lesser sunda islands travel

Komodo National Park

Flores is one the most fascinating and beautiful island, located in the southern part of Indonesia in East Nusa Tenggara province.

Geographically, Flores is part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. From west to east the main Lesser Sunda Islands are Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba, Timor, Alor archipelago, Barat Daya Islands and Tanimbar Islands.

Long hidden in the shadows of its more famous neighbor  Bali , the island of Flores is finally emerging as a unique destination of its own.

So, after visiting the lair of the  Komodo dragons , take time to marvel at some of the wonders of Flores. Here, you can swim in pristine lakes and waterfalls, dive at one of the 50 spectacular dive sites, go kayaking among craggy coasts and mangrove shores, explore mysterious caves and be warmly welcomed by the island’s people in their rituals, dances and daily life.

Flores spell adventure, diving, eco-tours, and mountain climbing interspersed with visits to prehistoric heritage sites, traditional villages and cultural events. Find some of the world’s most exotic underwater life, dive in the pristine seas of Komodo, or swim along with huge manta rays, dolphins, and dugongs on the island of Flores!

One of several histories of the name “Flores” was said to come from Tanjung Bunga, a sub-district in East Flores. In the 1500s a Portuguese navigator António de Abreu reach this place and saw blooming flowers all over the island.

Then came S.M Cabot who described this place as Cabo das Flores, translated as the cape of flowers.

In 1636 Hendrik Brouwer, the Dutch Indies Governor General validated Flores as the official name for the Island.

Flores also was known as Nusa Nipa, or the Snake Island. The name was said to depict due to the shape of the island, the fact that Flores is a habitat for snakes and the ancient belief that the snake was the ancestor of the island.

You can come by to the Blikon Blewut Museum in Maumere, and learn a glimpse of Florinese history.

There are 8 major ethnic groups in Flores, namely the Manggarai, Riung, Ngada, Nage-Keo, Ende, Lio, Sikka and Larantuka.

There are also 8 regencies in Flores: West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Nagekeo, Ende, Sikka and East Flores.

Labuan Bajo is the capital of West Manggarai, the gateway to many splendors of Flores.

You can watch Caci dance in Manggarai, a live war dance performed in numerous traditional ceremonies. The dance is also popular as a warm greeting to welcome important guests.

In East Manggarai, you can visit Rana Tonjong, a vast lake covered with giant lotus flowers that bloom from April to June. If you love beaches, don’t forget to sunbathe at Laing Lewe! In Ngada, you can come by and explore Taman Laut 17 Pulau. Translates as The17 Islands Ocean Park, it was also named in accordance to Indonesia’s anniversary date on the 17th. Here, you can discover exotic wildlife on land and beneath the ocean’s waters.

Nagakeo is famous for Pulau Pasir Putih Rii Taa, a pristine pearly white-pinkish sandy island located just around an hour boat ride from the Marapokot harbor in Mbay city.

The renowned three colored Lake Kelimutu is located in Ende. An amazing natural wonders that you definitely must experience yourself. While in Ende, you can also visit the unique Pengganjawa beach. With black sand and plenty of stones in turquoise hues scattered on its shore, a sight that you don’t see often!

Maumere is the capital of Sikka. Besides the museum and beaches, you can head to Tanjung Kajuwulu and Nilo hill, to enjoy the soothing view unfolding beneath you.

Last but certainly not least is Larantuka, the capital of East Flores. The city is famous for its Easter celebration named Semana Santa. A festive march carried off the day of Good

Friday, across the heart of Larantuka.

The two main gateways of Flores is Labuan Bajo in the west and Maumere in the east. The daily flight from  Denpasar to Labuan Bajo’s Komodo Airport takes around 90 minutes and to Maumere’s Frans Seda Airport takes around 115 minutes.

Getting to Flores overland requires perfect planning. Public bus is available to take you across from harbor to harbor. Sea crossing is available on speedboats and local ferries, all depending on the availability.

From Benoa harbor in Bali, it takes around 36 hours voyage on the sea before you reach Labuan Bajo. For sea cruises, you should really consider your time, the season and the updated schedules at www.pelni.co.id for convenience. There are also boat trips between Lombok and Flores, that may stop by at Komodo before ending its journey at Labuan Bajo.

You can get around with rented cars, motorcycle or try the local public transportation of bemo and busses.

Bemo is a minivan, where you sit facing each other throughout the routes that connect the main cities in Flores. It is a local experience that you can try because bemo is quite unique in Flores. Prepare for full music, colorful exterior and the eye-catching name made up so that passenger would not forget their ride! Feeling excited to go? Book your flight now!

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

Jun 12, 2018 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

Making an entrance

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

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

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

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

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

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

The other islands

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

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

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

Entering the dragon’s lair

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

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

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

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

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

Treading carefully

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

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

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

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From Bali to Alor: 11 great reasons to visit the Lesser Sunda Islands

The Lesser Sunda Islands stretches from Bali to the Tanimbar Islands archipelago to form the provinces of West and East Nusa Tenggara, and are teeming with diverse destinations that will appeal to beachgoers and adventurers alike.

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rom swimming with ocean giants and diving alongside ancient lava flows to cultural visits and mangrove tours, the Lesser Sunda Islands have it all.

It’s time to pack your bags and discover this diverse Indonesian destination as the dry season begins.

Read also: 8 reasons to visit Lombok and the Gili Islands

1. Experience Bali’s wild side at West Bali National Park

Sitting at the northwestern tip of Bali, West Bali National Park is a fascinating conservation area. With diverse habitats including rainforests, mangroves, scrub, beaches and beautiful coral reefs, there's plenty to discover.

It’s a great place to immerse yourself in nature, taking a guided hike through part of the park or exploring the marine environment.

Don’t miss Menjangan Island  while you’re there. This idyllic island is known for world-class snorkeling with pretty clownfish, angelfish and huge clams.

It’s also a great place to try wall diving in waters with visibility of more than 50 meters.

2. Take your pick of Bali’s best temples

Bali is known for the diverse and numerous temples dotted throughout the island, often with stunning backdrops.

Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s best-known temples, famed for its unique setting perched atop a rocky outcrop. Visit at sunset for the perfect photo opportunity as you gaze out over a peaceful ocean.

Another eye-catching temple, Uluwatu Temple  is a must-see. Sitting on top of a steep cliff that plunges 70 meters down to sea level, it is a breath-taking temple to visit and photograph, any time of day.

3. Dive a 125-meter-long shipwreck in Tulamben Bay

The wreck of the USAT Liberty  is truly impressive, covered in hard and soft corals and surrounded by huge shoals of fish. Launched during the final year of World War I, this huge vessel was sunk by the Japanese in World War II and it rests in the calm waters just off Tulamben Bay, which is ideal for wreck diving.

Sitting on a sandy slope at 8 to 30 meters, she’s an easy wreck for all experience levels to discover. Don’t miss your chance to find out why divers come from around the world to dive her.

4. Marvel at the iconic rice terraces of Tegallalang

It’s impossible not to be impressed by the steep and perfectly designed rice terraces of Tegallalang , Bali. Winding across the hillside, the curving terraces descend to the bottom of the valley in every shade of green imaginable.

Take a guided rice terrace tour to learn all about the fascinating history and farming of this special area.

5. Meet the monkeys of Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest

The Ubud Monkey Forest  is an important spiritual destination and conservation center where you can explore a stunning forest and watch the antics of over 700 wild monkeys.

Walk the forest and you’ll discover some of the 186 tree species found there. The forest is also home to three temples, 100 sculptures and the striking, much-photographed Dragon Bridge.

Just make sure you follow the "Monkey Forest Guidelines" so the monkeys don’t make off with your belongings.

6. Feast your eyes on Ubud’s Art Market

The Ubud Art Market  is a riot of color, its stalls packed with silk scarves, woven bags, hats and numerous other handmade goods.

Centered amid art villages, it’s ideal for picking up lovingly crafted Balinese souvenirs to take home.

7. Swim with sunfish, manta rays around Nusa Penida

Have you heard of sunfish? These strange-looking fish, the heaviest bony fish in the world, weigh up to 1,000 kg and span over 3 meters! Nusa Penida's Crystal Bay is the place to swim with them.

Go diving in Crystal Bay from July to October and you’ll have a great chance of swimming alongside sunfish.

Be sure to also visit Manta Point  while you’re there. It’s a great place for snorkeling and diving with these majestic ocean giants.

The best way to reach both sites is by Nusa Penida liveaboard diving .

8. Discover Nusa Penida’s hidden beach paradise

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect beach without the crowds, don’t miss Kelingking Beach  on Nusa Penida. This stunning white sand beach is nestled in the curve of steep cliffs and surrounded by clear blue waters.

When you’ve had your fill of admiring the beach from the easily accessible viewpoint, put on your shoes and hike 400 meters down the cliffside. It’s worth the effort to feel the sand between your toes.

While you’re there, why not take a dip in the water before tackling the steep climb back up?

9. Venture into mangrove magic on Nusa Lembongan

Perhaps you’ve not spent much time thinking about mangroves, but that’s about to change. These crucial forests provide an essential nesting and breeding habitat for thousands of species, protect coastlines from erosion, support community livelihoods and more.

In short, they’re epic.

Don’t miss out on your chance to fall in love with the humble mangrove. You can enjoy a scenic tour through mangrove-lined waterways with a guide, or rent a kayak and go solo on Nusa Lembongan .

Take your snorkeling kit and you can check out the vibrant marine life tucked away under the trees, or drift over reefs teeming with life.

10. Gain some perspective at Mt. Kelimutu, Flores

It’s hard to describe the three differently colored crater lakes in Kelimutu National Park  on Flores; they’re that eye-popping bright. However you describe them, they stand out a mile against the stark volcanic landscape.

Hike up to the lakes and you won’t be able to take your eyes or camera off them. One of the most beautiful sights on Flores, Mount Kelimutu and its lakes are not to be missed.

11. Explore Alor’s ancient underwater lava flows

Go scuba diving around Alor Island  and you can explore the underwater lava flows and rich black sands, busy with life. The ancient lava flows are caked with corals and the sand is full of weird and wonderful critters you’ve likely never heard of.

Visit the Sharks Galore dive site to swim among the harmless grey reef sharks that patrol the reef, plus the smaller whitetip reef sharks and fast-moving schools of tuna.

If you want to try your hand at finding tiny critters, Biangabang Beach is your paradise. The area is full of hot springs and volcanic sand, perfect for diving.

Got time for one more adventure? Go night diving at Alor and you’ll see the ocean come to life in a completely different way, lit up by the beam of your flashlight.

Kathryn Curzon compiled this article from pieces written by the divers and writers of  LiveAboard.com .

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Komodo Island: Ultimate Guide To Komodo National Park

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

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

What makes Komodo Island so famous

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

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

Where is Komodo Island

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

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

How to Get to Komodo Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

($$$) Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach

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

Check availability & best rates

($$) Elang Hillside Bamboo Villas

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

($) Seaesta Komodo Hostel & Hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Komodo Island Entrance Fee

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

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

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

Things to do in Komodo Island National Park

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

Spot a Komodo Dragon

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

Hike Padar Island

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

Relax on a Pink Sand Beach

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

Snorkelling in Komodo National Park

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

Visit Komodo Village

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

Get stranded on a Sandbar

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

Rangko Cave

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

Experience a Bat Cauldron

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

Cunca Waterfall

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

Komodo Sailing Trip

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

Book Your Trip To Bali

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

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

⭐ is komodo island worth visiting.

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

✔️ Is Komodo Island open for tourism in 2023?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏨 Can you stay on Komodo Island itself?

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

🐉 Is Komodo Island safe to visit?

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

Ultimate Guide to Komodo National Park – Final Words

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

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

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

About the Author: Carolin Pilligrath

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Komodo Islands: How to Visit Komodo National Park, Indonesia

September 30, 2019 · In: Indonesia , Travel Guides

Komodo National Park is a group of islands located in the East Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia within the Lesser Sunda Islands. The three main islands include Komodo, Padar and Rinca, as well as 26 smaller islands. The area is most famous for being the home to the Komodo Dragon, the largest living lizard on earth!

During your visit to the Komodo Islands you will experience unique landscapes, pink sandy beaches, the Komodo dragon and some of the most biodiverse marine life in the world!

Table of Contents

Explore the Komodo Islands by Boat

One of the best and only ways to explore Komodo National Park is by boat. Most visitors will embark on their adventure with either a one or multi-day boat tour departing out of Labuan Bajo.

From the harbour you will board a small speedboat which will take you to your sail boat for the duration of your trip!

The boat will depart around 11AM and you will begin our adventures and exploration around one of Indonesias most beautiful places!

Kelor Island

After departing from the harbor in Labuan Bajo the first stop of the day is to Kelor Island. This small, uninhabited island is surrounded by turquoise water and has a prominent grass covered hill.

To get to the island you will take a small speedboat and arrive on the beach. From here you can hike about 20 minutes up to the top of the hill.  

There are no stairs to reach the top, just some rocks that you can use as stepping stones. Be careful though as the sandy areas can be a bit slippery. Therefore, make sure to take it slow as you ascend up and down the hill.  

The view from the top is spectacular, with sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes and crystal clear water.

Visit Rinca Island to See the Komodo Dragon

The second stop is to Rinca Island to get up close with the dinosaur-like Komodo dragon. This ancient lizard, whose scientific name is Varanus komodoensis, can only be found on a few islands including Komodo, Rinca and a few others.

They are the world’s largest lizard reaching up to 300 pounds with an extremely venomous bite! Their saliva contains about 54 different species of bacteria and just ONE of those strains can kill you!

Once you arrive at the National Park your group will first check in at the ranger station. It is necessary and required to walk around the park with a Ranger who has a deeper understanding of the behaviors of the Komodo dragons.

The Rangers will carry a long stick in the rare case that a dragon will get too close and they need to provide protection for the guests. 

There are 3 different paths in the park: short, medium and long. I believe that we took the short trail since we arrived a little bit late to the park. During our walk we saw about 10 different Komodo Dragons and passed by the nesting grounds where the females lay their eggs. 

Kalong Rinca to See the Bats at Sunset

Your last stop of day one will be to Kalong Rinca where you will get to witness thousands of bats flying out of their cave at sunset. This lasts for about one hour and is an incredible spectacle to watch from your boat. 

Visit Padar Island for Sunrise

Your boat crew will wake you up early around 4:30 AM once you dock at Padar Island. The small speedboat will take you to shore and you will begin the 30-45 minute climb to the top for sunrise. Here there are stairs for the majority of the trek until you get near the top when you will have to do a bit of rock climbing again.

One thing we didn’t expect was how many people were actually here at the same time. Due to the mass amounts of people you may have to wait for awhile to get a decent photo here. Also, be careful when passing people during your climb up and down the hill as there are some slippery spots and narrow paths. 

The view from the top is absolutely stunning. Look to the right and you will see the white sandy beach where all the boats dock. Take your eyes to the left and see first the black sand beach and then just beyond that is the pink sandy beach. 

Padar Island is the 3rd largest island in Komodo National Park and used to be home to the Komodo Dragon. However, due to lack of food the dragons eventually moved out and now the island is one of the most popular hiking spots within the National Park.

» Photography Tip 📷 Climb up a little bit after the spot where the stairs have ended and you will find some large rocks. Here you can stand on top of the rocks and use some strategic angles to get this photo without all of the people.

Visit the Pink Beach

It really is pink! We were truly blown away by the color of this beach as we honestly didn’t expect it to be this pink in reality! The color of the sand is formed from the combination of the white sand mixed with the red coral that gets broken up from the crashing waves.

Once you arrive to the beach you will be amazed by the contrast of the pink sand with the bright, turquoise water and surrounding mountain views. It really is a magnificent sight!

Once you’ve finished admiring the beach, grab your snorkel and mask and take to the water for some snorkeling. The marine life in the Komodo islands is flourishing and spectacular!

Snorkel with Manta Rays at Manta Point

After enjoying a few hours at the pink beach you will head to the spot where Manta Rays are known to be swimming and feeding. Within minutes of arriving to the area we spotted two giant mantas gracefully circling in the water.

We immediately donned our masks and snorkels and jumped into the water to swim side by side with these underwater ballerinas.

The manta rays are filter feeders meaning they only eat plankton or small jellyfish that they can filter through their wide mouths. They are completely harmless and safes to swim with but please do not try to touch them.

During our time at Manta Point we jumped in the water 4 times and swam with about 10 total manta rays. The best spot to swim with them is at the “cleaning station.” This is a place where small fish will consume dead skin or parasites off of the manta rays body.

This was the only area that we swam that didn’t have a ton of jellyfish in the water. The jellyfish are quite prevalent in this area and generally won’t sting, however, there is definitely a chance they can so be careful.

Takka Makassar Sand Bank

Your fourth stop of the day will be to the super popular Takka Makassar sand bank. This tiny, pink sandy island is surrounded by crystal clear water and is another great snorkeling spot.

If you arrive here early in the morning you can beat the crowds. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived there were already a ton of people there. Luckily it is still a gorgeous spot despite the crowds!

Siaba Island to Snorkel with Turtles

After the sand bank you will head to your final spot of the day! Siaba Island is known for having a large population of sea turtles and some of the best reefs in the area. Your sail boat will park a safe distance from the reef and you will be taken closer by the small speedboat.

We saw 2 large turtles from our sailboat but none while we were snorkeling. The reef here is one of the best we have seen! There are many species of colorful coral, marine life and sea plants. You will truly be amazed by the underwater world here!

Luckily, the clarity of the water is crystal clear so you will have no trouble seeing tons of marine life even at deeper depths!

After the snorkeling you will head back on the boat for the evening and enjoy another sunset out at sea!

Visit Kanawa Island in Komodo Island

Your last morning in on the Komodo Islands tour is all about relaxation! You will arrive at Kanawa Island early in the morning with the option of sun bathing or snorkeling. We chose to relax in the shade and take a short walk along the white sandy beach.

The island is pretty large and has a very photogenic dock where you will arrive from your boat.

After spending a few hours on the island your sail boat will head back to the Labuan Bajo harbor where your trip will end. The tour company will either drop you off at your hotel or the airport!

National Park Entry Fees in Komodo Island National Park

In order to enter the Komodo Island National Park you have to pay an additional 550K IDR ($40 USD) per person. The fee is less expensive for locals at a price of 150K IDR ($11 USD) per person.

There is also a new fee that was implemented as a snorkeling retribution fee of 100K IDR ($7.15 USD) per person if you want to swim and snorkel. The fee for locals is 50K IDR ($3.60 USD). 

There is also a 1 million IDR ($72 USD) fee if you want to fly your drone on Padar Island. It isn’t clear on who you pay. There also didn’t seem to be anyone at the beach when you arrive that was collecting money.

Ultimately, we chose not to spend the money to fly the drone here. It would be best to discuss this fee with your tour company should you choose to fly your drone at this particular spot. 

» More Indonesia Guides: Discover the Best Things to Do in Nusa Penida’s West Coast

How to Choose the Right Boat Company in the Komodo Island

With so many tour companies to choose from it can be a bit overwhelming to select the right trip. There will be a few factors that will affect your decision with the majority being time and money.

Additionally, some of the different options that you can choose between will be a private tour or shared accommodation, single day or multi-day and diving or snorkeling. 

If you don’t book a company prior to your arrival it is best to have a general idea of what you are hoping to see before heading out on the street to ask around.

On average many of the tour companies were quoting around 3.5 to 4 million IDR (~$285 USD) per person for a private tour which did not include the additional park entry fees. 

For our trip, we choose a company called Flip My Trip and selected the 3 day & 2 night journey in order to maximize our time and see as much as we could within that time.

The trip cost 2.3 million IDR ($165 USD) per person and included all meals, unlimited water, the crew, shared accommodations and pick up/drop off to our hotel. 

What to Expect on a Shared Accommodation

One of the first questions I get about this trip is about the shared accommodation. In all honesty we were a bit concerned as well. However, as soon as we boarded the boat and met the other passengers all our worries completely subsided.

Now this could be completely different depending on who you end up on the boat with so I can only speak for our experience.

On the sail boat there were 3 rooms and 2 bathrooms. The rooms were divided up in this way: 1 room with bunkbeds that can sleep up to 8 people, 1 room with bunkbeds for 2 different couples and one private room.

We were placed in the shared room with one other couple. We chose the bottom bunk and they had the top. The sleeping arrangements were actually very comfortable and each room had enough space for your belongings.

The shared bathrooms were also completely fine with a toilet, shower and toiletries. You will need to bring your own towel. We didn’t have one so we had to purchase one at the local supermarket in Labuan Bajo.

I understand that safety of your belongings is probably a big concern. At no point during our trip did we feel concerned about our stuff, including all of my expensive camera gear or our wallets. Everyone on the ship is there for the same reason as you, to enjoy the beauty of the Komodo Islands and doesn’t seem concerned with your belongings!

Overall we actually really enjoyed the shared accommodations and sharing these experiences with our new friends!  If you choose a shared boat, have an open mind and maybe you will leave with some new friends!

How to Get to the Komodo Islands

There are a few different ways to reach the Komodo Islands but the easiest and quickest would be to fly to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores. Here there is a small airport located right in the center of town making it easy to move around and reach the harbor where you will leave on your boat trip. 

You can catch inexpensive flights from Bali with a few different airlines. For our flight to Labuan Bajo we flew with Wings Air from Lombok since we were coming from Gili Air.

If you also want to visit the Gili Islands before or after your trip you can easily do so. To get to from the Gili’s to Flores you can take a public ferry to Lombok and then fly out of the Lombok Airport.

You can also do it in reverse by flying from Labuan Bajo to Lombok and then taking the ferry from the Bangsal harbor in Lombok to the Gili Islands. 

How to Get Around Labuan Bajo and the Island of Flores

If you are staying in a hotel nearby the harbor it is very easy to walk around the city center of Labuan Bajo. However, if you want to explore or head to the surrounding areas for sunset viewpoints then you will need to either rent a motorbike or use a tour company. 

There were many tour companies in the center of town that were offering single day or multi-day overland trips to see more of the island of Flores.

Some of the most popular sights to see during the overland trips would be the Wae Rabo Village, the Cunca Wulang waterfall and the Kelimutu twin lakes. We ended up finding a relatively unknown waterfall and were the only ones there! 

If you are adventurous and know how to drive a motorbike you can rent them either from your hotel or in town. We rented one from our hotel for 75K IDR ($5.40 USD) per day. You may have to request a helmet if they don’t automatically give one to you. 

How to Get Around the Komodo Islands

The only option to visit the Komodo Islands is to take a boat tour. You can choose a single day tour or a multi-day tour. The most popular trip is the 3 day & 2 night tour which is the one that we did.

Many companies offer longer tours that usually go up to 5 nights. If you have the time and extra money I would highly recommend the longer tour!

There are also many dive shops where you can join a live aboard. On these trips you’ll do multiple dives per day which we imagine would also be pretty amazing. 

What to Pack for Your Komodo Island Trip

A bathing suit is essential for your trip to the Komodo Islands. You’ll definitely want to swim in those turquoise waters, experience the underwater world and get close to the manta rays!

The boat company that we used did not provide towels so we ended up purchasing one for cheap at the local supermarket in Labuan Bajo.

Make sure you bring closed toed shoes for some of the treks like Kelor Island, Padar Island and to see the Komodo dragons at Rinca Island. However, if you’re like us and only have flip flops you’ll also be just fine. My flip flop even broke at Padar Island so I had to hike the whole way barefoot!

Most likely your boat will provide you with enough food that you’ll actually never be hungry. However, it is wise to pack a few snacks just in case. Be sure to stop into the local supermarket in Labuan Bajo before your boat trip to pick up a few things. Your boat will most likely have water so you shouldn’t have to bring a bunch of bottles. However, it’s best to double check before you leave.

The sun is strong in the Komodo Islands so make sure to pack sunscreen. Since you’ll be doing some snorkeling around the coral reefs it is important to use reef safe sunscreen . My favorite is a brand called Sun Bum. Luckily, there are many companies out there now producing sunscreen that won’t harm the reefs.

Due to the strong sun you’ll also want to pack your favorite sunglasses and hat! Be sure to cover up as much as possible so you don’t get sunburnt!

As always, pack your camera gear and all corresponding chargers. They have plenty of outlets on the boat so you’ll be sure to have fully charged batteries!

save this Komodo Islands guide to pinterest to read later

You’ll Also Love

October 4, 2019 at 7:11 pm

Bring me there!!! Wow, the Komodo Islands look absolutely gorgeous! Everywhere you guys went looked amazing. Also I love how informative this article is. Totally adding this to my bucket list.

October 25, 2019 at 12:47 pm

You would love it here Taylor! Definitely try to make it out this way when you plan your trip to Indonesia! There are rumors of Rinca Island with the Komodo Dragons being closed next year but if that doesn’t happen there is so much beauty on the other islands that it wouldn’t even matter!

October 9, 2019 at 10:15 am

Komodo islands look really great! I’m dying to go there to see the “dragons” in real! 😍

Yes! Komodo National Park is so amazing! And the Komodo Dragons are seriously cool!

October 9, 2019 at 7:36 pm

Reading your post makes me want to go back! I did a similar tour in August but I chose the 4 days and 3 nights tour starting from Lombok. This was definitely one of the highlights of my 2 month trip. You’re photos are a dream too!

October 25, 2019 at 12:44 pm

Thank you so much Maria! That sounds amazing! Honestly, I wish we had more time there and would love to go back to do a diving liveaboard! Sounds like your experience was just as magical!

November 2, 2019 at 1:34 pm

I’ve always wanted to go to the Komodo Islands and now I want to go even more!! A boat trip definitely seems like the way to do it. Thanks for such a helpful guide.

February 17, 2020 at 9:11 am

Thanks Sophie!! I think the only way to see the Komodo Island is by boat and it is definitely worth it! So many beautiful spots and sights along the way!

November 2, 2019 at 2:40 pm

The Komodo Islands look so stunning! I would love to visit one day and a boat tour looks like the perfect way to do it. Super informative and the photos are beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing!

February 17, 2020 at 9:12 am

Thank you Pauline! The boat trips are so fun and it is amazing waking up on the ocean with views of magnificent islands and turquoise waters!

November 2, 2019 at 7:33 pm

The views, the wildlife, the fun activities. Everything about this place looks incredible. I’d love to visit and see the komodo dragons too

November 3, 2019 at 5:19 am

Thanks Emma! It was such a spectacular place to visit and totally took us by surprise! We loved it so much and it should definitely be added to your bucket list!

November 3, 2019 at 9:31 am

This sounds like a great way to see the Komodo Islands. I love a good boat trip and definitely don’t need it to be super fancy.

November 17, 2019 at 2:58 pm

Then this definitely sounds like your kind of trip! You would love this boat trip and all the places you visit along the way!

November 3, 2019 at 11:07 am

I haven’t heard about this place before, but it looks very beautiful. Your guide is very complex, so thank you for sharing it, those tips really helps!

November 17, 2019 at 2:59 pm

It is such a gorgeous place to visit and I hope you make it there one day! Hopefully it will help you plan your trip!

November 3, 2019 at 5:58 pm

The Komodo Islands look like a gorgeous place to visit! I would love to visit Rinca Island to see the Komodo Dragons. The Cunca Wulang waterfall looks gorgeous as well!

November 3, 2019 at 7:43 pm

Oooo I really wanted to visit Komodo when I was in Indonesia a couple years ago, but I didn’t have time. It’s at the top of my list to go back for. Gorgeous photos!

February 17, 2020 at 9:07 am

You would love it there Carrie! I hope you can make it back one day and take the boat trip around the islands!

November 4, 2019 at 3:07 pm

How fascinating about the saliva containing so many different types of deadly bacteria! I had no idea that they were sooooo poisonous haha. The islands look beautiful though, definitely added to my bucket list!

We didn’t know either!! So crazy and makes you a tiny bit nervous being around them because they are so fast! But the entire Komodo Islands are gorgeous so you should definitely try to make it out there one day!

November 4, 2019 at 7:57 pm

Indonesia is a dream come true for those (like me!) who love the outdoors and meeting wildlife. I literally have seeing Komodo dragons on my bucket list ❤️ Loved your photos, and the info is super useful! Pinned for future references!

November 21, 2019 at 5:49 am

Thank you Coni! If you are an outdoor enthusiast than you will absolutely love it there!! Let me know if you ever have any additional questions!

November 5, 2019 at 1:19 am

What a wonderful collection of photos! The pink beach is just stunning. I’d love to check out the many islands in Indonesia!

Thank you so much Katy! We were so impressed that the color of the sand was actually that pink!

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Nusa Tenggara

• 1.1 West Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Barat)
• 1.2 East Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Timur)
• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.2 By bus and ferry
• 12 Stay safe

Nusa Tenggara ("Southeast Islands"), also known as the Lesser Sunda Islands , is a region in southeastern Indonesia .

Formerly little more than afterthought for most Bali-bound travellers, this region is now attracting more and more visitors, with Komodo National Park close to Flores island and Lombok leading the way.

Regions [ edit ]

Nusa Tenggara is administratively divided into two provinces:

West Nusa Tenggara (Nusa Tenggara Barat) [ edit ]

East nusa tenggara (nusa tenggara timur) [ edit ].

While Bali is geographically a part of the archipelago, they are covered in separate articles.

Cities [ edit ]

• -8.833333 121.65 1 Ende — lazy main city in Flores
• -10.163333 123.577778 2 Kupang — the capital of East Nusa Tenggara, in the western half of Timor
• -8.496389 119.887778 3 Labuanbajo — launching point from Flores to Komodo Island, diving and snorkeling
• -8.583333 116.116667 4 Mataram — the capital of West Nusa Tenggara, in Lombok
• -8.616667 122.2 5 Maumere — the main transport hub in Flores
• -8.499722 116.0475 6 Senggigi — the main tourist town in Lombok
• -8.5 117.416667 7 Sumbawa Besar — the largest city in Sumbawa
• -9.65 120.266667 8 Waingapu — the main city of Sumba and gateway to this most mysterious of islands
• -9.643056 119.437778 9 Waikabubak — home of the pasolas and some truly stunning beaches in West Sumba.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• -8.35 116.06 1 Gili Islands — three gorgeous tiny islands perched off Lombok, formerly a backpacker mecca and now fast going up-market destination
• -8.651625 119.576569 2 Komodo National Park — home of the komodo dragon, a very rich marine fauna and magnificent remote landscapes
• -8.245278 117.992778 3 Mount Tambora — a seldom visited volcano in the remotest area of Sumbawa
• -8.416667 116.466667 4 Mount Rinjani — popular with volcano climbers and visitors to Lombok
• -8.229578 117.565064 5 Moyo — national marine park with superb diving and home to a remarkable Aman resort

Understand [ edit ]

Nusa Tenggara is one of the least developed and least visited parts of Indonesia. But United Nation World Tourist Organization (UNWTO) acknowledged Indonesia as an example of success in developing tourism. In 2016 East Nusatenggara got 6 medals from 10 categories of Anugerah Pesona Indonesia 2016. Gold medal of Most Popular Surfing Spot of Nemberala Beach, Rote Ndao Regency; Gold medal of Most Popular Cleanliness of Nihiwatu Beach, West Sumba Regency; Gold medal of Most Popular of Historical Site of Ende Bung Karno (Proclamator and the first Indonesia President) Site; Gold medal of Most Popular Diving Site of Alor Island, Alor Regency; Silver medal of Most Popular Attraction of Pasola, Southwest Sumba Regency; Bronze medal of Most Popular Highland of different color of three lakes/calderas of Mount Kelimutu, Ende.

While the islands of Lombok and Sumbawa have a majority of Muslim inhabitants, the vast majority (90%) of the rest is Christian, with a strong Hindu presence on Lombok and a good number of remnant aspects of animist belief. Nusa Tenggara has been largely spared the religious conflicts of nearby Sulawesi and Maluku .

The Wallace line , the boundary between the Asian and Australian ecosystems, passes through the region, between Bali and Lombok. Therefore, Nusa Tenggara is part of Wallacea , a transitional ecozone, identified by both the WWF and Conservation International as a global conservation priority area.

Talk [ edit ]

Bahasa Indonesia is spoken throughout the region, along with a host of regional languages. English is understood in some of the larger towns and cities, in particular those with significant tourist infrastructure. Outside of those places, do not expect English to be either spoken or understood. Dutch may be spoken by some seniors.

Get in [ edit ]

Being a vast archipelago, the main means of transport are by plane and by ship.

By plane [ edit ]

The main airports, with frequent flights from Jakarta and Denpasar (Bali), are Lombok ( LOP  IATA ), Labuan Bajo (Flores, LBJ  IATA ) and Kupang (West Timor, KOE  IATA ). From Denpasar there are also regular flights to Bima (Sumbawa), Ende and Maumere (Flores), and Tambolaka and Waingapu (Sumba).

There are also several international flights to the region. Lombok is connected to Singapore (Scoot) and Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia), and there are direct flights between Kupang and Dili in East Timor (Air Timor).

By boat [ edit ]

There are frequent ferry services from Bali to Lombok . There is a ferry from Padang Bai, whilst there is a fast boat to GilI Islands and Senggigi from Sanur, Benoa, Kuta, Padang Bai and Amed. Connections between Nusa Tenggara and Indonesia's other islands are limited to the occasional PELNI ferry sailing between Makassar (South Sulawesi) to Flores and, if you really want to get away from it all, from various ports in Papua via Tual and Saumlaki , Maluku to Kalabahi , Alor and onward to Flores.

Get around [ edit ]

The network of inter-island flights has grown considerably over the last decade. Kupang Airport ( KOE  IATA ) is a hub for East Nusa Tenggara, with flights to all other airports in the province. Similarly, there are flights from Lombok Airport ( LOP  IATA ) to Bima and Sumbawa Besar on the island of Sumbawa . Alor Island Airport ( ARD  IATA ) can be reached from Kupang and Atambua.

By bus and ferry [ edit ]

From Bali in the west to Timor in the east, the classic island-hopping backpacker trail across Nusa Tenggara runs something like this:

• Ferry from Padangbai , Bali to Lembar , Lombok
• Overland across Lombok via Senggigi
• Ferry from Labuhan Lombok to Poto Tano , Sumbawa
• Overland across Sumbawa via Sumbawa Besar and Bima
• Ferry from Sape to Labuanbajo , Flores
• Overland across Flores via Maumere to Ende
• Ferry from Ende to Kupang , West Timor
• Overland across Timor to Dili , East Timor

Popular detours include visiting the 3 Gili Islands lying a few km of the western coast of Lombok and Komodo north of Flores. Less popular options include going via Sumba instead of Flores .

A night time ferry also runs, sometimes, from Waingapu, Sumba to Ende, Flores, taking about 11 hours.

See [ edit ]

• Komodo dragon . The Komodo dragon, which lives in Rinca and Flores as well as Komodo islands, is the largest lizard in the world. Tours of are available where dragons can be seen in the wild. Tourists must be accompanied by park rangers who use forked wooden sticks to fend off any approaching dragons, and provide information about the islands and wildlife. The practice of feeding dragons stopped in 1992.
• See the three varying colored lakes at Kelimutu on Flores .

Do [ edit ]

• Pasolas, festivals with ritual battles between warriors, in western Sumba in February or March.
• Swimming in the Flores Sea between Sumbawa and Flores, en route to or from one of the islands in Komodo National Park .

Eat [ edit ]

With a drier climate, there is less rice and more sago, corn, cassava, and taro compared to central and western Indonesia. Fish is popular including sepat , which is shredded fish in coconut and young-mango sauce.

Drink [ edit ]

Jus pokat (avocado juice), often including a swirl of chocolate, is generally very good.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Komodo dragons , at up to 3 m (10 ft) in length, are more than capable of killing a human with ease, although human predation is rare. Zoologists formerly believed that the main problem was the dragon's diseased-filled bite from the rampant bacteria residing in their mouth. More recently theories have been put forward that the Komodo dragon is actually venomous, and that the biggest problem when bitten is shock and massive blood loss due to the ferocity of the bite. Whichever, getting bitten is not a good thing.

The dragon usually bites a larger animal and then waits for the infection to kill it. So, despite the fact that being actually eaten is unlikely, the bite itself can be deadly. Keep at a considerable distance and never enter dragon territory alone. If you use basic common sense you should have a wonderful time viewing these magnificent animals. The absence of crocodiles on Komodo Island (due in part to a lack of suitable habitat) leave the Komodo Dragons with no natural predators.

Saltwater crocodiles ( Crocodylus porosus ) also reside in most of this area, however they are not found on Komodo. The saltwater crocodile is the largest of all living crocodilians and the average size for an adult male is 5.2 m (17 ft) (although the largest saltwater crocodile on record was 8.8 m (29 ft) in length, from northern Queensland). They are known throughout their range as man-eaters and account for many human deaths every year. This can all be avoided by using basic common sense. Never swim in the ocean near a river mouth, in swamps or in large rivers. Never clean fish near the water or frequent the same spot at a river over a prolonged period of time, saltwater crocodiles are known to memorise a potential prey item's patterns for days or weeks at a time before attacking.

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18 December 2020

Striking seasonal wonders of the Lesser Sundas

Plant diversity, endemism and extinction risk in indonesia's lesser sunda islands..

By Dr Liam Trethowan , Laura V S Jennings and Helen Chadburn

Stretching from Bali to Timor, the Lesser Sunda islands are covered in seasonal tropical forests that are home to unique flora and fauna, including the world’s largest lizard the Komodo dragon and 74 bird species found nowhere else.

Fires, agriculture, and even volcanoes, are some of the threats faced by these forests.

Much of the Lesser Sundas still remains to be explored botanically, meaning that it’s quite likely that there are plants out there that need immediate protection, we just don’t know about them yet.

We have therefore begun to document the diversity, the unique species and threat status of the archipelago’s plants.

Forest exploration

Last year, a joint Kew and Bogor (the largest herbarium in Indonesia) expedition, ventured to the island of Sumbawa to study the plant diversity of the forest near Mataiyang village and Pedauh coastal nature reserve.

The forests here are dominated by Myrtles and interestingly, seem to somewhat resemble those in the Western Ghats of India. 

We established forest plots which gave us an idea of the different species, genera and families present in forests. However, it does not show how species are distributed across the islands.

To do that, we focused upon species that are only found in the Lesser Sunda Islands - known as endemic species.

We gathered or estimated coordinate data from herbarium specimens, often, for old specimens, using the name of the village listed on the specimen label.

This allowed us to map where endemic species occur and measure their risk of extinction. Most of these species have few collections, therefore each point provided vital data.

Blazing threats

More than half of the forest across the Lesser Sundas has already disappeared.

Widespread logging, fires, and conversion to agricultural land are leaving areas degraded and eroded, decimating the islands’ biodiversity.

In Timor and Wetar, it has been estimated that nearly two-thirds of forest has been cleared with most of the original monsoon forest replaced by savanna and grassland. 

With the Lesser Sundas being part of the ‘Ring of fire’, volcanic activity also threatens plants.

Near Ruteng on the island of Flores, there is an active volcano and a new lava dome, named Anak Ranakah (Child of Ranakah), which formed in 1987.

It was last active in 2012 but lava dome volcanos are prone to sudden onsets of violent explosive activity.

Vegetation in the area may be impacted by lava and smothered by ash falls. Atmospheric water and volcanic gas within an ash plume can also produce acid rain.

One plant that may be particularly vulnerable is the orchid Dendrochilum galeatum . So far, this plant is only known from the mountains near Ruteng so ex situ conservation could be especially important for this species.  

Bali bamboo

Some species in the Lesser Sundas are very dependent on humans for their survival.

For example, several bamboo species in Bali are only known from very small areas in village bamboo forests.

These have been maintained for many years as a result of local community beliefs and approaches to bamboo production. Now some of these bamboo forests are tourist destinations.

However, it is possible that traditional approaches to bamboo use and conservation could be threatened by modern developments and changes in attitude, which could make these species vulnerable to extinction.

Assessing extinction risk

Many plants are only known from one collection and often these were made in the early to mid-twentieth century.

Many have been assessed as Data Deficient, meaning that there is just not enough information available to make an adequate evaluation of extinction risk.

These species may be threatened, so surveys are urgently needed to address this problem.

However, many of the species for which an adequate assessment is possible fall within one of the threatened categories for extinction risk: Vulnerable, Endangered or Critically Endangered.

Documenting and assessing extinction risk in plants is important because all these species contribute to how forest lock in Carbon, protect watersheds and provide products at the heart of local economies (e.g. honey).

Without detailed knowledge of these species, it is impossible to accurately understand how these forests and the services they offer will shift with future changes in climate and human pressures.

Knowledge gained about these species will provide information that can make conservation interventions more likely to be effective.

Over the next year we will be verifying the identification of plant specimens collected during our Sumbawa fieldwork and hopefully embarking on further fieldwork on the islands of Flores and Sumba.  

Unlocking the potential of Seasonal Forests to underpin Wallacea's green economy

Exploring the plant diversity of the Lesser Sunda Islands to help create a framework for ecologically viable economic development.

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The paradise island teeming with life

Dr Rodrigo Cámara Leret, Dr William J Baker, Dr Timothy M A Utteridge

12 February 2020

Exploring Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands

Dr Liam Trethowan

21 August 2019

Minting a new Flora: How books help protect biodiversity

Dr Gemma L C Bramley

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• The Nine Major Lesser Sunda Islands

Located to the north of Australia in Maritime Southeast Asia, the Lesser Sunda Islands comprise of several islands like Bali, Flores, Timor, and others. Most of these islands are part of Indonesia. The Lesser Sunda group of islands can be divided into two archipelagos based on their geological origin. The northern archipelago has a volcanic origin while the southern archipelago is non-volcanic in nature.

Bali is one of the largest islands in the Lesser Sunda Islands group. The island is part of Indonesia and is located between the islands of Lombok and Java. Denpasar is the capital of this island and as of 2010, it has a population of 3,890,757 people. Balinese Hinduism is the religion of the majority on this island. Bali is famous across the world as a popular tourist destination, and tourism contributes to nearly 80% of the economy of Bali. The island is famous for its historical and religious places, cultural activities, and tropical beaches. The waters around the island are also rich in marine life.

Part of the Indonesian province of West Nusa Tenggara, Lombok is one of biggest of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Lombok is located between the islands of Bali and Sumbawa and is separated from the same by the Lombok Strait and the Alas Strait, respectively. Mataram is the island’s most populated city. Lombok occupies an area of about 4,514 square km and houses a population of about 3.35 million people. Tourism is a very important source of income in Lombok.

Located towards the middle of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands, Sumbawa is also a part of the Indonesian province of West Nusa Tenggara. The island is famous for sappanwood, a type of wood used in preparing sandalwood, honey, and a red dye. The island occupies an area of about 15,448 square km and houses a population of around 1.39 million. The volcanic island hosts volcanoes like the Mount Tambora which had a major eruption in 1815 that killed nearly 72,000 people. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood in Sumbawa while tourism is in the nascent stage.

Flores, an Indonesian island, is a member of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It occupies an area of 13,540 square km and houses a population of 1,831,000 as of 2010. Flores houses a significant population of the Komodo dragon and a part of its habitat is thus part of the Komodo National Park. The island also hosts another unique species, the Flores giant rat. Flores is inhabited by mainly Roman Catholic Christians who speak Austronesian languages. Flores has several tourist attractions like the Kelimutu volcano and its crater lakes, beaches, diving and snorkeling sites, Komodo dragon habitats, traditional villages, etc. Tourism, agriculture, and fishing form the backbone of the economy of Flores.

Sumba is an Indonesian island that occupies an area of 11,153 square km in eastern Indonesia. The estimated population of the island is 755,849. Waingapu is the largest town on the island. The landscape of Sumba is dominated by low-lying limestone hills. The island has a rich diversity of flora and fauna and is especially famous for its birdlife which features over 200 species of birds including several endemic species. The natural habitat of Sumba is, however, at threat due to clearance of forests for human activities. Waterfalls, beaches, coves, birdlife, etc., are some of the tourist attractions of Sumba.

Located to the north of the Timor Sea, the island of Timor is divided politically into East Timor and Indonesia. The area occupied by Timor is 30,777 square km and, as of 2014, it has a population of 3,182,693. Christianity is the religion of the majority in Timor. The flora and fauna of Timor feature a mix of both Austronesian and Asian species. Several endemic species like the Timor rat, Timor shrew, etc., are found here.

3. Alor Archipelago

The Alor archipelago is a Regency in the Indonesian province of East Nusa Tenggara. Alor is the largest island in the archipelago. The population of the archipelago is around 180,487 as of 2008.

2. Barat Daya Islands


Part of the Indonesian province of Maluku, the Barat Daya Islands include the Damar, Liran, Wetar, Romang, and Kisar islands. Wetar is the largest island in this island group. These islands are mostly infertile and barren and have little forest cover. These islands have only a few mammals and features species of both Asiana and Austronesian origin.


1. Tanimbar Islands

The Tanimbar Islands is an archipelago comprising of about 65 islands. These islands are a part of Indonesia and occupy a total area of 5,440 square km and house a population of 105,341. Yamdena is the largest island in this archipelago. Christianity is the dominant religion in the Tanimbar Islands.

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Independent travel & culture guides to indonesia, a guide to sumba island.

August 13, 2018 Elliot Sumba 2

Sumba is a rather remote island located south of Flores in the province of Nusa Tenggara Timur (East Lesser Sunda Islands). Home to a vibrant and distinctive local culture, Sumba can also boast itself about stunning and virgin beaches as well as some great sceneries.

Sumba Barat Daya : Kodi

Prohibitions in villages.

I would say that have I have met 3 kind of people travelling in Sumba :

• The island is well known as a great surf destination. The main spots are in Pero, Marosi and Baing.
• Sumba island is becoming increasingly popular among Indonesian travelers. They usually travel with a 6-15 people group to share costs and aim at covering a maximum of “Instagramable” spots in a few days: iconic landscapes, beaches, picturesque traditional villages and waterfalls.
• A more culture-oriented approach, mainly focused on discovering the unique traditions of the Sumbanese people. The pasola fights are only a single feature of the rich and fascinating cultural heritage of Sumba.

I spent more than 3 weeks travelling the island in November-December 2017. It was memorable, I can’t wait to get back there.

Sumba can still be very traditional : entire villages still following the old marapu faith, old women going bare-breasted around their house, huge feasts held to get blessing from the ancestors or several tons tombstones dragged by human labour for prestige…

Modernisation is on the way and the old traditions are also evolving. Yet this is one of the most mind-boggling trip I’ve made in Indonesia.

An immense shout out to Matthias, the editor of Sumba-Information website. He puts so much useful information online, a highly recommended website to browse.

Sumbanese culture

I have made some research back home about the ethnographic litterature on Sumba. The best books I found were :

• Gregory Forth, “ Rindi: An Ethnographic Study of a Traditional Domain in East Sumba “, Martinus Nijhoff, The Hague (1981).
• Janet Hoskins, “ The Play of Time : Kodi Perspectives on Calendars, History, and Exchange “, Berkeley : University of California Press (1993).

I also had a look on the work of Keane on Analakang (1990) and Gunawan on Wanokaka (1981). I skipped Geinaert-Martin on Lamboya (1992) by lack of time and I’m still looking for the thesis of Hoskins on Kodi.

I attempted to turn those research into a 3 parts article :

• Part 1 : history and identity of the Sumbanese
• Part 2 : the Marapu faith
• Part 3 : birth, marriage, funerals and other events of significant importance

Where to go in Sumba ?

I’m far from having explored the whole island. I posted some pictures of what I visited in different areas. I have put most of this stuff on a map to help you navigate the island. I’ve chosen only to indicate the location of famous villages.

For my next visit, I’m planning to further explore East Sumba (especially everything under Melolo) as well as Anakalang region.

East Sumba: Waingapu and Rende

East Sumba is probably the least visited area of the island. Some attractions around Waingapu are popular. I found the region around Melolo (including Rindi) to be very interesting with preserved strong traditions.

For more details, read this article .

Around Waikabubak

It’s probably the most convenient place in Sumba to visit traditional villages. A large numbers are within walking distance from town.

For more details, see this article .

Lamboya and Wanokaka

Another interesting region with great villages and lots of beaches.

Kodi is the most prominent of the Western Sumbanese domains. It’s also the homeground of the pasola .

Etiquette in Sumba

Guestbooks and betel/areca gifts.

You are expected to follow the local etiquette when visiting a village. Chewing betel and areca is an essential part of sociability in Sumba, you should always have some on you.

Go to any market in the main towns and buy areca nuts ( pinang ), betel fruits ( sirih ) and lime ( kapur ). The combination of the 3 elements is required to chew.

I would buy let’s say 20’000Rp of areca and betel each, plus 10’000Rp of lime. Then I would divide areca and betel into bundles of approximately 5’000-10’000Rp of value.

In most of the commonly visited villages, someone will ask you to fill a guestbook upon your arrival. Write down your name, your nationality and leave a small bill in the guestbook. 10’000Rp per person is a good standard.

You are then invited to sit on the front veranda and usually tea or coffee is served. It’s a good moment to offer some betel and areca you have brought (everyone have some lime at home). I felt that the adaptation to the local custom is more important than the actual gift. Still it would be very impolite to get everything you brought out of your bag, to give only a small part ; better prepare beforehands.

Cigarettes are also regularly requested but I’m not a smoker and I prefer to bring something that will be consumed by everyone and not only men, so I never had cigarettes on me and it wasn’t a problem.

Chewing betel is actually quite addictive. Simply do not put as much lime as they do if you don’t want to burn your entire mouth.

A very important Indonesian word you should know before exploring Sumba is pemali (sometimes simply shorten up to mali ) or ‘taboo’. You should always pay attention to where you put your feet when you walk. Any kind of flat stones (even very common one) could be an altar.

In order to avoid any misinterpretation, always ask where you should walk. Every time you want to take a picture of something, ask someone about it first. Often, villagers don’t want you to take pictures of some graves, altars or houses. Remember that they consider that those places are inhabited both by the livings and the spirits of the ancestors, which shall not be disturbed but only adressed in a very specific way.

As long as you show a genuine interest in their culture and tradition, I generally found Sumbanese I met very friendly and helpful.

When to go to Sumba ?

Guidebooks tend to suggest that the highlight of a trip to Sumba is to attend the pasola (different dates between February and March). But there is lot of other very interesting ritual activity throughout the year.

I was in Sumba in November and December, hence at the beginning of the rainy season, and it was quite fine. I had to get shelter for 1 or 2 hours sometimes but it was an opportunity to exchange with villagers.

In the dry season (from May until October approximately), the East of Sumba gets extremely dry and scorched, all the green vegetation disappear.

If you plan to visit some waterfalls, it’s better to go in the dry season where the water is pure blue. During the rainy season, it tends to be brown and sometimes not suitable for swimming.

How long to stay in Sumba ?

Local ‘open trips’ usually take local tourists in rented car from Tambolaka to Waingapu in 5 days. The program looks like that :

• Day 1 : arrive in Tambolaka and see some stuff around the town
• Day 2 : visit Weekuri lake, Mandorak beach, Rattengaro village and Bwanna beach
• Day 3 : visit Praijing village, Lai Popu waterfall, Warinding hill.
• Day 4 : visit Waikiri beach, Puru Kambera, Tanggedu waterfall
• Day 5 : visit Tanarara and fly out from Waingapu.

If you have only a few days ahead and want to see some characteristic villages, stunning beaches and other nice natural spots this is quite optimal. You will need you own transport though.

If you intend to discover the Sumbanese culture, you will need time. There is no public schedule for ceremonies, everything I came across was by pure luck or because someone had tiped me. You need to wander around and talk with people.

Without solid skills in Indonesian, a good guide could prove very useful especialy if you want to see some ritual activity. If you just want to visit Rattengaro and Praijing, you can go by yourself without a problem.

For information this is what I did :

• I arrived by plane in Waingapu and I stayed one night
• I moved to Waikabubak where I stayed 6 nights
• I moved to Wanokaka where I stayed 4 nights
• From Wanokaka, I moved to Pero where I stayed 3 nights
• I moved back to Waikabubak and I stayed 1 night in a village
• I went back to Waingapu where I stayed 2 nights
• I went to Melolo where I stayed 4 nights
• I went back to Waingapu and I took the ferry to Aimere

There is no immigration office in Sumba, if you need to renew your visa you need to go to Kupang or Flores (Labuan Bajo or Maumere).

Transport and accomodation in Sumba

Accomodation are rather expensive for Indonesian standards. Expect to pay a minimum of 200’000Rp for a simple room except in the main towns of Waingapu and Tambolaka.

Transport between main city is easy by bus. On more secondary itineraries, there is usually one bus a day, so better check the schedule first. On short distances, I found ojek drivers to be very reasonable on their prices. Riding on the back of truck is also sometimes possible.

I rented easily motorbikes in Pero and Waingapu, the daily rate is 100’000Rp. Besides those 2 places it was much more difficult. Overall I’ve rented a motorbike only 3 days out of the 22 I spent on this island, almost everything can be covered on foot and by public transport with some patience and a bit of Indonesian.

Coming to Sumba

By planes, you have daily connections from Denpasar and Kupang to Tambolaka and Waingapu.

By boat, ASDP connects Welewo harbor in West Sumba to Sape (Sumbawa) and Waingapu harbor to Aimere, Sabu, Ende and Kupang. In my experience the schedule posted on ASDP website is not reliable. Send a message by Whatsapp to +62 823-4095-8883 (a staff from ASDP office in Kupang) to get the updated schedule of all boats in the province.

As of December 2017, there are 3 ASDP ferries stopping in Waingapu once a week each : Inerie II, Ranaka and Uma Kalada. From Waingapu to Aimere, the fare is 80’000Rp.

Pelni also have some ferries stopping by Sumba, the schedule posted on their website is reliable.

Other articles on Sumba

Sumba : kodi and southwest sumba, sumbanese culture : birth, life and death, sumbanese culture : the marapu, sumbanese culture: history and identity, sumba : wanokaka and lemboya, sumba : waikabubak’s traditional villages, sumba : around waingapu and melolo.

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Good afternoon I am a French lady photographer who works as volunteer for l’Ecole Française d’Extreme Orient. I do a research on South East Asia about the traditional costumes. I ask people in the villages to show me how they weave and if they can wear their festival clothes and I take some pictures…if necessary I give them a small tip and send them the printed pictures or the files if they are on FB. If it is affordable I buy some textiles in the villages. I was a long time ago in Sumba and I was impressed by the quality of the weavings. Is it possible for your agency to organize such trip for me at the end of April 2019 How long to get a good experience and what will be the budget Thanks again for your fast answer Best regards Martine AUGAIT

Dear Martine. Thanks for your comment. I’m not a travel agency, just a guy who really likes Indonesia. Without speaking Indonesian, I advise you to hire a local guide for such a project. Some contacts can be found on Sumba-Information.com.

I agree with you that Sumba probably have the best ikat of all Indonesia, it’s my favorite along with those crafted by the Savunese and the Lionese. Small productions centers are scattered over the island especially in East Sumba. Shops north of Waingapu are a good place to start looking.

Good luck to you.

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Getting In & Out of Komodo & Lesser Sunda Islands

     before you start.

Komodo National Park and other Lesser Sunda Islands can be accessed from the east via Labuan Bajo, Flores, or from the west via Labuan Lombok, or Sumbawa Besar. Determining the most suitable access point will depend on which islands you plan to visit. For more details, check out our Map & Orientation page.

Labuan Bajo (Flores), Lombok and Sumbawa Besar (west Sumbawa) and Bima (east Sumbawa) all have domestic airports. Several airlines offer connecting services daily from Denpasar, Bali. You can find and book flights online with tiket.com or a reputable travel agent once you’re on the ground in Indonesia.

     Land & Sea

This little used third option takes plenty of planning but it’s a good alternative for island hopping between Bali and Flores via Lombok and Sumbawa Islands. This option involves travelling across the islands via public transport or scooter and crossing between the islands using local boats or public ferries. Flexibility and a bit of time up your sleeve is the key to making this option work for you but it’s certainly a great way of seeing more of these islands.

Pelni (Indonesia’s national shipping company) operates passenger service links between Benoa Habour, Bali and Labuan Bajo, Flores via Lembar Harbour, Lombok and Bima, Sumbawa. Previously, these services operated on a fortnightly schedule, but as of April 2017, the Pelni website was indicating they are now more frequent with twice weekly departures. You can check the latest ferry schedules yourself on the Pelni website or through one of the many booking and travel agents once you’re on the ground in Indonesia.

For most travellers, the infrequent Pelni services rarely suit. More convenient local ferries and small boats operate between Labuan Bajo, Bima or Sape (Sumbawa) and Labuan Lombok several times weekly. Schedules change regularly though and it is impossible to book ahead. You’ll need to make inquiries regarding departure dates and times at the local wharf a day or two before you want to travel. As always when catching a local ferry, we recommend you arrive at the wharf at least two hours prior to departure.

For more details on sea connections between Bali, Lombok , Sumbawa and Flores , please click on the links and refer to the Getting In & Out pages for each of those destinations.

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