Things to do in Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park go hand in hand if you’re planning on visiting attractions such as Pink Beach, Rinca and Padar Island. While Labuan Bajo itself is a small and sleepy port town, it welcomes thousands of international tourists every year who are ready to board a traditional Phinisi boat and explore the vast Komodo National Park. However, Labuan Bajo should not be skipped and you’ll love the growing list of things to do in the area.

This complete guide to the Komodo National Park and Labuan Bajo will make planning your next trip to the best remote island in Indonesia a breeze. Read all about the most exciting things to do in Komodo, Labuan Bajo, where to eat on a budget, when to go and how much the national park entry fee really is.

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How to get to Komodo National Park

The small port town of Labuan Bajo is where most people begin their trip to Komodo National Park. Due to its convenient location on the western tip of Flores Island, it’s become the main gateway to the park. If you’re planning on joining a liveaboard boat trip you’ll most likely fly into Labuan Bajo first and maybe even spend a day or two there before departing.

You might like our grab/gojek guide for Labuan Bajo, which will help you get around town.

Another option to reach Komodo National Park is to get on a boat in Lombok and cruise from there. This makes your time spent on the boat much longer though and since the distance that needs to be covered is large you’ll most likely have less time to spend in the actual park.

Since Komodo National Park consists of a group of largely uninhabited islands there is no airport other than the one in Labuan Bajo. For this reason, it’s not possible to access the national park without getting on a boat.

If you’re planning a trip to Komodo, book a flight to Labuan Bajo and then decide on one of the many boat tours that go to the national park.

Read our complete guide on how to get to Komodo National Park here.

Where to stay in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo is small but there is a decent selection of hotels and hostels available. If you’re going on a multi-day boat excursion to the park you’ll want to spend at least one or two nights in town first, depending on how tight your schedule is. There are also luxury resorts available on the islands close to the park which is a great option for those looking for an unforgettable experience during their time in Indonesia. Some of the best hotels for all budgets include:

Where to eat in Labuan Bajo for any budget (warungs, restaurants and more)

Labuan Bajo’s selection of places to eat is relatively limited. You’ll most likely spend at least one, if not two nights in town so why not get some dining inspiration before you go? Whether you’re looking for a nicer restaurant with a view, authentic seafood or a local warung, Labuan Bajo has something for everyone.

• Tut’s Warung: Modern warung offering both Western and Indonesian food with vegetarian options.
• Seafood Market: Seafood night market with fresh fish, lobster and crab, grilled on request.
• La Cucina: Authentic family-owned Italian restaurant with homemade pasta and delicious pizza.
• Meruorah Komodo Labuan Bajo: Upscale rooftop hotel restaurant with amazing views and delicious dishes.

Top tip: Looking for the best places to eat in town? Read our complete restaurant guide to Labuan Bajo here.

Photo courtesy of La Cucina

How long should you plan to spend in Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park?

Labuan Bajo is small but there are still quite a few things to see and places to explore in the nearby area. With a strong backpacker community, Labuan Bajo is growing and will only become more popular in the future. If you’re in a rush, one or two nights in Labuan Bajo is sufficient, not including the time you’ll spend exploring the national park. If you’re joining a liveaboard boat tour (which is the best way to see Komodo), you should stay for at least two, if not three nights.

Added together, this means you should spend somewhere between three and six nights in total on your trip to Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park which will give you plenty of time for the main things to do. If you’re not in a rush, you might want to make it a whole week.

Is Labuan Bajo worth it?

Labuan Bajo took a hard hit during covid and the 2022 protests that occurred due to an increase in national park fees. The town was always small but a lot of businesses had to close, making it less lively than it used to be. Luckily, tourism is once again booming in this part of Indonesia and Flores is on its way to recovery, hopefully making Labuan Bajo even more of a hub than it was before.

A lot of backpackers and other tourists like to stay in Labuan Bajo for a few nights before and after exploring the national park. While there isn’t that much to do, the atmosphere is social and welcoming, inviting you to have a drink with a view over the bay or chat with other travellers. Labuan Bajo is not at all like other popular places in Indonesia such as Bali, Lombok or the Gili Islands but it’s definitely worth it if you give it a chance.

When is the best time to go to Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park?

Komodo National Park has a slightly different climate than other parts of Indonesia which you need to keep in mind when planning your trip. The area is extremely dry for most parts of the year and the hiking trails tend to be very dusty, with little green vegetation on the islands. The most popular time to go is in July and August when the weather is hot with very little rain. However, popular attractions like Padar Island, Komodo Island and the famous Pink Beach will of course be very crowded during the high season.

Many visitors prefer the shoulder season from April to June or September to November when the weather is slightly cooler but still mostly dry. You’ll encounter fewer tourists during this time but should expect occasional rainfall and storms.

December to March is the rainy season in Komodo and some things to do in Labuan Bajo might be inaccessible. Many boat companies do not operate due to rough seas and safety concerns. Keep this in mind before planning your trip.

Komodo National Park price and entrance fee

The fee and price for Komodo National Park can be confusing and information online may not always be up to date. The Indonesian government has announced several times that the prices would increase to extortionate amounts – as much as IDR 3.75 million (~ €250) per person. So far, the increase has never actually taken place after violent protests erupted in Labuan Bajo in the summer of 2022 with many locals fearing for their livelihoods.

However, the fee for Komodo National Park is still scheduled to increase in late 2022 so make sure to do research before you go.

Note that not all islands and things to do close to Labuan Bajo are part of the Komodo National Park. There are still some destinations you can see without having to pay. The payment system is very unorganised and different islands charge different prices. All tickets sold for the national park are valid for only one day so if you’re visiting the park on several days, for example as part of a Komodo liveaboard boat tour, you’ll have to pay the fee again.

It seems to be that payment is often inconsistent and visitors have different experiences. There are fees for different activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, photography etc. Generally, prices range between IDR 100,000 (~ €6.80) and IDR 150,000 (~ €10) per person per day. To be safe, budget approximately IDR 300,000 to IDR 500,000 (~ €20 to €35) for the national park fee for your time in Komodo, depending on the length of your trip.

Prices will also differ depending on the day of the week, with weekends and public holidays being far more expensive (approximately IDR 250,000 (~ €16.80) per person). This applies to foreigners, locals pay a very low fee of only a few thousand rupiah for Komodo National Park.

Remember to bring this amount with you in cash as there are no ATMs in the park and card payment is often not possible.

Can you fly a drone in Komodo National Park (Padar and Rinca Island)?

You can fly a drone in Komodo National Park although some islands may charge a fee. This applies especially to Padar and Rinca Island where you need to pay IDR 1,000,000 (~ €67) if you plan on flying. The fees are mostly regulated on the island itself so if you were to fly from a boat nearby you will most likely avoid having to pay.

9 tips on how to do Komodo Island and Labuan Bajo on a budget

If you’re trying to see Indonesia on a budget here are some of my top tips. In Labuan Bajo, the following is recommended to save money:

1. Avoid the seafood market if you’re trying to eat on a budget. The value for money is great for those who enjoy fresh seafood but your total bill will still be high. Eat at a local, less touristy warung instead.
2. Walk instead of taking taxis in town. Labuan Bajo is small and you can explore most things to do on foot.
3. Rent a bike if you plan on doing longer distances. Places like the sunset lookout points or Go Rangko cave can easily be explored if you have your own set of wheels. Renting a scooter for a day shouldn’t cost more than IDR 60,000 (~ €4).
4. Save money on accommodation in Labuan Bajo and splurge on fun things to do in Komodo National Park instead.
5. Budget-friendly liveaboard boat tours with one or two nights in the park might not be a lot more expensive than day trips. Do your research and compare different tour operators before committing.
6. Booking a boat tour online may be a lot more expensive than finding one on arrival. If you can’t find a suitable one and have a flexible itinerary, consider deciding on one in Labuan Bajo.
7. Avoid large booking platforms and contact tour operators directly instead if you do book online.
8. Bring your own alcohol on a boat tour around the national park to save money. Beers sold on the islands can be very expensive.
9. Avoid the high season from June to August and visit in the shoulder season instead when prices will be slightly lower.

How to get from the airport to your hotel in Labuan Bajo

The airport in Labuan Bajo is actually located relatively close to the centre of town. The distance is less than 2 kilometres and some budget travellers choose to simply walk. Parts of the way will be uphill though and on a busy road so this strategy is definitely not for the faint of heart.

Still, it’s the cheapest way to get from Labuan Bajo airport to your hotel and the walk shouldn’t take much more than 35 minutes.

If you’re not keen on a hike in the sun with all your luggage, you can easily take a local taxi. Apps like Grab and Gojek tend to be unreliable or even not functional in the area so taxis are very common.

Make sure to haggle and negotiate and don’t pay more than IDR 50,000 (~ €3.40) as an absolute maximum for the 8-minute ride into town. If you had a nice driver with a good price, consider taking his number and calling him to take you back to the airport when you depart. This will save you from having to renegotiate the price again.

Things to do in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo may be a small town but there are still some things you can do in the area that don’t include a trip to Komodo National Park. Here are some of the best ones.

Considering going to Labuan Bajo or Komodo National Park? Save this image to have all the important info!

1. Rent a scooter and explore Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo’s roads have improved significantly in recent years and driving around is the perfect way to discover hidden gems. If you’ve got a spare day either before or after your boat trip to Komodo National Park you should consider renting a scooter and exploring the beautiful countryside around Labuan Bajo. This will give you a lot of flexibility and help you see hidden gems you might have missed otherwise.

Finding the best travel insurance for Labuan Bajo

Every traveller should have insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies, hospital visits and unforeseen accidents. SafetyWing is not only the best choice for shorter trips but also offers long-term plans for digital nomads or those travelling for extended periods of time.

They have a great selection of plans, including trip insurance, which supports you in case of cancelled flights or lost baggage.

My favourite part is that they offer adventure sports coverage ad-ons, so you can do all the exciting activities without having to worry about taking unnecessary risks.

No matter where you’re travelling, you cannot put a price on peace of mind.

Find out more about SafetyWing here.

If you’re planning on riding a scooter during your time in Labuan Bajo and Indonesia, you absolutely need reliable insurance coverage, even if you’re not going to be the one driving. Accidents happen quickly and in the blink of an eye. A doctor’s visit without insurance coverage can quickly be very expensive which you can easily avoid by coming prepared.

• Location: You can rent scooters in several places around Labuan Bajo
• Best time to go: Start your trip in the morning so you have plenty of time to explore
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 2 hours
• Price: IDR 50,000 to IDR 70,000 (~ €3.40 to €4.70)

Images by Mark Epchteine

2. Have dinner at the Labuan Bajo fish and seafood night market

Labuan Bajo is known for its fresh fish and seafood which comes directly from the local fishermen. The seafood market consists of a small selection of warungs that offer world-class seafood, prepared freshly from the fish you pick out yourself. The market is only open in the evenings and won’t disappoint.

Note: Vegetarian or Vegan options are very limited and the warungs almost exclusively serve fish and seafood.

• Location: GV6H+W3V, Kampung Ujung Night Market, Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Labuan Bajo, Kec. Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim. 86754
• Opening hours: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (opening hours may be irregular)
• Best time to go: between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM
• How much time to spend here: 1 hour
• Price: Between IDR 100,000 and IDR 600,000 (~ €6.80 and €40.50) for a fresh seafood dinner

3. Head to the best viewpoints overlooking Labuan Bajo bay

There are several viewpoints located close to Labuan Bajo. They’re best accessed by scooter or you could pay a driver to take you if you’re not confident in driving yourself. Some may require a short hike. If you’re looking for a place to watch the sunset or sunrise have a look at the locations below:

1. Bukit Amelia Sea
2. Bukit Waecicu
3. Noa Sunset Viewpoint
4. Bukit Menjaga
5. Stairway To Heaven

• Location: Click the links above to see the Google Maps location of each viewpoint
• Best time to go: For sunrise or sunset
• How much time to spend here: 30 minutes
• Price: Most viewpoints are free although some may charge a small parking/entrance fee of IDR 5,000 (~ €0.35) to IDR 25,000 (~ €1.70)

4. Go on a liveaboard boat tour to Komodo National Park

Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo and many things to do in the area include locations in the national park. Being only accessible by boat, you’ll have to decide on one of the many available tours before you go. Since the park is so large, spending multiple days on a boat is highly recommended so you can get the most out of your trip.

Check out the section below for the best things to do in Komodo National Park.

• Best time to go: Between the months of June and September
• How much time to spend here: Two to six days
• Price: IDR 2.5 to IDR 10 million (~ €170 to €670) – check Travelist.Id for a great selection of tours

5. See a glimpse of rural life in Indonesia

Just a few minute’s drive outside of Labuan Bajo you’ll encounter few other tourists and can catch a glimpse of rural life in Indonesia. Locals are generally friendly although most likely surprised to find foreigners in small towns. If you have the time, why not leave Labuan Bajo behind and explore off the beaten path, making friends along the way?

Top tip: Few locals in the countryside speak English so polish your Bahasa Indonesia skills before you go.

• Best time to go: In the morning or afternoon
• How much time to spend here: Half day

6. Swim underground at Goa Rangko Cave

Goa Rangko is a mesmerising cave, filled with crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming. Once per day, between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, the cave is illuminated by the sun, making it a beautiful spot to take pictures. To get to the cave, drive for around 30 minutes until you reach a small town with a harbour (Tanjung Boleng). From here you need to get on a local boat which will take you to the cave in around 10 minutes.

• Location: HX87+WH Tanjung Boleng, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara for the cave and GXV2+PQM, Tj. Boleng, Kec. Boleng, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim. for the harbour where boats depart
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may differ)
• Best time to go: Between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM when the light hits the cave
• How much time to spend here: Plan 45 minutes for the journey from Labuan Bajo each way and an hour at the cave
• Price: IDR 50,000 (~ €3.40) per person for the cave and around IDR 200,000 (~ €13.50) for a roundtrip boat journey (boats can fit at least 10 people if not more)

7. Go to the best rooftops in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo is known for its rooftop bars and restaurants which provide fantastic views over the surrounding hills and calm bay. Watch the sunset with a cold drink or treat yourself to a nice dinner after returning from your boat trip around the national park. Some of the best rooftops in town include:

1. Meruorah Rooftop: Luxury hotel with several huge terraces and fantastic bay views.
2. Paradise Bar: Cozy rooftop bar with occasional party nights, great for sunset drinks.
3. Seaesta Komodo: Modern hotel with reasonable prices and a beautiful rooftop that will make you feel like you’re in Santorini, Greece.
4. La Cecile Hotel: Mid-priced hotel built into the side of a hill with a spacious rooftop and pool.
5. Escape Bajo: Small coffee shop and restaurant with a terrace that has almost 360° views of Labuan Bajo bay.

• Location: Click the links above for locations of Labuan Bajo’s best rooftops
• Opening hours: Generally from lunchtime to late evening although some may also offer breakfast
• Best time to go: Sunset
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 2 hours
• Price: Expect to spend around IDR 30,000 to IDR 60,000 (~ €2 to €4) for a small beer and around IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 (~ €3.40 to €6.80) for a meal

8. Explore the Mirror Stone Cave (Batu Cermin) close to Labuan Bajo

This cave gets less attention than Goa Rangko but it’s actually located much closer to Labuan Bajo. It’s not the largest cave but definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for things to do outside of Komodo National Park. Helmets, flashlights and a guide are available on arrival although the cave is relatively easy to walk through.

• Location: GVCX+7M4, Batu Cermin, Kec. Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim.
• Opening hours: Approximately 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may differ)
• Best time to go: Between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM when the sun reflects off the cave walls
• How much time to spend here: 30 minutes
• Price: Approximately IDR 30,000 to IDR 70,000 (~ €2 to €4.70)

9. Discover the hidden Cunca Rami Waterfall

If you’re looking for an authentic and unique experience during your time in Labuan Bajo, a trip to this waterfall will be a fantastic choice. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to drive there and you’ll have to hike for around 30 minutes to reach the falls. Many people choose to go with a local guide (who you’ll find on arrival) to make the process easier. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit so you can take a refreshing dip in the cold water.

• Location: 9XFW+HV6, Golo Ndaring, Kec. Sano Nggoang, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim.
• Best time to go: Mid-day to afternoon on a sunny day
• How much time to spend here: Factor in around 3 to 4 hours of travel time and an hour spent at the falls
• Price: Between IDR 30,000 and IDR 150,000 (~ €2 to €10) depending on whether you get a local guide

10. Enjoy time at Kampung Melo traditional village

The traditional village of Kampung Melo is a true hidden gem and perfect for those interested in the culture and life of the people living in Flores. The drive here takes around 45 minutes and you’ll be greeted by sweeping jungle views and slightly cooler temperatures due to the altitude. The people of Kampung Melo are welcoming and friendly and often perform the traditional Caci dance for visitors.

• Location: CX34+VRF, Liang Ndara, Kec. Sano Nggoang, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim.
• Best time to go: Mid-day or afternoon
• How much time to spend here: 1 hour
• Price: Free although watching some performances may cost a small fee

11. Go on a roadtrip around Flores from Labuan Bajo

Kampung Melo is just one of many unique places to visit on the island of Flores and many travellers like to combine them into a once-in-a-lifetime road trip excursion. Some roads may not be in the best shape but that just adds to the adventure. Consider renting a car or scooter for a few weeks and driving the entire length of East Nusa Tenggara from Labuan Bajo to either the town of Ende or Maumere.

• Best time to go: Between June and September when the weather is dry and roads aren’t in danger of flooding as frequently
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 3 weeks
• Price: Expect to spend between IDR 3 million and IDR 10 million (~ €200 to €670) per person depending on the length of the trip

Things to do in Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is, without a doubt, the main attraction in Labuan Bajo and the reason why so many tourists come to visit the port town every year. Since the national park is vast, there are many different things to do. Here is a list of the best attractions and must-see places. Keep the entrance price for Komodo National Park in mind when visiting hotspots like Rinca or Padar Island.

12. Swim and relax at Pink Beach on Komodo Island

Many tourists come to Komodo Island only to see its famous Pink Beach. You might be surprised that Komodo actually has more than one pink beach and you’ll have the choice between around ten different ones across more than one island. The most popular beach will be relatively crowded during mid-day and sunset so your boat crew might take you to a different one for a more secluded feeling. Whichever location you visit, you’re guaranteed to get unforgettable photos, especially if you’re shooting with a drone.

Having been to several pink beaches or lakes in the world I can attest that the ones on Komodo Island are probably the pinkest I’ve ever seen. No need to edit your photos, these beaches actually look like this.

• Location: Pink Beach, Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara or 8GMQ+CH4 Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara are some of the best choices
• Best time to go: Between mid-day and sunset on a sunny day
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 2 hours
• Price: Technically the beaches are part of Komodo National Park but the fee is rarely enforced

13. Hike to the top of Padar Island

Padar Island is considered one of the main attractions in Komodo and most visitors come here for a sunrise hike. With dozens (if not close to a hundred) boats gathering in the nearby bay during this time, the island will definitely be crowded. To get the best views you’ll have to hike for around 30 minutes until you reach the popular viewpoint where you can spot the island’s black, white and pink-sand beaches all at the same time. The path is steep but generally well maintained. Remember that there is a IDR 150,000 (~ €10) entrance fee per person (IDR 250,000 (~ €16.80) on weekends) for Komodo National Park and a IDR 1 million (~ €67) fee to fly a drone.

• Location: 8H94+HR Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Sunrise
• How much time to spend here: 2 hours
• Price: Komodo National Park fee (IDR 150,000 (~ €10) on weekdays and IDR 250,000 (~ €16.80) on weekends and public holidays)

14. Come face to face with Komodo dragons at Rinca Island

Komodo dragons can be found on several islands throughout the national park although there are dedicated places where you can see them safely. The bite of these dinosaur-like lizards is usually deadly, which is why you’ll have an experienced ranger armed with a stick at your side at all times. Luckily, the dragons are usually well-fed and spend their day lounging in the shade. Still, be cautious and don’t wander off from your group.

In addition to Komodo dragons, you’ll also be able to spot wild boars, deer and other interesting animals. They’re used to humans and make for great photo subjects.

• Location: 7M46+RMP Pasir Panjang, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: In the morning to avoid the crowds
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 2 hours
• Price: Komodo National Park fee (IDR 150,000 (~ €10) on weekdays and IDR 250,000 (~ €16.80) on weekends and public holidays)

15. Snorkel and relax at Kanawa Island

Kanawa Island is a hidden gem and a great place to spend an afternoon in Komodo National Park. Once home to a resort, which is currently closed, this island has beautiful beaches and some of the best reefs around. Come here for snorkelling, swimming and relaxing. Don’t forget to fly your drone if you have one. The shots will be unforgettable.

• Location: GQ45+3F Pasir Putih, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Before noon to avoid the mid-day heat
• How much time to spend here: 2 hours
• Price: Usually free but sometimes a small entrance fee may be charged for Komodo National Park

16. See wild deer during sunset at Lawa Darat Gili

These are not the Gili Islands you might be thinking of. Lawa Darat Gili boasts scenic views, herds of friendly deer and a sheltered bay, ideal for swimming and jumping off the boat. Just a short 10-minute hike from the shore you’ll find a beautiful sunset viewpoint. If you’re up for a challenge, hike up the mountain for a further 25 minutes for even better vistas. Just make sure to be careful on your way back down in the dark.

• Location: GHF4+W7F Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Sunset or sunrise
• How much time to spend here: 1 hour
• Price: Sometimes an entrance fee of IDR 30,000 (~ €2) per person is charged although the Komodo National Park fee does not apply

17. Swim with manta rays close to Komodo Island

The waters of Komodo National Park are home to swarms of manta rays which are best seen at Manta Point. You can snorkel or scuba dive with these gentle giants if you’re lucky enough to find them. They often appear in deeper water where currents are strong so wearing a lifejacket and staying close to your guide is highly recommended.

Unfortunately, it’s difficult to guarantee you’ll see manta rays during your time in Komodo since their whereabouts cannot always be predicted.

• Location: FJH5+F55 Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Early mornings, depending on the recent activity of the manta rays
• How much time to spend here: 1 hour
• Price: Free (Komodo National Park fee does not apply)

18. Snorkel at some of the best reefs in the world

The underwater world in Komodo is more than impressive with its colourful coral, swarms of rainbow fish and small reef sharks. No matter where you’ll snorkel, you’re guaranteed to be amazed by how healthy and full of life the reefs in the park are. Highly recommended spots include Kanawa Island, Taka Makassar (Pulau Karangan) and Pink Beach in Komodo Island.

• Location: There are many incredible reefs throughout Komodo National Park, including Kanawa Island, Pink Beach and Taka Makassar
• Best time to go: Early mornings to avoid the mid-day sun
• How much time to spend here: 1 hour
• Price: Free (sometimes a snorkelling fee for Komodo National Park is advertised but in reality, it is rarely enforced)

19. Go on an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in Komodo National Park

If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving, Komodo National Park is the place to do it. While snorkelling here is an incredible experience, diving will take it one step further and show you marine life that would have missed otherwise. There are plenty of dive schools and boat trips to choose from and experiences are suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

• Location: Pick a scuba diving school in Labuan Bajo and possibly join a multi-day boat trip
• Best time to go: Diving season is between November and January when visibility is best despite the rough seas
• How much time to spend here: Two to four days
• Price: IDR 1 million to IDR 10 million (~ €67 to €670), including the Komodo National Park fee depending on the duration and number of dives

20. Live on a boat and see the park at your own pace

Falling asleep to the sound of the waves or watching the sunrise from the top deck of a sailboat is an incredible way to immerse yourself in Komodo’s nature. You’ll get the most out of the national park if you spend a few days on a liveaboard boat which will take you to the best islands and attractions. Jump into the ocean whenever you feel like it and make unforgettable memories while you are in this part of Indonesia.

• Best time to go: Between the months of June and September
• How much time to spend here: Two to six days
• Price: IDR 2.5 to IDR 10 million (~ €170 to €670) not including the Komodo National Park fee

21. Spend time at Taka Makassar (Pulau Karangan) sandbank

The most famous sandbank island you can visit is Taka Makassar and Pulau Karangan, located close to Manta Point. These sandbanks vary in size depending on the tides and make for a great photo spot. The water is crystal-clear and shallow, sometimes with slightly pinkish sand.

Top tip: Remember that there is no shade on these islands so bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat.

• Location: FH3R+33W Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Mornings when the island is less crowded or evenings for sunset over Komodo National Park
• How much time to spend here: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Price: Free (Komodo National Park fee does not apply)

22. See thousands of flying foxes during sunset at Kalong Island

Kalong Island (Bat Island) gets its name from the thousands of flying foxes, a type of bat, that begin their hunt at sunset every night. The animals can reach a wingspan of up to 160cm although they rarely weigh more than 1.2 kg. Seeing the giant swarms fly over your boat during sunset is a truly unforgettable experience and a must-do during your time in Komodo.

• Location: 9FPP+HFH Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Sunset
• How much time to spend here: 1 to 2 hours
• Price: Free

23. Become a castaway at Le Pirate Island, Beach Club and Boatel in Komodo

Le Pirate has created a unique glamping resort on a remote island an hour outside of Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park. This hotel-beach club hybrid has open-air beachfront bungalows that take an island getaway to a whole new level. There is no WiFi, AC or even hot water so the experience is truly adventurous and unusual. For another fun experience, join one of Le Pirate’s mobile hostel cruises or boatel which takes visitors around the beautiful neighbouring islands.

• Location: HRX6+XG Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
• Best time to go: Between June and September when the weather is hot and sunny
• How much time to spend here: Between two and three days
• Price: Between IDR 400,000 and IDR 1.5 million (~ €27 to €100) per night (Komodo National Park fee does not apply)

24. See the Milky Way

With almost no light pollution in the national park, the night sky in Komodo is an incredible sight. Make sure to spend an evening on the deck of your boat and enjoy the view of thousands of stars. On clear nights you can see the Milky Way and practice your nighttime photography.

• Location: Anywhere in Komodo National Park, ideally away from other boats
• Best time: Between midnight and 2:00 AM

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Did I miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post, please leave a comment below or contact me.