Quick summary: Explore Komodo National Park over three days with family-friendly activities including dragon spotting, snorkeling at Pink Beach, and island cruises. Enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation with mid-range transport options.
Route map + stops
Labuan Bajo
- Labuan Bajo Harbor (Pelabuhan Labuan Bajo)
Nearest station: Labuan Bajo Bus Terminal — Line: N/A — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Labuan Bajo Town Center (Pusat Kota Labuan Bajo)
Nearest station: Labuan Bajo Bus Terminal — Line: N/A — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Local Market Labuan Bajo (Pasar Tradisional Labuan Bajo)
Nearest station: Labuan Bajo Bus Terminal — Line: N/A — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Cunca Wulang Waterfall (Air Terjun Cunca Wulang)
Nearest station: Labuan Bajo Bus Terminal — Line: N/A — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Batu Cermin Cave (Gua Batu Cermin)
Nearest station: Labuan Bajo Bus Terminal — Line: N/A — Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Other
- Komodo Island (Pulau Komodo)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Boat access only — Exit: N/A - Rinca Island (Pulau Rinca)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Boat access only — Exit: N/A - Pink Beach (Pantai Merah)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Boat access only — Exit: N/A - Padar Island (Pulau Padar)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Boat access only — Exit: N/A - Kanawa Island (Pulau Kanawa)
Nearest station: N/A — Line: Boat access only — Exit: N/A
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Begin your adventure at Labuan Bajo Harbor with a briefing and boarding your boat. Cruise to Komodo Island for a guided trek to see the famous dragons. Afterward, relax and snorkel at the stunning Pink Beach. Continue to Kanawa Island for more snorkeling before returning to Labuan Bajo for dinner and rest.
08:00 — Arrival and Briefing at Labuan Bajo Harbor
Why go: Start your Komodo adventure with a briefing and boat boarding at the harbor.
Do:
- Meet your guide and crew
- Review safety and itinerary details
- Prepare for island cruise
How to get there: Arrive at Labuan Bajo Harbor by local transport or taxi from town center.
Cost / tickets: Included in boat tour package
Time needed: 1 hour
09:30 — Komodo Island Dragon Trekking
Why go: See the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat with a guided trek.
Do:
- Guided walk to spot dragons
- Learn about dragon behavior and conservation
- Enjoy scenic island views
How to get there: Boat transfer from Labuan Bajo Harbor to Komodo Island (approx 1.5 hours).
Cost / tickets: Park entrance and guide fees approx $20–30
Time needed: 2 hours
12:00 — Lunch and Relaxation at Pink Beach
Why go: Swim and snorkel at the unique pink sand beach with vibrant coral reefs.
Do:
- Snorkeling among colorful fish
- Relax on the pink sand
- Picnic or lunch on boat
How to get there: Short boat ride from Komodo Island to Pink Beach (30 minutes).
Cost / tickets: Included in boat tour
Time needed: 2 hours
15:00 — Snorkeling at Kanawa Island
Why go: Explore underwater life in clear waters ideal for families and beginners.
Do:
- Snorkeling and swimming
- Relax on the beach
- Photography
How to get there: Boat ride from Pink Beach to Kanawa Island (approx 1 hour).
Cost / tickets: Included in boat tour
Time needed: 2 hours
17:30 — Return to Labuan Bajo Harbor
Why go: End day one with a scenic boat ride back to town for dinner and rest.
Do:
- Boat cruise back
- Dinner in town
- Rest at hotel
How to get there: Boat transfer from Kanawa Island to Labuan Bajo Harbor (approx 1.5 hours).
Cost / tickets: Included in boat tour
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Day 2
Start early with a sunrise hike on Padar Island for panoramic views. Then, visit Rinca Island for another dragon trekking experience. In the afternoon, cool off at Cunca Wulang Waterfall near Labuan Bajo before heading back to town.
07:30 — Sunrise Hike at Padar Island
Why go: Witness breathtaking panoramic views from the island’s summit.
Do:
- Hike to viewpoint
- Photography
- Enjoy sunrise scenery
How to get there: Boat ride from Labuan Bajo Harbor to Padar Island (approx 1 hour).
Cost / tickets: Park entrance and guide fees approx $20
Time needed: 3 hours
11:00 — Rinca Island Dragon Trekking
Why go: Another chance to see Komodo dragons with fewer crowds and rich wildlife.
Do:
- Guided trek
- Wildlife spotting
- Learn about island ecology
How to get there: Boat transfer from Padar Island to Rinca Island (approx 1 hour).
Cost / tickets: Park entrance and guide fees approx $20–30
Time needed: 2 hours
15:00 — Visit Cunca Wulang Waterfall
Why go: Cool off with a refreshing swim and enjoy nature trails near Labuan Bajo.
Do:
- Short hike
- Swimming
- Picnic
How to get there: Drive or taxi from Labuan Bajo town center (approx 1 hour).
Cost / tickets: Entry fee approx $5
Time needed: 2 hours
Day 3
Explore the geological wonders of Batu Cermin Cave in the morning. Visit the Local Market Labuan Bajo to experience local culture and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in town before preparing for your departure.
08:30 — Explore Batu Cermin Cave
Why go: Discover unique limestone formations and local legends in this natural cave.
Do:
- Cave exploration
- Photography
- Learn about geology
How to get there: Short taxi ride from Labuan Bajo town center (15 minutes).
Cost / tickets: Entry fee approx $3
Time needed: 1 hour
10:00 — Shopping at Local Market Labuan Bajo
Why go: Experience local culture and buy souvenirs and fresh produce.
Do:
- Browse stalls
- Try local snacks
- Buy handicrafts
How to get there: Walk or taxi from town center.
Cost / tickets: Free to enter, shopping varies
Time needed: 1 hour
12:00 — Lunch and Leisure in Labuan Bajo Town Center
Why go: Enjoy local cuisine and relax before departure.
Do:
- Dine at local restaurants
- Stroll town streets
- Prepare for departure
How to get there: Walk from market or hotel.
Cost / tickets: Mid-range meal approx $10–15 per person
Time needed: 2 hours
Logistics (read this first)
- Boat tours are the primary mode of transport between islands; book with reputable operators.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring sun protection for island treks.
- Carry cash in Indonesian Rupiah for park fees and local purchases; ATMs are limited.
- Snorkeling gear may be provided on boats; confirm in advance or bring your own.
- Accommodations are best booked in Labuan Bajo town for easy access to tours.
- Weather can be hot and humid; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.
Local tips and guide
Local Guide to Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is located in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, near the town of Labuan Bajo on Flores Island. The park comprises several islands including Komodo, Rinca, Padar, and Kanawa. Visitors typically stay in Labuan Bajo, which offers accommodations, dining, and transport services. The park is famous for its Komodo dragons, pristine beaches like Pink Beach, and excellent snorkeling and diving sites. Travel between islands is by boat, and guided tours are recommended for safety and enhanced experience. The area features tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and a wet season from January to March.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
Is Komodo Island safe for families?
Yes, guided tours ensure safety while observing Komodo dragons from a safe distance.
What is the best time to visit Komodo?
April to December offers the best weather with less rain and calmer seas.
Do I need a visa to visit Komodo National Park?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; check Indonesian visa policies before travel.
Are there facilities for children on the tours?
Many tours are family-friendly but check with operators about age restrictions and safety measures.
Can I rent snorkeling gear locally?
Yes, most boat operators provide snorkeling equipment or you can rent in Labuan Bajo.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert itinerary crafted by a seasoned travel planner specializing in Indonesian destinations.
Based on current travel information, local insights, and family-friendly activity recommendations.
Last updated: 2024-06-01