Discover Komodo Island
This Adventour has a total of 6 stops:
1. Trekking to the top of Padar Island to chase the famous Instagram photo.
2. Snorkeling and chilling at the long pink beach.
3. Chasing Komodo Dragons at Komodo Island.
4. First Manta Point.
5. Snorkeling with the amazing coral reef at Taka Makasar (possibility of spotting turtles).
6. Second Manta Point near Kanawa Island.
Encountering Mantas isn't guaranteed, but there is a good chance to see them; luckily, we did see some at the first point. They usually swim against the current to clean themselves up. You will be swimming with the current, and the boat will catch you at the other end. We were also able to see several turtles at a depth of around 10m. We managed to swim to them and say hi!!!
The second Manta point was for us less interesting. There were fewer fish. Only at the end were we able to spot some baby sharks deep down, so you had to look closely to spot them.
This Adventour was one of the main highlights of my Indonesia trip. We took many magnificent photos that I can't fit into a single blog post. It's amazing how much you can experience in one day.
Key details for Komodo Island
Best Time to Visit
Spring, Summer, Fall
The best time to visit Komodo is during the dry season. The weather is sunny, the seas are generally calm, and underwater visibility is at its peak, often exceeding 30 meters. This is also the prime time for Manta Ray sightings, especially at sites like Manta Point. While you can visit year-round, the rainy season (January - March) can bring rougher seas and reduced visibility.
Difficulty
Easy - Medium
Snorkeling in Komodo is accessible to most people with basic swimming skills. It is still an open water adventure. So, it's preferable to have solid swimming skills. If you feel in doubt, let the guide know. They should provide you with a vest. At the Manta Point, you will find strong current. Luckily, you will not have to swim against it. Stay close to your guide and always listen to their instructions.
Duration
1 - 3 Days
There are 1-day trips available with a fast boat, or 2-3 days of sailing.
Reachability
Car
The journey to Komodo National Park begins by flying into Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, a small town on the island of Flores. There are regular flights from major hubs like Bali (Denpasar) and Jakarta. There is no public transport, so you will need a car or a taxi to get to the port. From there, you will board to begin your trip.
Essential tips for your visit to Komodo Island
- Choose a Reputable Operator: Safety is paramount. The currents in Komodo are no joke. Ensure you have experienced guides with positive reviews.
- Respect Wildlife: Never touch the coral, turtles, or mantas. Mantas have sensitive skin; touching them might hurt them. Additionally, do not come too close to Komodo Dragons. They are stealthy, and their bite might be deadly.
- Stay Hydrated and Prepare for the Boat: Drink plenty of water. You might need to bring some motion sickness medication in case it gets choppy. I usually get motion sickness quickly. Luckily, on the trip we booked, I was doing fine without taking medication.
- Check out the sunset spot in Labuan Bajo (Sylvia Hill). The view is amazing and somewhat similar to the one on Padar Island.
Useful links
Map
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