Curator’s statement
Komodo National Park in Indonesia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. Located in the Lesser Sunda Islands in the eastern part of the country, this unique destination is home to the famous Komodo dragons and offers a plethora of activities to explore the natural wonders of this world-renowned national park.
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Where to stay in Indonesia
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Things to do in Indonesia
Getting to Komodo National Park is relatively easy, with multiple options available for travelers. The main gateway to the park is through the city of Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. This can be reached by plane from major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta and Bali. Another option is to take a ferry from Bali to Labuan Bajo, which takes approximately 36 hours but offers stunning views of the island and sea along the way. Once in Labuan Bajo, travelers can embark on a boat tour to explore the different islands within the national park.
The best time to visit Komodo National Park is during the dry season from April to December. This ensures pleasant weather and calm waters for activities such as diving and island hopping. However, for those interested in seeing the Komodo dragons, the wet season from January to March is also a good time as it is the mating season for these majestic creatures.
The park is also home to a diverse marine ecosystem, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters offer the perfect opportunity to see vibrant corals, schools of tropical fish and even manta rays. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are also hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the chance to see other wildlife such as deer, wild boar and various bird species.
Island hopping is another must-do activity in Komodo National Park, with over 20 islands to explore. Each island has its own unique features, from pink beaches on Komodo Island to the rugged terrain of Padar Island. One can also visit the local villages on the islands to get a glimpse of the traditional ways of life of the Komodo people.
To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Komodo National Park, consider staying overnight on one of the islands or on a liveaboard boat. This gives you the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets and sunrises, and to experience the park in a different light when most tourists have left.
Places to eat & drink in Indonesia
Chill & Grill Komodo
Loh Liang - Komodo National Park
Wisata Kuliner Kampung Ujung Labuan Bajo Komodo Manggarai Barat Flores NTT
Happy Banana Komodo
Artomoro Restaurant and Grill
Pondok Mai Ceng'go Labuan Bajo
Bajo Bakery
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Tammy Kiefer
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Indonesia. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, The Breathtaking Columbia River Gorge: 7 Day Itinerary.