo Island landscape | © Bernard DUPONT/Flickr

Be informed on safety tips

Generally, komodo dragons will not just decide to attack you out of spite. But they may do so if you threaten them in any way. Avoid sudden movements while being around a komodo. If (heaven forbid) you get chased by a komodo, run in a zigzag pattern instead of running straight, and try to get shelter at one of the staged houses in the park, instead of climbing up a tree.

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How To Visit Komodo National Park

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | Asia , Indonesia , latest adventures , Travel Tips

Wondering how to visit Komodo National Park ? In this guide, we’ll give you some tips for visiting Komodo.

Known to be one of the best places to visit in Indonesia , Komodo National Park was pretty high on my Indonesian bucket list.

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Whether you’re planning on seeing the Komodo dragons, trying some of the best dives in the world or simply admiring the sea life while snorkeling, there are many great reasons to visit Komodo National Park .

When I decided to take a week off to explore Flores and Komodo National Park, I had no idea how amazed I would be.

Imagine waking up with dolphins and sea turtles, eating delicious meals (in fact – I had some of the best Indonesian food I ever had during this boat trip), meeting the famous manta rays as well as the intimidating dragons.

It was such an incredible experience and if I had to describe it in one word, I’d use “WOW”.

To get to Komodo National Park, you have to book a boat trip.  Whether you’re going on a short day trip, on a 2-day trip or a 3-day trip, you’re going to love your experience.

There are many beautiful islands and snorkeling spots to discover, so I’d recommend a longer trip. I personally went on a 2-nights-3-days trip with Flores XP which I would highly recommend.

My tour was called Padar Island Tour , but it wasn’t all about Padar! In fact, the wide variety of destinations covered was impressive!

So, normally, people will fly to Labuan Bajo , where they will start their journey and visit Komodo National Park. You should also keep in mind that you’ll have to pay National Park fees as well as ranger fees during your visit.

These fees are normally not included in the tours.

Komodo National Park Highlights

Now, let’s see what you can expect from a Komodo island tour. In this section, we’ll talk about the highlights of a great Komodo island trip.

Seeing The Komodo Dragons

Komodo Island

We saw the dragons on the first and second day on two different islands which provided two completely different experiences.

You can read more about the best places to see Komodo dragons .  Seeing these big lizards was surely intimidating, but also very impressive!

In fact, it’s also one of the main reasons why people decide to visit Komodo National Park.

Komodo Snorkeling/Diving Spots

Manta Point, Komodo

Firstly, I’d like to say that I’m not a scuba diver, but two people in my group were and they said two of the dives they did were the best they ever did – so, I’m guessing that’s a huge bonus!

To be fair – diving in Indonesia is quite popular and is known to be one of the best spots to do so!

But – I do love to snorkel. I always tend to compare everything with the Philippines, and of course, when it comes to fish, the Philippines wins easily!

Although – Komodo National Park wins for other things – I’ve seen my first sea turtle (and many more in these three days), I saw two sharks and the majestic manta rays.

One of the advantages of going on a trip with Flores XP was the fact that we would always be alone in every spot.

Snorkeling in Komodo, Indonesia

Locations for snorkeling/diving:

• Batu Bolong
• Penggah Island
• Manta Point
• Siaba / Mawan Island

Hiking & Trekking In Komodo National Park

Padar Island

One of the biggest highlights from my trip to Komodo was Padar Island, which is well known as it’s pretty iconic (and super popular on Instagram).

I thought I could actually be disappointed, but it was the opposite. Padar Island is the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen – combining beautiful mountains and beaches.

We were there for the sunset and there were only a few people there with us.

Otherwise, we had two more trekking opportunities which were done on Rinca and Komodo islands while trying to find the famous Komodo dragons.

Beach Bumming

Pink Beach, Komodo

While on the boat, you’ll see a lot of islands including some cute secluded beaches, which are surely tempting.

Thankfully, you’re going to stop to enjoy the beaches too.

• Siaba Island / Mawan Island

Meeting the Cutest Kids Ever

Rinca Island

We made a stop at Rinca Island to visit the village. It seemed like a great occasion to play with the kids (one of my favorite things to do while I’m abroad).

We walked around the village, interacted with the locals and we all appreciated our time with the kids.

Watching Flying Foxes At Sunset

Kalong Island (This photo seems like nothing, but reality is BETTER!)

We watched the sunset with a sky full of flying foxes. It was pretty impressive and lasted for a while.

I was actually surprised (I normally have no expectations when it comes to things like this to avoid disappointment) by the quantity.

• Kalong Island

Why You Should Book Your Boat Tour With Flores XP

• It was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on – I’m not a big fan of tours, but this one was surely incredible.
• They have excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.
• The crew members were lovely, helpful, and the cook was INCREDIBLE. I’ll say it again – I had some of the best Indonesian food I’ve ever had during this trip.
• You can enjoy a more intimate experience as the groups are pretty small during the rainy season – going on a longer trip means you can avoid the crowds too.  We saw other boats which seem absolutely packed – our boat was quite nice and chilled!
• You can also dive (expect to pay around $35) and possibly experience some of the best dives of your life.

Note: My itinerary was changed because of the weather and conditions. Normally, the second night is supposed to be at a camping spot on Sebayur Island, but the camp was destroyed a week before my trip following a big storm.

What’s included in the price?

Travel to Komodo Island

Here’s what to expect from the tour in terms of inclusions:

• Hotel transfers
• Meals and snacks
• English speaking guide
• Snorkeling equipment

And here’s a list of other expenses that aren’t included in the price:

• National Park fees

Are there any other Komodo tours?

Boat Trip Komodo

Flores XP offers a lot of alternatives when it comes to touring Komodo.

They organize day trips to Komodo as well as private tours and photography tours. You can find various options from 1 to 4 days here .

What to Pack for Your Komodo Boat Trip

• Underwater camera gear : you might want to be able to capture some epic moments underwater!
• Swimsuit : you must be able to dive in the crystal clear water.
• Quick-dry towel : a towel is included with the tour, but I preferred using my own towel for these fun beach bumming moments.
• Motion sickness prevention tablets : if you feel seasick easily, having tablets with you could be a great idea! I get motion sickness quite easily normally, but during this boat tour, I only felt bad for about half an hour and I didn’t need any tablets.
• Sunscreen & aloe vera : being on the boat and in the water will expose you to the sun, so make sure you don’t turn into a crab.
• Charcoal tablets : you don’t want to get an upset stomach on a boat, do you?
• Travel insurance : better be safe than sorry!

Final Thoughts On Komodo National Park

My trip to Komodo National Park was one of my favorite trips up to this day. The island trip gave me an awesome opportunity for snorkeling and see the Komodo dragons. 

I strongly recommend a multiple-day island trip to Komodo so that you can make the most of your experience.

Disclaimer:  My boat experience with Flores XP was complimentary. As always, all opinions are my own – I truly enjoyed the experience and highly recommend it!  Happy travels!

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Komodo Island: Ultimate Guide To Komodo National Park

Komodo Island in Indonesia is considered one of the 7 New Wonders of the Natural World for good reason. On the group of islands that make up the National Park, you will find unspoiled landscapes, crystal clear waters, and some of the world's most fascinating creatures.

There's never been a better time to book a Komodo Island trip to rediscover the wonders of Mother Nature.

What makes Komodo Island so famous

When you hear the word “Komodo” you may think of the famous Komodo Dragon, the largest lizard in the world. Yes, these fascinating animals are indeed native to the Indonesian islands.

Komodo National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , has a unique natural habitat that is home to many fascinating animal and plant species and is characterized by volcanic cliffs, coral reefs, and beaches of pink sand.

Where is Komodo Island

Komodo Island, Pulau Komodo in Indonesian, is in the south of Indonesia among the Lesser Sunda Islands. It sits between the larger islands of East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. It is the largest of a number of islands that sit in this gap, including Rinca Island, Padar Island, and Banta Island. They are all considered part of Komodo National Park and are often referred to collectively as Komodo Island, despite them being a group of islands.

If you're visiting, you'll usually stay in East Nusa Tenggara, in the northern region known as Labuan Bajo on Flores Island. Many Komodo tour companies operate from this peninsula as a day or multiple-day trips.

How to Get to Komodo Island

To make your way to Komodo Island, you need to head to Labuan Bajo on Flores, where you can fly directly into the small airport (LBJ) . There are flights from airports around the country, including Bali, Lombok , Jakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, and Kupang.

From Labuan Bajo, you will find multiple companies and boats that operate Komodo National Park tours . You can only visit the National Park as part of an organized and guided Komodo Islands tour. I recommend taking at least a full-day trip out to Komodo National Park. This one day tour regularly sells out!

If you've got more time, multiple-day trips are great to fully appreciate the National Park and have enough time to see the highlights while taking time to snorkel with manta rays and turtles, hike Padar Island lookout, and so much more.

There are a limited number of Komodo Island tours from Bali, but if you're limited on time, have a look at this tour . The tour will include a return flight between Bali and Labuan Bajo Airport rather than a direct boat. If you have at least 1 or 2 nights, I'd prefer to find accommodation in Labuan Bajo rather than book a Bali to Komodo Island day trip.

Your last option is to take a liveaboard trip from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, which typically takes 2 or 3 nights. This way, you get to experience all the highlights and more, plus you will also save on flights and time spent at the airport.

Where to Stay on Komodo Island: The Best Labuan Bajo Hotels

When visiting Komodo Island, you will need to stay at a hotel in nearby Labuan Bajo. When you search Komodo Island hotels , you will automatically be directed here as it's the only place near Komodo where you can actually stay in a hotel or guesthouse.

If you book an overnight trip to the National Park, you will stay on a boat. These are often referred to as Komodo Liveaboard accommodations and provide shared bunk beds or small individual cabins, depending on your price range.

($$$) Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach

This five-star hotel is directly on the Waecicu beachfront and has complete amenities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and kids' club. The views are spectacular from everywhere in the hotel, but especially from the long deck that stretches hundreds of meters into the sea.

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($$) Elang Hillside Bamboo Villas

Stay in a traditional stilted bungalow supported by a luxury hotel complex. Relax in the outdoor swimming pool, grab a drink in the shared lounge, and enjoy your choice of Asian or American breakfast.

($) Seaesta Komodo Hostel & Hotel

This quality budget accommodation is less than one kilometer from Wae Rana Beach. Choose between hostel rooms and four-star hotel rooms, all of which can access the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and games room.

Day Tours from Labuan Bajo vs Multi-Day Komodo Sailing Trip

You can book a Komodo Island tour with one of the dozens of tourism companies operating out of Labuan Bajo on Flores. If you are short on time, there are Komodo Island boat tour day trips that touch on the highlights.

But the best options are multi-day sailing Komodo trips. Most will offer accommodation on the boat itself. There is very limited bungalow accommodation on Komodo dragons island itself and it is usually reserved for VIPs and film crews.

You can expect a single-day trip, like this option on Viator , to take about 8 hours and include trekking to see the Komodo dragons, exploring the volcanic landscapes on Padar Island, and multiple swimming and snorkelling stops, including Manta Point and Komodo Island Pink Beach.

Visiting Komodo National Park on a four-day trip like this option , you can expect additional experiences such as trekking on Kelor Island and Rinca Island and meeting the flying foxes at sunset on Kalong Island. You will also jump into Cunca Wuland Waterfall, visit Rangko fishing town, and explore the gorgeous Rangko Cave.

Komodo Island Entrance Fee

There is an entrance fee to visit Komodo National Park that is used to help maintain the environment.

There are different fees depending on where you visit and the activities that you participate in. For example, treks cost between IDR400,000-450,000 (US$27-30), and snorkelling fees range between IDR500,000-600,000 (US$33-40). Tour companies will usually calculate their fees for tourism activities and include the entrance fee to the National Park in the overall price.

In late 2022, the Indonesian government was talking about raising fees to IDR3,750,000 (US$90) per person, which would limit the number of people visiting tremendously! This did not happen following protests, but there is an expectation that prices could rise again in the near future. Maybe better to plan your trip to Komodo Island sooner than later!

Things to do in Komodo Island National Park

There are scores of amazing places to visit and things to experience in Komodo National Park. Below are the best of the best that I think should be at the top of your list!

Spot a Komodo Dragon

No visit to Komodo National Park would be complete without seeing the giant lizards. The largest colonies of Komodo dragons are, in fact, on Rinca Island and there are guided tours with a park ranger that will give you a good view of the dragons from a safe distance. They can be ferocious!

Hike Padar Island

Padar Island is the third largest in the National Park archipelago and is famous for its volcanic terrain piercing the sky and giving excellent views out over the surrounding clear water. You will see the island's white, black, and pink sand beaches, so you can choose your next swimming spot.

Relax on a Pink Sand Beach

Komodo National Park is known for its spectacular pink beaches, resulting from white sand mixing with red coral. No filters are needed to capture the contrast of the aqua-blue waters meeting the shores of the baby-pink sands.

Snorkelling in Komodo National Park

Komodo dragons are not the only fascinating creatures to call these islands home. Scuba diving in the waters, you will find giant manta rays, sea turtles, and fascinating tropical fish living in the colorful coral. Your boat will take you to Manta Point , located just northeast of Komodo Island, where you can dive with large squadrons of manta rays.

Visit Komodo Village

You will find the locals who live on the Komodo Islands make a living through fishing and making handicrafts. A visit to the village is a refreshing way to return to life's simpler things.

Get stranded on a Sandbar

There are scores of tiny islands of white sand in the water between the main islands. Some are only big enough for a couple of people to sit together and many disappear with the high tide. Your boat can drop you off for a lonely swim.

Rangko Cave

Rangko Cave is on the very edge of the National Park near Labuan Bajo and is an amazing hiding place. The water within the cave is so salty that you will float effortlessly on the water.

Experience a Bat Cauldron

There are many beautiful places to see sunsets in the National Park. Expect skies of orange, gold, and pink. But if you park your boat near a mangrove, you can see a cauldron of fruit bats exploding into the sky. Stay up late into the evening to see the stars, which shine bright with very little light pollution in the area.

Cunca Waterfall

When you are back in Labuan Bajo, you can visit the stunning Cunca Falls. The crisp water falls into a dark blue lagoon that is surrounded by greenery, creating a secluded paradise.

Komodo Sailing Trip

A tour of Komodo National Park will inevitably involve a sailing trip, as it is the only way to get to the islands. But this relaxing way of island hopping with stops on small islands and dive sites is one of the highlights and a memorable experience of the Komodo, along with seeing all the main attractions.

Book Your Trip To Bali

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to Bali. Book Your Hotels & Villas My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in Indonesia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Indonesian rupiah. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to. Stay Connected Anywhere Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

Komodo Island: Ultimate Guide to Komodo National Park – Frequently Asked Questions

⭐ is komodo island worth visiting.

Komodo Island is one of the most beautiful and untouched places on the planet. It is still considered off the beaten track when it comes to tourism, so it still feels like a genuine adventure.

✔️ Is Komodo Island open for tourism in 2023?

Komodo Island is open year-round. Prices were supposed to be raised in early 2023 as part of reopening after COVID, but they remain the same for now. We'll keep this article up to date to reflect any changes.

☀️ What is the best time of year to visit Komodo Island?

Komodo Island, just like Bali, has a tropical climate with a dry and wet season. I recommend the autumn months between April and June for the best time to visit Komodo Island for clear waters and comfortable temperatures. The rainy season is between December and March.

📅 How many days do you need to see Komodo National Park?

You need at least two days to see the best of Komodo National Park. Three days and two nights is the ideal time to spend exploring. Add an extra night if joining the boat tour from Lombok to Komodo.

❓ Are you able to visit Komodo Island on your own or do you need a local guide?

For the protection of you and the unique environment, Komodo Island can only be visited as part of an organized tour. Many authorized companies operate out of Labuan Bajo in Flores.

🏨 Can you stay on Komodo Island itself?

Accommodation on Komodo Island itself is very limited and usually only available for VIPs and film crews. Look for places to stay at Labuan Bajo on Flores Island.

🐉 Is Komodo Island safe to visit?

Komodo Island is safe to visit as long as you take care of the rocky terrain (wear good hiking shoes!) and give the native animals, especially the Komodo dragons, their space.

Ultimate Guide to Komodo National Park – Final Words

If you are looking to discover one of the best islands in Indonesia and experience Mother Nature, then I highly recommend you book yourself a visit to Komodo National Park.

While it is most famous for being the home of the largest lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what is on offer. Visiting Komodo is an amazing experience and you will surely see unique vegetation and animals, incredible marine life, and twinkling stars as far as the eye can see when the sun goes down.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

About the Author: Carolin Pilligrath

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Visit Komodo Island, Indonesia

An Indonesian folk tale tells of a mystical princess who lived on a remote isle. She gave birth to twin sons, one human, one a giant lizard, who learned to live together in harmony on the ‘island of dragons’. Locals to Komodo still believe the truth in this old myth, and that the immortal princess regularly revisits the island to protect her descendants — a population of the largest reptiles in the world.

More than 14 species of whales and dolphins have been spotted in the deeper waters, while glimmering shoals and dugongs ply the shallows. In many places, coral almost completely covers the sea floor in carpets of orange cup corals and frothy clouds of leather corals. A popular dive site, the channel of Manta Point off Komodo’s northeast coast connects the Indian and South West Pacific Oceans, creating a plankton-rich habitat that attracts reef manta rays.

We recommend basing yourself in Labuan Bajo, on Flores , from where our Indonesia specialists can arrange for a local guide and boat to take you on a tour of Komodo and its surrounding islands.

Alternatively, you can board one of the yachts or schooners that ply these waters: having sailed on them, our specialists can suggest your best option, whether you’re looking for a private charter or a small group tour.

Accompanied by a local ranger, you can walk the trails that criss-cross the island in the hope of spotting the Komodo dragon. While they can grow up to 3 m (10 ft) in length, their stone-hued scales match the dusty ground of the island’s savannah forest: an eagle-eyed expert comes in handy.

We also recommend being accompanied by an English-speaking guide who can explain more about the dragons, from their ability to reproduce parthenogenetically to their cannibalistic tendencies.

While the dragons gain the attention, they don’t live here alone. You might spot endemic rats, Timor deer and the constantly-surprised-looking orange-footed scrubfowl. Climb to the top of Gunung Satalibo, the island’s highest volcanic peak and you’ll pass through shrubland and scraggy quasi cloudforest until you’re rewarded with views across the island to the Flores Sea.

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Komodo Island by contacting one of our Indonesia specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4155
• Make an inquiry

Suggested itineraries featuring Komodo Island

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Komodo Island, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Highlights of Indonesia

16 days from $8,210pp

Komodo & Flores: Indonesian island explorer tour

13 days from $7,995pp

Map of Komodo Island

Places & hotels on the map, places near komodo island.

• Tambolaka 61 miles away
• Pantai Marosi 83 miles away
• Pantai Nihiwatu 83 miles away
• Sumba 95 miles away
• Flores 111 miles away
• Moyo Island 132 miles away
• Mount Rinjani 206 miles away
• Lombok 210 miles away
• Medana Bay 229 miles away
• Sire Beach 231 miles away
• Senggigi 233 miles away
• The Gili Islands 234 miles away
• Candidasa 267 miles away
• Lembongan Island 275 miles away
• Tembok 277 miles away
• Ubud 287 miles away
• Sanur 288 miles away
• Jimbaran 294 miles away
• Bukit Peninsula 294 miles away
• Seminyak 295 miles away

Photos of Komodo Island

Our expert guides to exploring Komodo Island

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Komodo Island, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Komodo Island at its best.

Flores and Komodo: Indonesia’s wild frontier

With the world’s largest lizards, time-worn volcanoes and traditional ethnic villages, Flores and Komodo feel like a collection of relics from an earlier time. Indonesia specialist Megan has explored the island by road, mapping out an itinerary that will show you the best of an island that few venture to.

Honeymoons in Indonesia and Bali

Plan your perfect honeymoon to Indonesia with Audley. Discover some of the beautiful properties available and how we can make your honeymoon in Indonesia extra special.

Komodo Island Tours: 9 Best Options to Book Your Trip!

Komodo National Park is a place where adventure meets natural wonder. It’s probably high on your bucket list and as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s absolutely worth visiting this breathtaking Indonesian archipelago. Komodo Island tours by boat are the only way to visit the stunning scenery of the National Park. Having visited Komodo National Park previously, in this post, I’ll let you in on what I learned and what boat tours are the best to book to get the most out of your experience!

Komodo National Park

Padar Island

Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s a place of natural wonders and a sanctuary for biodiversity. Located in Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands and a part of East Nusa Tenggara, this extraordinary destination spans over 1,700 square kilometers.

Its rugged landscapes are home to the legendary Komodo dragons, remarkable creatures that have roamed the Earth for millions of years. Beyond these mighty reptiles, the park boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life like manta rays, and mesmerizing underwater vistas.

Stunning pink beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking viewpoints create a complete picture that will surely leave you spellbound!

Most captivating sights in Komodo National Park

There are a few sites in Komodo National Park that you’ll definitely want to visit. You’ve probably seen photos of these sites on Instagram profiles or many bloggers and I can assure you: Yes, they are as beautiful, maybe even more, witnessed in real life. 

Here are the most popular sites in Komodo National Park!

Padar island

Padar Island, Komodo National Park

Padar Island is one of the most popular sights inside the Komodo National Park. Despite its small size, this island packs a punch with its diverse landscapes and spectacular panoramic views.

Hiking to the island’s highest peak rewards you with a surreal vista of three picturesque bays. Turquoise waters touch the pristine white-sand beaches, while rugged hills are shrouded in lush greenery. As the sun sets, Padar Island transforms into a magical wonderland, painting the sky gorgeously pink.

Komodo Island

Komodo Island is one of the prominent jewels of Indonesia’s Komodo National Park. It is, together with Rinca Island, one of the native habitats of the remarkable Komodo dragon.

This island offers a rare opportunity to witness these legendary creatures up close. Beyond the dragons, Komodo Island will spoil you with beautiful rugged terrain, rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning viewpoints.

Rinca Island

Rinca Island is the second largest island in the park. It is home to a thriving population of Komodo dragons, allowing you to observe them in their natural habitat.

Trekking through the island’s varied landscapes, including grassy savannahs and lush forests, offers a chance to encounter not only Komodo dragons but also an array of other wildlife species such as deer, monkeys, and birds.

Stop at Komodo Island Tours: Pink Beach

Pink Beach is a natural marvel on Komodo Island. As its name suggests, this beach boasts a unique pink color, created by a mix of white sand and red coral fragments. The sight of the glistening pink shoreline against the backdrop of turquoise waters is breathtaking.

Snorkeling or diving in the surrounding coral reefs is possible and you will discover a vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful fish and marine life.

Manta Point

Manta Point is a dive site within the Komodo National Park. It is one of the best places in Indonesia to see the majestic manta rays.

Diving or snorkeling at Manta Point is included in every tour. The site’s strong currents attract plankton, which in turn attracts these gentle giants, but do note that sightings are not guaranteed. 

My experience visiting Komodo National Park

Before I get into the various tours that are recommended to visit Komodo National Park, I would like to let you in on my experience visiting Komodo National Park. 

Having visited the National Park on a day trip, looking back, I wish I would have done things differently. As a solo traveler on a budget, I didn’t have a big pile of money to spend and I found that multi-day tours didn’t fit my budget. 

However, looking back, I truly regret this. Visiting Komodo National Park is probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one day is simply not enough to explore all the beauty of this natural wonderland.

During my trip, we visited the most important sights inside the national park. I’m happy that I’ve been able to witness the magnificent things the park offers, like Padar Island, Komodo dragons at Rinca Island, Pink Beach, and a snorkel session (without seeing any manta rays unfortunately).

Arriving on Pink Beach

The speed, however, rushing with the boat from one sight to the other, is something that completely put me off. Yes, I’ve seen the best places in the park. But did I truly get to enjoy them? Not really.

In this post, I’ll share with you a few day trips inside Komodo National Park but, if your budget allows it, I highly recommend taking your time to explore Komodo and spend at least three days inside the national park.

In my opinion, the best way to do this as a conscious traveler is not by taking a multi-day organized tour but by renting out a private boat that allows you to put together your own schedule. That way, you can plan according to your liking and you will avoid having a schedule that puts you at sights together with all the other tour boats. 

It will allow you to have a more intimate experience of the park, in which you can truly take in the splendor of the area.

Komodo Tour Packages

Coral reefs inside Komodo National Park

For backpackers on a budget, I’ll mention a few one-day tours below that seem to be of good quality. When I visited Komodo National Park, I was kind of shocked when I saw what kind of worn-out boats some tourists were using to visit the National Park. 

They didn’t look safe at all and lacked any kind of comfort, like toilets and decent seating. Don’t get me wrong, I love to explore things in a local way, but visiting Komodo is not a short boat ride from point A to B. 

You’ll be spending a lot of time on your boat, actually the majority of the time. A day trip takes about 10 to 12 hours and you’ll spend half of that time on your boat.

A good boat, in this case, can really make or break your trip. Here are some decent suggestions for one-day tours, if you can’t afford a multi-day trip.

Full day Komodo Island Tours

Note that these tours start very early in the morning, with a pick-up usually around 5 A.M. After that, you will be taken to the pier where you will find yourself in complete chaos. All the tourists leaving for Komodo that day are brought to the same starting point and it can get quite hectic. 

You will likely receive a colored bracelet from your tour operator. Because of that bracelet, the staff can put you on the correct boat at the dock.

One-day Komodo Island Tour with Bintang Komodo tours

Best Komodo tours

• Duration: 11 hours
• Rating: 5/5

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with this one-day Komodo boat trip offered by Bintang Komodo Tours. This group tour is the top choice to explore the unique wonders of Komodo National Park.

With Bintang Komodo Tours, you can expect a carefree and unforgettable experience. The tour includes visiting Komodo Island, where you can witness the legendary Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.

You’ll also get to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Pink Beach, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Padar Island, and explore the vibrant marine life at Manta Point.

Such an INCREDIBLE trip !! From beginning to end it was so well planned and the staff went above and beyond. It really is worth every penny. We had the best day and flew in specially for this trip. We were the 2nd boat to leave the harbour & at Padar island it wasn’t too busy! The views after a short climb were unmatched, wow ! We spent plenty of time at the top before a lot of other tours arrived. Pink beach was the next stop and again was amazing & not too busy! For the Komodo tour we had an amazing guide & we did the long walk and saw 5 Komodo dragons which were incredible to see !! Here we had lunch which was really good & so filling. Next we snorkelled over to an island & it had such healthy coral, it was amazing (much better than any snorkelling around Bali) & then it was time to head over to Manta point and wow, we saw 5 mantas (you do have to be a stronger swimmer as they can move quite quickly) but was definitely a highlight! Finally, we stopped at one more amazing snorkeling spot and saw a turtle, what more could you ask for ?!? Book this tour and you won’t regret it.

JESSICA ( Read more reviews )

With professional guides, comfortable transportation, and a well-planned itinerary, this tour ensures that every moment will be filled with excitement and discovery.

Do keep in mind that a day trip is pretty exhausting so only book this if you only have time to spend one day in Komodo National Park!

One day Komodo Island hopping tour by Speedboat by Indo Trip

Komodo National Park tours

• Rating: 4,5/5

Visit all the highlights of Komodo National Park on this elaborate group tour by speedboat . This tour makes a stop at Padar where you can hike to the top of the island, Komodo where you van witness the majestic Komodo dragons and Pink Beach.

It afterward takes you to Taka Makassar Island, a tiny boomerang-shaped island only consisting of a patch of beach, Manta Point, where you can snorkel with Manta Rays and Kanawa Island which also offers excellent snorkeling.

It was a relatively seamless experience. Flew from Bali to Labuan Bajo. Pick up from hotel was timely and smooth. The boat road was fine. Adequate time at each island. Crystal clear waters. Komodo dragons were very active. The tour guide got me back to the airport in time to catch my flight back to Bali. I’d recommend it!

LANCE_M ( Read more reviews )

This tour also offers pick-ups and drop-offs at the airport of Labuan Bajo. Although I can highly recommend visiting Flores, this is an option if you have a limited amount of time on your hands.

Full day trip exploring 6 destinations inside Komodo National Park

Best Komodo Island tours: Swimming with manta rays

• Duration: 9 to 11 hours

This group tour takes you to six locations in Komodo National Park on a luxury boat, called the “ Ocean Queen “. It makes the same stops as the previous tours including Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island, Taka Makassar, Manta Point, and Kanawa Island.

It was an amazing experience overall! The weather was good, so we managed to visit all locations in the description. They also offered lunch during the trip. We are vegan and they prepared us a vegan meal, which was really tasty. Our guide Sam was really good and experienced, giving us details and info about things we were seeing. For us, the coral snorkeling was the highlight of this experience. We saw alive corals with hundreds of colorful tropical fish. Unfortunately we didn’t have the chance to see the manta rays as they were not in the area on that day. But the whole trip was magical! Totally recommended experience!

LOUKAS_I ( Read more reviews )

Lunch, coffee, and tea are included in the price and they can cater to special dietary requirements. They also offer snorkeling equipment and swimming floaties free of charge. 

The price of this tour is slightly cheaper than the two previous ones.

One-day Komodo Island tour by private boat with Flores Fantastic tours

Tours to Komodo Island

• Duration: 11,5 hours

If you’re not a group tour person, consider booking this private tour with Flores Fantastic Tours . The price you see on the booking platform is for five people so this is the perfect tour if you travel with a family or a small group of people.

I was doing this tour to see some Komodo Dragons, Because this was a private tour, I was able to customize the trip order and we also spent more time on Komodo Island itself. Most tours go to Padar first and then Komodo, but we were able to go to Komodo first, while it was still quiet and the dragons were active. I encountered no other tourists there for the first 90 minutes, which was great. I saw three big dragons, so I was very pleased! Two seemed used to seeing humans and lounged placidly for photos, but one was clearly still very wild as he ran away very quickly when he saw some scary humans approaching!

GRAHAM_H ( Read more reviews )

The great thing about this tour is that you are able to adjust your schedule. Even though the itinerary is shown on Viator, the order of the locations and time spent at each place can be adjusted to your own preferences.

Looking back, for a day trip, this would be my first choice now. I would opt to take in fewer sights and carve out more time for snorkeling.

Multi-day Komodo Island Tours

Although the day tours to Komodo seem very tempting and take in the most popular sights, exploring the national park on a multi-day adventure is worth every penny. 

If I would ever go back, I wouldn’t hesitate and book a private boat to take me around the islands for a few days in a heartbeat. I am a backpacker that usually travels on a budget, so, the fact that I am saying this, really means something!

Komodo National Park is simply too big to see thoroughly on a day trip. It is also pretty exhausting since you’re rushing from one sight to the other. 

My advice, especially to backpackers is to not skimp on money here. Book this trip, even if it seems expensive. You won’t regret it!

Private Komodo Island tour 3days/2 nights by discovery Komodo Adventure

Top Komodo Tours

• Duration: 3 days/2 nights

This private Komodo Island trip that lasts for 3 days and two nights takes you beyond the popular sights of Komodo National Park. It explores hidden gems away from the tourist crowds like Sabolo Island, Bidadiri, and Kelor Island and you sleep comfortably in all privacy on the boat

We did the 3D2N trip with Hans as our guide and couldn’t be happier. We were blessed with spectacular weather and were very lucky with all the wildlife we encountered: 5 Komodo dragons, manta, eagle rays, turtles, and dolphins. Hans went above and beyond to get the most out of our trip and was a wonderful wildlife photographer for us.

Tripadvisor Review ( Read more reviews )

What is great about this tour is that the activities can be adjusted to your preferences. Maybe you fancy visiting both Komodo and Rinca to see Komodo dragons. This can be arranged. But, if you don’t, and prefer snorkeling more, this can be arranged on the spot too. 

A multi-day tour also allows you to have better chances to see wildlife. I didn’t see Manta Rays on my one-day trip, but if I would have had more days, the chances were bigger of course!

3-Day Private Komodo Boat tour for up to 12 people by Flores fantastic tours

This private boat tour for up to 12 people has a five-star rating! It’s the best Komodo Island boat tour I have found online. The price seems much at first but is actually not expensive at all if you can split it with other people. 

This tour is one of the best options to pick if you are traveling with a big group of friends, a large family, or for a group of backpackers in a hostel who want to split the costs.

The private Komodo 3-day island tour was absolutely amazing! An unforgettable experience where you see the most beautiful things, beautiful nature, the real sea life, not surrounded by many tourists. If you want to see what and how Indonesia is like, then don’t hesitate to do this trip. The company Fantastic Tours makes your trip unforgettable. The crew was so friendly, they did everything to make you feel comfortable, we had Amazing food and they make sure that you had the best time and see the most beautiful things. Special thanks to Valdus( Tour Guide) Quin (Cook) Hendra (Captain) Nur ( Crue member) Aven (Crue member) They Were a good team that makes this trip very special. Thanks you everybody !!

KELLY ( Read more reviews )

The boat features six cabins that fit 12 people in total and all the meals are included in the price. There is airconditioning inside the boat and snorkel equipment can be used free of charge. 

If you’re flying in from Bali and don’t want to stay in Labuan Bajo for a night, they offer a pick-up at the airport.

Private 2-day trip with boat stay by the Seven holiday

• Duration: 2 days/1 night
• Rating: 4/5

This two-day/one-night private boat trip with The Seven Holiday takes in the most popular sights of Komodo National Park plus some extra stops like the island of the flying foxes and Bidadiri Island. 

The Seven Holiday is a luxury tour operator in Indonesia that focuses on honeymoon packages and yacht rentals. It wouldn’t be my first choice but it is the best Komodo tour if you are looking for a fancy way to celebrate your marriage.

I had an amazing time on the Komodos. But first things first: My booking and payment was super easy. As it was already my second tour with The Seven Holiday the communication was as expected. Krisna replied directly and gave me all the information I needed. The Komodo islands are a must-do! Amazing scenery. The snorkeling tour was very nice. I don’t know how to describe it, I’m speechless. The night on the boat was fun, a very cool experience. I would book with The Seven Holiday again since they’ve done an amazing job already twice. Highly recommended !!!

ILONA ( Read more reviews )

Compared to a lot of foreign travel agencies selling honeymoons to Indonesia, this company is 100% Indonesian. They work together with local guides and suppliers to arrange their honeymoon packages and boat trips. 

They also seem to care about the environment although they don’t have a real sustainability policy on their website.

Private 4 days/3nights luxury sail trip with Flores Fantastic tours

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury slow travel experience, consider renting a phinisi sailboat that will take you around the islands in three days . 

Phinisi sailboats are traditional Indonesian two-masted sailing ships. They have been used for centuries to catch fish or transport goods while nowadays these refitted vessels are mainly used as liveaboards for sailing and dive trips. 

It was my highlight in 3 months in Indonesia!!!! everything was so perfect. The food was delicious, the crew super safe and so nice, the boat was so cute and Paskal was the BEST Tourguid ever!!!!!!!!!!! We can recommend that tour with this company 100%!!!! Helpful

TRIPADVISOR REVIEWER ( Read more reviews )

Tours are offered in German, English, French and Spanish. It takes in all the sights from the previously mentioned multi-day trips with an additional stop at Gili Lawa Derat.

Most of the previously mentioned trips don’t offer a cancelation possibility but with this operator, you can cancel up to seven days in advance and get a full refund. 

The phinisi ships are suitable to cater to up to eight people.

4 days/3 nights group tour with Captain Komodo

• Duration: 4 days/3 nights

If you fancy doing a multi-day Komodo Island trip but can’t find additional people to join you for a private boat trip, you can consider booking a shared trip with Captain Komodo . Captain Komodo offers shared group trips on a wooden phinisi boat.

The trip takes in the popular and lesser-known ones like Manjarite, Kalong Island and Siaba Besar. Shared accommodation, meals and snorkeling gear is provided on the boat.

We had an unforgettable time on the boat. Our guide Ady was great and the whole crew on board was very nice. The food was very tasty and there was something for every taste. The boat itself was sufficient and completely ok for us. We really enjoyed the excursions. There was enough time to relax while driving to the next spot. The snorkeling on the tour was also great. The most beautiful underwater world we have seen so far. We can highly recommend the tour with Captain Komodo.

TINE J. ( Read more reviews )

This is a good choice if you want to do a multi-day trip and if you don’t mind spending a few days at sea with complete strangers on a boat. 

Do note that Captain Komodo offers a pick-up service in Labuan Bajo but does not offer pick-ups and drop-offs at the airport.

Best time to visit Komodo National Park

Komodo Island: Komodo Dragon

The best time to visit Komodo National Park is during the dry season, which runs from April to December. More specifically, the months of April to June and September to November are considered ideal for visiting the park.

During the dry season, the weather is generally pleasant with minimal rainfall and lower humidity levels. This makes it easier to explore the park’s trails and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and snorkeling. The waters are also clearer during this time, allowing for better visibility while diving or snorkeling.

The wet season spans from January to March and is characterized by increased rainfall and rougher sea conditions. 

Because I don’t like to travel to destinations in peak season, I visited Komodo National Park in the rainy season.

Weather conditions were perfect on my trip to Komodo National Park but the two days after my visit it was pouring rain all day long. Visiting in the rainy season is possible but keep in mind that your trip can get postponed due to weather conditions.

Komodo entrance fees

When you book a Komodo Island tour, the entrance fees to the parks to see the Komodo Dragons and Padar Island are not calculated into the tour price but need to be paid on the spot. 

There have been some plans by the government in the past years to raise these prices significantly but, due to protests from local tour operators, it hasn’t happened yet so far. 

Nonetheless, I don’t dare give exact prices here, due to the fact that things can change quickly. At the time of my visit, the entrance fee to Komodo was 150.000 IDR. It was the same price for Padar Island.

Small fees are also asked for hiking, wildlife observation, and a fee for a ranger that accompanies you into the park. These costs however are minimal. 

Do note that you also need to pay a considerable sum for bringing professional cameras or a drone.

Also, take into account that entry fees rise by 30% during weekends and public holidays so the best time to visit is on a weekday!

Where should you stay in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo, Flores, Indonesia

Labuan Bajo is the most touristy city on Flores and it’s worth it to stay here for a few days to explore the sights nearby apart from Komodo National Park. Note that good mid-range accommodations are almost non-existent in the city. It’s likely that you either will need to pick a guesthouse or cheap hotel or spend money on 

Here are some great places to stay:

• Golo Tango Guesthouse: if you are coming from the airport and are looking for a place to stay nearby then this cute homestay is an excellent choice. It is relatively cheap and the rooms are decent. I stayed here for four nights. The center is within walking distance. The guesthouse however is located on a mountain and it’s convenient to have a motorbike to get around.
• La Boheme Bajo: The place to be in Labuan Bajo if you are looking for a dorm bed in a clean hostel with a festive vibe. Coffee and tea are available all day free of charge.
• Cool Breeze Authentic Hotel: Probably the best and one of the only mid-range accommodations in Labuan Bajo. The location of this hotel is excellent and overlooks the harbor. The onsite pool is great to chill by after returning from your Komodo Island tour.
• Villa Niang Ando: If you like to have a place to yourself, consider renting this beautiful villa near the center of Labuan Bajo that can accommodate up to six people. The pool is awesome and the villa comes with a private driver that drives you up and down to town whenever you need.

Onward travel in Flores

Bajawa, Flores, Indonesia

A lot of people travel to Flores only to visit Komodo National Park but that’s a real shame. Flores Island is beautiful and still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism when you step out of Labuan Bajo. 

To get around Flores, you can hire a personal driver to take you around the island on a Flores Island tour or travel by minibus like the locals do. 

Flores can be crossed from West to East, ending your trip in Maumere, where you can take a flight out of Flores again. Notable stops on the way are Ruteng for the archeological site of Liang Bua, a 2-day trip to Wae Rebo traditional village, Bajawa for its hot springs and Bena traditional village, and Moni for visiting the Kelimuti crater lakes. 

Komodo Island tours FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Komodo Island tours:

Are there Komodo Island tours from Bali?

You can book a Komodo Island tour in Bali but this will always require you to take a flight to Labuan Bajo first. There are no boats leaving in Bali to Labuan Bajo, unless you charter a very expensive private sailboat.

You can however take a speed boat or the ferry from Bali to Lombok and start a boat tour from Lombok to the Komodo Islands. Alternatively, you can travel all the way to Labuan Bajo crossing the ocean and Sumbawa by a boat and bus combination.

Are there Komodo Island tours starting from Lombok?

Yes, there are Komodo Island tours starting from Lombok. These tours will take you from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, passing by Sumbawa and the Komodo Islands in 4 days. It will require you to take a flight back from Labuan Bajo. 

I’ve read that the safety on these boats is not always the best, so think wisely before booking a trip. 

Alternatively, you can also travel from Lombok to Flores by a combination of boats and overland bus on Sumbawa.

Komodo Island tours: Final thoughts

Sunset at Padar Island, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

There you go! I hope you enjoyed this post about the Komodo Island tours. Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page . 

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Indonesia travel advice?

• Munduk Bali: 11 Great Things to Do in 2023!
• How to Take the Ferry to Lombok From Bali
• Banjar Hot Springs Bali: All you need to know

• November 2, 2023

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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and  yourself!

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Komodo Dragon, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

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• Komodo Kayaking Home
• Responsible Wildlife Interaction – Respectful Engagement

As a sea kayaking company in the mesmerizing Komodo National Park, we embrace the Leave No Trace principles as our guiding philosophy when it comes to responsible wildlife interaction. These principles form a valuable framework that allows us to explore the beauty of the environment while ensuring its preservation for future generations. Let’s dive into each principle and discover how, through mindful actions, we can protect the natural wonders of this magnificent park by following ur guidance when it comes to responsible wildlife Interactions.

Plan Ahead and Prepare: Enriching Our Knowledge for a Seamless Journey

Before embarking on any kayaking expedition, we encourage all adventurers to plan ahead and prepare meticulously. Familiarizing yourself with the area, understanding the weather conditions, and becoming well-acquainted with the regulations in place ensure that our journeys are smooth and free of unnecessary disturbances.

Our experienced guides play a vital role in imparting essential information and insights, empowering adventurers with the knowledge needed to navigate the park responsibly and in harmony with its natural rhythms.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Treading Lightly to Preserve Nature’s Balance

As we embark on our kayaking adventures, we recognize the importance of respecting the fragility of the park’s ecosystems. By adhering to designated launch points carefully chosen by our Komodo kayaking guides, we minimize the impact on the surrounding habitats. Following these designated areas helps protect the lush vegetation and delicate shorelines, ensuring they remain unharmed for generations to come.

Dispose of Waste Properly: Carrying Out the “Leave No Trace” Ethos

At our kayaking company, we take waste management seriously to preserve the pristine beauty of Komodo National Park. Our expeditions strictly follow the “pack it in, pack it out” principle, ensuring that all trash, including food scraps, is carried back and properly disposed of. Additionally, Komodo kayaking offers eco-friendly waste disposal systems on our boats, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to leaving nothing but footprints.

Leave What You Find: Nurturing an Ecosystem’s Natural Balance

As we immerse ourselves in the splendor of Komodo National Park, our guides instill a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the area. They emphasize the significance of leaving natural objects and artifacts undisturbed, as these elements play essential roles in maintaining the ecological balance of the park.

Campfires and Fire Safety: Embracing the Warmth of Responsible Choices

While campfires can create a cozy atmosphere, we prioritize fire safety and the well-being of the park’s habitats. Campfires are forbidden inside Komodo National Park and should only be lit in very specific locations outside the park. Our experienced guides are well-versed in these specific areas where campfires are legally allowed, ensuring that we follow fire safety protocols to prevent accidental wildfires. By adopting this responsible approach, we safeguard the park’s vegetation and wildlife, allowing the ecosystem to flourish without unnecessary disturbances.

Respect Wildlife and Marine Life: Fostering a Sense of Awe and Reverence

The extraordinary encounters with wildlife and marine creatures are highlights of our kayaking journeys. To preserve their natural behaviors and habitats, we maintain a safe distance while observing them with awe and reverence. Using binoculars or zoom lenses enables us to appreciate their beauty without encroaching upon their space.

Responsible wildlife Interaction

As responsible advocates for wildlife conservation, we refrain from feeding these magnificent beings, allowing them to rely on their natural diets and thrive in their environments without human interference.

When paddling in marine environments, we exhibit caution and respect for marine mammals, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. By giving them ample space and never attempting to touch or ride them, we contribute to the preservation of their natural behaviors and ecosystems.

Invasive Species Prevention: Safeguarding Native Ecosystems

To protect the unique biodiversity of Komodo National Park, we take proactive measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species. As part of our dedication to the environment, we provide gear and kayaks, strongly advising against bringing your own equipment, which could pose the risk of introducing invasive species. Our team ensures that all gear is thoroughly cleaned to safeguard the park’s native ecosystems.

Respect Local Regulations and Traditions: Embracing Harmony and Cultural Appreciation

As we embark on kayaking journeys, we respect the specific regulations and guidelines set by local authorities. Familiarizing ourselves with these rules, including access restrictions, speed limits, or permits, ensures we honor the park’s regulations responsibly. At Komodo kayaking, we take care of most of the administrative aspects, ensuring that our adventurers can focus on embracing the natural beauty of the park.

Additionally, we embrace and respect the traditions of the local communities, fostering a harmonious relationship between our kayaking excursions and the people who call this extraordinary place home.

An Empowered Community of Responsible Explorers

In the heart of Komodo National Park, we, as a community of responsible explorers, strive to tread lightly and leave nothing but a positive impact on this awe-inspiring environment. By wholeheartedly embracing the Leave No Trace principles, we immerse ourselves in the enchanting beauty of the park while ensuring its preservation for the generations to come.

Our kayaking adventures epitomize the harmony between exhilarating exploration and environmental stewardship, showcasing the profound connection we share with the natural world. We invite you to join us on this journey of conservation and appreciation as we celebrate the irreplaceable wonder that is Komodo National Park. Together, let us forge a future where responsible interactions and conservation efforts go hand in hand, nurturing the splendor of this pristine sanctuary for all to cherish and protect.

Komodo Kayaking

We try to bring all sorts of activities, news, information and just daily images. Check back here to see what we have been up, to learn more about Komodo National Park and the areas nearby.

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