Bali is a dream destination with its beaches, culture and scenery. Few know that a short flight – about an hour – away is Komodo Island, a world beyond with giant lizards and pristine beaches. Labuan Bajo on Flores Island is the main departure point for tours to Komodo National Park and is connected to Bali with daily flights. The question “Can you do a day trip from Bali to Komodo?” sounds far-fetched because of the distance. But it’s not just a wishful thinking. The key is to book an early morning flight to Labuan Bajo and as soon as you arrive you can join a one day Komodo Island trip. Below you’ll find everything you need, including flight details, itinerary advice and essential tips for the journey.
Bali and Komodo Island — Two Tropical Treasures
Before we get into the details, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Bali and Komodo Island so special.
Bali is often called the “Island of the Gods” and combines tropical beauty with deep culture. You’ll find white sand beaches, Ubud’s rice fields and traditions woven into everyday life. It’s not uncommon to feel a bit of magic when watching a traditional ceremony at famous temples like Tanah Lot or Uluwatu.
On the other hand Komodo Island is part of Komodo Island National Park in East Nusa Tenggara, the habitat of the giant Komodo dragon. You’ll find stunning landscapes, coral reefs and many small islands. The park’s oceanic biodiversity makes it one of the best diving spots in the world. Seeing Komodo dragons up close and trekking through the wilderness is all the more special even if you only have one day.
Early Morning Flights from Bali to Komodo Island
So how can you do a day trip from Bali to Komodo? The answer is in the flight schedule. Direct flights from Bali to Komodo Island are the most convenient way to get to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The flight duration is about 1 hour 15 minutes, a quick jump from one paradise to another. If you take the earliest flight from Ngurah Rai Airport (Bali) to Komodo Airport (Labuan Bajo) you’re looking at about an hour of travel time.
1. Airasia Indonesia
- 07:10, arrives 08:20 at Komodo Airport.
- USD 61.70
2. Batik Air
- 07:55, arrives 09:05 at Komodo Airport.
- USD 72.45.
Note: This may change depending on seat availability and booking time.
Once you arrive at Komodo Airport you’re a 10-15 minute drive from Labuan Bajo Port. That’s where your one day Komodo Island trip begins, including a boat trip to explore Komodo National Park with options like Komodo Sailing Tours and other one day trips.
Alternative Options
If you want alternatives, there are a few options. Connecting flights with layovers is available but not recommended as it takes longer to travel and is prone to delays. Budget travelers can take public buses and ferries from Bali to Labuan Bajo. But this route can take 24-36 hours and is not as comfortable as flying. For most visitors the direct flight is the best balance of convenience and cost so you can make the most of your time exploring Komodo National Park.
Read more: How to Trip from Bali to Komodo Island
Why Komodo Tour? Costs and Boats to Consider
Technically “Can you go to Komodo Island without a tour?” has a yes answer. But Komodo Island is part of Komodo National Park, only accessible by boat. Renting a private boat on your own can be expensive especially for a short trip. Another benefit of a tour is safety, you’ll be guided by park rangers when you encounter Komodo dragons. These reptiles are wild and can be unpredictable.
If you want efficiency especially with only one day, booking a tour makes sense. You won’t have to deal with boat hire, route planning or park entrance tickets. Just pick a reputable one day trip operator and you can hit Komodo’s top highlights in no time.
Komodo One Day Trip by Komodo Luxury
One of the tour operators that offers quick island hopping is Komodo Luxury. They have various boat tour options including day trips and overnight trips so make sure to choose the right boat tour to experience the park’s unique attributes such as snorkeling, island hopping and see Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
Top Destinations in Komodo National Park
The one-day package covers a variety of prime spots, such as:
- Komodo Island: The legendary home of the Komodo dragon, part of the national park. See the dragons with a ranger and walk along the coastline.
- Manta Point: A popular snorkeling spot where manta rays frequent. The water is clear enough to see these gentle giants swim right below you.
- Padar Island: Famous for its green hills surrounded by three beaches, each with a different color—white, black and pink. Reaching the top requires some effort but the view is worth it.
- Kelor Island: A small island with crystal clear water and white sand. Many visitors stop here to swim or take photos against the stunning backdrop.
- Taka Makassar: A small sandbank that seems to float in the middle of the ocean. Perfect for snorkeling as the surrounding coral reef is healthy and colorful. You’ll feel like you’re on your own private island.
- Pink Beach: The sand here has a pinkish color due to the fragments of red coral mixed with white sand. Many stop here to swim or take one of a kind vacation photos.
- Kanawa Island: Calm turquoise water with tropical fish. Since it has a pier you can hop off the boat and start snorkeling right away.
- Rangko Cave: A small cave with a saltwater pool that glows turquoise when the sun hits. A unique place to cool off and take memorable photos.
- Siaba Island: Home to sea grass beds where sea turtles feed so it’s a must see for turtle lovers. Many snorkelers come here to have a face to face encounter with these gentle creatures.
- Kalong Island: Named after the thousands of flying foxes (fruit bats) that fly at sunset. Watching them swarm across the sky is a magical way to end the day.
- Sebayur Island: Has a resort area and protected reefs. Lucky visitors might see small reef sharks or colorful fish while snorkeling.
- Manjarite Island: Quiet and good for snorkeling or sunbathing. The water is clear so you can see marine life even near the surface.
Read more: Bali and Komodo Island: Main Differences and Why You Should Visit Both
One Day Trip Itinerary — Two Package Options
Komodo Luxury has two options for the One Day Trip, here is an overview of the itinerary for both options.
Komodo Full-Day Trip
If you’re an early riser, the Komodo Full Day Trip starts around 6:00 AM and takes you to the Komodo Islands where you can snorkel, trek and see the Komodo dragons. Here’s the summary:
- 06.00 – 06.30: Pick up from hotels around Labuan Bajo
- 06.30 – 07.00: Check-in and final prep
- 07.00 – 08.00: Boat to Padar Island
- 08.10 – 10.00: Trek Padar Island and enjoy the view
- 10.00 – 10.15: Go to Long Beach
- 10.15 – 11.15: Beach time at Long Beach
- 11.15 – 11.30: Head to Komodo Island
- 11.30 – 12.00: See dragons with ranger
- 12.00 – 13.00: Lunch at Komodo Island
- 13.00 – 13.30: Go to Taka Makassar
- 13.30 – 14.10: Activities at Taka Makassar
- 14.10 – 14.15: Move to Manta Point
- 14.15 – 14.35: Snorkel with manta rays (if available)
- 14.35 – 15.00: Head to Kanawa Island
- 15.00 – 16.00: Beach time and snorkeling at Kanawa
- 16.00 – 16.15: Back to Labuan Bajo
- 16.15 – 16.45: Check out and transfer back to your hotel
Sunset One Day Trip
For those who love sunset, there’s the Sunset One Day Trip:
- 11.00 – 11.30: Pick up from Labuan Bajo hotels
- 11.30 – 12.00: Sail to Kelor Island
- 12.00 – 12.45: Trek and shoot
- 13.00 – 14.30: Snorkel and lunch
- 14.30 – 15.30: Go to Rinca Island
- 15.30 – 16.30: Trek and see dragons
- 16.30 – 17.00: Head to Kalong Island
- 17.00 – 18.30: Watch bats fly at sunset
- 18.30 – 19.30: Back to Labuan Bajo and drop off at your hotel
Choose whichever schedule suits you, morning or sunset. If you plan to fly back to Bali the same day, make sure to check your flight times. It’s safer to spend one night in Labuan Bajo to avoid travel stress.
One Day Komodo Trip from Bali Tips
As this is a short trip to two different islands in one day, to make the journey comfortable, safe and enjoyable, you can follow these tips:
- Stay Fit: The Komodo Island tour involves trekking, snorkeling, and getting on and off the boat. Make sure you’re fit for a fun and stress-free day.
- Book the Tour First: Book your one-day trip with Komodo Luxury first. Once your tour is confirmed then book your morning flight. That way you won’t have a flight ticket but no available tour slots.
- Visit Komodo Island during Dry Season: Visit Komodo Island during dry season for better weather and accessibility. This will make your trip smoother and increase your chance to see Komodo dragons. Try to arrive in Labuan Bajo at least a day ahead in case of flight delay or bad weather. It’s better to have a buffer than to miss the tour.
Best Time to Visit Komodo National Park
The best time to visit Komodo National Park is during dry season which is from April to October. During these months the weather is more predictable and the sea is calmer, perfect for boat trip and snorkeling. The clear sky and calm water will increase your chance to see the park’s marine life including the majestic manta rays at Manta Point.
Please note that Komodo dragon mating season is from June to September. While this is a great time to visit, it’s also means the dragons are more active and territorial. Always follow your guide’s instruction and the park’s rules and regulation to have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Whether you’re trekking up Padar Island for the views or lounging on the pink sands of Pink Beach, visiting Komodo National Park during dry season is the best time to have an adventure.
Permits and Fees
When you plan to visit Komodo National Park, make sure to budget for the permits and fees. Entrance fee to the park is currently IDR 700.000 per person. This fee is used to support the conservation effort to protect the wildlife and the landscape of the park.
Responsible Travel
Visiting Komodo National Park is a privilege and we must practice responsible travel to preserve this natural wonder. Start by respecting the park’s rules and regulation and always follow your guide’s instruction. This is especially important when you encounter Komodo dragons as these wild animal can be unpredictable.
Reduce your plastic usage by bringing reusable water bottle and bag. Don’t touch or feed the marine life to protect the ecosystem. Supporting local community and conservation effort is another way to make a positive impact. Choose eco friendly tour operator and accommodation that prioritize sustainability.
By practicing responsible travel you help preserve Komodo National Park’s natural beauty and the habitat of Komodo dragons and other wildlife. Your mindful actions so that future generation can also enjoy this place.
Read more: How to Become an Ecotourist in Komodo National Park
Bali to Komodo Island Tour Packages — Stress Free
If you want stress free adventure, check out Bali to Komodo Island Tour Packages. These usually includes round trip airfare, accommodation (if needed), land transportation and speedboat service to visit Komodo National Park. All you need to bring is your essentials, everything else is taken care of.
Make the most of a One Day Komodo Trip with Komodo Luxury
A day trip from Bali to Komodo is not impossible. With early flight you can arrive in Labuan Bajo in about an hour then take a speedboat to visit Padar Island, Komodo Island, Manta Point and Pink Beach. If you want a hassle free journey, go for one day Komodo Island package. For even less hassle, check out Bali to Komodo Island Tour Packages that includes flight, tour and destination in one.
Last reminder: book your flight and tour in advance and make sure you’re physically fit to trek and snorkel in the remote islands. Imagine waking up in Bali and by the end of the day you’ve seen wild Komodo dragons in their natural habitat—definitely worth sharing.
Ready to visit Komodo Island in one day? Book now One Day Trip Komodo by Komodo Luxury. Check out Komodo Luxury for full itinerary, price and availability. Get ready to make unforgettable memories in Komodo National Park—from Komodo dragons to Padar Island’s panoramic view. Don’t wait—book now!
