Well hello to you my reader chums! Visiting Komodo Island in Indonesia was one of my favourite experiences during my backpacking tripl. If anything, it looks like Instagram in real life or the picture-perfect postcard. Komodo Island is more than meets the eye and can only be visited on a booked tour as it's inhabitable.
If you're planning a trip to Komodo Island, here's my complete guide to everything to know before visiting Komodo Island.
You can't stay on Komodo Island
As I mentioned previously, Komodo Island isn't habitable, no locals are living on it and there are no hotels or places to stay. However, this doesn't mean the island isn't accessible, you can easily book in tours and excursions to see all its highlights and natural settings.
It's an expensive excursion to visit
One of the best things about travelling to south-east Asia is how inexpensive excursions, food and accommodation are. However, one thing about Komodo Island is it's rather expensive. I wouldn't say it's too expensive but it's worth keeping in mind when budgeting your trip. My tour cost around £70 for the day and honestly, it was one of the most luxurious trips I've had, considering the quality of the transport, food and itinerary.
Komodo Island has many destination points
I didn't realise the extent of Komodo Island when we planned the trip during our Asia travels. Komodo Island features Padar Island and the Komodo National Park. Padar Island is home to three colourful beaches, pink, white and black with a stunning view when you climb to the top of the viewpoint. The national park is the place to witness komodo dragons in their natural habitat with a guide.
Stay on Labuan Bajo for the tour
You may have noticed I mentioned you can't stay on Komodo Island. However, there's nothing to worry about as many people who visit Komodo, stay in Labuan Bajo, a small fishing town. Not much goes on in this town and there are minimal things to see and places to eat. However, it's a good base as the boat ride to Komodo is only a few hours away and makes the trek a lot easier to see all the sights in one day. There's also the option of an overnight cruise if you want to spend longer seeing the sights but of course, this option is a lot pricier.
You can only see the Komodo dragons in the national park
Komodo dragons are pretty dangerous animals and reside within the national park. When visiting the park, there's no need to be worried as rangers lead and stand behind the group of tourists, ready for any danger. Komodo dragons are scattered across the parks and you may see one or several on your trip. Despite the name Komodo Island, you can only find the animals within the national park.
Padar Island is everything
The whole trip to Komodo Island is mind-blowing, however, Padar Island had to be my favourite part. I'm still not over the jaw-dropping view when I hiked to the viewpoint and saw all three beaches, the pink, white and black beach. The day I visited also had picture-perfect blue sky weather adding to the overall beautiful appeal of the natural landscape. It's also a dream spot for the best snorkelling with some of the most amazing marine life I've ever seen.
Pack for all activities for the trip
The tour around Komodo Island is a combination of all types of activities, hiking, snorkelling, swimming, walking around the national park and enjoying the beach life. With that in mind, you want to be prepared for all activities. Think about the appropriate clothing to wear, suitable for the weather and activities on offer. I wore shorts and a loose top, easy to change into for swimming. I wore walking shoes and didn't bring a shoe for the beach/swimming as I just went barefoot. Other things to consider are layers (weather-dependent), suncream, bug spray and all the hiking essentials.
Enjoy every moment and the natural beauty
I'm still in awe of the natural wonders of Komodo Island and would love to revisit and admire it again. When you're there, after you've taken all the photos, ensure you're present in the moment. Embrace the mountainous terrain, the crystal clear waters and the endless colourful highlights the trip will bring.
Book the tour in advance on Klook
You can book wherever you like, however, I found Klook incredibly useful on my travels across
Asia for cheaper and discounted excursions. Whether you're looking to do a day trip or a two-day trip, you can find a suitable tour for you. I booked a full-day
speedboat tour.
I hope you enjoyed this post. When are you planning to go to Komodo Island?
Thank you for reading <3
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