Indonesia is the world’s archipelago, encompassing 17,508 islands, all of which have their particular appeal. One destination that attracts travelers from abroad is Komodo National Park, located on Komodo Island. Would you like to learn more about visiting Komodo National Park? Please refer to the article below!
Where is Komodo National Park?
Komodo National Park is a national park in the eastern part of Indonesia located between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. According to administrative data, The park located in the district area of Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province.
The Komodo National Park was established in 1980 with the aim of protecting and preserving the habitat of Komodo dragons, the most ancient giant lizard in the world. The park encompasses 29 volcanic islands, including the three larger ones: Komodo, Padar, and Rinca.
The park is home to approximately 2,500 Komodo dragons and other terrestrial fauna and biodiversity. The terrestrial fauna in this park encompasses various species of reptiles, birds, and mammals. The park’s terrain not only including of a mountainous hillside, but also grass-woodland savannah. In the other hand, the turquoise blue crystal-clear beaches including rich marine biodiversity.
Reasons Why You Have to Visit Komodo National Park
In addition to observing the biggest prehistoric reptiles closely, you can discover adventures and enjoy outdoor experiences. Below are some reasons why you have to visit Komodo National Park.
1. The Komodo Dragons
The Komodo dragon is the world’s largest lizard and reptile, reaching approximately 3 meters in length and weighing over 70kg. This ancient reptile is identified by its massive size, flat head, bowed legs, long, thick tails, and fork-shaped tongues.
Komodo dragons have exceptional vision, allowing them to see objects from 300m away, and they can run and swim up to 20 kph. As a result of their features, Komodo dragons are apex predators and dominate the ecosystems in which they live.
As a fierce predator, Komodo dragons are carnivores that can consume huge prey even humans. Therefore, visitors are urged to keep a distance, exercise caution, and always be accompanied by a ranger when visiting Komodo dragons.
Read More; How to Travel to Komodo Islands – Visit Komodo National Park
2. The Unique Savannah and Hills
Komodo National Park is one of the driest places in Indonesia; except for the monsoon period, there is little to no rainfall for approximately eight months of the year. Due to this dry climate, the land is drier and rocky with stony hills which are surrounded by limited plant species such as grass, shrubs, orchids, and trees.
This unique savannah and hills are highly appropriate to be used as a trekking area because the hills are quite steep and challenging. If you are planning to trek while visiting Komodo National Park, don’t forget to bring up your adequate hiking gear.
3. Explore Land and Marine Fauna
Komodo National Park is not only home to the magnificent Komodo dragons but also the habitat of various terrestrial fauna and sea creatures. Visitors can witness the terrestrial fauna on this island, such as reptiles, mammals, and birds.
There are not limited to 12 snake species, nine lizard species, the Timor deer, water buffalos, wild boars, the endemic Rinca rat, and over 40 species of birds.
The marine fauna includes over 1,000 fish species, 70 types of sponges, ten types of dolphins, six types of whales, huge manta rays, dugongs, green turtles, various shark species, and other marine reptiles and crustaceans.
4. Experience Living on a Ship
The only way to go to Komodo National Park is by speed boat or Phinisi from Labuan Bajo harbor. you can charter a Phinisi ship or join an boat trip Komodo Island any trusted travel agency such as Komodo Luxury.
There are many choices of boats that you can charter; it depends on how many people you are going with and the type of boat facilities that you are keen to use. In Komodo Luxury, we have Elbark Cruise Phinisi, a boat with a capacity of 21 people, with nine spacious cabins.
Komodo Luxury is ready to serve all of you who want to explore the beauty of Komodo and discover a whole package adventure. Want to know more? Please kindly contact us.
How to Visit Komodo National Park
Traveling to Komodo National Park is relatively easy. So, if you are planning to go there, please read the following!
1. Flight to Labuan Bajo
First, you must take a domestic flight to the mainland of Labuan Bajo, Komodo Airport [LBJ]. Multiple flights are available from bigger airports in Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and Kupang.
It takes approximately 2 hours from Jakarta, 1 hour and 15 minutes from Bali, and 1 to 1,5 hours from other bigger airports. It will cost you starting from IDR 1,200,000 (~USD 77).
2. Labuan Bajo to Komodo National Park
From Labuan Bajo, you can only reach the park by boat from Labuan Bajo port. The best way to explore Komodo National Park is by taking an overnight trip. If you plan to take a Komodo Island Boat Tour, arriving there one day before the trip begins would be better. Consider purchasing Komodo Trip from a reputable operator such as Komodo Luxury.
Komodo Luxury offers some excellent premium boats that you can opt for with luxury facilities and excellent services. The packages include pick up and drop off (in and out of the harbor), meals and drinks. All facilities on the boat, and premium documentation with the drone. We are ready to serve those of you who want to explore and discover a whole package adventure.
Read More; Ultimate Guide: How to Get to Komodo Island from the USA
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Komodo National Park
You should prepare a budget for a flight, boat charter from Labuan Bajo, and entrance fee to the park. The entrance fee to the park is only accepted in cash (cash only) directly by the participants at Komodo National Park. You should budget for flights, personal expenses, and park entrance fees. Prepare cash for the entrance ticket with the following conditions:
Weekdays
– Indonesian citizen: IDR50,000 (USD3.18)
– Foreigner: IDR250,000 (USD15.90)
Holiday
– Indonesian Citizen: IDR75,000 (USD4.77)
– Foreigner: IDR375,000 (USD23.84)
Consider organizing travel packages to the park with Komodo Luxury to simplify your journey. Our packages offer a convenient and comfortable solution.
