travel komodo island

Komodo Islands Travel Guide For Indonesia

The island of Komodo, in Indonesia, is famous for being home to the beastly Komodo dragons (the world’s biggest lizard), and it’s also an incredibly scenic place with lots of other ‘bucket list’ travel experiences.

Komodo National Park is UNESCO designated , with dozens of exotic islands, white and pink sand beaches , coral reefs for diving, and it’s the only place in the world where you can see Komodo dragons up close in the wild and get your picture taken with them!

Since Indonesia is my second home, I’ve visited the Komodo islands a bunch of times over the years and it’s always a thrill. One of the great things about the gateway town, Labuan Bajo, is that it’s not far from Bali and it’s easy to reach with a short flight from there.

This travel guide for Komodo will explain how to get there, where to stay, what to do in the islands, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Table of Contents show 1) Where Is Komodo Island? 2) How To Get To Komodo National Park 3) How To Get Around The Komodo Islands 4) Where To Stay In Komodo 5) Labuan Bajo Hotels 6) Best Things To Do In Komodo National Park 7) Komodo Dragon FAQ 8) Komodo Trekking FAQ 9) More Things To Do In Komodo 10) Komodo Island Map 11) Is Komodo Open Or Closed? 12) Komodo Entrance Fee 13) New Entrance Fee? (2024) 14) Other Tips For Labuan Bajo 15) Best Time To Visit Komodo 16) Best Komodo Island Tour / Day Trip 17) Where To Stay In Labuan Bajo 18) Future Of Komodo Tourism 19) More Things To See Near Komodo Indonesia 20) My Indonesia Travel Guide

Komodo has more than just dragons! This is one of the famous viewpoints.

Where Is Komodo Island?

Komodo island is part of the Komodo National Park, a group of tropical islands located just off the coast of Flores, in east Indonesia.

The park’s three main islands are Komodo, Rinca, and Padar , but there are lots of smaller ones too, so it’s the perfect place for island hopping!

The closest city is the fishing town of Labuan Bajo in Flores, which has its own airport and plenty of hotels and restaurants to enjoy in between visits to the park.

Wild Komodo dragon!

How To Get To Komodo National Park

The only way to visit Komodo island and the rest of the national park is on a boat tour from Labuan Bajo, where the airport is located. You can’t fly to Komodo island directly.

There are a bunch of flights to Labuan Bajo airport (LBJ) every day from Bali, with a 1 hour flight time and several airlines offering ticket prices as low as 1 juta ($70 USD).

Getting to Komodo island from Bali is easier than ever now that AirAsia flies between them several times per week. There are also flights from Jakarta, Surabaya, or Ende to the Labuan Bajo airport. You can shop for flights on Skyscanner .

Once you get to Labuan Bajo, it’s possible to book a boat tour to Komodo island at the harbor, or you can book a day tour online (more on that later).

The Komodo islands are located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Labuan Bajo as the crow flies, and the journey normally takes 3 hours with a slow boat, or less than half that with a speedboat.

It’s possible to knock out all the top sights of Komodo National Park (including the dragons) in one full day tour, or you can stay in a liveaboard boat and spend several days sightseeing!

How To Get Around The Komodo Islands

The three boat types for exploring the Komodo islands are slow boat, speedboat, or liveaboard boat.

Slow boat is the cheapest option, and it’s commonly used for day tours, but you do waste a lot of time in transit because it’s just so dang slow. Speedboat is much faster and more efficient, but it’s quite a bit more expensive.

Liveaboard tours can also be pricey, but it’s a unique experience where you get to sleep in a cabin and spend several days sightseeing and enjoying more of the sights in the park.

Book Now: Komodo Liveaboard Tours / Day Tours

Where To Stay In Komodo

There are no hotels in Komodo island. All of the hotels and accommodation are in the nearby town of Labuan Bajo.

You can find hotels and accommodation here to suit all budgets, from backpacker to luxury. However, it’s a little bit more pricey than Bali on average, because the development in Labuan Bajo hasn’t quite caught up to the number of tourists coming here.

We’ve included some of our hotel recommendations below.  

Labuan Bajo Hotels

Bayview Gardens

Komodo Suites

Seaesta Komodo Hotel

Plataran Beach Resort

Best Things To Do In Komodo National Park

• padar island.

One of the most scenic places in Indonesia is on the small island of Padar. It’s a short 30 minute hike to the top, and you’re rewarded with probably one of the best views in all of Southeast Asia.

This is like a Jurassic Park landscape. The island has a giant X shape, with three bays where you can see a white beach, black beach, and pink beach.

Each of those sand colors is pretty special in itself, but to see all of them in one place is crazy. This is probably the only place in the world where you can witness that!

Even though Padar is one of the smallest islands in the Komodo National Park, this scenic viewpoint has become a famous natural landmark of Indonesia, and it’s even been featured on the 50,000 Rupiah cash note.

Read More: Padar Island

The iconic Padar island viewpoint

Beaches in all directions!

• Pink Beach

The Komodo islands are home to several pink sand beaches! The color comes from tiny organisms in the coral called foraminifera.

Pink beaches are very rare, and there are only a handful of them worldwide. The one with the brightest color is hidden in a bay on the northwest side of Padar island.

These unique beaches are a must see when you’re visiting Komodo National Park.

Read More: Pink Beach

The extraordinary pink sand beaches at Komodo National Park

• Komodo Dragon Trek

Of course the main attraction of Komodo is getting to see the dragons themselves in the wild! The Komodo National Park is the only place in the world where you can do this.

For this part of the tour, you’ll go ashore at one of the two main islands where the dragons live in Indonesia (Rinca or Komodo island) and do a short trek looking for dragons while accompanied by a park ranger. The trekking path is flat and suitable for all fitness levels.

For sightseeing purposes, there’s not much difference between Rinca island or Komodo island, and many tours use these locations interchangeably. There are plenty of Komodo dragons living on either island.

You’re almost guaranteed to see at least a few dragons (after all, Komodo is their home), and with the guide’s help you can even take pictures with them! It’s an amazing experience getting to see these animals up close in the wild.

Komodo Dragon FAQ

• How big are they? Adult Komodo dragons can be 3 meters long (10 feet) and weigh more than 140 kilos (300 pounds). The males are bigger than the females.
• Are they venomous? I think the jury is still out on that. Some research has shown that the Komodo dragon bites may be dangerous because of venom or bacteria.
• How do they hunt? Komodo dragons can smell blood from almost 10 kilometers (6 miles) and they can run in bursts of speed up to 20 kilometers per hour (12 mph). Truly dinosaurs!
• What do they eat? They eat a mix of deer, boars, monkeys, birds, goats, wild horses, and water buffaloes. Their favorite food is the deer (Javan Rusa). They can also be cannibals sometimes and eat other dragons.
• Do they attack humans? Yes, but rarely. The dragons don’t think of us as food. Less than a dozen people have been killed by them in the past 50 years, and all of the victims were locals at the village on Komodo island, where they were living in close proximity to the animals.
• Do they breathe fire? No, the dragons can’t breathe fire, but the first Dutch explorers in the Komodo islands believed that!
• Are there Komodo dragons in Bali? No, there aren’t any wild Komodo dragons in Bali. You can see captive dragons at the Bali Bird Park or Bali Safari Marine Park , although I think it’s a much better experience to see the dragons in their natural environment on the island of Komodo or Rinca. Bali does have monitor lizards, which look kind of similar to Komodo dragons, but they’re smaller.
• Are there Komodo dragons in the Galapagos islands? No, there aren’t any Komodo dragons outside of Indonesia except in zoos. The lizards in the Galapagos islands of Ecuador are marine iguanas, not Komodos. Totally different animal. Those are much smaller and tamer.

Komodo Trekking FAQ

• Is it safe? Yes, just stay close to your guide and you shouldn’t have any issues. The only tourists that have ever been attacked by dragons were trekking alone without a guide.
• Can I visit during my period? Yes, menstruating women can still visit Komodo even though the dragons are good at smelling blood, but you’re supposed to tell the park staff so your guide can be more careful on the tour.
• How long is the trek? There’s a short, medium, long, or adventure trek. If you’re on a day tour (island hopping), then you’ll probably only have time to do the short or medium trek (both less than 1 hour) before you’re whisked off to go see the manta rays or pink beach .
• How easy is it to see dragons? You’re practically guaranteed to see dragons, even on the short trek, because there are thousands of them living on Komodo and Rinca. I’ve done the trek a bunch of times, and I saw lots of dragons every time. You can also spot them on the beach sometimes. Photo ops galore!

• Are the dragons sedated? No, the dragons are absolutely not sedated! The reason they lie around motionless sometimes is because they’re digesting a big meal or resting after a hunt. You’d want to sleep too after eating an entire deer. The dragons are most active in the morning, but like to chill in the middle of the day.
• Can I touch them? No way! The photos in this travel blog where we’re sitting close to the Komodo dragons are perspective pics. Don’t worry, we kept a healthy distance from them and definitely didn’t touch them.
• What else can I see? If you’re lucky on the trek, you can also see Komodo nests, baby dragons, rare birds, snakes, spiders, and more. Snake species include the spitting cobra and island pit viper.
• Do I need to tip? Tipping isn’t customary in Indonesia, but if your guide takes good pictures for you then a small tip is certainly appreciated. The guides in the Komodo islands are not paid very much.

More Things To Do In Komodo

• Kalong Island: Also known as bat island, if you go here at sunset you can see thousands of fruit bats flying through the sky.
• Manta Point: Amazing spot where you can swim with giant manta rays in the ocean. They’re a little shy but not dangerous at all.
• Taka Makassar: This is a small crescent-shaped sandbar near Manta Point. It has perfect white sand and crystal clear water.
• Gili Lawa Darat: One of the most remote spots in Komodo since it’s located on the northwest boundary of the park, just off the coast of Komodo island. It has a hill that’s great for sunrise.
• Kelor Island: A lot of Komodo tours stop at this island since it’s close to Labuan Bajo. It has a hill you can climb for a nice view of Flores island.
• Private Island Resorts: For private island resorts near Komodo, you have your choice of Le Pirate Island , Sebayur Island Resort , or Kanawa Island Resort .
• Scuba Diving: Komodo is famous for its world class snorkeling and scuba diving. You can see bright coral reefs and lots of underwater wildlife here.
• Labuan Bajo: Don’t forget to spend some time exploring the town of Labuan Bajo and its surroundings. There are a bunch of good things to do near Labuan Bajo. I’ll be covering those separately from this Komodo travel guide.

Snorkeling at © Sebayur Island

© Le Pirate Island — you can camp in bungalows on this private island for very reasonable rates!

Drone pic at Kelor island, one of the popular stops on Komodo tours.

Komodo Island Map

Here’s a map of the Komodo islands, showing the dive sites and main areas of interest. You can click on the image to see it bigger.

Komodo dragons can only be seen on Rinca or Komodo island. The town of Labuan Bajo (top right) is where all the restaurants and hotels are concentrated.

Komodo island map

Is Komodo Open Or Closed?

In 2019, the government of Indonesia announced plans to close Komodo island for the year of 2020 in order to work on conservation and rehabilitation. The idea got a lot of backlash, though, so they decided to reverse it at the last minute.

A lot of the locals in Komodo and Labuan Bajo survive off of tourism, so closing it is a tough proposition for them. To be honest, the islands do need better conservation, but I’m not sure if that means they need to be closed completely. Trash cleanup could be done regardless, and some of the places need it.

As it turns out, the Komodo National Park was closed anyway for almost 6 months in 2020 because of the covid pandemic, but the park reopened in August 2020. We visited the islands again in 2021 shortly after they re-opened, and we had a wonderful time.

Tourism activities at Komodo were temporarily stopped again for two days in August 2022, because of strikes related to the Indonesian government trying to dramatically increase the park entrance fees.

You can read more about this in the section below. However, thankfully, the government relented and decided not to raise the park fees at this time, so everything is back to business as usual.

As of 2024, Komodo island is officially open for tourism!

Komodo Entrance Fee

The Komodo National Park has a confusing ticket system with a bunch of different entrance fees that you pay in a small booth at Padar. Here are some of the main fees:

• National Park Entrance Ticket (Mon-Sat): 150k IDR ($10 USD)
• National Park Entrance Ticket (Sundays & Nat. Holidays): 225k IDR ($14)
• Komodo/Rinca Island Fee: 100k IDR ($6)
• Ranger Fee Padar: 400k IDR ($25)
• Ranger Fee Loh Liang: 400k – 450k IDR ($25 – $28)
• Retribution Fee: 50k IDR ($3)

When you total everything up, you can expect to pay around 1.2 million Rupiah ($75 USD) per person for a 1 day park pass that allows you to do the highlights of Komodo National Park.

These ticket prices are current as of 2024 , but they seem to go up every year. There’s no discount for children or KITAS/KITAP holders, either, which is pretty lame. The least they could do is make the tickets last 3 days or 1 week so they have more value.

I think the price is still worth it for the outstanding nature you get to see at Komodo, but if they keep raising it then it may get unreasonable. For comparison, a U.S. National Parks pass costs roughly the same as this, but it gives you access to 400+ national parks for 1 year.  

New Entrance Fee? (2024)

In June 2022, it was announced that Indonesia was thinking about raising the Komodo entrance fee to 3.75 million Rupiah ($250 USD) per person, and limit park visitors to 200,000 per year.

This change was originally supposed to take effect on August 1, 2022, but it was met with a large scale protest and strike by the local tourism workers, which forced the government to cancel the plan for now .

Most tourists who visit Komodo are not ultra rich, and to make a major change like this with such short notice was very inconsiderate of park visitors and most likely would’ve been a death blow to the local businesses in Labuan Bajo as well.

Thankfully, the Indonesian government reconsidered this plan and decided not to raise the Komodo entrance fees, and the boat trips and all other tourist activities in Komodo National Park resumed like before.

Near the end of 2022, there was some more talk about raising the Komodo entrance fee excessively, which was supposed to happen on January 1, 2023. However, the Indonesian news reported that this plan has been canceled once again.

I’ll update this Komodo travel guide if we get any more new information. I think it’s very unlikely any big price changes will happen, because the locals really depend on tourism. For now, tourists are welcome in Komodo like always, and the prices haven’t changed!

Other Tips For Labuan Bajo

• ATM: There are lots of ATM choices scattered around Labuan Bajo town on Flores. BNI worked great in our experience.
• Credit Cards: Some places accept card now, but many don’t. It’s good to keep a bit of cash handy for meals, taxis, and such.
• WiFi: A lot of hotels in Labuan Bajo still have weak WiFi connections, but they’re improving every year as the infrastructure catches up to the massive influx of tourism.
• Cell Service: Telkomsel has good 4G reception in Labuan Bajo, Komodo, and even some of the intermediate islands. We used this for a hotspot at times when we didn’t have good WiFi.
• Restaurants: There are lots of good places to eat in Labuan Bajo. Some nice restaurants to check out are Green Cherry , Baccalá , and La Cucina . We also liked Ayam Bakar Primarasa , near the airport.
• Transportation: Labuan Bajo town is small and easy to get around. You can rent a scooter all day for 75k Rupiah ($5 USD), or take a taxi around town for 50k per trip.
• Language: The locals in Flores and Komodo speak Bahasa Indonesia, and a little bit of English that they’ve been able to pick up from tourists. English proficiency isn’t nearly as widespread as in Bali, so be patient and come prepared to explain things by pointing or showing pictures.
• Religion: The island of Flores is mostly Catholic, but there’s also a significant minority of Muslims in Komodo, and there are several active mosques in Labuan Bajo. When I visited Labuan Bajo in 2018, there was a mosque using a noisy loudspeaker at all hours of the day and night, but when we last visited we didn’t hear any mosques, so maybe the local authorities have asked them to turn down the volume. In any case, if you’re a light sleeper then it’s a good idea to bring ear plugs with you to Labuan Bajo just in case there’s a noisy mosque at night.
• Mosquitoes: According to this Lancet study from 2018, Malaria cases are rare and decreasing in Flores and the Komodo islands. I’ve never heard of a tourist getting Malaria from mosquitoes in Komodo. We didn’t take malaria pills on any of our Komodo trips, but it’s still a good idea to wear repellant while out and about, just to be safe.
• Drones: The Komodo park rangers don’t allow anyone to fly a drone at Padar island anymore unless you pay an exorbitant fee of 1 million Rupiah ($70 USD). No prior application is needed, you just pay the fee in cash on the spot, and then they let you fly. There are some ways to get around this if you’re creative.

Javan Rusa (deer). The favorite meal of the dragons.

Best Time To Visit Komodo

The best time to visit Indonesia really depends on what you’re looking for.

You can see the Komodo dragons all year round. Prime diving season is March to October. High season for Komodo National Park is July to August, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable, but the park is also more crowded with tourists.

The climate in Komodo tends to be drier and more sunny than other places in Indonesia, like Bali. The main months to avoid for Komodo island are December to February, when Indonesia has its rainy season and the weather is not very good for sailing or trekking. Generally the only reason to go in these months would be to avoid the crowds.

The grass color at Komodo changes with the seasons. It’s green in the tail end of the rainy season (January to April). By April or May, the grass color starts to turn yellow. In the summer and fall (July to November), the islands are bone dry and the grass is brown. The pictures in this Komodo travel blog were taken in early March.

The scenery and dragons are honestly spectacular in any month of the year, so regardless of when you go, you’re sure to have a very memorable trip. Happy travels!

Sunset in the Komodo islands

Best Komodo Island Tour / Day Trip

If you’re looking for a vetted tour company for visiting Komodo, here’s a top rated Komodo day trip with Klook starting from Labuan Bajo.

This speedboat tour includes the top sights in Komodo like Padar island , pink beach , and the Komodo dragon trek, and their prices are very competitive based on what we’ve seen quoted for similar tours in Labuan Bajo. The online reviews are positive too.

We’ve used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!

Book Now: Komodo Island Tour / Day Trip  

Where To Stay In Labuan Bajo

Future of komodo tourism.

The future of Komodo tourism is still uncertain. I’m happy Indonesia has opened the park for everyone to enjoy, and I’m glad it’s given employment to the locals, but further development of the islands could become a problem.

There’s been some talk of a ‘Komodo dragon park’ or luxury resort being built on Rinca island, for example, which seems like a very bad idea.

Komodo dragons are amazing animals. They’re already endangered, and their habitat is very limited. I hope Indonesia will do the right thing, and choose conservation over greed, so we can continue to enjoy this place for many years to come.  

More Things To See Near Komodo Indonesia

There are lots of other great things to do near Komodo if you have time.

On mainland Flores island, you can visit the Goa Rangko Cave in Labuan Bajo, and then do an overland tour of Flores from west to east and see sights like the spiderweb rice fields, Wae Rebo traditional village, Mount Inerie volcano, and the turquoise volcanic lakes of Mount Kelimutu .

The Kelimutu National Park has a trio of colorful volcanic lakes in central Flores, and you can see it without doing any hiking. The lakes are known to regularly change colors (to blue, green, pink, or brown!) because of changes in the underlying gases and elements.

In spite of the lack of publicity and infrastructure, Flores is definitely one of the best places to visit in Indonesia!

Read More: Best Islands To Visit In Indonesia

Kelimutu National Park is one of the most spectacular sights on Flores island

My Indonesia Travel Guide

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Komodo island in Indonesia.

Seeing wild dragons on the Komodo tour was one of the best parts of our visit to Flores.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Indonesia Travel Guide for more tips, info, and photos!  

• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide – Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Best Hikes In Indonesia – Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls
• Best Things To Do In Indonesia – What To Do In The Islands
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Photos

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Hi thank you for sharing information about Komodo Island

Thank you for the wonderful blog. its really useful and informative.

Brilliant, organized, informative post!!!

I really appreciate your day trip recommendation. Is that with a speedboat or slow boat?

Do you have any recommendations for an upscale two or three day liveaboard boat?

Hi Clay! The day tour recommended in the article is a speedboat tour, which is normally faster and more efficient, so you get to have more time on the islands compared to the slow wooden boats. We normally do day trips instead of liveaboard, but I know GetYourGuide has a very high rated 3 day or 4 day tour with a combination of hotels and some liveaboard action. Cheers

Io sono disabile causa un incidente di macchina avvenuto in Germania nel 2009 . Ho una moglie indonesiana e un figlio di 10 anni. Sono al momento in vacanza a Lombok. Un disabile può vedere le lucertole di Komodo su una delle isole??? Grazie

Ciao Giuseppe. Dovrai prendere una barca, ma sì, penso che sia possibile per una persona disabile vedere i draghi sull’isola di Komodo. La spiaggia è pianeggiante e facile da navigare. Grazie per il tuo commento!

Hi, I’m currently in Bali on a holiday. As I was walking in Seminyak, which is near the shops, I saw a massive Komodo dragon in one of the streams that are between two buildings. It was walking pretty fast and I couldn’t take a pic but yea I think there are Komodo dragons in Bali just very rare. That was crazy tho

Hi. That would be a monitor lizard, which looks kind of similar to a Komodo dragon, but a bit smaller. They are fairly common in Bali and always fun to see. 🙂

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• 11 Tips For Planning A...

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

While there is no bad time to explore a strange island inhabited by ancient dragon species and other mesmerizing wildlife , it’s good to know what you can expect when visiting at any certain time. April-June is favored for the amazing green landscape and calm, clear sea. September-November is ideal for spotting marine wildlife, such as mantas, whale sharks, sperm whales, and more. July-August is high season, so the island will be swarmed with tourists. If you have to go during this period, try to book early for tours and accommodation. In January, the monsoon is starting to kick in, peaking in February. Many tours choose not to operate during this time.

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.

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.

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

Tips on what to see & do, how to choose a komodo boat, and what the mysterious park fees are.

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.

There's also a boat trip that goes from Lombok to Komodo, but we wouldn't recommend it (see below!).

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 1-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.

When booking a place to stay be careful not to book a resort that is NOT in Labuan Bajo town as this will limit your ability to book join-in Komodo Island hopping boat trips. The join-in boat trips do not offer pick up from these resorts, so it'll be more logistically painful to plan a 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!

Crucial Logistics

Komodo National Park requires all boat trip passengers to pre-register. After you've booked your boat trip, you'll be required to submit your full name, nationality, and passport number to your boat host at least one day before your trip, otherwise you'll be denied entry to the park. Several travellers have missed their once-in-a-lifetime boat trip for this reason!

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 as well as sightsee, you'll need to do 2 separate trips - a dive trip and a sightseeing trip. We'd recommend a 3D2N sightseeing trip, and a couple of day dives!

Budget Boat vs Phinisi Boat

For overnight trips, you can choose between basic boats or deluxe Phinisi boats . As we've had safety concerns with several basic boats, Seek Sophie has stopped offering trips on basic boats - but you can easily book them at the last minute on the high street of Labuan Bajo.

A basic boat usually has on-deck sleeping and you can choose from either a 2D1N trip or a 3D2N trip. Do check their safety credentials carefully as several basic boats do sink each year.

A Phinisi boat will have private rooms (some will have both private rooms and dorms), and generally have better food, and amenities.

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). If you're a light sleeper you may find the boat generator noisy so pack ear plugs!

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 should aim to arrive a day before your trip, since all boat trips start before the flights arrive.

Can I go from Lombok to Komodo?

There are a couple of companies that offer boat trips from Lombok-Komodo (and vice versa).

The Lombok to Komodo boat trip is known for whale shark sightings, but Seek Sophie doesn't offer it due to unethical and unsustainable practices. Local operators feed the sharks, which disrupts their natural migration and feeding patterns, making them dependent on humans. Tourists also get close for selfies, which is harmful as it disrupts the sharks' natural behaviour and increases the risk of poaching. We strongly advise against supporting these activities.

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

A Guide to visiting Komodo: Everything to see and do in Komodo Indonesia

Are you looking for a guide to visiting Komodo? You’ve come to the right place. Throughout my travels in Indonesia and East Java more specifically, Komodo was hands down my favourite discovery. Somewhat isolated and reached only by a long travel day, Komodo is made up of three main islands to explore: Komodo Island , Rinca Island and Padar Island . Each island has its own draw cards and visited together, this is the perfect itinerary for adventure travellers.

Despite the beauty of Komodo National Park and surrounding islands, this part of Indonesia remains somewhat off the beaten path. Without a doubt this won’t remain the case forever, so be sure to add Komodo to your list of destinations in Indonesia !

Guide to Visiting Komodo

Arriving in Komodo is a fairy easy journey despite it feeling a world away from Bali . First you will be travelling by plane from Bali Denpasar airport (around one hour flight time). Labuan Bajo is the point of entry for your dragon-spotting and diving-filled adventure that lay ahead. The city is located on the island of Flores, which is the gateway to the paradise of Komodo and surrounding islands. Labuan Bajo is a great place to base yourself for day trips to the outlying islands and there are a number of great hotels and guest house stays here with new developments in the pipeline.

Padar Island Viewpoint 

The first stop on our adventure was to take a speedboat to Padar Island and hike the gruelling staircase to the peak for one of the best views in Indonesia. I had heard this was one of the most beautiful lookouts in the country, so naturally made it my first stop whilst exploring the area. We took a speedboat because we were so short on time but if you have a few days in Labuan Bajo, the best option is to take a full day trip stopping at Padar Island, Pink Beach and Rinca Island or Komodo Island to see the Komodo dragons.

The view at the top of the Padar Island viewpoint was absolutely breathtaking. I would recommend making the trek before sunset to get the best of the golden light and at this time of day you have the place almost entirely to yourself. The trek to the top will take around 20 minutes without stopping. The track itself is quite good though at times toward the peak you will need to navigate some rocks and there are no barriers. Make sure you wear sneakers for a safe and enjoyable hike!

For our next stop we made our way around the bay by boat to Pink Beach. As the name suggests, this is an idyllic oasis featuring pink sand, turquoise water and to our surprise, no other people! This beach is isolated so the only way to reach it is by boat from Labuan Bajo. Most of the day tours arrive earlier in the day so when we arrived in the hour before sunset, we had the beach entirely to ourselves. This was the perfect time of day to take stock and reminisce over our Indonesia adventures so far. We both agreed that this day (Padar Island and Pink Beach) was our favourite from the trip.

If you manage to visit in the hour before sunset, you can enjoy Pink Beach entirely to yourself. It is still an hour by fast boat back to Labuan Bajo so be sure to leave as the sun begins to set if you would prefer to be back before dark. This was also a great chance to watch the sunset from the boat the entire way back to shore!

Komodo National Park

The next day we were eager to see the Komodo dragons, one of the most popular activities in Komodo. This is also one of the reasons so many travellers make their way here. The Komodo dragon is the largest monitor lizard on the planet and can grow up to 8.5 ft long. The park requires you to have a ranger to show you around (highly recommended, these things are dangerous!)

The ranger will take you on a walk around the National Park and explain the terrain. You will be advised not to go to the toilet alone and never to look a dragon in the eye. Suddenly it becomes very real!

We had the most incredible time in Komodo National Park and surrounding islands. This was without a doubt our favourite destination so far in Indonesia. This is also regarded as one of the best areas in Indonesia for diving.

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For more of my visit to Indonesia, visit the Indonesia archives .

For more information to plan your trip to #WonderfulIndonesia, visit  www.Indonesia.travel .

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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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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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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THE 10 BEST Komodo Tours & Excursions

Komodo tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Photography Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. One day Komodo trip with Bintang Komodo Tours

2. Full Day Trip to Explore 6 Destinations in Labuan Bajo and Komodo

3. Private boat trip Komodo 2 or more person for 3 days 2 nights, Kelor, Rinca...

4. 3 Days Deluxe Boat Private Cabin Sailing Trip in Komodo Island

5. Sunset at Komodo Island

6. Full Day Tour to Komodo Island By Speed Boat to explore 6 destinations

7. 1 Day Komodo Trip By Shared Luxury Fast Boat

8. Komodo Tour 3D/2N Live on Board -Join Group Category-Share Cabin

9. 3 Days Komodo island Tour

10. Private tour 4 days 3 nights Komodo on boat, waterfall and Rangko cave

11. One Day Tours Komodo - Padar Island

12. 1 Day Komodo Trip by Private Fast Boat

13. A Day to Komodo Island

14. Full-Day Adventure Tour to komodo Island with join Speed Boat tur

15. 3-Day Komodo island Tour with or without Roundtrip Flight From Bali

16. Komodo Private tour 3Days 2 Night

17. Komodo Day Shared Speedboat Tour

18. Flores Dreamland Tour

19. 3 Days 2 Nights Komodo Private Liveaboard Cruise

20. Komdo National Park and Beyond - All Inclusive (Sharing Trip)

21. 3Days Komodo Tour by Private Boat for 10 pax

22. 1- day Komodo island Tour hopping around by Speed Boat

23. Day Trip Explore Komodo Park & Snorkeling

24. One Day Trip to Komodo National Park, using a luxury fast boat

25. Komodo Day Tour to explore 5 Islands and 3 Snorkeling Experience

26. 2 Days and 1 Night Komodo Kayak Tour

27. 3Days Komodo Tour By Private Boat for 4 pax

28. 2Days Komodo Tour By Private Boat

29. Highlights of Komodo

30. 3-Days Sailing Komodo Island,Padar & Manta Point departure every Friday

What travelers are saying.

A Guide to Planning the Perfect Komodo Island Tour

Venture out of your comfort zone and explore the wild beauty of Indonesia on a fantastic Komodo Island tour.

You leave the lush green hills of Flores to explore the Komodo National Park archipelago with the raw sapphire-blue ocean waters!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

Enjoy snorkelling along the pink beach, climb to the top of Padar Island to see black, pink and white sand beaches change colour at sunrise and of course see the famous Komodo Island Dragon! 

Yes, Komodo National Park is the only place to see wild Komodo dragons. And if you are lucky, you might swim with the mantra rays . 

We did all of that on our Komodo Island Tour as you need to book a tour to visit the Komodo National Park.

The islands are far away so you either need to book a private boat or join an organised tour.

We visited Komodo National Park in February 2023 so all information here is up to date.

So much has changed here in the last two years and we were surprised to discover that prices for Komodo National Park and Komodo Island tours almost doubled. Many other blogs are now outdated so we decided to write this detailed guide on Komodo National Park with the correct information.

Use this guide to help plan your once-in-a-lifetime trip and make the most out of your tour to Komodo Island!

Before you pack your bags and head to the airport at Labuan Bajo, it’s important to do some research to get the most out of your Komodo Island tour.

I will explain where you need to go and how to get there and of course how to choose the best Komodo Island Tour and what to expect. 

Table of Contents

Komodo Island Tour Map

Everything you need to know to book your Komodo Island Tour:

Where is komodo island.

Komodo Island is part of Komodo National Park. 

To get here, you will need to fly to the nearest town, Labuan Bajo, which has very affordable flights from Denpasar in Bali or Jakarta in Indonesia. You can search for the best fl ights here; however , they’re usually around $50 each way. 

Alternatively, you can also take a boat from Bali via Lombok onto Labuan Bajo, but that takes some time. I’d recommend you visit local travel agencies in Bali to make a reservation.

From Labuan Bajo, you can reach Komodo Island on a boat – private or as part of a tour. There are a few options, more on which Komodo Island Tour to choose from below in this blog.

Where can you see Komodo Island Dragon?

The Komodo dragon can be found on Komodo Island as well as on Rinca Island, Dasami Island and even back on the main island of Flores. As the Komodo Dragon can swim, they have migrated from Komodo Island to the nearby island, but the best place to see the Komodo Dragon is on Komodo Island.

Most visitors see them at Komodo Island, and we were lucky to see five of them during our visit!

How to travel to Komodo National Park in Indonesia?

The only way to get to Komodo National Park in Indonesia is by boat. You may hire a private boat to get there, or you can join a Komodo Island Tour. There are also options for fast and slow boats and overnight journeys exploring the Komodo National Park for longer. 

How much does it cost to visit Komodo Island?

What is the Komodo island tour price? The cost of getting to Komodo Island has increased in 2023. First, you must pay for the boat or tour to get there. We have asked many travel agencies in Labuan Bajo, and these are the prices given in February 2023:

Slow Boat 1 Day Tour  – From IDR 650,000 (USD 43) per person /10-15 people on board. Start at 6 am and back around 5 pm.

Stops usually include Komodo Island, Pink Beach and snorkelling at Manta Point. 

Fast Boat 1 Day Tour  – IDR 1,300,000 (USD 86) per person /8-15 people on the small speed boat and 30-30 on the bigger speed boat. The tour usually starts at 5 or 6 am and returns at 6 pm.

Stops usually include Padar Island, Komodo Island, Pink Beach, Makasar Island for snorkelling, Manta Point and Kanawa Island.

Slow Boat 1 Night/ 2 Days  – The Most Popular Option – 3 cabins on the boat (or more; always check before making a reservation) /IDR 1,800 000  – 2,000,000 (USD 120 – 132) per person for a shared cabin with AC and IDR 2,500,000 (USD 165) per person for a private cabin with AC.

Slow Boat 2 Nights/ 3 Days and longer duration are also available 

Komodo Island Tour from Bali –  Yes, you also take a boat from Bali to Lombok and then to Flores. It will take 2 nights and 3 days to reach Komodo, and you need to check what is included and if it’s worth the price, as you can simply fly to Labuan Bajo. 

What are the Komodo National Park Fees in 2023?

This is where it got a bit complicated as the prices change depending on the tour and what you visit. We took the 2-day/1-night Komodo Island Tour and the fee was IDR 500,000 (USD 33) each which included six places we visited (a detailed itinerary is listed below).

We were a bit confused as when we looked up the cost of the Komodo National Park it said the cost was IDR 150.000 (USD 10), but we had no idea that that was just for Komodo Island and other places had separate fees as well.

So budget about IDR 400,000- 500,000 per person in cash.

Here are the prices for Komodo National Park as they were in Feb 2023. 

• Komodo Island entrance fee is IDR 150.000 per person (working days) and IDR 250.000 per person (public holidays)
• Sports and recreation fee on Rinca Island is IDR 100.000 per person
• Sport and recreation fee on Komodo IDR 100.000 per person
• The hiking fee for Rinca is IDR 5000 per person
• The hiking fee for Komodo Island is IDR 5000 per person
• Wildlife observation for Komodo IDR 10.000 per person
• Wildlife observation on Rinca Island IDR 10.000 per person
• The Padar Island entrance fee is IDR 150.000 per person
• The Kanawa Island entrance fee is IDR 100.000 per person
• Snorkelling fee IDR 50.000 per person
• Dive entrance fee IDR 100.000 per person
• The Ranger fee is IDR 120.000 per group of up to 5 people

Please Note:  The Komodo entrance fees are subject to change without any notice. 

In 2022,  Indonesia announced that it was planning to raise the Komodo entrance fee to 3.75 million Rupiah ($250 USD) per person and restrict park visitors to 200,000 per year.

After many protests from locals, this plan was put on hold as most tourists visiting Komodo are usually more budget travellers. 

How to choose the best Komodo Island Tour?

Book before online vs book when you arrive.

If you are short on time or just want to be ready to depart the next day when you arrive, the best idea is to book your Komodo Island Tour online.

It means you don’t waste any time and it can work really well if you have a group.

One Day Komodo Trip – Set sail from Labuan Bajo and spend a day exploring the islands of the Komodo National Park. See the Komodo Dragons on Komodo Island, hike around the stunning volcanic landscapes of Padar Island, and enjoy many stops to swim and snorkel, including the popular Manta Point and Pink Beach. This tour includes visiting at least three islands in the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park and free pick-up/drop off from your hotel. (Entrance fees are additional).

1 Day Komodo Trip By Luxury Fast Boat Join Group  – Get to see more of Komodo Islands in less time when you join this guided tour on a high-powered speed boat. See Komodo dragons, snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point; and swim on a pretty pink beach on Komodo Island, too. This tour will have you mesmerized by dramatic views from Padar Island; relaxing on beautiful Taka Makassar Island, and time to snorkel at Kanawa Island. This is the most popular day tour package that includes lunch, water and soft drinks. (entrance fees are additional).

2 Nights/ 3 Days Komodo Islands Private Boat Trip (for 2 or more people)  – Explore the wildlife and epic landscapes of the Komodo Islands and surrounding areas on this 3-day, 2 night boat adventure. Most meals are included and this trip provides you with a more personal experience.

Board a private boat and spend your days exploring Rinca, Kelor, Kalong, Padar, Punya, and Kanawa islands. Enjoy fantastic activities like snorkeling, hiking, and swimming as you sail through this beautiful part of Indonesia (entrance fees are additional).

I highly recommend this option if you’ve got the time – it’s an unforgettable experience! If you’re travelling during high season, I would strongly recommend pre-booking this trip to avoid missing out.

If you have more time, you can explore the town of Labuan Bajo and ask around for prices for the Komodo Island tours.

Each travel agent works with different companies/boats, and prices vary, with some places quoting IDR 200,000 – 500,000 per person for a tour that sounds exactly the same in inclusions/standard of the boat as the previous agency just quoted us.

In the end, we booked our Komodo Island Tour with Yunita at Alexandra Komodo Tour as she has an official travel agency, and we liked her explanation and information the best. 

Her office is on the main road, and you can find the location here on Google Maps .

We ended up booking the 2-day/1-night tour on Rainbow Star Boat, which has 3 cabins in total. Another couple booked the private AC cabin with a double bed, and we had the cabin with 4 beds (2 bunk beds), but it was just the two of us.

There was another cabin with 2 bunk beds that could also be used. 

The boat was spacious, especially the rooftop where you could sit or lay for hours and watch the scenery, simply perfect at sunset. Meals were prepared by the cook on board – Indonesian cuisine. The food was good.

You can bring your beers or soda on board and keep them chilled in the cooler. Coffee, tea and bottles of drinking water are provided.

Should you book a day trip or overnight tour to Komodo Island?

This was another important decision to make.

The slow boat day trip is the cheapest option, but it means you don’t see many stops.

The fast boat day trip can be great if you are short on time and want to see more places. And maybe if you don’t want to sleep on the boat and spend overnight.

The overnight slow boat is perfect for those who crave adventure and would like to spend extended time in the Komodo National Park. It will also allow you to watch the sunset on the boat and the sunrise at Padar Island. We also wanted enough time to enjoy the places we’d be visiting, as opposed to being on a stricter time schedule that perhaps the 1 Day Tour doesn’t cater for.

It is the most expensive option, but we felt like this was the right choice for us. We were also super stoked as it was only 4 of us, and we had a lovely couple to share the boat with.

Our guide Dennis was great, attentive and knowledgable. 

What does the Komodo Island Tour include?

The packages typically include lodging, meals, water, snorkelling equipment, and a guide but not the National Park entrance fees. That is always additional. You will pick up your snorkelling gear from the travel agency – make sure it fits and is good enough quality.

Consider gathering friends together to create a larger group – large groups often get discounted rates and you can always negotiate.

Our 2-Day/1-Night Adventure on the Boat Itinerary

As mentioned, we ended up booking the overnight tour and since it was the rainy season, this itinerary might be slightly different. 

Of course, weather plays a big part, and the guide and crew might change things around. But to help you plan and get excited about your own Komodo Island Tour, here are details of the places we have visited on our tour.

Kelor Island

Our first stop was at Kelor Island. A small island, you can hike up for a view of the beautiful turquoise waters below and the Rinca Island on the horizon. We also went for a swim at the beach.

Manjarite Beach 

Our second stop was snorkelling near Manjarite Beach. It was phenomenal. So many types of fish, and the coral was quite colourful too. We absolutely loved it.

Kalong Island

Our first day came to an end near Kalong Island. It is home to thousands of fruit bats, and each day at sunset, they fly across to Rinca island in search of food. It’s quite spectacular to see as the sun sets down. We then continued and docked near Padar Island for the night. 

Padar Island

This was an absolute highlight of our Komodo Island Tour. We woke up at 4.30 a.m and started our hike up the hill in the darkness. You reach the top in about 30 minutes (stairs the whole way) and then wait until dawn. 

The island appears below, and soon you’ll be able to spot the three beaches: black rock, and pink and white sand beaches. The view is just incredible. We never got blue clear skies, but it was still amazing. During the wet season, the hills are lush and green, while during the dry season, they are mostly brown. 

The walk down is easy, but in the peak season, it might get pretty hot, so best to bring a water bottle. You’ll notice a bunch of great photo opportunities on the way down, so allow for this. We then had breakfast on the boat. 

Shortly after Padar Island, we arrived at Pink Beach for snorkelling and wow! The beach was so pink, and although it was a cloudy day, you could see it clearly.

And the snorkelling at Pink Beach was even better than at Rinca Island. We also took some awesome drone shots.

Komodo Island

And then it was time for the island that everyone was waiting for. No Komodo Island Tour is complete without stopping here to see the famous Komodo Dragons!

We were provided with a ranger guide and set off to look for them, but since two of them were already spotted near the beach we headed straight there.

Are Komodo Dragon Endangered?

Yes, Komodo dragons are endangered by the IUCN’s Red Lis t.

Komodo Dragon is the world’s largest living lizard found only in Indonesia’s World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park and neighbouring Flores, and just 3,458 adult and baby species are left in the wild, according to estimates.

The Komodo Dragon can grow up to be 3 metres long, and it can be dangerous. Komodo dragons are not friendly and should never be approached in the wild. They are wild animals and are very territorial, so you must keep your distance. 

They have shark-like teeth and poisonous venom that can kill a person within hours of a bite.

We also took a short walk through the island with the guide who spotted another Komodo dragon, and learned more about their way of living. 

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Manta Ray Point

We finished our 1N/2D Komodo Islands Tour with a bang! Although we visited Komodo National Park during the rainy seasons, we were very lucky with the weather. 

As we approached the Mantra Ray Point, we could see the storm and rain coming , but that didn’t stop us from jumping in to snorkel with these giant manta rays. 

A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

We then started our journey back to Labuan Bajo to finish our tour. It was around 6 pm when we arrived back at the port.

Our bags were stored at our guesthouse as you don’t want to take all your luggage on the boat, pack an overnight bag with the essentials and leave your main luggage at the hotel.

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When is the best time to visit Komodo National Park?

Generally speaking, there are two main seasons in Komodo. The rainy season and the dry season.

April to June is one of the best times to visit Komodo as the islands are still very green, with cooler nights and less chance of rain.

July and August are the main seasons here (dry months), so tours and accommodation can be pricier, and your snorkelling hiking spots in the Komodo National Park might be busy with other tourists.

Where to stay in Komodo – Labuan Bajo?

There are a number of options for hotels and accommodation in Labuan Bajo for every budget.

We stayed at Danke Lodge , and I’d highly recommend this place to stay. It isn’t located in the city centre, although it’s straightforward to get into town as Danke Lodge offers an on-call driver for free airport transfers, and he will do pick-ups and drop-offs around town for you at no additional fee.

The rooms at Danke Lodge are modern, with new beds and bedding and spacious bathrooms with a fantastic hot shower. The staff is excellent here, and the very affordable rate comes with an included tasty breakfast too.

View Availability at Danke Lodge

I’ve listed some other popular accommodation options in the city of Labuan Bajo below:

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your tickets online: We use Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Search Tourradar for Group Tours
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What to pack for your Komodo trip 

Before you embark on this exciting island getaway, pack the right travel gear.

Don’t forget to include a few items that could be handy during your time on Komodo Island, like insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a cap or wide-brimmed hat, and appropriate clothing for the conditions. I recommend a rash vest  for snorkelling to avoid getting sunburnt and protect you from pointy coral.

And bring a power bank , it’s always super handy to have to charge your phone, cameras, etc if power isn’t available.

TIP: Leave your main luggage at the hotel in Labuan Bajo and bring a pair of shoes (sneakers are fine) for the hikes, as it will help a lot.

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Final thoughts on our Komodo Island Tour and Komodo National Park visit

From seeing Komodo Island Dragon in the wild to snorkelling in pristine waters to swimming with manta rays, there is certainly no shortage of exciting experiences. This is one of the most amazing places to visit, and we have seen many incredible destinations since we visited every country in the world .

So pack your bags and come to Indonesia and don’t miss the beauty of Komodo And Flores Island.

If you are flying via Bali, you might enjoy our blog on the 5 Best Warungs in Canggu, Bali , and our complete Flores Island in 7 Days Itinerary .

Travel Tips for Asia

We have many travel guides and tips for Asia— a fascinating continent!

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Asia, and our food map of Asia will inspire your food journey.

These top 5 best street foods in Asia are unmissable! We explain Central Asian food, including seven popular foods in this region.

Our Southeast Asia packing list will be helpful if you’re travelling here.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Not surprisingly, our top 10 best countries for food lovers include a few Asian countries.

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If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the best deals on group tours in Asia .

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🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

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🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

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✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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2 comments . leave new.

Thanks for detail of your adventures

Thanks for the 2023 updated prices regarding the tours. I paid 1.2M IDR (Aug 2023) for the one-day speedboat tour, which I booked online before getting to Labuan Bajo. I thought I had been ripped off after checking the prices listed in some travel blogs from a few years ago, but no… prices have doubled within a couple of years! 1.25-1.5M IDR for such tour was the typical price I found in most of the travel agencies in Labuan Bajo.

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• From Bali to Komodo | Complete guide to visit the Komodo Islands in Flores, Indonesia
• Travel Guide

The Off the Beaten Track Adventure From Bali to Komodo Island

This itinerary from Bali to Komodo island is made of unforgettable adventures and discoveries: ideal for holidays with family or friends!

Between its pink sand beaches, its hikes on green hills and volcanoes, and its incredible diving spots, Komodo National Park is a real treasure for travelers in search of magnificent landscapes and unforgettable adventures. Not to mention the famous Komodo dragons, to see absolutely once in your life! Komodo National Park includes the three large islands of Komodo, Rinca and Radar as well as many other small islets that are full of breathtaking landscapes, stunning seabed and animals that you will not see anywhere else. Follow this guide to organize a successful stay in Komodo!

In 1991, the park was included in the list of World Heritage and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1977.

See Komodo, the world’s largest lizard, in their natural habitat with this tour from Bali. You’ll fly to Flores Island and cruise to Rinca Island, part of Komodo National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see the gargantuan creatures up close. This package includes two nights of accommodation, breakfast and lunch over two days, and the services of a local guide.

Most people come to Komodo National Park to see the biggest lizard in the world, the Komodo dragon. These dragons live on specific islands like Komodo, Rinca, Gili Motang, Gili Dasami, and Flores.

The largest group of Komodo dragons, about 2,000 of them, can be found on Flores island. The next biggest population, around 1,700 dragons, lives on Komodo island. If you get the chance to see a Komodo dragon hunting and catching its food, you’ll see just how strong and important they are.

How to go from Bali to Komodo Island and what are the prices?

To travel from Bali to Komodo Island, you can take a flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport ( DPS ) in Bali to Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, Flores. The flight duration is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Labuan Bajo, you can take a boat or a ferry to Komodo Island.

1. Go Labuan Bajo? (starting point for cruises to visit the Komodo Islands)

Labuan Bajo is the starting point for cruises to visit the Komodo Islands. There are two ways to get there: by plane, it’s fast, comfortable. Or by boat, but it is longer and the crossing can be dangerous.

By airplane

A) from bali to komodo island by plane, then ferry.

Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes. Cost: fares start at IDR 469,000 (US$31.50) From Bali Airport (DPS) to Labuan Bajo (LBJ) Airport, it takes 1h 10mn. From Labuan Bajo ferry terminal to Komodo National Park it takes (2h 30min by ferry once a day).

What airline companies run services from Bali and Komodo Island?

• Batik Air (Parent organization: Lion Air)
• Garuda Indonesia
• Citilink Indonesia

If you are boarding an international flight, the island is accessible via Jakarta on the island of Java, or via Denpasar in Bali ( DPS airport ). From these 2 cities, you can then take a domestic flight to Labuan Bajo in Flores, this is the airport and the departure city for tours to visit the Komodo Islands. A flight from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo will take about 2.5 hours while a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo only takes an hour.

B) Flights from Lombok to Labuan Bajo

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes Cost: fares start at IDR 703,000 (US$47.50) For some years there has also been a daily flight from Lombok to Labuan Bajo, operated by Lion Air/Wings Air.

C) Flights from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo

Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes Cost: fares start at IDR 1,200,000 ($81) Direct flights from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo are operated by Lion Air  and Citilink . The duration of the trip is around 2h15 and fares start from IDR 1,200,000 ($81).

D) Flights from Surabaya to Labuan Bajo

Duration: 1h30. Cost: fares start at IDR 630,000 ($42.50). The flight between Surabaya and Labuan Bajo only takes 1.5 hours. Batik Air operates a daily direct flight that departs at 11:10 am from Juanda de Surabaya airport.

Notes: flight fares can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and class.

By boat (ferry)

Less comfortable, long but more economical option: you can also get to Labuan Bajo by boat from Bali or Lombok and then by bus. But this alternative is not recommended because of the very fluctuating schedules, the length of the journey (36 hours minimum) and above all the discomfort and insecurity of the ferry.

The slow ferry departs from Lombok from Lembar port to Labuan Bajo, the crossing lasts 27 hours, departure at 5 p.m. and arrival at 8 p.m. the next day. The price is IDR 236,000 (around USD 15 or AUD 23), reservation possible on the PELNI website.

Another alternative if you have more time is to take a multi-day boat trip from Lombok, an island just east of Bali. But this cruise is long with uncomfortable boats. On this route the sea can be rough and accidents have been reported in the past.

2. How to get around in Flores?

You can choose to take a day trip which will allow you to visit the islands of Rinca and Padar in 1 day with a departure in the morning and a return in the late afternoon.

If you want to visit more, as well as other more remote islands then you will need to take a 2 to 4 day cruise depending on what you want to visit. You will therefore live aboard a boat for several days and sail from island to island, alternating visits to islands, beaches, snorkeling spots, hiking…

3. Prices for entering Komodo National Park, including entrance fees and activities

Here are the estimated general entrance fees for Komodo National Park, as well as the activity fees for both Indonesian and foreign visitors (valid from Monday to Sunday):

The general entrance fee to Komodo National Park is approximately:

• Monday – Saturday: IDR 150 000 (USD 9.55) / day / person
• Sunday and national holidays IDR 225 000 (USD14.32) / day / person
• Monday – Saturday: IDR 5 000 (USD 0.32) / day / person
• Sunday and national holidays IDR 7500 (USD 0.48) / day / person

The activity fees for Komodo National Park for Indonesian and foreign visitors (Monday-Sunday) are approximately:

• Trekking: IDR 5000 (USD 0.32)
• Wildlife viewing: IDR 10 000 (USD 064)
• Snorkeling: IDR 15 000 (USD 0.96)
• Diving: IDR 25 000 (USD 1.60)
• Sport Fishing: IDR 25 000 (USD 1.60)
• Photography: IDR 250 000 (USD 16)

The total fee is determined by adding up all the charges for the activities on your trip. For instance, a standard boat trip usually covers the main fee, hiking, seeing wildlife, snorkeling, and taking pictures.

Source: Official Instagram account of the Komodo National Park (in Indonesian Language)

The Komodo entrance fee covers a lot of amazing experiences:

Guide Certified local guides will be with you, sharing their deep knowledge of the park’s plants, animals, and history. They’ll make sure you have an educational and enriching journey.

Meeting the Dragons You’ll get to see the incredible Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest lizards, in their natural home. These impressive creatures, with their ancient look, big size, venom, and unique behavior, will leave you in awe and give you an unforgettable memory.

Beautiful Hiking Paths Explore the stunning landscapes of Komodo National Park through its well-maintained hiking trails. Every step you take reveals a new wonder waiting to be found, from lovely hillsides to breathtaking views.

Snorkeling and Diving Fun Jump into the colorful underwater world around the Komodo Islands. You’ll come across a dazzling array of vibrant coral reefs filled with sea life. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, you’ll be amazed by this underwater paradise.

The reasons for this increase initiated by the government!

The Indonesian government explains this pricing decision with a report from the Ministry of Environment and Forests concluding that Komodo National Park would not be able to welcome more than 219,000 annual visitors.

It is true that since its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991 and since it was named one of the 7 natural wonders of the world in 2011, Komodo Island has been stormed by tourists of the whole world.

Is it dangerous to visit Komodo?

As for Komodo… that’s another story! There have been accidents before and they are potentially dangerous wild animals. Indeed, their saliva contains many bacterias and their bite can be fatal. In addition, they measure up to three meters long, weigh 150kg (330 lbs) and can run at more than 20 km/h (around 12 mp/h). Generally it does not make you want to rub it too much.

However, if you listen carefully to the instructions and don’t mess around, you should be fine. Listen to the rangers, stay in a group and in Indian thread, don’t make noise or sudden movements, stay away from the Komodo (5 meters or 16 feet seems appropriate) and everything will be fine. If you are bleeding or having your period, it seems that you should report it, because blood attracts Komodo dragons.

Activities and excursions in Komodo Island

Komodo National Park is largely a scuba diving destination without too much tourist infrastructure. The attraction is rather the incredible nature, so it is possible to do other activities during your stay, or for non-divers, such as:

• Go hiking in the hills of the islands and around the Kelimutu volcano
• Go visit the famous Komodo
• Explore Flores Island sites (e.g. Python Cave)
• Snorkeling on a day trip

There are several travel agencies in Labuan Bajo that can arrange all of these excursions.

1. See the Komodo dragons at Komodo island

The Komodo dragons are undoubtedly the main attraction of the island. Disturbing and fascinating at the same time, going to meet these mythical animals will make you live unforgettable moments. Other animals also invest these places, such as buffaloes, wild horses and deer.

Komodo Island is part of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the Lesser Sunda island chain, Indonesia. It is famous for being home to the legendary Komodo dragon, the largest species of lizard on the planet.

It’s the only place in the world where you can see them in the wild, but Komodo has plenty more to offer. Komodo Island has amazing and varied landscapes – from white sand beaches to pink beaches, from tropical forests to grassy savannah hills.

It is also one of the best scuba diving destinations in Indonesia, with dozens of pristine reefs filled with colorful marine life. Along with over 1,000 species of fish, the waters around Komodo Island teem with whales, sea turtles, reef sharks and manta rays.

The many islands of Komodo National Park are scenic

The many islands of Komodo National Park are scenic and varied and the magnificent dragons are found on four different islands:

• Gili Montong.
• Gili Dasami.

In fact, Rinca Island is the best option for seeing dragons in the wild, as it is home to more Komodo dragons and is also closer to Labuan Bajo town, so easily accessible on an excursion. of a day with half a day of snorkeling on the reefs.

Planning to go to Komodo Island? It is quite easy to get there wherever you are in Indonesia. The first option is to fly to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores and then take an organized boat tour to Komodo.

The second option is for more adventurous travellers : Take a 3-day, 2-night boat tour from the Gili Islands or Lombok to Flores with several stops (including Komodo) along the way. For many travelers, this is one of the best experiences of the whole trip to Indonesia!

2. Visit Komodo National Park Villages

The Komodo National Park is not just a single village but a protected area consisting of multiple islands, including Komodo Island. The villages around the park primarily serve the needs of the local communities and support tourism activities in the area. They offer accommodations, guides, and various services for visitors exploring the park and its surroundings.

Komodo National Park Village, also known as Komodo Kampung , is a small village located on the northwestern coast of Komodo Island, the largest island in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. The village is situated in a sheltered bay with stunning views of the surrounding islands and the turquoise waters of the Komodo Strait.

Yes, you can visit some villages around the Komodo National Park. These villages often organize tours or welcome tourists who are exploring the area. To visit, you can arrange a tour through local guides or tour operators based in Labuan Bajo or nearby towns. They offer day trips or excursions that include visits to villages within the park.

As for prices, they can vary based on the specific tour, services included, and the village you intend to visit. It’s best to inquire with local tour agencies or guides for details on pricing and what each tour entails.

Within the vicinity of Komodo National Park, some villages are frequently visited by tourists. Here are a few:

• Kampung Komodo: A village on Komodo Island itself, inhabited by locals and known for its proximity to the Komodo dragons.
• Kampung Rinca: Located on Rinca Island, another spot to observe Komodo dragons and experience local village life.
• Kampung Melo: Found on Flores Island, this village offers cultural experiences and traditional weaving demonstrations.
• Kampung Baru: Situated near Labuan Bajo, this village provides insights into local life and craft-making.
• Kampung Komodo Kecil : Located on Komodo Kecil Island, a smaller island within the park, Kampung Komodo Kecil offers a secluded and authentic experience. It’s known for its traditional fishing practices and close connection to the natural environment.

These villages provide opportunities to experience the culture, traditions, and daily life of the people living in and around the Komodo National Park area.

3. Scuba dive to admire the underwater flora and fauna

Read also:  Best Dive Spots in Bali: A Guide to the Best Underwater Wonders

Here is the list of the best dive sites on the island:

Manta Alley : this is the best place to observe the famous manta rays. This relatively shallow site, between 10 to 20 meters (30.80 – 60.60 ft), allows you to maximize the time spent underwater and make the most of the aquatic spectacle.

• Batu Balong: its coral gardens are teeming with fish. Strong currents and steep drop-offs attract big fish like Napoleon wrasse and sharks at greater depths. Photographers will be able to capture unforgettable photos.
• Golden Passage: This is a popular drift dive site close to Gili Lawa Darat. You can see corals, reef sharks, and sometimes even dolphins and manta rays.
• Manta Point: this site offers the chance to dive with manta rays that come to feed in the current. This drift dive with strong current allows you to see white tip reef sharks, nasons and small squills.

BATU BOLONG, ON THE SOUTHWEST COAST OF NUSA PENIDA

Explore the southwest coast of Nusa Penida , known for its captivating dive sites. One standout location is Batu Bolong, an iconic spot that promises a rich underwater experience. This legendary site, which even inspired the Warnakali restaurant logo, boasts abundant marine life, mesmerizing aquatic displays, and encounters with sharks, rays, and the elusive mola mola. Our divers’ stories of this unforgettable dive will leave a lasting impression on your memory.

Situated off the southern coast of Nusa Penida , Batu Bolong features a striking arch that’s often captured in photographs. To ensure a safe dive, it’s best explored during a rising tide with low swell conditions, keeping in mind the potential for strong currents and waves. The pinnacle offers glimpses of various pelagic species along the steep walls, while the walls themselves showcase a vibrant array of macro-life thriving among the stunning corals.

4. Go to Padar island

Padar Island is one of several islands scattered in the Komodo National Park area, this island has a shape with several bays, white and reddish beaches and several beautiful hilltops.

Padar Island is covered with savannah hills. Steep volcanic mountains covered with bushes and meadows lead to deep bays with beaches of different colors, popular with divers. Its three main turquoise bays have stunning beaches: one is white, another is charcoal black, and the other is soft pink. The black beach has a volcanic origin, while the pink consists of red coral mixed with white sand.

The best time is April-June and also the dry season; September-November. July and August are very crowded and December to March is too rainy. Padar is about 30 km (20 ml) from Labuan Bajo, a fishing town on the westernmost part of Flores. Take a 30 minute hike to the top of Padar to see the whole island.

With its diverse landscapes and mesmerizing vistas, Padar Island stands as a testament to the natural wonders that Indonesia has to offer.

To reach Padar Island, you can follow these steps:

Many tour operators in Labuan Bajo offer guided tours to Padar Island as part of a package that includes other popular spots like Komodo Island and Rinca Island. This is a convenient way to explore the area.

If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider chartering a private boat. This option provides flexibility in terms of timing and allows you to customize your itinerary. Once you arrive at Padar Island, be prepared for a short but moderately challenging hike to the viewpoint. The trail is well-marked, but it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring some water.

5. Visit Rinca island

If you are eager to meet the famous Komodo dragons during a hike, then do not hesitate to discover the island of Rinca. Indeed, this island is the closest to Labuan Bajo (on the western coast of the island of Flores), the starting point for excursions to Komodo National Park.

Unlike Komodo Island, Rinca Island is smaller with an area of approximately 196.25 km² (643 864.82 ft²). The chance of seeing giant monitor lizards in their natural environment is then greatly increased.

Rinca Island is the closest to Labuan Bajo and surprisingly the least visited. A 2-night boat cruise in the Komodos archipelago not only allows you to meet the dragons, but also to discover the richness of the underwater fauna and flora of the Komodos archipelago.

It is worth remembering that komodos are wild animals and that they can present a certain danger if their tranquility is not respected. It is mandatory to keep your distance from the animal and to follow all the recommendations of your guide and the local ranger who will accompany you on the excursion.

6. Stop at Kanawa island

Kanawa Island is also known as the gateway to Komodo Island because all ships heading to Komodo Island will definitely pass through this island.

The island which has an area of ​​about 32 hectares (80 acres) is approximately 15 km (9 miles) from Labuan Bajo (the capital of West Manggarai).

You can spend a day relaxing on the hammock, camping, playing beach volleyball, getting a massage on the beach, trekking to the hills, snorkeling, diving, or enjoying the view of the sky at night.

7. Visit Pink beach ( Pantai Merah Muda )

Is Pink Beach really pink?

Let’s be clear: if you’re expecting a flashy pink beach, you’re going to be disappointed! On the other hand, yes the sand of this page has a rather pink color, due to the presence of large fields of multicolored corals which are located offshore.

Apart from the giant lizards that give the park its name, Komodo National Park is also well known for its beautiful, undeveloped beaches. One of the most unique is Pink Beach ( Pantai Merah ), named for the pink sand that gets its color from weathered chunks of red coral from the nearby reef.

Clear, calm waters make the beach an excellent site for snorkeling, especially since the coral reefs just below the surface are home to hundreds of species of marine plants and animals. Located about 15 minutes by boat from Loh Liang pier, Pink Beach is a great place to relax in the sun or cool off in the water after a day of trekking in the national park.

There are 2 pink beaches:

The pink beach on Padar definitely has more colorful sand, but the Komodo pink beach has a nicer background for photos, with lots of steep hills and trees.

8. Go to Kelor Island

Kelor Island is located near Komodo Island, within Komodo National Park in Indonesia. It is a small, uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the surrounding archipelago. Kelor Island is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and hiking, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the more tourist-centered Komodo Island.

The island offers a tranquil escape and serves as a popular spot for day trips or island-hopping adventures for visitors exploring the Komodo region.

You have the flexibility to visit Kelor Island either before or after exploring Komodo Island. Both islands offer unique experiences within the Komodo National Park, and scheduling your visit to Kelor Island before or after Komodo Island allows you to tailor your adventure based on preferences or available time.

A brief 15-minute hike

A brief 15-minute hike unveils a stunning panoramic view from the top of Kelor Island, offering vistas of Flores, Rinca Island, and the surrounding smaller islands within the Komodo National Park. The ascent, though short, is steep and lacks stairs, so take caution to prevent slipping.

The captivating reward awaits at the summit, making this minor exertion entirely worthwhile. Kelor Island provides a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking scenery in all its glory.

Komodo National Park is located in Indonesia, in the Lesser Sunda Islands, bordering the provinces of the West Lesser Sunda Islands and the (East Lesser Sunda Islands).

The national park includes the three large islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar , as well as many other smaller ones. The total area of the park is 1,817 km² (701 miles²) with a land area of 603 km² (375 miles²).

The park also has many lesser islands (island group); Such as Gili Motang Island and Nusa Kode Island.

The national park was established in 1980, with the aim of protecting the Komodo dragon ( Varanus komodoensis ) and cetaceans. The objective was later extended to protection of the flora and fauna of the region, including in the maritime areas.

The islands of the national park are of volcanic origin and 4,000 people live there. In 1991, the park was included in the list of World Heritage and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1977.

Health and security

If you plan to go on a trip to Komodo Island, we advise you to invest in a good travel insurance that also covers scuba diving. You never know what can happen and good insurance can get you out of tough situations. I recommend this travel insurance because they offer worldwide coverage and cover many risky sports like scuba diving. Read also:  Health and Safety in Indonesia

KOMODO DRAGONS & PINK BEACHES – KOMODO ISLAND BOAT TOUR

SAILING AT KOMODO ISLAND

Some Ideas for Exploring Komodo: From Dragons to Aquatic Wonders – Private Tours from Labuan Bajo

Embark on a remarkable voyage that unveils the mystique of Komodo’s ancient reptiles and the mesmerizing beauty of its surrounding islands with our exclusive private tours from Labuan Bajo.

Komodo Dragons & Islands Day Tour: Unveiling the Mystique of the Ancient Reptiles

Embark on an extraordinary journey to witness the awe-inspiring Komodo Dragons, the largest living lizard species, in their natural habitat. This day tour unveils the captivating beauty of the Komodo Islands, where you’ll encounter these prehistoric creatures up close. Discover their intriguing behaviors and learn about their conservation while exploring the stunning landscapes of the islands.

Private Day Tour by Speedboat: Exploring the Gems of Labuan Bajo

Experience the epitome of luxury and personalization with a private day tour by speedboat. Sail through the pristine waters of Labuan Bajo and indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding islands. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters as you swim and snorkel, marvel at vibrant marine life, and savor a sumptuous lunch amidst nature’s serenity.

Labuan Bajo: Swim and Snorkel Komodo Island Trip with Lunch

Dive into an aquatic paradise with this immersive day trip from Labuan Bajo. Discover the enchanting underwater world as you snorkel amidst the coral gardens and colorful marine life around Komodo Island. After your underwater adventure, relish a delectable lunch on board, soaking in the mesmerizing views that surround you.

From Labuan Bajo: Private Full-Day Komodo National Park Tour

Embark on a full-day private tour to the iconic Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo. Traverse through the picturesque landscapes, marvel at the rugged coastlines, and set foot on the renowned Komodo Island. Witness the majesty of the Komodo Dragons and explore the ecological diversity that this UNESCO World Heritage site offers.

Komodo Island: Private 3-Day Tour with Boat & Hotel Stay

Indulge in an immersive 3-day private tour that encompasses the essence of Komodo Island’s allure. With a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, explore the island’s breathtaking beauty, encounter its iconic reptiles, and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. This tour provides an unforgettable experience, complete with comfortable accommodations and a chance to fully immerse yourself in the marvels of Komodo Island.

Sources: CleverlySmart , PinterPandai , UNESCO , Wonderful Indonesia , Divezone

Main photo credit: Irdan nofriza nasution ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) via Wikimedia Commons

Main photo description: Padar, also known as Pada, is a small island located between Komodo and Rinca islands within Komodo archipelago, administrated under the West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is the third largest island part of Komodo National Park.

One of the natural charms of Indonesia in the province of East Nusa Tenggara is Padar Island, an exotic island with its natural marine beauty that offers a million natural charms.

How to Plan Your Itinerary for Traveling in Indonesia: Create the Perfect Itinerary for Your Trip (from 1 week to 2 months)

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4 Replies to “From Bali to Komodo | Complete guide to visit the Komodo Islands in Flores, Indonesia”

Hi, what are the top three things to do on Komodo Island? And why? Thanks in advance!

Hi Sophie, In Komodo Island, there are several amazing things to do, but if I had to pick the top three, they would be:

1. Komodo National Park tour: see the iconic Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. 2. Snorkeling and diving: explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. 3. Hiking and trekking: discover stunning landscapes and scenic viewpoints.

These activities offer unforgettable experiences in Komodo Island’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading the post! Your passion for these topics is evident throughout, providing me with valuable insights that I hadn’t considered before, from Bali to Komodo island!

Thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the post and found it insightful. Bali to Komodo Island is truly a journey worth experiencing. Stay tuned for more exciting content!

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• Komodo Island: An Ultimate Guide To Explore Indonesia’s Land Of Dragons

09 May 2023

The land of dragons, unexplored marine life, and exotic beaches, Komodo island is the best kept treasure of Indonesia. Tucked away at Flores, this island is a paradise for the adventure junkies looking out for an undisturbed vacation amidst the tropical surroundings. Alongwith Rinca and Padar as neighbouring islands, this Indonesian paradise is the only place in the world to have the dinosaur-eque Komodo Dragons on land.

Apart from that, the island has many other unusual attractions which make this place a must-visit destination. From exploring the depths of underwater to conquering heights, the Komodo island has something for every kind of traveler.

Komodo Island Map

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Best Time To Visit Komodo Island

Image Source

The marine reserve of Komodo island can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the region mainly experiences two seasons i.e., dry season (April-December) and rainy season (January-March). However the best time to visit the Komodo National Park is between April to December when it is dry season and the climate remains pleasant. There are more chances of spotting the Komodo dragons during this period.

How To Get To Komodo Island

By Air: The Komodo island is a settled close to the town of Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. Due to its proximity from the island, this is the most preferred location for the travelers. For the people traveling by air, the nearest airport is the Labuan Bajo Airport (also called the Komodo Island airport ) which connects from both Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport and Jakarta. After de-boarding the flight, one has to take a 3-4 hour boat ride west to reach the Komodo islands.

By Sea: For experiencing the true fun of island hopping, one should definitely plan to visit Komodo Island boarding a liveaboard cruise covering two islands east of Bali.

Liveaboards – Travelers willing to take a Komodo island tour by sea, this liveaboard offers multiple day diving cruises from Bali. There are liveaboards in the form of Yachts and mimicking traditional wooden Phinisi sailing vessels which are equipped with fine cabins, modern navigation and quality facilities on-board.

Komodo Island Tour Price: $500 (INR 35,000 approx.) per person per night or $1000 (INR 70,000 approx.) per cabin per night

Public ferries also run from Lombok’s Lembar harbour from the Padangbai seaport in East Bali. But it’s a time consuming journey and tedious for the travelers, thus for the people planning to travel by sea can travel by Liveaboards.

Things To Do In Komodo Island

1. spend a day at komodo island national park.

Komodo National Park is not just only an UNESCO world heritage site, but it’s also the new addition to the list of 7 wonders of nature in the world. A home to the creepy looking Komodo dragons, this is the only place in the world where they can be spotted wandering freely in nature.

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2. Go On An Adventurous Excursion To Trek Padar

If adventure is running in your veins, then this island has the perfect addition to your bucket list. While the Komodo island has the best views to capture, hiking in Padar island is another must experience which cannot be missed. A 2-hour boat ride from Labuan Bajo island, this isolated treasure can be explored after a tedious hike of almost 1-hour 30 minutes one can enjoy the panoramic view of the island.

3. Witness The Exhilarating View Of The Pink Beach

Apart from the isolated islands and the giant lizards, Komodo island is also a home to the pink sand beach. As surprising as it sounds, this beach is an exhilarating view to witness with the naked eyes. The crystal clear water and the pink sand at this tiny beach creates a beautiful view. Along with its incredible natural beauty, this beach is a paradise for the adventure fanatics who rush here for snorkelling in a place which feels like another world.

Suggested Read: 10 Most Charming Places To Visit In Yogyakarta On Your Indonesian Vacation

4. Experience Hiking At Gili Lawa

Another hiking spot in Komodo island is the Gili Lawa, which is an island located northeast of Komodo island. A famous location for the adventure junkies as this region is home to the beautiful coral reefs along with the hilly terrains. The journey to witness the panoramic view of the island is tedious, but after a hectic hiking excursion the sight is definitely worth it!

Accomodation Options In Komodo Island

1. plataran komodo beach resort.

Settled at a secluded region of Waecicu beach on the island of Flores, the Plataran Komodo Beach Resort serves as a true tropical getaway. This luxurious staycation ensures a relaxing stay facing the sun-kissed beaches and an adventurous paradise amidst this untouched region.

Rating: 4.6/5 Tariff: INR 23,250 onwards (On Double Sharing Basis) Location: Pantai Waecicu, Labuan Bajo, Kecamatan Komodo, Labuan Bajo, Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim. 86757, Indonesia Website | Review

Suggested Read: 13 Amazing Things To Do In Komodo Island For Adventure-Seekers

2. Puri Sari Beach Hotel

For a peaceful beach vacation, Puri Sari Beach Hotel makes a great place to stay near Komodo island. One of the best resorts in Labuan Bajo, this is a quite and secluded beach retreat settled at the western tip of the island of Flores. Equipped with all the basic amenities, this beach hotel ensures luxury and comfort under one roof.

Rating: 4.5/5 Tariff: INR 5,250 onwards (On Double Sharing Basis) Location: Jalan Pantai Pede Kecamatan Komodo, Labuan Bajo, Flores, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim., Indonesia Website | Review

Suggested Read: 5 Yogyakarta Temples Which Give A Glimpse Of Indonesia’s Architectural Heritage

3. Angel Island Eco Resort

Enjoy a stay amidst the surreal surrounding of nature, at this environment friendly resort near Komodo island. Equipped with utmost luxury and exotic interiors, the resort is an ultimate retreat for the enthusiastic divers and snorkelers.

Rating: 4.5/5 Tariff: INR 17,200 onwards (On Double Sharing Basis) Location: Palau Bidadari, Labuan Bajo, Komodo, Flores, Nusa Tenggara Tim., Indonesia Website | Review

Suggested Read: Komodo National Park: Dragons, Colored Sand Beaches, And Absolute Adventure!

Tips To Remember Before Visiting Komodo Island

• Plan and choose the most convenient route to visit Komodo island to save time and money.
• For the ladies, it is advised to avoid visiting the island during their menstrual cycle as the Komodo dragons can smell blood from quite a distance which triggers their aggression and this can be dangerous.
• To explore Komodo island, the travelers should carry clothes which are comfortable and sweat absorbing as it involves a lot of trekking. Also one should carry a swimsuit as the island has the dreamiest beaches.
• As the island has a tropical climate and the heat might be scorching thus it is important to carry a sunblock to protect your skin from burning.
• Bring your group along as traveling to Komodo island is much more cheaper than traveling solo as the boat tours and other expenses can be shared.
• Carry enough cash in your wallet as the Komodo island and its nearby islands doesn’t have ATM machines, thus it will not be an easy task to withdraw money when traveling beyond Labuan Bajo.
• There are many places to explore in Komodo island, hence it is important to follow a planned itinerary to witness the hidden treasures of this exotic island.

Further Read: 10 Best Restaurants In Nusa Dua That Offer The Most Lip-Smacking Indonesian Cuisines

After going through this guide, are you ready to make a visit to the Komodo dragons? If yes, then don’t waste much time and book one of the customized Indonesia holiday packages with TravelTriangle and spend few days away with the creepy dragons and amidst the picturesque views of this tropical Island.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Komodo Island

Is Komodo island dangerous?

The attacks reported on the island are very rare but the Komodo dragons have been responsible for various human fatalities. As per the data the Komodo National Park there were 24 attacks reported in the time span of 38 years between the period of 1974-2012.

Is it possible to stay at Komodo Island?

No. There are very fewer possibilities to stay at Komodo island. Though it is quite easy to travel around Komodo Island, reaching this island is very tough. The first one has to travel to Bali and then to Labuan Bajo via a plane or boat. And then finally one can reach the Komodo Island by boat.

How to reach Komodo island?

To reach Komodo Island there are 3 ways to commute which includes, 1. Fly directly from Bali to Labuan Bajo 2. Take a ferry from Bali to Komodo Island 3. Take a ferry to Lombok and then fly to Labuan Bajo

How much does it cost to go to Komodo Island?

The Komodo tours which start from Labuan Bajo costs approximately 750 USD on a private speedboat or it will 100 USD for group tours. (inclusive of meals and snacks) Apart from that one has to also take a ticket for Komodo National Park (11usd weekdays and 17 USD on weekends)

How many Komodo dragons are on Komodo island?

The World Animal Foundation estimates that Komodo dragons in the wild are around 6,000. This population has been split into different zones which includes that 1,700 are on Komodo, 1300 on Rinca, 100 on Gili Motang and approximately 2,000 on Flores.

Can a Komodo dragon kill a person?

Attacks on humans by Komodo Dragons have increased in the past few years. These dragons have shark-like teeth and poisonous venom which can kill a person in just an hour.

Is Komodo island closed?

As per the report of the local media, the government has decided to close the island for tourists for one year which is around January 2020.

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Guide to Taking a 3-Day Komodo Islands Boat Tour from Flores

Taking a Komodo Island-Hopping Boat Tour is the best activity you can do on any trip to Indonesia. Typically visited on multi-day tours through the Komodo Islands Archipelago, Komodo Cruises do not set sail directly from Bali, but from the islands of Flores and Lombok. You need at least 3-days to visit the Komodos, and many travelers (including myself) consider it the highlight of their trip to Bali & Indonesia – Trust me, the Komodos are well worth visiting!

✔️ Essential Information

• 💵 Price: Around $550 per person private room / $250 pp dorm.
• 📍 Location: Boats sail to/from Lombok and Labuan Bajo, Flores
• ⏳ Duration: Most tours are 3 days / 2 nights.
• 👉 Note! Tours don’t run from January-March (Rainy Season)
• 🍺 All-inclusive , except for alcohol
• ✈️ Getting to Flores from Bali: 1-hour flight
• 🏆 Best tour company: I recommend Wanua Adventure
• 🚢 Different types of Komodo Boat Tours for any style of traveler or budget. → Read my guide to the different types of boat tours.

FYI: Some links on my site are affiliate links that help support my site at no additional cost to you. Read more on my privacy policy page.

The Best Komodo Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a tour recommendation, this open tour has both luxury & budget options.

All About Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is a famous UNESCO world heritage site in Indonesia that became popular around 10 years ago with travelers looking to go beyond Bali to find pristine beaches and adventure. Komodo National Park is composed of almost  thirty separate islands,  some huge and some  super tiny. 

Each island in Komodo is incredibly distinct and worth a visit, and while you could just pick one island and stay as there are a few Resorts in Komodo National Park, most people choose to go “island hopping” and stay overnight on a boat instead. 

✔️ Quick Guide – Different Cruise Types

Is komodo national park closing.

🚨 UPDATE! 🚨 The Indonesian government has decided to scrap the idea to raise prices to Komodo Island! The entrance fee remains 550K ($35) for foreigners and 250K ($16) for Indonesians! 

There have been some issues in the past few years about the future of tourism in Komodo National Park. In 2019 Nine men were arrested for  stealing and trafficking Komodo Dragons  to sell overseas, which is both highly illegal and  terrible  for the natural Komodo Dragon population. The Indonesian government first planned to completely shut down Komodo Island as a response, and the locals who live off of the tourism generated by the park protested. The new plan is to raise the cost of entrance to Komodo National Park from what it is now, around 550K ($35) for foreigners, and 250K ($16) for Indonesians, to around 3.75 million Rupiah ($244). 

Locals from Labuan Bajo and the Komodo Islands who depend on tourism have been actively protesting the price hike, as they see it as a direct attack on their economy – as of right now, we’ll just have to wait and see what happens! What does seem certain at this time is that even if they increase the admission price to Komodo National Park, the Indonesian government seems to have lost interest in closing the islands for tourism completely. 

Where Is Komodo Island Located?

Komodo Island is located in Komodo National Park, which is a cluster of islands off the coast of Flores. Flores is an island in the Indonesian Archipelago that belongs to the East Nusa Tenggara Province. You can see on the map that Komodo & Flores are far east of the island of Bali, where most travelers fly. The islands of Lombok and Sumbawa lie between Bali and Komodo National Park, making overland transport between the two islands difficult.

How To Get To Komodo From Bali

You cannot fly directly from Bali to Komodo, and all travelers need to arrange transportation to Labuan Bajo, Flores, first. Labuan Bajo is also called the “Gateway to the Komodos” because it’s the port city all the cruises embark from. The only way to get from Bali to Labuan Bajo is by taking a short flight from Bali’s Denpasar Airport. These flights run multiple times a day, take around 1-hour, and usually cost $30-50 each way. 👉 Read my more detailed guide on how to get to/from Bali to the Komodos

Best Time To Visit Komodo National Park

Indonesia doesn’t have winter, spring, summer, and fall – instead, they only have two seasons: the dry and the wet. You’ll want to visit Komodo National Park during the dry season which stretches from April – to October. I sailed in Komodo at the beginning of the wet season in November and didn’t have any problems with the weather personally, but the people who sailed the weekend before me in mid-November had it rain the whole weekend!  So it’s better to go in the dry season if you can. 

Do You Need A Tour To Visit Komodo?

YES – You 100% need a tour to enter Komodo National Park. It’s actually  illegal  to visit the Komodo Islands without a guide, plus they can only be accessed via boat. So, it’s not a DIY kind of tourist location and you need a tour. 

Is Komodo worth visiting from Bali?

Komodo National Park is not an  easy  place to visit from Bali, since you need multiple days to explore the Komodo Islands + you have to take a short flight to Flores. But, in my personal opinion, it’s one of the most worthwhile things you can do in Indonesia.

💰Prices & How To Book A Komodo Open Tour

You can book your Komodo boat tour online through  Klook , which is a popular tour provider in Indonesia that accepts foreign credit cards. These tours can be “Open Tours” which means you’re just booking a spot. Usually, the open tours have up to 12 passengers on a boat. Or, you can book a Private Boat  tour where you charter the entire boat and crew for larger groups or families. As a solo traveler, I just booked a spot on an Open Tour. You have the option to get a room with bunk beds, usually a room of four, or a private room for a higher fee.

💰 Price of a Komodo Cruise: Komodo boat tours aren’t fixed rates and vary in price by the type of boat and room you book. My Komodo Cruise was only around $250 per person, but it was for a bed in a bunk-bed room. For a private cabin expect prices to be around $400-500 per person. This is the cheapest tour I’ve found , it’s less than $200 for three days.

💡 Tip: You need to bring cash to pay the entrance fee to Komodo National Park – It’s currently 550K Indonesian Rupiah ($35) per person.

🚨 Note: Most of the tour companies related to Komodo Cruises are just travel agents that work with independent boat owners – So make sure you see photos of the actual boat you’ll be staying on before you book!

Explore The Different Komodo Boat Tours You Can Book Online ⤵ 👉 -> Click Here to Explore Komodo Sailing Trips! <- 👈

12 Things You Can Do on a Komodo Boat Tour

1. get up close with the komodo dragons.

I’m going to be completely honest, seeing the Komodo Dragons on the eponymous Komodo Island was the least impressive part of visiting Komodo National Park . The Komodo Dragons are amazing animals that are deadly hunters with venomous saliva lethal to humans. That being said, the reason the island is open for tourism despite these deadly animals is because the locals feed the Komodos. Since the dragons are reptiles, most of their energy is spent on digesting – If you’re lucky, you’ll see one walking on the beach. But more likely than not, the Komodos will be sleeping off their big meals while tourists get their photos taken by their guides in front of them.

2. Visit the Famous Pink-Sand Beach

Komodo’s Pink Beach gets its candy-hued sand from the ground-up coral. The pink color is made bolder when it’s wet, so you’ll find the most beautiful pink sand at the ocean’s edge. In addition to being pink, I found Pink Beach was all-around one of the nicest beaches I’ve visited in Indonesia. There’s great snorkeling off the coast of the beach, and the white/pink sand coupled with  impossibly blue  water made for the perfect setting. 

3. Go Kayaking At Pink Beach

Kayaking at Pink Beach was just perfect. There was no tide on the crystal-clear blue water, making it super easy for us to explore the whole bay. We kayaked around all the boats docked at Pink Beach and the photographer on our tour took some  gorgeous  drone shots of us while we were out having fun that I’ll treasure for the rest of my life <3. 

4. Swim With The Giant Manta Rays (!!!!) At Manta Point

When we set off to do this excursion on the second day, the guides were trying to prepare us from disappointment in case there weren’t any mantas around. They are wild animals after all, and while the tour operators know their migration patterns it’s not a 100% guarantee you will see them. I’m happy to report that this experience completely surpassed my expectations. I was swimming along with at least 10 giant manta rays in an ocean corridor where they flock. 

Have you ever seen Finding Nemo? That movie was one of my favorites as a kid – there’s one scene where the main character Nemo and his little friends are off to school, and the “school bus” is a giant Manta Ray where all the little fish hop on. One of the coolest things to see was that this scene from the movie was based on real life! There were a ton of tiny little fish swimming under the Giant Manta Rays in Komodo National Park – just like in the movie! (Although it was too far for me to see if any of them were Clown Fish, like Nemo). 

🚩 Ethical Issues  – The Manta Rays at Manta Point in Komodo National Park aren’t fed, and you’re observing them from a good 10-20 foot distance, so   swimming with the Manta Rays was an ethical animal encounter.

5. Climb to the Viewpoint at Padar Island for Sunrise/Sunset 

The viewpoint at Padar Island is quickly becoming one of the most iconic photo spots in Indonesia. You’ll need to complete a 20- to 30-minute staircase hike to reach the viewpoint. Most Komodo boat tour operators schedule a stop at Padar Island either for sunrise or sunset, ensuring you get the best views of the island.

6. Visit Taka Makassar Island 

Taka Makassar is technically a sandbar in the middle of the Komodo Sea, and it would be paradise – IF it weren’t for the 100 other people there when we went 😅. Our boat pulled up at the same time all the other tours did, so it was a bit too crowded to be enjoyable. But I’ve seen some photos from private tours to Taka Makassar that make it look like a deserted island.  

7. Watch The Bats Make Their Sunset Migration At Kalong Island 

Every day at sunset the bats fly out from Kalong Island, where they all nest as a herd, to go hunt for the night. It’s truly an  amazing  experience to watch the hoards of bats fly out into the sunset! 

Around 6 PM you see the cruise ships, tiny fishing boats, and luxury Phinisis all dock to watch the migration. At first, the migration just looks like a flock of birds, then when you look closely you see the distinct outlines of the bat wings. While that sounds kind of intense, our guide told us that there are two types of bats on Kalong Island. There are large bats and teeny tiny ones. The large bats look scarier, but these are just harmless fruit bats.  It’s the tiny breed of bats on Kalong Island that actually drink blood (creepy!), but they never attack people, just animals. 

💡  Note:  If you’re afraid of Bats, don’t worry! The boats are parked at a distance.

8. Spot Sea Turtles While Snorkeling <3 

This isn’t so much an activity as just something you’ll run into if you spend time swimming around the Komodo Islands. The wildlife in Komodo National Park is so vibrant. However, even though on our last day on the Backpackers’ Boat we stopped off at “Turtle Point”, I had way better luck spotting sea turtles at the snorkel spots the second boat tour took us to. Our guide was great about pointing out wild sea turtles to us, I think we saw  three  (!!!) while snorkeling from Manta Ray Point to Taka Makassar Island. 

9. Experience The Glowing Bioluminescence While Night Swimming

Again, this isn’t even a part of a Komodo Tour – it’s just another AMAZING thing you will experience in Komodo National Park! Some people on the tour asked if we could go night swimming since the boat was docked. The guide replied,  “Sure, but just so you know the water might glow”.  

THE WATER MIGHT GLOW?!?!? 

Our guide was  super  nonchalant about it but apparently, there’s a ton of bioluminescent algae in Komodo National Park that is very safe but makes the water and sand glow in the dark. I had experienced the bioluminescent algae in the  Gili Islands  a few years ago and didn’t even know it occurred outside the islands. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see it in Komodo!  

10. Take Photos With Your Private Photographer!

One of the super-cool things about taking a more high-end Komodo cruise was that it included a private photographer who would take pictures of us on the tour.

💡 Tip: If you’re taking a nicer Komodo Boat Tour make sure it includes a photography service! Most of them do.

11. Hike To The View Point At Kelor Island

Kelor Island is home to another iconic viewpoint hike in the Komodos. Shorter than the hike at Padar Island, it should only take you 10 minutes to climb the dirt and rock steps leading to the lookout spot. Also at Kelor Island are some wonderful warungs where you can take a break from the sun and enjoy a Bintang beer or two (or three), and a small coral reef lies off the coast of the island. While we were snorkeling off of Kelor I saw many Parrot Fish, as well as a Barracuda!

12. Eat Really Good Food!

The meals on the luxury Komodo Cruise I took from Labuan Bajo were all next-level. We had fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, all presented and plated in a very high-end way. I was beyond impressed with the quality of food on the Luxury Komodo Cruise.

Quick Guide to Labuan Bajo 

Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park where you will be starting or finishing your trip before flying back to Bali. Full disclosure, I was supposed to stay in Labuan Bajo for two days after my first Komodo Boat Tour ended, but I wound up staying  a whole month  because I fell in love with the town and the island of Flores! Labuan Bajo is a sleepy port city, but it’s a great break from the hustle of larger cities in Bali – plus there’s a ton to do from sailing Komodo to exploring the island of Flores overland. 

🏨 Where to Stay In Labuan Bajo 

Labuan Bajo has become famous in recent years for having these  gorgeous  all-white Santorini-Inspired hotels. The best hotel in Labuan Bajo is Loccal Collection, but if you’re on a budget Seaesta Hotel & Hostel is also amazing! 

Where To Eat In Labuan Bajo 

After a lot of trial and error, my favorite cafe in Labuan Bajo (where I’m sitting and writing this post right now) is Bacarita Cafe. It’s in the center of town, kind of hidden above the Starbucks. They do great coffee, western, and Indonesian food, there’s wifi, and the prices are really good! I also loved the Labuan Bajo fish market come nightfall. Lots of fish vendors line up their stalls and you order whole fish, which they then grill or fry fresh to order and serve with rice and sambal. My favorite was the grilled squid! 

Other Activities In Labuan Bajo & Flores 

Visit Rangko Cave:  Rangko Cave is a half hour outside of the town of Labuan Bajo and a very memorable experience. It’s a salt-water cave so you can float without effort – Rangko Cave has  crystal-clear  blue water you can swim in, and the only way to get there is by taking a tiny boat from mainland Flores so you do need a tour to visit.

💡Tip:  In the afternoon, the sun aligns with Rangko Cave to light it up naturally from within. Amazing, right? Well , that’s what everyone else thinks too! We got there at 10 AM and even though it was kinda dark we had the cave  all to ourselves  until 11 AM when the other tourists started flooding in and the small cave quickly felt crowded. 

Trek To Wae Rebo Traditional Village:   Wae Rebo is most usually visited on 2-day overnight trips since it’s a difficult location to reach. You need to drive 4 hours outside of Labuan Bajo (over super bumpy roads), and then hike 1.5-3 hours uphill to reach the traditional village. Once you get there, you can experience one of the most picturesque traditional villages in Indonesia. ▶  Click Here to Book a Tour of Wae Rebo!

Visit Cunca Wulang Waterfall:  Full disclosure –  Cunca Wulang  is the most unhinged waterfall I’ve visited in Indonesia. I think Cunca Wulang’s infrastructure suffered during the pandemic, and it wasn’t really kept up with – but if you’re into an  adventure , the reward at the end of the path is a pretty cool waterfall that not many other tourists visit!

Katie Caf, founder of Katie Caf Travel, is a seasoned travel expert who has explored over 30 countries and lived abroad in places like Egypt, Morocco, Mexico, India, Indonesia Thailand, Europe, and the USA. Her goal is to help other traveler see the world by providing first-hand accounts of what to expect on the road.

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A Unesco World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park lies in the strait between Sumbawa and Flores and is the habitat of the world’s largest lizard, Varanus komodoensis , the Komodo dragon. Although there are dragons on two other nearby islands, to protect wild populations visitors are only allowed on Komodo and Rinca. Most will couple Komodo dragon-spotting with snorkelling and diving while in the park. At Pantai Merah (Red Beach), near Komodo, reefs teeming with colourful fish are very near the shoreline. Komodo island is also home to several human settlements, including its largest village, Kampung Komodo.

The best travel tips for visiting Komodo National Park

Best things to do in komodo national park, where to stay in komodo national park and around, best restaurants and bars in komodo national park, how to get to komodo national park, tips for getting around komodo national park, best time to visit komodo national park, travel ideas for indonesia, created by local experts.

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Enjoy a luxurious stay in Bali, with hand-picked 5 Star Hotels. This trip includes privately guided tours as well as leisure time, ideal for families with kids. Highlights include sea temple Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih rice terraces and Uluwatu temple with its famous Kecak dance.

The highlight of a visit to the national park is seeing the dragons in their natural habitat. On Komodo, the most popular trek is a 2km (1.2 mile) walk to Banunggulung. Shorter walks are also possible from the ranger station at Loh Liang (where basic tourist accommodation is available) to Kampung Komodo. Trekkers must be accompanied by a park ranger. Keep your distance from all wild animals, the dragons can move very quickly if disturbed. They are dangerous creatures and medical attention is far away.

Scuba diving and snorkelling in the park waters are among Indonesia’s best. There are 260 species of reef-building corals, sheer-drop walls and around 1,000 species of fish and marine mammals, including manta rays, sharks, sea turtles, dolphins and whales. The waters in the south are cooler than those to the north, creating an ideal habitat for corals and reef fish, while to the north, rich plankton and nutrients attract a wide variety of temperate marine life.

For snorkellers, Pantai Merah (Red Beach) offers butterfly, parrot and triggerfish, giant clams and colourful corals at close range. The gorgeous beach is pink due to an abundance of red coral in the region.

© GUDKOV ANDREY / shutterstock

The main attractions of these inhospitable islands are the remarkable Komodo dragons, the largest lizards in the world, and some of the best diving in the region. Here are the best things to do in Komodo National Park.

#1 Spot some dragons on Komodo

There are about 6,000 Komodo dragons on Komodo, Rinca, Gili Montang, Flores and Nusa Kode. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s list of threatened species, the Komodo dragon is considered vulnerable. The greatest threat to the monitors is from deer poachers, who kill off the animals on which they feed. Male dragons can reach three metres (10ft) or more in length and weigh an average of 70kg (154lbs).

Females usually attain only two-thirds of this size and lay up to 30 eggs at a time. The reptiles are carnivores, favouring rotting meat, which they track by flicking their forked tongues into the air to identify odours. However, they can hunt when no carrion is available; by lifting their massive bodies up on muscular legs they can sprint briefly at 20kph (12mph).

#2 Snorkel at Pantai Merah (Red Beach)

For snorkellers, Pantai Merah (Red Beach) offers butterfly, parrot and triggerfish, giant clams and colourful corals at close range. The gorgeous beach is pink due to an abundance of red coral in the region. As Komodo National Park is in the transition zone described by 19th-century naturalist Sir Alfred Russel Wallace, birdwatchers will find a mixture of Asian and Australian species.

Squawking cockatoos and noisy friarbirds flock in tropical kapok and gnarled tamarind trees, disturbing green Imperial pigeons, black-naped orioles, sunbirds and flowerpeckers. On the forest floor, there are jungle fowl, the forebears of domesticated chickens, quails scratching for insects and mound-building megapodes.

Pantai Merah © Shutterstock

#3 Avoid the crowds by visiting Rinca

Not having received the same publicity as Komodo, Rinca island is not as crowded as its more famous neighbour in the high season (July and August), and provides a far more natural experience. On Rinca, there are two moderately easy treks (2–3 hours each) from the ranger station at Loh Buaya, which also has limited basic accommodation. One, to the east of the compound, is up and across a ridge where there is a breathtaking view of the Komodo group of islands, with Flores rising from the sea at one point.

Watch for herds of wild horses, which are absent from Komodo. The other trail goes in the opposite direction through monsoon forest, where wild buffaloes wallow in streams. It is best to leave on expeditions early in the mornings so you can see the animals at their most active, and you can avoid the extreme midday heat.

Komodo National Park from Rinca Island, Flores, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#4 Enjoy stunning beaches on Padar

The small island of Padar in the channel between Komodo and Rinca has become incredibly popular with visitors in recent years – in large part for the iconic panorama from its main peak, which is now badly eroded as a consequence. Padar also has beautiful beaches, though there are no resident dragons.

Accommodation within Komodo National Park is limited and basic. Most travellers visit on a dive boat, many of which have overnight sleeping quarters, or in Labuanbajo on Flores .

This small fishing town on the western end of the large island of Flores is used as the gateway to Komodo National Park. The town is scattered with a host of accommodations, from simple homestays and no-frills guesthouses to four- and five-star resorts with swimming pools.

Browse accommodation options in Labuanbajo

Kampung Komodo

The main village on Komodo has a clutch of simple homestays and not much else.

It's possible to book a spare room in the park ranger's accommodation.

Find accommodation options to stay near Komodo National Park

Eating in Komodo National Park is limited to meals provided by your accommodation. If you're staying inside the park, your host will make some simple food but pack water. The ranger station on Rinca does have a small café that sells snacks and drinks. Liveaboard dive boats will also provide you with food if you're staying with them.

Else, eat in Labuanbajo, which has plenty of good options.

Padar island © Mongkolp / shutterstock

Komodo National Park can only be reached only by sea. Labuanbajo in western Flores is the main entry point, with a modern airport, served by direct flights from Bali and Jakarta as well as from smaller airports in Nusa Tenggara.

From Labuhanbajo, it’s about three hours to Komodo and is a far more scenic crossing. Overnight stops with accommodation aboard the boat is possible. And there are various upscale liveaboard dive boats operating from Labuanbajo.

An alternative approach to Komodo is from Bima on Sumbawa via Sape (1.5 hours by by public bus or hired vehicle along curving mountain roads), where there is basic accommodation and local boats available for charter. The crossing from Sape to Komodo takes eight hours in calm seas, longer if the waves are strong.

There is also a daily public ferry running between Sape and Labuanbajo (with departures usually in the early morning in each direction) which passes through the park but does not stop.

It's only possible to walk or hike around Komodo National Park. All tours are led by a park ranger and are priced by distance. The further the walk, the more you'll pay.

The best time to visit Komodo National Park is during the dry season (April to December). The weather is generally sunny and dry, with lower humidity making the trek through the park less strenuous. Peak tourist season is July to August, so consider booking ahead.

Find out more about the best time to visit Indonesia .

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Travel Guide to Komodo Island Indonesia

Komodo Island in Komodo National park is becoming more famous as one of Indonesia best adventure Destinations. The Central Government has declared Komodo as a Premium Destination which affects to the development of Destination in terms of accessibilities, Facilities and human resources. It can be seen clearly recently when you come to Labuan Bajo, the capital of the district of Manggarai Barat (West Manggarai) and is located at the westernmost tip of Flores island, as it is a launching point to explore the island’s interior, Komodo National Park and visit the giant dragons on Komodo and Rinca Island. Labuan Bajo gradually turned into a busy spot because of the divers and the increased number of Komodo visitors.

Labuan Bajo is a launching point to explore the island’s interior of Flores and Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo gradually turned into a busy spot because of the divers and the increased number of Komodo visitors. Most of Tours to discover Komodo National Park and Flores Island deeper are starting from Labuan Bajo. We can easily find local wooden Boats embarked at the Harbor in Labuan Bajo waiting for the people going to explore Komodo National Park. Now we can find some international Restaurants, Hotels and Coffee Shop along the street near the main Harbor.

How to get there

The Komodo dragons are the star of the show in Komodo National Park where you can find the most in Rinca Island and Komodo island, the most interesting and attractive things also the main reason why the need to come to Komodo and island inside of Komodo national park. Actually, there are many other things to see such as fabulous Pink Beach, enchanting view from Padar Island and also superb underwater paradise for snorkelers and divers.

How much is the price to get there?

What do you need to wear?

Tours to Komodo Island is about exploring the islets inside of Komodo National park. It is an adventure trip to discover the fabulous things that Komodo National park can offer to you such the superb underwater live, snorkeling at Pink beach, trekking on Komodo or Rinca Island to see the dragons in wild life, trekking to the top of Padar island to get the stunning view over the Islets or just enjoy snorkeling in pristine water. We strongly recommended to use Casual and comfortable lightweight clothing, good shoes are suitable for travelling in Komodo National Park, and please be ready with change clothes during your trip.

How to plan a trip to Komodo National park

Once you get to Bali (Denpasar), we recommend you to have one day or two days rest of jet lack, or it is also recommended to have more days to enjoy and explore Bali Island before leaving for Komodo Island. Definitely do that and make sure you check to see when and how much the flights are from Bali to the closest airport to Komodo Island; Labuan Bajo.

The most important things when you start planning your trip to Komodo Island is; first need to think about time. The best time to visit the Komodo National Park is during the dry season, from April to December. You can trek in the park and see the Komodo dragons all year around, although between July to August and September to November the dragons are less active due to the mating and nesting seasons.

Second important question: how long should be your trip to Komodo Island? You can spend two days and a half in the park and it is enough to enjoy the top attractions of Komodo National Park. I would say to do at least a two days trip from Labuan Bajo to the Komodo Islands, then one more day to relax. If you are going to the National Park for some serious diving, we suggest staying a bit longer.

Komodo National Park is a national park in Indonesia located within the Lesser Sunda Islands in the border region between the provinces of East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. The park includes the three larger islands Komodo, Padar and Rinca, and 26 smaller ones, with a total area of 1,733 km2 (603 km2 of its land). The national park was founded in 1980 to protect the Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard. Later it was dedicated to protecting other species, including marine species. In 1991 the national park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Komodo National Park was established in 1980. It was declared as a World Heritage Site and Men’s Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1991. The park was initially established to conserve the unique Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), first discovered by the scientific world in 1912, Lieutenant J. K. H. van Steyn van Henbroek, the Civil Administrator in Reo, Flores Island. Since then, the conservation goals have expanded to protecting the entire biodiversity of the region, both marine and terrestrial.

The majority of the people in and around the park are fishermen originally from Bima (Sumbawa), Manggarai, South Flores, and South Sulawesi. Those from South Sulawesi are from the Suku Bajau or Bugis ethnic groups. The Suku Bajau were originally nomadic and moved from location to location in the region of Sulawesi, Nusa Tenggara and Maluku, to make their livelihoods. Descendants of the original people of Komodo, the Ata Modo, still live in Komodo, but there are no pure blood people left and their culture and language is slowly being integrated with the recent migrants.

Geography and climate

Flora and fauna

The hot and dry climate of the park, characterized by savannah vegetation, makes it a good habitat for the endemic Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis). Their populations are restricted to the islands of Komodo (1,700), Rinca (1,300), Gili Motang (100), Gili Dasami (100), and Flores (c. 2,000), while extinct on Padar. Cloud forests appear only in few areas above 500 metres but they provide habitat to several endemic flora. Coastal vegetation includes mangrove forest, which generally appear in the sheltered bays of the three larger islands.

Fringing and patch coral reefs are extensive and best developed on the north-east coast of Komodo. The park is rich in marine life, including whale sharks, ocean sunfish, manta rays, eagle rays, pygmy seahorse, false pipefish, clown frogfish, nudibranchs, blue-ringed octopus, sponges, tunicates, and coral. Varieties of cetaceans inhabit in adjacent waters from smaller sized dolphins to sperm whales and even blue whales. Omura's whales, one of the least known of rorquals have been confirmed to range waters within the park. Endangered dugongs still live in Komodo areas as well.

The most famous of Komodo National Park's reptiles is the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis). It is the world's largest lizard and is among the world's largest reptiles and can reach 3m or more in length and weigh over 70 kg.

Twelve terrestrial snake species are found on the island in addition to marine species. Snakes include the Javan spitting cobra (Naja sputatrix), Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), white-lipped pit viper (Trimeresurus albolabris), blue lipped sea krait (Laticauda laticaudata), and Timor python (Python timoriensis). Lizards include nine skink species (Scinidae), geckos (Gekkonidae), limbless lizards (Dibamidae), and the monitor lizards such as the Komodo dragon (Varanidae). Frogs include the Asian bullfrog (Kaloula baleata), the endemic Komodo cross frog (Oreophryne jeffersoniana) and Oreophryne darewskyi. Frogs are typically found at higher, moister altitudes. The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) was once present within the park in coastal areas including mangrove swamps but is now extinct within the area.

One of the main bird species is the orange-footed scrubfowl (Megapodius reinwardti), a ground dwelling bird. In areas of savanna, 27 species were observed. The zebra dove (Geopelia striata) and spotted dove (Spilopelia chinensis) were the most common species. In mixed tropical deciduous habitat, 28 bird species were observed, and helmeted friarbird (Philemon buceroides), green imperial pigeon (Ducula aenea), and lemon-bellied white-eye (Zosterops chloris) were the most common. Other birds include vibrantly coloured species such as green junglefowl (Gallus varius), great-billed parrot (Tanygnathus megalorynchos), and the critically endangered lesser sulpher crested cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea). Two eagle species are found in the park, the white-bellied sea eagle and the extremely rare Flores hawk-eagle which is present on Rinca and Flores and reported but unconfirmed on Komodo Island.

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CF Komodo Hotel Flores Island Indonesia

CF Komodo Hotel is the perfect base in Labuan Bajo. It has only 25 rooms with 6 superior hill view rooms, 7 superior ocean view rooms and 12 Deluxe Ocean view rooms and all rooms are air-conditioning and equipped with free Wi-Fi, private balcony and private bathroom with hot water.

Amalia Boat Komodo 18 Mar 2022 - 31 Dec 9999

Boat Dara Komodo 18 Mar 2022 - 31 Dec 9999

Flores Highlights Tour 20 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Trekking to Wae Rebo
• Overnight in Traditional House
• Enjoy Sunset over the 3 colored lakes Kelimutu
• Explore 17 Islands in Riung National Park

Flores Komodo Discovery Tour 20 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• See the Dragon in Rinca Island
• Enjoy Liveaboard in Komodo National Park

Flores Komodo Tour 20 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Trekking to Kelimutu 3 color lakes
• Explore Riung 17 Island

Heaven Glory Fast Boat Komodo 22 Mar 2022 - 31 Dec 9999

Kelimutu Komodo Tour 20 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Visit Kelimutu 3 colored Lakes
• Sunset on Top of Kelimutu Mountain over the lakes
• Discover the Dragon in Komodo National Park
• Snorkel in turquoise waters of Kelor Island and Pink Beach

Komodo Day Tour 18 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Meet the biggest Lizard on Earth
• Guided trek on Komodo and Rinca Island
• Enjoy the amazing Waters of Pink Beach
• Snorkeling in some of the clearest water in the world

Komodo Dragon Tour 24 Feb 2022 - 31 Dec 9999

• Meet the Komodo dragons on Komodo island
• Snorkeling at Pink Beach

Komodo Highlights Tour 16 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Enjoy the picturesque sunset at the island of bats, Kalong Island

Komodo Island Tour 16 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Visit one of the Only Steven Pink Beaches in the world
• Snorkeling in some of the clearest water in the world, Kelor Island

Komodo Liveaboard 18 Feb 2021 - 31 Dec 9999

• Visit one of Only Steven Pink Beaches in the world
• Snorkeling in clear water of Kelor Island

DISCOVER THE DRAGON

Komodo island tours.

• Komodo Island Tour
• Komodo Highlights Tour
• Komodo Liveaboard
• Komodo Day Tour
• Rinca Island Tour
• Komodo Package Tour
• Komodo dragon tour
• Trekking Komodo Rinca

KOMODO BOAT CHARTER

• Seamore Papua
• Amalia Bahari
• Dara Komodo

KOMODO & FLORES HOTELS

• Bintang Flores
• Ina Labuan Bajo
• Ayana Resort
• Pelataran Komodo
• CF Komodo Hotel
• La Prima Bajo

FLORES ISLAND TOURS

• Komodo Wae Rebo Village
• Flores Highlights Tour
• Flores Komodo Tour
• Kelimutu Komodo Tour
• Komodo Ca-Ci Dance
• Flores Komodo Discovery Tour

Indonesia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country. Home to over 261 million people, it boasts stunning landscapes, incredible beaches, amazing food, and affordable prices.

While most people just visit Bali, backpacking further afield in the country is an underrated activity. With so much on offer, it can take months to see everything because there is just so much to see and do here: hectic and chaotic cityscapes, cool white sand beaches, and violent volcanoes. Indonesia has it all.

And it’s easy to visit Indonesia on a budget too. It’s extremely inexpensive and your money goes far here.

While most travelers fly to Bali and visit the Gili Islands or head to Lombok, I encourage you to try to get to the less touristy destinations and off the beaten path. Find dragons in Flores, go hiking, see the historic ruins of Java, and go to Sumatra. You’ll find even cheaper prices and far fewer crowds once you escape the digital nomad hub of Bali.

This Indonesia travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this island paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Indonesia

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Top 5 things to see and do in indonesia.

1. Relax in Bali

Bali is probably the most famous of Indonesia’s islands. Although often crowded with travelers, there is no escaping the fact that this place is beautiful. Try some surfing at Bingin Beach or visit the Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple, which is truly stunning to behold. Make sure you see some traditional Balinese dancing in Ubud too. You can also join a yoga retreat pretty much anywhere on the island and cooking classes are also plentiful and make for a great souvenir.

2. Dive in the Gili Islands

For a true sense of an island paradise, head to the Gili Islands . There are excellent (and cheap) scuba and snorkel facilities as well as great nightlife on Gili Trawangan. These islands are super popular with backpackers thanks to their super cheap accommodation and food, party scene, and stunning beaches for lazing around all day.

3. Admire Borobudur

Borobudur is a the world’s biggest Buddhist temple complex, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries. With 2,672 reliefs meant to highlight Buddhist teachings, it’s made from blocks of volcanic rock. Each level is supposed to describe the stages of life. It is said you can’t move on to the top until you discover the meaning of each relief. Admission for foreign adults is around 380,000 IDR.

4. See Komodo dragons

The subject of more nature documentaries than any other lizard, the Komodo dragon is a force to be reckoned with. Komodo National Park, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, is the only place to see the world’s largest lizard in the wild, which grows up to 10 feet long and weighs over 135 kilograms (300 pounds). Admission is 150,000 IDR during the week, with prices rising to 250,000 IDR on Sundays and holidays (just note that there are additional fees for other activities including ranger fees, hiking fees, diving fees, and so on). The only way to really visit Komodo National Park is on a tour since the islands are over an hour away from Labuan Bajo port on Flores Island.

5. Visit Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park covers a total of 800 square kilometers (308 square miles) at the center of East Java and is the largest volcanic region in the province. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life from the top of Mount Bromo or Mount Semeru. The easiest way to get here is from Probolinggo, through the village of Ngadisari. Although it doesn’t take long to get to the summit (around 45 minutes up a sandy slope) and access to the trail is free, a number of tour operators run guided trips through the park, which includes transport to and from the park.

Other Things to See and Do in Indonesia

1. explore hindi prambanan.

There are 244 temples at this 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the central compound being the main attraction. There are eight minor temples and eight major temples here, with the tallest being 45 meters (150 feet) — which is actually taller than Borobudur. Located in Yogyakarta, there’s a lot to see, so schedule a full day here (it’s the second-largest temple complex in Southeast Asia, after Angkor Wat). Admission is around 380,000 IDR.

2. Wander Jakarta

Indonesia’s capital is a large, bustling city with a population of over 10 million. You could easily spend a few days here as there is a lot to see. Admire Istana Merdeka, the presidential palace (visitors are not allowed inside); see the Monas Tower, a symbol of Indonesia’s independence; check out Ancol Beach; visit the National Museum, and go shopping at the Jalan Surabaya Flea Market. For a moment of calm, people-watch from one of the cafes overlooking Fatahillah Square in the Old Batavia, the Dutch Quarter, where you can take in the historic architecture as you take in the local pace of life.

3. Snorkel or dive in Bunaken

The Bunaken National Marine Park is located in the Bay of Manado and it’s where you want to go if diving or snorkeling is your thing. These deep waters offer fantastic visibility and some of the world’s most biodiverse marine life. Keep an eye out for tuna, sharks, rays, turtles, sea snakes, and more. Entry to the marine park is 50,000 IDR per person, though children under 10 enter free.

4. Broaden your taste buds

Indonesia is home to 17,000 islands and over 260 million people. The country is brimming with diverse cultures, traditions, and beliefs. If you want some idea of how diverse this place is, there are over 700 languages spoken here! This diversity is very much reflected in the food. Javanese, Sundanese, Padang, and Balinese food are just some of your options. Hit the markets, participate in cooking classes, or take food tours to get a taste of what the country has to offer. Your tastebuds will thank you!

5. Visit Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is Indonesia’s cultural hub and is a much less industrial city compared to Jakarta. There is an interesting blend of old customs with modern living here (the region still has a sultan/monarchy). It’s a hip place filled with street art, galleries, cafes, great nightlife, and a strong arts community. Yogyakarta is also a good jumping-off point for exploring the popular and picturesque Borobudur and Prambanan sites.

6. See the orangutans in Sumatra

A mysterious and rare primate, the orangutan finds its habitat on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. A visit to see these primates is a moving experience. And, given the rapid deforestation and fires in the area, you probably want to do this sooner rather than later as these animals are gravely endangered. If you go, make sure you’re traveling with an eco-friendly tour company. Reputable companies don’t let you get in close contact with the animals, as the risk of disease is too high. Even a common cold can knock out a baby orangutan. Nevertheless, seeing these majestic animals is an amazing and life-changing experience. Week-long guided treks cost around 20,000,000 IDR per person.

7. Experience village life in Kalibaru

Kalibaru is a small village on the southeastern side of Java. It’s quiet, secluded, and a great place to tour one of the many plantations (cacao, coffee, dragon fruit, rubber, and spices, among others) in the area on your way to or from Bali. It’s not as well-visited as many other places in Indonesia, meaning you can escape the crowds and get a chance to experience what local life is really like. You can stay here after a trip to Mount Bromo, or just visit on a day trip.

8. See the Bogor Botanical Gardens

Located 65 kilometers (40 miles) outside of Jakarta, the Bogor Botanical Gardens have over 200 acres of land and 15,000 species of plants and trees. The gardens are a lovely spot in which to lose yourself for a couple of hours with a book and some snacks. Admission is around 26,000 IDR. There is a commuter train between Bogor and Jakarta with a stop right next to the gardens.

9. See the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls

These are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali, and yet not many people make the trek here. They’re located about 90 minutes from Ubud, and then you have to hike through a banana plantation to reach the falls. It’s worth it as there are several sets of falls to explore. Just make sure to bring your swimsuit!

10. Explore the megaliths in Bada Valley

Near Lore Lindu National Park are 400 ancient stone megaliths scattered around the hills. No one really knows the origins of these structures, but they’re thought to be over 5,000 years old. No settlement remains or tools were ever found in the area. It’s best to hire a local guide here as the megaliths are not easy to find.

11. Visit the House of Danar Hadi

The House of Danar Hadi in Surakarta (Central Java) is considered one of the world’s best batik museums, with a handpicked selection of favorites from the owner’s collection of 11,000 pieces (batik is a cloth-dyeing method from Java). You have to take a tour to see it all, but it’s worth it. There are lots of antique and royal items on display. They also have batik demonstrations showcasing how these detailed pieces are made. Admission is 35,000 IDR.

12. See the lakes in Kelimutu National Park

Kelimutu National Park, on the island of Flores, is renowned for its tri-colored crater lakes. The crater lakes have continuously changed color over the years, likely due to the mineral makeup in the water. Sometimes they’re green, black, brown, red, blue, etc. The lakes are very sacred among the locals, who believe that they’re the final resting spots of departed souls. Moni is the closest town to the lakes; from there you can take public transportation to the park. Admission to the park is 150,000 IDR.

  For more information on specific destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

• Bali Travel Guide
• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Indonesia Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a dorm hostel dorm can cost as little as 55,000 IDR but most places are closer to 100,000 IDR. For a private double room, prices start around 175,000 IDR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels offer self-catering facilities and free breakfast.

Most budget hotels begin at 300,000 IDR per night for a double room that usually includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast. For a three-star hotel, prices begin around 400,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from around 300,000 IDR per night. For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 400,000 IDR per night. Book early, however, or prices can double.

If you’re booking through Booking.com, keep in mind that many of the listings are actually homestays and private residences.

Since hostels and homestays are so cheap, camping is not very common unless you’re on a guided trek.

Food – Food in Indonesia is heavily influenced by a number of cultures, most notably Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures. Lots of dishes have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

The food here is extremely cheap by Western standards, with street food costing under 10,000 IDR. It’s also delicious in part because much of it is based on fresh spices and herbs. Expect rice and noodle-based dishes such as nasi goreng (stir-fried rice with chicken, egg, and vegetables) and mie goreng (a spicy fried noodle dish with garlic, onion, meat, egg, and vegetables) as well as gado gado (comprising of steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, sometimes egg, and peanut sauce), and lots of satay.

For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, expect to pay around 25,000 IDR. For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with table service, prices start at 125,000 IDR per person. Western food is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at under 100,000 IDR for a meal. For the cheapest food and a fun experience, head to the night markets.

Fast food like Mcdonald’s costs around 50,000 IDR for a combo meal. A beer at the bar costs around 30,000 IDR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 450,000-500,000 IDR. However, food in the country is very cheap and I would encourage you to eat out as often as possible as kitchens are hard to come by!

Backpacking Indonesia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 425,000 IDR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, rent a bicycle to get around, and do mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking, add another 30,000-60,000 IDR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,100,000 IDR per day, you can eat out at more restaurants, stay in a budget hotel or a private hostel room, rent a scooter to get around, drink more, enjoy some massages, and go diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay at a nicer hotel or villa, take taxis or private minivans to get around, eat Western food, drink more, and do any adventure activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, however. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Indonesia is super affordable, it’s also easy to splash out here (especially in Bali). To help you save money, here are some specific ways you can keep your spending down while you’re here:

• Eat on the street – You can pick up tasty local fare for under 10,000 IDR. Street-side snacks, soups, and noodles are super affordable and super tasty.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain with sellers as most of the time the prices they quote aren’t the prices you end up paying if you bargain!
• Drink cheap – Save money on alcohol by heading to the local happy hours (or just buying your drinks at a local store instead of the bar). This is the cheapest way to drink!
• Book online in advance – If you’re planning on hitting up some of Indonesia’s most popular destinations, such as Bali, it’s actually cheaper to book your accommodations (and sometimes tours) online in advance rather than showing up and trying to strike a deal.
• Pay bus attendants directly – When you’re taking an intercity bus, don’t purchase a ticket from a ticket window. It’s cheaper to pay directly on the bus.
• Rent a bike – In many places, such as Bali and Gili, you can easily get around on two wheels. Rent a bike for as little as 40,000 IDR per day. It’s a great way to get around on the cheap.
• Take taxis – Taxis are essential for getting around in some parts of Indonesia, and they can be cheap. Just make sure the driver puts the meter on before you depart (or agree on a price before you get in).
• Bring a filtered water bottle – Indonesia has a ton of plastic waste. It has so much that a lot of it just gets burned. You’ll see — and smell — it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save both money and the environment. I personally like Lifestraw .

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Looking for a place to stay during your trip? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Indonesia:

• PADI Backpackers House (Ubud)
• Kememai Hostel (Ubud)
• Warung Coco Hostel (Kuta)
• Tribal Bali (Canggu)
• Gili Beach Bum (Gili Trawangan)
• My Mate’s Place (Gili Trawangan)
• Wonderloft Hostel (Jakarta)

How to Get Around Indonesia

Public transportation – Public buses aren’t really used for city transport except on Java. There’s an extensive network in Jakarta, known as the Transjakarta Busway. Fares cost 3,500-9,000 IDR for any destination in the network. You have to pay with a card that costs 40,000 IDR (it comes with a 20,000 IDR credit) from station ticketing offices.

Otherwise, most people get around by becak , a three-wheeled pedal or motor-powered cart. You should negotiate your fare before you get in; ask your hotel/hostel staff for up-to-date price estimates.

Taxis are also affordable, and they’re metered in major cities. Bluebird Taxis is available in most places, and they’re the most dependable company for metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. There’s a smartphone app that makes it really easy to order taxis. The starting rate is around 7,500 IDR and then 5,300 IDR per kilometer.

Grab (an Uber offspring) is a household name in Southeast Asia. It is convenient but sometimes costs even more than a taxi. Gojek is a similar option. Be forewarned: if you order a Grab or Gojek, you might wind up on the back of a motorbike.

Ferry – For traveling between islands, ferries start around 15,000 IDR for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. Bali to the Gili Islands is 175,000 IDR (one way) on a speedboat.

While it’s not necessary to book in advance it’s a good idea to do so during peak season or on more popular routes. You can buy tickets on the ferry company’s website or via a ticket agent like 12go.asia.

Bus – Buses are the main way for locals and tourists to get around Indonesia. It’s a good idea to book your long-distance tickets in advance, especially if you want an air-conditioned ride. You can buy a ticket from a travel agent, or visit the bus terminal. Your accommodation may also be able to arrange your transportation.

A 12-hour journey on a bus costs around 170,000 IDR. A short journey, like the one from Kuta Beach to Ubud, is less than 80,000 IDR and takes one hour.

If your ride is a shorter one, you might end up on a bemos (mini-bus). In this case, negotiate your fare beforehand.

Train – In Indonesia, the cities of Java are well linked by train, including Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo), and Banyuwangi (the ferry terminal for Bali). Economy class from Jakarta to Surabaya takes 10.5 hours and costs about 190,000 IDR, while an 8-hour executive class trip can cost from 620,000 IDR. Surabaya to Probolinggo (for Mount Bromo) takes 2-3 hours and costs 27,000 IDR for economy or 240,000 IDR for executive class. Surabaya to Banyuwangi (for Bali) takes 6-7 hours and costs as little as 56,000 IDR for economy or 235,000 IDR for executive class. You can reserve your tickets at tiket.com.

Flying – Garuda Indonesia is the country’s main airline offering international service as well as domestic flights. Lion Air and AirAsia also offer plenty of domestic routes, although Lion Air’s safety record is spotty and I wouldn’t advise traveling with them.

Flights between Jakarta and Bali start around 900,000 IDR each way, while Jakarta to Lombok starts around 1,200,000 IDR. Lombok to Bali is around 1,100,000 IDR. However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel and is only recommended if you have limited time.

When to Go to Indonesia

Indonesia has just two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. Dry season lasts from May to September while the rainy season occurs from October to April. The average daily temperature year-round is 28°C (80°F).

Overall, the best time of year to visit is between May and September when it’s dry and sunny. It’s still pleasant to visit during the rainy season, however, as rainfall usually comes as fast and intense downpours that only last a few hours.

The Nusa Tenggara region is more affected by the wet season which may sometimes result in flooding. The wet season may also be a problem if you’re looking to get off the beaten track in Indonesia, as muddy roads can sometimes keep you from getting around.

In Bali and Kalimantan, the extremes between seasons aren’t drastic. The dry season is the best time to climb the volcanoes, and the best time to dive is from April to September. (If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!)

How to Stay Safe in Indonesia

Indonesia is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Indonesia. It’s most common on public transit as it’s easy for thieves to grab your wallet or purse when you’re distracted by all the chaos around you. Staying alert and securing your valuables is the best way to prevent petty theft.

Credit card fraud is also common in Indonesia. To avoid this, it’s always best to pay with cash when possible. To avoid getting your information stolen at an ATM, enter a reputable bank to withdraw money from there.

There are a lot of small scams around the island and you can read about how to avoid these common travel scams here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). The country is big and, while generally safe, there are certain spots you’ll want to stay more vigilant in. There are countless solo female travel blogs out there that can give you specific information on how to stay safe.

Earthquakes are common in Indonesia, owing to its location on the Ring of Fire (it experiences more earthquakes than any other country). Make sure you know where your exits are during an emergency. Also, download an offline map and languages translation pack in case you need it during an emergency situation where you don’t have mobile data/Wi-Fi.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Indonesia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Indonesia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

From Beaches To The Komodo Dragon, These Are 10 Indonesian Islands Worth Visiting

• Komodo Island is home to the largest living lizard on Earth, the Komodo dragon. It is a popular destination for scuba diving and has a population of approximately 1,800.
• Java is the most populous island in Indonesia, housing over half of the country's population. It is known for its ancient temples, including the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
• Borneo is the third-largest island globally and is shared by Indonesia, Brunei, and Malaysia. It is renowned for its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, making it a top destination for eco-tours.

Indonesia is one of the countries with the most islands in the world ; it is a massive island nation (with the fourth-largest population after the United States). The country has some of the largest islands on earth (although some of them are shared with other countries).

Only a few of its islands (such as Bali, which is famous for its beaches ) are popular tourist destinations leaving most of the country rarely visited by tourists. Here are some of the best Indonesian islands to visit across the vast archipelago.

Komodo Island

Komodo Island is a small island famous for being the home of the Komodo dragon - the largest living lizard on Earth. It is an example of evolutionary island gigantism (where isolated species can get very large).

Komodo Island is also one of the best islands in Indonesia to visit as a diver; it is a very popular destination for scuba - but the Komodo dragon is easily the top attraction.

• Population: Approx. 1,800
• Size: 150 sq miles or 291 sq km

Java is home to over half (around 56%) of the population of Indonesia and its main city, Jakarta, is one of the largest in the world. It was the center of powerful Hindu and Buddhist Empires, and there are many ancient temples to discover.

Take the time to see the largest Buddhist temple in the world in Java .

• Population: Over 150 million
• Size: 53,000 sq miles or 139,000 sq km

Sumatra is the massive long island of Indonesia stretching close to Singapore. It is the largest fully Indonesian island and is famous for its wildlife (some of which is endangered).

The island was once covered by lush tropical rainforests, although much of the island is now deforested. Notable wildlife include the Sumatran tiger, the Sumatran elephant, the Sumatran orangutan, and the Sumatran rhino.

• Population: 60 million
• Size: 182,000 sq miles or 475,000 sq km

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and is home to three countries - Indonesia, Brunei, and Malaysia (around 73% of the island belongs to Indonesia).

Much of the island remains covered in lush tropical rainforests, and it is a top destination for eco-tours to see the orangutans, Borneo elephants, and other tropical rainforest wildlife.

• Population: 22 million (total population)
• Size: 289,000 sq miles or 748,000 sq km

Related: Why This Borneo River Lodge Is The Best Place To Explore The Jungle & Its Wildlife

Bali is by far the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia - so much so that most people say they are going to 'Bali' and not say they are going to 'Indonesia'.

It is a Hindu-majority island (most of Indonesia is Muslim-majority). It is famous for its pristine beaches and enjoys a very developed tourism industry.

• Population: 4.4 million
• Size: 2,200 sq miles or 5,800 sq km

Lombok is another island popular for tourism. It is separated from Bali by the Lombok Strait and shares a number of similarities with Bali (such as cultural heritage).

But its wildlife is also different as the Lombok Strait is part of the Wallace Line that has proved a barrier to the migration of species from Asia.

• Population: 3.9 million
• Size: 1,800 sq miles or 4,700 sq km

Related: Heaven Besides Bali: 11 Islands In Lombok For An Amazing Scenic Vacation

Sulawesi is one of the most distinctively shaped islands in the world. It is the eleventh-largest island in the world and has four massive peninsulas.

Sulawesi is easily one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia to visit, and it offers the chance to get away from the large tourist crowds of Bali (and, to a lesser degree, Lombok) and explore a destination not spoiled by tourists.

• Population: 20 million
• Size: 72,000 sq miles or 186,000 sq km

Flores is best known for the 'Hobbit' scientifically Homo floresiensis - a diminutive species of archaic human. When the species was first discovered, it was a matter of contention whether the bones represented a strange new species or were an example of a diseased human.

New discoveries have shown it to be a new species of human 1.1 meters tall (3.7 feet). Flores is not popular for tourism but is a great place to visit to discover a different side of Indonesia.

• Population: 1.9 million
• Size: 6,000 sq mile or 15,500 sq km

Related: Indonesia's 10 Most Charming Cities That Every Tourist Must Visit In 2022

The island of Timor is best known for the independent country of East Timor on the eastern side of the island .

West Timor (the Indonesian part of the island) is another destination that very few international travelers bother to see. Explore both the East Timor and Indonesian side of the island while there.

• Population: 3.3 million (total)
• Size: 12,000 sq miles or 31,000 sq km

New Guinea is one of the most challenging places to visit (and one of the most unique destinations). It is the second-largest island in the world and one of divided into the independent country of Papua New Guinea in the west and the Indonesian west.

It has extremely poor infrastructure but is incredibly diverse - Papua New Guinea has the most languages of any nation on earth.

• Population: 15 million
• Size: 303,000 sq miles or 785,000 sq km

Indonesian island hopping: 11 of the best islands

Indonesia's accessible island chains allow travellers in search of blissful beach scenes and tropical adventure to island-hop to their heart's content

With over 18,000 islands and approximately 750 languages or dialects spoken by 300 ethnic groups living among these islands, Indonesia is a truly fascinating destination. If you are looking to venture beyond the tourist traps and explore some of Indonesia’s hidden gems, our list of the 11 best suggestions may just tickle your fancy.

1. Karimunjawa (Karimun Jawa) Islands

The Karimunjawa Islands, consisting of 27 enchanting islands spread across the tranquil Java Sea, are a paradise waiting to be discovered. Twenty-two of these islands are designated as a National Park, promising a vibrant underwater world teeming with coral reefs and marine life, including over 400 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and various other aquatic animals.

The crystal-clear waters here make it an ideal spot for snorkelling and observing the fascinating marine life up close. The best snorkelling sites include Menjangan Kecil, Cemara Kecil, Geleang, Karang Kapal, Gosong Cemara, Tengah and Menjangan Besar. As responsible travellers, let’s ensure reef conservation by using reef-safe sunscreen, not disturbing the marine life, choosing reputable operators, and disposing of trash properly.

Getting to the Karimunjawa Islands requires a combination of transportation modes, as the islands are relatively remote. You must first travel to Semarang, the capital of Central Java province, and from there, catch a ferry that takes about 6 to 7 hours to reach the destination. Alternatively, you can travel from Semarang to the coastal town of Jepara overland, and then jump on an express ferry, which takes about 2 hours to reach Karimunjawa.

Boat on the beautiful tropical beach of Karimunjawa island, Indonesia Shutterstock

The underwater world of Karimunjawa Shutterstock

2. Komodo National Park

The UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park is a captivating destination situated in the Lesser Sunda Islands of the East Nusa Tenggara province. The park includes several islands, with the main ones being Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, along with several smaller islands and islets.

As the name suggests, the park’s most famous inhabitant is the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard and a unique species exclusive to this region. Alongside these magnificent creatures, the islands are also home to freely roaming horses, deer, wild boar, snakes and water buffalo, adding to the allure of the area against the stunning scenery.

Another star attraction on Komodo Island is the Pink Beach (Pantai Merah), a striking beach adorned with pale pink sand caused by the presence of foraminifera, tiny organisms that live in the coral reefs and sometimes get washed up on the shore. However, it must be noted that in recent years, due to the alarming amount of plastic waste ending up in our oceans, manmade debris can also be found on the Pink Beach.

Going to Komodo National Park requires some planning – you must first fly to Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, and from there, embark on a ferry journey lasting approximately 3 hours.

Komodo dragons Shutterstock

A tourist holding the pink sands on Komodo Island Shutterstock

The name “Flores” is derived from the Portuguese word for ‘flowers’, reflecting its historical connection to Portuguese settlers who arrived in the region during the 16th century. As a result, Flores is now home to a vibrant ethnic group known as Portuguese Indonesians, descendants of those colonial settlers. This historical influence has led to over 90% of the island’s population embracing the Roman Catholic faith, making it the highest concentration of Catholic identity in Indonesia, a stark contrast to the predominantly Sunni populace elsewhere in the country.

One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Flores is the crater lakes of Mount Kelimutu. Positioned at the volcano’s summit, each of the three lakes can undergo daily colour changes, transforming from shades of blue, green, red to dark brown. These mesmerising shifts in colours are attributed to the interaction of volcanic gas with minerals in the water.

Furthermore, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Koka Beach, located approximately 44 km (27 mi) south of the Kelimutu Ecolodge. This stunning beach offers a captivating coastal experience that complements the island’s other natural wonders.

Flores is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province (which also includes other islands like Komodo, Rinca and Sumba). To reach Flores, you can fly to the island’s main airport, Komodo Airport (also known as Labuan Bajo Airport), in the town of Labuan Bajo.

The lakes at Mount Kelimutu Shutterstock

Koka Beach, Flores Shutterstock

After making the treacherous crossing from Bali to Lombok in 1859, British scientist Alfred Russel Wallace immediately realised that he was standing on the edge of something unique. Despite the mere 35 km (22 mi) distance between Bali and Lombok, the distribution of fauna and flora differed significantly between the two islands. This striking contrast prompted Wallace to draw the famous Wallace Line, which acts as a boundary separating the ecozones transitioning between Asia and Australia, a region now known as Wallacea. In essence, this line explains the distinct presence of kangaroos in Australia and tigers in Asia.

Today, Lombok is considered a tranquil and less touristy alternative to its bustling neighbour, Bali. The south coast boasts the magnificent Mawi Beach, a fantastic surf spot that attracts wave enthusiasts, while the north features the imposing Mount Rinjani, offering excellent multi-day trekking opportunities for adventurous hikers.

Lombok is accessible from Bali, Jakarta, Makassar, Surabaya, and even Singapore, making it an appealing destination for travellers from diverse locations.

Campers on the trek to Mount Rinjani Shutterstock

Mawi Beach, Lombok Shutterstock

5. Raja Ampat Islands

Raja Ampat Islands, situated in West Papua province, Indonesia, form an awe-inspiring archipelago off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea.

This remarkable destination has earned global acclaim for its exceptional marine biodiversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts from all corners of the world. The crystalline waters of Raja Ampat are alive with vibrant coral reefs, a myriad of marine species, and captivating underwater landscapes. Divers are treated to extraordinary encounters with rare and exotic marine life, including pygmy seahorses, walking sharks, and majestic manta rays.

One of the must-see wonders in Raja Ampat is the Wayag (or Wajag) Islands. Nestled within the archipelago, these islands are renowned for their breath-taking karst formations and picturesque limestone islets that dramatically rise from the turquoise waters. The panoramic views from the limestone cliffs offer a postcard-perfect vista of the surrounding islands and tranquil lagoons, with some even likening the beauty to Leonardo DiCaprio’s mythical hideaway in “The Beach.”

Reaching Raja Ampat demands some travel effort, but the journey is undoubtedly rewarding for the unforgettable experiences that lie ahead. Most travellers opt to fly to Sorong, the gateway city to Raja Ampat, benefiting from a domestic airport with regular flights from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Makassar, and Manado. From Sorong, you can embark on a ferry or speedboat ride to reach the main islands of Raja Ampat. For more remote destinations like Wayag, private boat charters will be necessary to explore these hidden gems.

A free diver exploring the waters around Raja Ampat Shutterstock

The spectacular Wayag Islands Shutterstock

6. Gili Islands

To the east of Bali, and off the northwest coast of Lombok in the Lombok Strait, lies a group of three small islands collectively known as the Gili Islands or Gilis.

Gili Trawangan, the largest among the three, derives its name from the Indonesian word for ‘tunnel’ due to the historical presence of a cave tunnel built during World War II by the Japanese occupation. Today, the war is long gone, replaced by a vibrant and lively party atmosphere. Indeed, Gili Trawangan is very tourist-friendly, with its sandy shores adorned with numerous beach bars. Notably, it proudly boasts the title of ‘the smallest island in the world with an Irish pub’.

On the other hand, Gili Meno, the smallest island of the three, offers a complete contrast with its serene and tranquil ambiance. Check it out if you are after a peaceful, secluded and romantic experience.

Gili Islands can be reached by taking a ferry from Bali or Lombok. Do note that no motorised vehicles are allowed on all three Gili islands, so expect to see bicycles and cidomos (horse-drawn carriages).

Aerial photo of Gili Islands, Indonesia Shutterstock

A horse-drawn carriage on Gili Shutterstock

7. Bintan Island

Just a one-hour ferry trip away from Singapore is Bintan Island, often hailed as the country’s next Bali. This growing reputation has led to a proliferation of resorts, hotels, and golf courses sprouting up like fresh pea shoots after a night of rain.

Trikora Beach, a collection of four white sandy beaches on the eastern shore, beckons travellers with the promise of the ultimate sand-between-your-toes tropical experience. Another must-see attraction is Senggarang, a charming village home to a significant Chinese population whose ancestors settled here centuries ago when the island served as a vital stopping point on the India-China trade route. For a delectable seafood feast, head to Sebung village on the north side.

You can fly from Jakarta to Bintan or take a ferry from Singapore.

A tropical beach on Bintan Island Shutterstock

A view of Ria Bintan Golf Club Shutterstock

8. Derawan Islands

Situated in the East Kalimantan province, this exotic array of 31 stunning islands is collectively referred to as the Derawan Islands. Although reaching them may be more challenging compared to other destinations on this list, the journey is undoubtedly worth it for diving and nature enthusiasts. These islands are part of the Coral Triangle, a region renowned for hosting some of the world’s most diverse marine life. Prepare to be mesmerised by the abundance of marine biodiversity, from giant turtles, manta rays, dugongs, and dolphins to an astounding 460 different species of corals.

Among the islands, Kakaban Island stands out as a hidden gem. Its large lake, occupying almost two-thirds of the island, is filled with stingless jellyfish. These unique creatures have lost their natural defences due to the absence of predators, making Kakaban Island one of the few places on Earth where such a phenomenon exists.

Most tourists get to Derawan Islands by flying to Berau, which is about 2 hours away. Several airlines, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Wings Air, offer flights to Berau. After arriving in Berau, travellers can continue their adventure by taking a smaller boat to the Derawan Islands.

A sandy beach on Maratua Island, part of Derawan Shutterstock

An ariel view of Kakaban Island Shutterstock

We cannot overlook recommending travellers to experience Bali, arguably the most renowned island in the Indonesian archipelago.

Despite its reputation as a bustling tourist destination, Bali’s charm lies in its captivating bright-green rice terraces, majestic soaring volcanoes, and picturesque palm-fringed beaches, making them must-see sights for countless travellers. Additionally, Bali is celebrated for its rich Hindu culture, which permeates the island with colourful flower offerings adorning its numerous temples, and dynamic dance-dramas grace its religious events.

Getting to Bali is easy, as many international carriers fly there directly. Among them are China Airlines, Emirates, Jetstar, Garuda, Qantas and Singapore Airlines. To find the best and most-effective flights, you can search through Skyscanner .

Tourists in Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace in Bali Shutterstock

Paddy fields in Bali Shutterstock

10. Banda Islands

Famous for the spice production, the group of Banda Islands is a fascinating location with a rich history that has not always been as pretty as the island’s views. These islands were once the exclusive source of nutmeg and mace in the world, a commodity highly prized by various empires, from the Persian and Roman Empires to the colonial powers of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The latter two even engaged in several bloody wars to gain control over this lucrative trade.

Today, the nutmeg plantations are long gone, and the Banda Islands have transformed into a hotspot for affluent tourists seeking the beauty of its coral reefs and marine life. Divers are treated to enchanting encounters with large schools of dolphins and whales frolicking in the crystal-clear waters.

To reach Banda, visitors have the option of taking a small plane or a ferry from Ambon. However, it’s essential to note that both modes of transport operate seasonally and may be subject to cancellation in adverse weather conditions.

A sandy beach on Hatta Island, part of Banda Shutterstock

Pristine coral reefs off Banda Besar, part of Banda Shutterstock

11. Belitung

About 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) from Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, lies the island of Belitung, one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse islands in the region. Here, you will find Bangka Malays, Chinese, Buginese, Sundanese, Javanese, and Madurese people living harmoniously on the island, creating a rich tapestry of cultures.

In 2021, Belitung was designated as Indonesia’s newest UNESCO Global Geopark, a well-deserved recognition of its unique geology, biology, and culture. With this prestigious accolade, the island aspires to attract more tourists to discover its spectacular granite landscapes, traces of meteorite impacts, fascinating mining heritage, and diverse local culture. Belitung’s allure also lies in its abundance of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the island.

To reach this enchanting destination, you can take a 45-minute flight from Jakarta to Tanjung Pandan on Belitung Island. Alternatively, opt for a 4-hour speed boat ride from the larger neighbouring island of Bangka Belitung.

It is vital to remember that many islands mentioned here are in remote and protected areas, requiring visitors to exercise great respect for the local environment and practice responsible tourism.

Lengkuas Lighthouse, Belitung Shutterstock

A woman cleaning sea shells off Belitung Island Shutterstock

Before you go, check out the Indonesia travel guide .

This article was updated on 31 July 2023.

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An Idyllic Island Oasis: Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo Debuts on the Pearlescent Shores of Indonesia

Cradled between a labyrinth of wild forests and the glittering coasts of the flores sea, ta’aktana, a luxury collection resort & spa invites guests to immerse in the rich culture and breathtaking seascapes of labuan bajo.

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The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo in one of Indonesia’s most scenic and distinctive leisure destinations. The waterfront property, Marriott International’s first in Labuan Bajo and The Luxury Collection’s second property in Indonesia, is nestled between a canopy of surrounding wild forests and the beauty of the Flores Sea.

Located in the heart of Labuan Bajo, the resort serves as a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park and is just steps away from an array of cultural attractions such as Mirror Stone Cave, Rumah Tenun, Melo Village, and more. Short direct flights from Jakarta and Bali to Komodo International Airport, followed by a convenient 10-minute drive to TA’AKTANA, ensure seamless connectivity and easy access for discerning travelers.

"TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, marks a significant landmark as not only the first property in East Nusa Tenggara for The Luxury Collection brand, but also the first for the Marriott International portfolio at large,” says Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection . “As we continue our global foray into the resort category, TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo is a natural and stunning fit. The Luxury Collection provides today’s global travelers with rare experiences that are deeply reflective of the destination, and through that lens we invite guests to discover the beauty and vibrant history of Labuan Bajo.”

Generously spread across 16 hectares and designed by ANP Interiors, TA’AKTANA features 70 guest rooms including 25 villas and 45 suites that boast outdoor balconies with sweeping views of breathtaking sunsets. Seven overwater villas offer unrivaled luxury and tranquility, celebrating the Indonesian Sea Nomads’ way of life. Known for living on handcrafted longboats, the curved interiors masterfully capture the cultural significance with handcrafted wood finishings, rich textures, and airy layouts to celebrate the natural surroundings. Guest rooms also feature elegant furniture and artwork that reflect the region’s indigenous crafts. Those staying in a villa have access to a dedicated 24-hour butler, ensuring that every aspect of their stay is perfectly tailored to their preferences and needs.

“We are proud to introduce TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo as the latest addition to our portfolio,” says Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President at Marriott International, Indonesia & Malaysia . “This marks a noteworthy milestone for Marriott International as we extend our presence into the captivating landscapes of Labuan Bajo. We invite travelers to explore and connect with the soul of Flores island, where luxury seamlessly intertwines with the rich cultural treasures of this captivating destination.”

The name “TA’AKTANA”, meaning green land, is derived from the Manggarai language of Flores island and is an ode to Lingko Field, distinctive web shaped rice fields that serve as a cherished part of traditional Manggarai culture. Remaining true to its roots, the hotel embodies the destination's history, culture, and indigenous traditions, offering global explorers unique and authentic experiences of Labuan Bajo.

TA’AKTANA invites guests to discover Labuan Bajo's rich epicurean traditions with three distinctive restaurants, a lounge and bar, which authentically showcase the styles and presentations of the region’s cuisine. Leros is the hotel's all-day dining restaurant serving a curated menu influenced by Indonesia’s vast archipelago. Umasa features an authentic Indonesian culinary experience, served family-style, using products of local provenance. Taba , a Robata grill, specializes in carefully-sourced ingredients from the archipelago, prepared with Japanese techniques and finesse. Nera Lounge enchants guests with captivating sunset views while they savour a variety of tapas and an array of beverages, including crafted cocktails, coffee, and tea. Unwind at Maiga! , a vibrant bar with panoramic sea views, providing an innovative selection of re-interpreted quintessential drinks & snacks.

Guests can enjoy an invigorating workout in an exclusive Fitness Center , and for the ultimate indulgence, the hotel's Di'a Spa invites guests to be immersed in a serene sanctuary inspired by the mystical caves of Labuan Bajo. Featuring six private treatment rooms, a steam room, plunge pool and more, the spa invites guests to rejuvenate and reconnect with Mother Nature. With the resort’s stunning design providing the perfect backdrop, TA’AKTANA is poised to welcome all occasions, from business meetings with two spaces to choose from, to weddings with an oceanfront chapel.

“It is an honor to welcome guests to our haven in Labuan Bajo,” says Peter-Paul Kleiss, Resort Manager of TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo . “Our resort is not just a destination; it's a journey into the heart of Labuan Bajo’s heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The property is a testament to our commitment to providing a unique and authentic guest experience, where luxury meets tradition. I am excited to lead our dedicated team in ensuring that every guest discovers the magic of TA’AKTANA, delivering unparalleled experiences in this extraordinary corner of Indonesia.”

For more information and reservations, please click here .

About The Luxury Collection ® Hotels & Resorts The Luxury Collection ® is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world's most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination's charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA ® brand as a collection of Europe's most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of over 110 of the world's finest hotels and resorts in 40 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world's finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Instagram and Facebook . The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy ® , the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com .

About Marriott Bonvoy ® Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques ® . To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com .

Media Contact Bryce Dalzin Senior Director, Global Luxury Brand PR – JW Marriott, W Hotels, The Luxury Collection Marriott International [email protected]

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2025 Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Australia and New Zealand are popular destinations for cruise vacations among seasoned cruisers and first-time travelers. With unique wildlife, breathtaking views of nature, and exciting opportunities to learn about different cultures, Australia and New Zealand offer countless chances to experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip while relaxing and taking in the sights. Norwegian Cruise Line has several options for cruises to these destinations and exploring them can help you decide which one to book. Here's a closer look at a few of the itineraries and destinations you can choose from when you cruise to Australia and New Zealand in 2025 with Norwegian.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Australia & New Zealand cruises .

2025 Australia and New Zealand Cruises

Norwegian offers multiple choices for Australia and New Zealand cruises in 2025. These include options for 12-day, 14-day, 15-day, and 16-day voyages, making it easy to book a shorter trip or multi-week vacation.

When you cruise to New Zealand and Australia with Norwegian, you'll get to sail away on Norwegian Sun, an incredibly luxurious ship with countless options for dining and entertainment. When you're not exploring everything that the ports of Australia and New Zealand have to offer, you can kick back at the Mandara Spa, feel the thrill of the Sun Casino, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of Norwegian Sun's multiple dining options.

Some of Norwegian's Australian cruises begin in Auckland, New Zealand , and offer several excursions, including opportunities to get up close and personal with the city's stunning wildlife. At this port, you can explore peaceful beaches, hike through winding forests, and find the 48 famous volcanic cones that surround the area. If you brave the climb to the top of one of the cones, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Auckland and its harbor. There's plenty to see in the city as well, including open-air markets where you can meet Maori people and support local artisans.

Melbourne is another popular destination when cruising in Australia, beckoning visitors with its colorful architecture and adorable wildlife. Fairy penguins, koalas, and wallabies await you at the local wildlife park, and you might even get lucky enough to cuddle a koala up close. In the thick of the city, you can traverse historic streets built on a gold rush, including churches, skyscrapers, and museums. You'll even get the chance to visit the oldest Chinatown in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can rest in tranquil parks and enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine.

Home to one of the most famous opera houses in the world, Sydney is a stop on many Australian cruises with Norwegian. While in port at the city's iconic harbor, you can get up close to the Sydney Opera House and enjoy views of the captivating skyline. If you're in the mood for swimming or surfing, stop at one of the harbor's beaches or take a stroll to Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach. You can stock up on souvenirs in Sydney as well, with the Rocks district being home to shops run by local artisans.

RELATED CRUISES: 15-Day Australia & New Zealand Cruise: Auckland to Sydney 14-Day South Pacific Cruise: Lombok, Komodo & Great Barrier Reef 14-Day South Pacific Cruise: Fiji, Vanuatu & Great Barrier Reef

The city of Wellington, New Zealand is the perfect stop for cruisers who appreciate historic architecture and famous landmarks. This port provides opportunities to view countless Victorian Gothic buildings, a testament to the city's long history. You'll also have the chance to see the locations of the beloved Lord of the Rings trilogy, which is especially exciting for fans of film and entertainment. If you're in the mood for nature, relax on the beach or ride a cable car up the mountain to enjoy views of the wildlife and landscape.

Kangaroo Island

It's no secret that Australia is home to kangaroos, and if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of one, you'll be in luck at the port of Kangaroo Island . Take a guided tour to bask in unparalleled views of nature, including opportunities to get close to kangaroos, koalas, and platypi. On the beaches of Kangaroo Island, you can relax and cool off in crystal clear waters, and you might even catch a glimpse of the area's playful sea lions.

Another breathtaking port to visit in Australia is Cairns (Yorkey's Knob). There's a lot to do in Cairns , such as hiking up beautiful mountains to find waterfalls and riding the iconic Kuranda Railway through the area's rainforest. To learn more about local culture, visit the Tjapuki Aboriginal Culture Park and purchase souvenirs from native artisans. You can also visit the Esplanade Boardwalk for a bite to eat or a fun day at a water park.

One of the crown jewels of New Zealand, the port of Napier is the self-proclaimed capital of the world for Art Deco. Journey through stunning architecture to view historic structures and picturesque homes built in the Art Deco style from as early as the 1930s. There's also the beautiful Marine Parade, a winding road that provides outstanding views of the city's coast and gardens. For wine enthusiasts, there are vineyards just outside of the city where you can enjoy a glass of local wine and take in all the beauty of New Zealand.

These are just a few of the exciting destinations you can visit when you book a cruise vacation to Australia and New Zealand with Norwegian.

Be sure to sign up for Norwegian's cruise deals . You'll be one of the first to know about any new deals and special offers.