The ultimate guide to Komodo National Park

The park’s number one attraction is its endemic Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, which can grow up to 3 metres long. Mainly found on the islands of Komodo and Rinca, these dragons roam freely amongst the savanna, feeding on wild deer and goats. All visits are guided by park rangers, who lead you along the walking trails criss-crossing the islands. There’s even the opportunity to take a photo with the dragons, and although done from a safe distance, it’ll still get your adrenaline pumping.

Komodo National Park is a top destination for any keen diver, and just one look under the surface is enough to see why. These waters are known for their currents, bringing in nutrients to create a healthy, biodiverse marine wonderland. However, the strong currents do mean the park is better for intermediate and advanced divers. Get close to curious mantas at Manta Point and Mawan, or try deep-wall diving at Batu Bolong, which has walls adorned with huge barrel sponges and fiery fan corals. All around the islands are shallow reefs where thousands of reef fish flutter around colourful corals.

For those who just want to snorkel, you’ll find many tour operators offering day trips around various islands in the national park. These boats usually stop at famous underwater beauty spots like Siaba Besar, Tatawa Kecil, Kanawa Island, Mawan Island and Pengah Reef. What’s great about snorkelling in Komodo National Park is that you don’t have to scuba dive for the chance to see the big stuff, as large creatures like turtles, mantas and reef sharks are commonly spotted. Tour operators offer both group and private tours, and equipment like masks and fins, as well as lunch, is provided.

This small island between Komodo and Rinca is the park’s most famous viewpoint, a hilly island covered in dry grassland that turns lush shades of green in the rainy season. It’s an easy half-hour trek up to the top, where you can walk around and admire the breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire island and the rest of the park. Three tranquil bays curve around the edge of the island, their sands subtly changing in colour from pink to black to white. It’s worth going at sunrise or sunset for the best light, and to beat the heat, as there’s no shade here.

Another famous destination is Pink Beach – no prizes for guessing what this is. Created by broken down red coral fragments, this special place is one of only a few pink beaches in the world. It’s especially beautiful contrasted with the turquoise waters and green hills. Disclaimer: the sand here is more of a pastel pink – the photos you’ve seen on Instagram have most likely been heavily edited. Nevertheless, it’s still a stunning spot to swim, relax and take photos. 

This Labuan Bajo bolthole is a great budget option without compromising on quality. There are eight beds in each dorm room, while private rooms offer a bit more respite and space. On the rooftop is a lagoon-style pool, bar and restaurant, and you’re just steps away from the town’s restaurants and shops.

Address: Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Labuan Bajo, Kec. Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim., Indonesia
Telephone: +62 8113951005
Website: seaestakomodo.com 

Fancy an island escape? If you don’t mind being away from the centre of Labuan Bajo's tourist hub, The Seraya is well worth it. Set on Seraya Island (north of the mainland), the luxurious bungalows are only steps away from a 200m private beach. 

Address: Seraya Kecil, Labuan Bajo, Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara 86763, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 82146109549
Website: theseraya.com 

Labuan Bajo's latest luxury hotel offers a selection of sumptuous suites and villas, some with plunge pools. The real highlight is the villas, set right above the water, Maldives-style, with a private deck and uninterrupted views of the sea.

Address: Pantai Wae Rana, Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara 86763, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 3852381888
Website: marriott.com/en-us/hotels/lbjlc-taaktana-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-labuan-bajo/overview/ 

One of the best ways to experience Komodo is by sea. And for the ultimate luxury, we recommend the Mutiara Laut. Meaning "pearl of the sea" in Bahasa, the Mutiara Laut is a luxury schooner that can host up to fourteen guests across seven cabins. The team crafts itineraries that read like a Komodo greatest hits, with picnics on deserted beaches, dives at secret sites, and, of course, visits to the best sights like Padar Island and Komodo Island. It's designed to be slow, thoughtful, and personalised, perfect for those who want to see Komodo at its wildest and purest. Read our full review here. 

Website: https://mutiaralaut.com and YMA Yachting