If you have been to Komodo Island before, please share your experiences, ideas and feedback (Hotel, Excursions, General Feeling,…) in the comments section below, by doing so you will help fellow travellers to plan their next trip
Labuan Bajo, on western Flores, is the main base for visiting Komodo National Park by day boat or local cruise. The park’s rugged islands, reef scenery and Komodo dragons make a memorable combination, whether the holiday centres on diving or mixes sea and land outings.
The important choice comes before the flight booking: a town stay, an island resort and a liveaboard each create a different daily rhythm. The port, park reservation and transfer arrangements deserve as much attention as the cabin or room photograph.
In this page you will find practical information to plan a scuba diving trip to Komodo Island:
Table of contents
Where to stay?
I usually use this website to book in advance my hotels in Komodo Island as they usually have the lowest rates I find. I like it because it's free to cancel and change the dates.
| Base | Good fit | Planning detail |
|---|---|---|
| Labuan Bajo | Day diving, restaurants and a flexible land programme. | Actual pickup point and daily boat travel. |
| Island resort | A quieter sea-focused stay. | Transfer windows, meals and non-diver activities. |
| Liveaboard | Several days among the islands. | Embarkation port, cabin, itinerary and mandatory extras. |
Julien’s original guide recalled a simple, inexpensive stay at Gardena Hotel. That is a historical travel note, not a checked current price or recommendation. Today’s room choice should be based on the actual dates, access and booking conditions.
The Moana, Mermaid I and Mermaid II profiles illustrate different cruise scales and ports. Availability and prices are departure-specific.
Komodo liveaboard profiles
These boats illustrate different ports and trip styles. The dated itinerary, cabin and current availability determine the actual choice.
Moana
A small Labuan Bajo-based cruise with diving and companion activities.
Mermaid I
Longer Bali routes and seasonal crossings, with different cabin choices.
Mermaid II
Bali loops and one-way itineraries; ports depend on the departure.
Photos: respective operators and LiveAboard.com, as credited in the linked boat profiles.
Activities and excursions in Komodo Island
Travelling with a non-diver?
Some day boats explicitly accept non-diving companions, while liveaboards vary in their activity programme. The diving guide gives dated passenger and snorkelling examples. A boat place alone does not establish dedicated snorkelling supervision.
Ranger-led dragon visits on Rinca or Komodo, suitable beach stops and Padar viewpoints can add variety when included in the booked programme. Shore access, walking ability, heat and the day’s permissions all affect what is practical. A land stop should not be assumed to fit between any two dives.
Kelimutu is a separate Flores journey
The original guide included Kelimutu’s coloured lakes. They are in eastern Flores, far from Labuan Bajo, and belong to a separate overland or flight-based extension rather than a short Komodo day trip. Altitude also needs consideration after diving.
Komodo aboard Moana
Operator film featured on Moana’s trip page. Filming date is unspecified; this illustrates a cruise, not current sea conditions.
Best time to visit Komodo Island
April–November is a broad drier-season starting point, particularly for northern and central diving. December–March is wetter, with different opportunities and exposure around the southern islands. Regional seasonal guidance. Sea conditions can affect boats and snorkelling in any month.
A flexible programme helps a mixed group: a harbour day, a land excursion and a reef outing need not compete with a fixed list of every famous stop. Dragon sightings and manta encounters remain wildlife experiences rather than scheduled performances.
Health and Safety
A diving holiday needs insurance suited to the planned activities and a realistic medical evacuation plan. The boat should explain its oxygen provision, communications and response arrangements. Remote island access can make a minor travel problem less straightforward than it would be in town.
Flying and travelling to altitude after diving require an appropriate interval. DAN’s flying-after-diving guidance helps with scheduling; individual medical questions belong with a qualified clinician.
If you are planning an upcoming dive trip or travelling to Komodo Island, it is a really good idea to invest in travel insurance for scuba diving, because you never know what could happen and when you might need it (because accidents do happen!). I recommend this diving insurance as they offer worldwide coverage and focus on providing scuba divers a quality insurance and medical assistance service.
Where is Komodo Island located in the world?
Komodo lies between Sumbawa and Flores. Labuan Bajo is on Flores, while Maumere is much farther east on the same island. Bali is a separate embarkation option for longer cruises, not an obligatory first stop for every traveller.
Three different cruise plans
Numbered regional connections illustrate published itinerary families, not navigation tracks or precise dive entries. The Labuan Bajo example is a six-day loop; the Bali itineraries include longer passages and Saleh Bay outside Komodo National Park.
Labuan Bajo loop
Labuan Bajo → Sebayur Kecil → Padar region → Gili Lawa Darat → Rinca region → Labuan Bajo
Bali–Komodo–Bali via Saleh Bay
Bali → Saleh Bay → Komodo region → Bali
Bali–Komodo–Maumere via Saleh Bay
Bali → Saleh Bay → Komodo region → Maumere
Examples: Moana’s six-day Labuan Bajo loop, Mermaid’s Bali return cruise and Maumere crossing programme. The final direction and intermediate stops depend on the dated sailing.
How to get to Komodo Island?
Komodo Airport, Labuan Bajo (LBJ), is the practical arrival point for most town stays and local cruises. The actual flight connection depends on the departure city and travel date. A confirmed boat itinerary should establish embarkation time, pickup location and disembarkation arrangements before flights are fixed.
A night in Labuan Bajo before boarding gives breathing space if a flight or baggage delivery is delayed. A Bali-based or one-way Maumere cruise requires different flights; the word “Komodo” in a trip title does not establish either port.
Ferries and overland journeys are a separate, slower travel plan. Current schedules and connections matter more than the old claim of a simple three-day ferry from Bali.
Do I need a visa for Komodo Island?
Indonesian entry permission and the national-park reservation are separate. The Indonesia travel guide covers immigration planning, with nationality-specific eligibility checked against official Immigration guidance.
Komodo access and fees in 2026
The Ministry of Forestry introduced a capacity-based reservation system and subsequently described an adaptive quota. Official park-management announcement. Availability for the intended date needs confirmation through the operator and the park’s SiOra booking process.
Late-2026 quota allocations have been adjusted, so a single headline daily limit is not a reliable promise of a place. The written trip quote should identify the current entry, activity, ranger and harbour charges that apply to that itinerary. Prices or fee increases described as proposals are not treated here as enacted charges. Checked 12 November 2026.
Getting Around
Labuan Bajo is the organising base for harbour departures, road transfers and onward Flores travel. Hotel distance from the waterfront does not establish the pickup point or an easy walk with dive luggage; these details belong in the booking confirmation.
Park visits involve boats, and a privately chartered vessel still needs the relevant access arrangements. Weather can change a crossing or landing. The operator’s safety briefing, passenger limits, lifejackets, communications and cancellation policy are useful parts of the comparison.
No. Labuan Bajo is the usual arrival airport for local stays and cruises; the connection depends on the flight schedule. Some longer cruises do embark in Bali. No. Bali loops and one-way Maumere itineraries also exist, so both ports need checking before flights are booked. Yes, with a suitable programme. Passenger places, guided snorkelling and land activities need to be distinguished in the quote. No. Kelimutu is in eastern Flores and needs a separate travel plan. The booking should explicitly confirm the park reservation and applicable fees for the travel date; a boat place alone is not enough information.Questions about Komodo
Do I have to travel through Bali?
Is a Komodo cruise always a Labuan Bajo return trip?
Can non-divers enjoy the trip?
Can I visit Kelimutu as a quick Labuan Bajo excursion?
Does buying a boat trip automatically confirm park access?
Komodo diving guide · Komodo liveaboard guide
Original guide by Julien; updated 12 November 2026.
Komodo Island Photos
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Beautiful & Colorful Mandarin FishPhoto by Rich Guest -
Clownfish Anemone NemoPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Fishes EverywherePhoto by Jihye Lee -
Napoleon Wrasse FishPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Nudibranch Pink CoralPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Porcupine Fish WaitingPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Thousands Fish Swimming By Huge SchoolPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Crocodile Fish Komodo IslandPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Crocodile FishPhoto by Jihye Lee -
Bubbles DivingPhoto by Jihye Lee
Scuba diving
You will find all information about sea life, best time to visit, top dive spots, etc. in our review: Komodo Island Diving
Diving Reviews for this region
destination of the monthKomodo Island
Komodo pairs busy coral pinnacles and manta habitat with quieter bays and southern macro reefs. The best plan matches your experience to the tides, with a choice of Labuan Bajo day boats or longer cruises.
Liveaboard Reviews in Komodo Island
Manta Mae
The 30 meters Manta Mae is a liveaboard built in 2014 which sails in Indonesia. Indeed, with destinations such as Komodo and Raja Ampat, this dive boat is sure to impress with it’s traditional phinisi style and lavish accommodations! . BOAT CABINS
Tiaré Cruise
The Tiaré Cruise is a luxury liveaboard operating in Indonesia. The construction of the boat finished in 2016, lauching the boat soon after to explore areas like Komodo, Raja Ampat, but also Flores, Alor, the Forgotten Islands and the Banda Sea. The Ti
Mantra
The Mantra is a traditionally styled Indonesian Phinisi liveaboard offering diving cruises in Komodo National Park, Alor and Raja Ampat. The Mantra is proudly boasting to be one of the most eco-friendly dive boat around. Indeed, it was built to have a
MV Black Manta Diving
MV Black Manta: archived boat profile This page describes the former White Manta Fleet vessel, not a confirmed current booking offer. Black Manta was sold and left that fleet. We have not confirmed its current name, operator or future departures. Our o
MS Ombak Putih
The 42 meters Ombak Putih sails the waters of Indonesia as a traditional phinisi liveaboard vessel. Built in 1995 and thoroughly renovated in 2015, the Ombak Putih is not like the usual liveaboard. Indeed, it offers cultural immersion cruises, with sno
KLM Sea Safari VI
Indonesia · A smaller phinisi with a changing island programme
Arenui
Photographs: Arenui / existing Divezone gallery and operator cabin photographs. Original capture dates are not stated.
MS Wellenreng
The 22 meters MS Wellenreng is a charter liveaboard sailing around the thousands of islands in Indonesia. The beautiful traditional Indonesian phinisi sails to world renowned destinations such as Komodo, Raja Ampat and Alor. . Boat Cabins & Layout
SY Adelaar
Designed with luxury and comfort in mind, the 39 meters Adelaar is a liveaboard sailing in Indonesia. Finished in 2011, this classic-looking schooner is cruising exclusively the Komodo area. Perfect for smaller groups, the dive boat is equipped with al
Mutiara Laut
The 46 meters Mutiara Laut is a five stars liveaboard cruising the waters of Indonesia. Built in 2009/2010, the wooden hulled vessel has launched from the Kalimantan province and now sails mostly to Komodo and Raja Ampat. . Boat Cabins & Layout The
Cruise ship Reviews in Komodo Island
Phinisi Waecicu
The Phinisi Waecicu is a traditional Indonesian sailing boat offering adventure cruises in Indonesia. Built in 2012 and renovated in 2020, the 36-meter cruise ship offers a luxurious private retreat to the world-famous Komodo National Park. This sailin
Dear sir
I would like to know if there is boat that going from benoa ,Bali to komodo island in aug or from any other port in Bali .do I need a driver there to visit the national park and the pink beach or there are buses or any other public transfer
Hello Barkay! Yes there is a ferry going from Bali to Labuan Bajo in Flores. From there you can visit the Komodo National Park. The ferry takes 2 or 3 days, it is best to take a plane from Bali. There is no road, you can to rent a boat to go around the islands. Enjoy your trip!
My travel date was : 30 Aug, 2012
It was a excellent trip. I was alone and rent a boat from Flores…My suggestion please don’t miss Komodo Island because most of the travel agent suggest Rinca is good enough to see Komodo Dragon. I think scenic beauty Komodo Island is better than Rinca and Dragon size also BIG. Though I was alone but enjoyed too much. Love Komodo Island……
Rajib can tell you tell me more about you trip. What guide did you use? Did you do any of the available hikes? How much was it for one person?
Hi,
I am giving your message reply…sorry for too late.
1. About Rinca Island : Please try to visit in early morning:: Because Komodo dragon, Wild Bear, Wild Dear, Jangle Chicken, Special big size Pigeon and many other birds are available in the early morning but there is no doubt about Wild Buffalo is there but very few person can see them and Wild Horse is a rare case. Some places are very attraction “Panoramic view” I think most of the tourist will be happy. The route of Rinca and Komodo both is fantastic and safe.
Komodo Island :
– I stayed at night near by Komodo Island and it was in the boat my boat was not too small but it was very nice accommodation and tier system per cabin 2 persons accommodated and there was 3 cabins but I was alone. All boat man (5 persons) was very nice. In the boat food arrangement was good but my suggestion before living Flores informed first to boat man what you want to eat preferred fish/ meat/ egg etc.
One thing I brought a mosquito net and medicine (Aerosol) but I didn’t saw any mosquito in Rinca and Komodo. Local people are very nice and co-operative.
If you need any more thing please fell free to mail me.
Thanks
Rajib Choudhury
What guide did you use? : I hired a local guide from Rinca and Komodo. Evey places I have to pay Rs.50,000/= for ranger/ guide. This price is fixed and I was alone.
Not a problem. Sounds great. I assumed boat came with a guide. How much was the boat ride? Where did you go to book the boat?
Wow This is my kind of adventure! he Komodos are exciting to watch live!
Rose
We visited Komodo National Park early May this year. It is one of our favorite places in the world! Between the wildlife, the diving/ snorkeling, and just overall beauty, it’s a must visit. And a really not hard to get to from DPS to LBJ flights. Best of all, it was almost empty when we were there!
With more time, we’d agree to also explore Flores, Kelimutu is amazing, and there are plenty of picture perfect beach and snorkel options near Maumere and 17 Islands park.
I’m convinced in ten years Komodo and Flores in general will be well on the tourist trail.
Here is some more info on our experience in case you haven’t already decided to go there (how could you not?): http://beachesandbackpacks.com/2014/05/27/komodo-national-park-5-reasons-a-trip-to-indonesia-is-not-complete-without-it/
We are going to Labuan Bajo in April. Is it easy to find a company once we get there to take our family to Komodo for an overnight? Or should we book ahead of time? Prices once we are there?
Yes, I have seen available boat and helping hand over there. Everything ready within few hours by local people (related people). If you shared others then you may stay or book before.
Komodo National Park
When you book diving in LBJ it’s essential to check that ALL dives will be inside the Komodo NP (small fee applies). Some operators will take you to a small mound just north of the harbour to save fuel (especially in low season). The best diving is inside the NP. I dived two day trips at CNY with Uber Diving and they were good.
Ole
May I know when the best time go to Labuan Bajo ?
Hello Sir,
Awesome write up!, Thank you so much.
Do you know if there is anyway one could travel from Komodo Island to Raja Ampat (much further East), without going back to a hub point such as Bali?
Best regards,
Y
Big, yes Big but the best is an ethereal area where you would think that what is time has come to a still for awhile. When you can, go.
how much do you tip guides and rangers
DIVING WITH “LAGONA DIVERS – Komodo”
I was Diving at Komodo National Park in Oktober 2017 with Lagona Divers, located at Bintang Flores Hotel – Labuan Bajo on Flores Island.
Lagona Divers is operating a daytrip Diving boat from Labuan Bajo daily to the best dive sports of the Komodo National Park. They are about to build a brand new boat which will be finished beginning of 2018 Season. The guides are well trained, looking after your safety and very friendly. Dive Center is managed by a german couple (Irina & Georg) who helped us a lot with renting out Equipment (well maintained) and gave us a lot of Information about Diving at Komodo. We can recommend Lagona Divers to all divers who look for safety and fun!
Hi we are going in December can you please let me know do I need to book before arrival bout tour to Komodo or can it be done when we land? If possible before does there is website? What prices for trip with bout and overnight stay? Thank you
Hi Ginta!
If you are talking about a liveaboard to dive Komodo in December, my feeling would definitely be to book in advance… meaning soon. It depends on you dates but you might be okay to get on a cruise. As for the website where to book, if you follow the links on this page it will lead you to Liveaboard.com – which is a great booking platform. Prices & details will be on this site!
Thank you for reading Divezone!
Happy booking & safe bubbbles in Komodo, we hope to read you as you return!
Thank you so much for writing about my home island. i have a local tour company and covid has hurt my local island so much. Any help is thankful and grateful. If you come back please come see us, thank you! We are LINK REMOVED – Jejey!