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One of the very best travel tips for Indonesia is to take a boat tour of the Komodo Islands. Here we saw some of the most beautiful viewpoints ever and the time on the boat was also unforgettable. As such, the tour of the Komodo Islands was the highlight of our time in Indonesia. Meet the life-size Komodo dragons, hike through the impressive Komodo National Park and feast your eyes on the magnificent sunrises and sunsets. These are our tips for visiting the Komodo Islands in Indonesia!
Take a boat tour of the impressive Komodo Islands
The magnificent Komodo National Park consists of 30 islands and is located off the coast of Flores in Indonesia. During a multi-day boat trip you will discover the most beautiful spots of the Komodo Islands. The gateway to these islands is the port town of Labuan Bajo, on the island of Flores. This is where most boat tours start, with several options in terms of islands to visit. You have boat trips that both start and end on Flores, or you can sail all the way to Lombok. Another option is exactly the other way around: from Lombok to Flores.
What is the best choice for you in terms of starting point, ending point and boat trip depends on a number of things. Which highlights do you really not want to miss? What is your budget for the boat trip along the Komodo Islands? How many days do you want to stay on board? And what is your further itinerary through Indonesia? Our tips in this article will make the choice a lot easier for you!
The highlights of the Komodo Islands
From the iconic lookouts on Padar Island to the pink sands of Pink Beach and the exotic Komodo dragons on Komodo Island, a boat trip to Komodo National Park is truly a special travel experience. Explore the colorful underwater world at Kanawa Island, walk the pearly white sandbank of Taka Makassar and enjoy the idyllic Kelor Island. These are our personal tips for the most beautiful places in the Komodo Islands:
1. Padar Island
The absolute highlight of our visit to the Komodo Islands was Padar Island. It lies between the islands of Rinca and Komodo. The island is of volcanic origin and is best known for its insane scenery and equally beautiful viewpoints. You want to visit this island early in the morning, because believe us, that's when Padar Island is at its most beautiful!
We left our boat at 05:00 in the morning to make the hike to the top of Padar Island. The hike takes about half an hour. Even though we were very early, it was already very hot. So put on airy clothes when you make the climb up. When you start the hike it is still almost completely dark and by the time you get to the top the sun is slowly rising. Once at the top, we had only one reaction: "Wow!" The views of the azure blue sea, the rising sun changing the landscapes and the unusually shaped mountains and landscapes are truly breathtaking.
2. Kanawa Island
Kanawa Island is a true paradise. As such, it is rightfully one of the most beautiful places in the Komodo Archipelago. It's only 30 acres, but you'll feast your eyes on the island's crystal clear waters and snow-white sand.
Kanawa Island is a popular spot for snorkeling near the Komodo Islands. A vibrant world full of tropical fish, sea urchins and even small reef sharks awaits underwater. Most boats carry snorkel sets, but of course you can also choose to bring your own trusty snorkel set from home.
3. Komodo Island
On Komodo Island you will find part of Komodo National Park, the place to spot the Komodo dragon. Here you walk with a park ranger through the National Park in search of this largest lizard in the world. The chances of spotting them are very high.
If you go to the Komodo Islands, you really can't skip this island. We thought it was cool to see the Komodo dragon in real life and the National Park is very nice to walk through. But it is not, if you ask us, the highlight of the Komodo Islands. It is mainly a tourist attraction is you cross off your list when you visit the archipelago.
4. Pink Beach
Another popular spot that many people visit when they go to the Komodo Islands is Pink Beach. It is named after the pink sand you see here. The beach gets this color because of the pink coral that rubs against the shoreline. Don't be fooled by the images you see on the Internet of Pink Beach. Often the pink color is heavily edited, making it look much brighter than it actually is. A shame, because even though the beach is not bright pink, it is really beautiful to see. The coral forms a stunning contract with the white sand and clear blue water.
5. Kelor Island
Just an hour's boat ride from Labuan Bajo lies the idyllic Kelor Island, a hidden gem in Komodo National Park. This small, pristine island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, pearly white beaches and lush greenery. The island is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including some endemic species unique to the Komodo Islands.
One of the highlights is the short but challenging hike to the top, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters. After the hike, take a splash in the clear water and then order a fresh coconut to dwell on this beautiful place and enjoy the paradise setting.
6. Taka Makassar
Not an island, but a special place to see: Taka Makassar. A sandbank also called the "Maldives of Indonesia. It is smaller than a soccer field and is surrounded by clear blue water. The sandbank appears only when the seawater recedes and disappears underwater again once the tide rises. Taka Makassar is close to Manta Point, a popular diving and snorkeling spot where you can see manta rays. Although the water here is shallow, it is known for its strong current. Taka Makassar is the longest reef in Komodo National Park.
How do you travel to the Komodo Islands?
The Komodo Islands are located in the heart of Indonesia and can only be reached by boat. A boat trip is not only a way to reach the islands, but also a unique experience in itself. On the way you sail past impressive landscapes, idyllic bays and the most beautiful snorkeling spots. We definitely recommend a multi-day boat trip. This way you can visit almost all the highlights of Komodo National Park. It is also a magical experience to spend the night on the boat. When you stand on the deck at night and look out over the starry night sky, you will experience a peace that cannot be found anywhere else.
A boat tour of the Komodo Islands often begins on the island of Flores. Another popular starting point is Lombok. Using our tips below, make the best choice for your adventure!
1. The sailing route from and also back to Flores
Would you like to visit the Komodo Islands in combination with, for example, a vacations to Bali? Then the boat route from and also back to Flores is probably the most logical choice. In this case, you fly from Denpasar to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores, where then the boat tour begins.
We sailed with the boat company Just a Trip And did the 3 Day/ 2 Nights Tour. The price starts at 2.5 mln IDR (approx. €145.00 p.p.). This is for a 4-person cabin. For an additional cost, more luxurious options can also be booked, such as Private Cabins for 2 people and Deluxe Ocean cabins. During the boat tour, all meals are provided on board (included in the price). We would definitely recommend Just a Trip! The cabins, showers and toilets are basic but neat and clean and the food on board was very good. We also found the places we visited with Just a Trip really insane! Just keep in mind that the entrance fee to Komodo National Park is not included in the price.
Another popular and well-reviewed organization is Le Pirate. The iconic blue boat has become something of a household name, but keep in mind that it is a lot more expensive than other organizations. You pay around 14 mln IDR per person (over €800.00) for a 3 Days/ 2 Nights Tour.
2. The sailing route from Flores to Lombok / Lombok to Flores.
Would you like to visit Lombok during your trip through Indonesia? Then consider the boat route from Flores to Lombok. If you choose this option, it will save you a flight. For example, you fly to Flores, take the boat trip along the Komodo Islands to Lombok and then continue your journey through Indonesia in Lombok. Besides some of the highlights of the Komodo Island group, you then also visit some of the beautiful islands near Sumbawa, such as Bolo Island and Moyo Island.
The other way around is also possible: from Lombok to Flores. An advantage of the route from Lombok to Flores is that all the impressive stops are more towards the end of the trip. This way the highlights build up during the trip. If you sail the route from Flores to Lombok, you start with the highlights and the last days on board will consist mostly of sailing.
Through friends, we were tipped off about Wanua Adventures and this also ended up being the organization where we booked our boat trip from Lombok to Flores. Both options are available at Wanua Adventures: from Flores to Lombok and from Lombok to Flores. The price for a 4 Day/ 3 Nights Tour starts at 3.2 mln IDR for a place on the deck (approx. €185.00) p.p. For a place in the cabin you pay, in conversion, about €210.00. So slightly more expensive than the tour from Flores to Flores, but with an extra day. Also, the entrance fee to the National Park is already included.
Should you wish to continue your journey in Lombok, this also definitely outweighs the flight price.
Where to stay in Labuan Bajo?
If you start your boat tour on Flores, it's a good idea to spend a night in Labuan Bajo first. You probably arrived on a flight from another Indonesian island, such as Bali, and so you start your tour rested. This lively harbor town has a nice atmosphere and some tasty restaurants.
We stayed in Eco Tree O'tel, a basic but fine accommodation with nice rooms and a delicious breakfast. The highlight? The panoramic view from the restaurant! For a unique stay, we recommend Le Pirate Island to.
If you have some time left in Labuan Bajo, visit Molas Café. This is a wonderful place to relax by the pool. Of course with a nice drink!
The best travel time for the Komodo Islands
The best travel time for the Komodo Islands is from April through November, during the dry season. During this period you have sunny days, the sea is mostly calm and you have excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving and hiking. Try to avoid the rainy season (December through March).
From April to June nature is at its most beautiful, as it is then very green (just after the rainy season). There are few tourists then, compared to summer. July and August is high season and it is a lot busier. On the other hand, the weather is ideal then and you have the chance to spot manta rays. September to November are the best months for spotting marine life. If you want to dive, this is the time to go.
A tour of Indonesia
The Komodo Islands are an unforgettable addition to a tour of Indonesia. But there is so much more to discover! For example, combine your visit with Bali and discover the most beautiful rice fields, temples and waterfalls. Read our blogs about the nicest places in Bali, what to do in Ubud and tips for Canggu for inspiration.
Want to explore even more islands? Then consider visiting Lombok, where you can surf the most beautiful beaches and climb the spectacular Rinjani volcano. Also, the Gili Islands and the Nusa islands are wonderful destinations with paradise-like beaches and great snorkeling spots. This will make your tour of Indonesia complete!
An unforgettable tour of Indonesia
Dreaming of traveling through Indonesia, but don't know where to start? Let us help you! We take care of the complete organization of your trip, from flights and accommodation to activities and excursions. Whether you want to explore Bali, Lombok, the Gili Islands or the Komodo Islands, we'll make sure your vacation is completely customized. With our local knowledge and experience, we arrange everything down to the last detail. Request your personalized travel proposal now and make your dream trip to Indonesia a reality!
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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