The Komodo Islands are wild, remote, and packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But that doesn’t mean they’re hard to reach. Whether you’re after a quick island hop from Bali or a full-blown boat adventure from Lombok, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip, with lots of tips to help you make the most of it.

Komodo National Park sits in eastern Indonesia, tucked between Sumbawa and Flores. It’s a group of around 29 islands, each with its own vibe. The big three are Komodo, Rinca, and Padar. Think rugged hills, wild savannah, pink beaches, and dramatic coastlines.

The park isn’t just about dragons (though they do tend to steal the show). You’ve got deer, wild boars, monkeys, and heaps of birdlife on land. Underwater, it’s a whole different world where you’ll find manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, and colourful coral gardens.

The dry season from April to September is your best bet. You’ll get clear skies, calm seas, and top visibility for snorkelling and diving. May, June, and September are sweet spots with fewer people, but still prime conditions.

July and August bring in the crowds. It’s also mating season for Komodo dragons, so they can be a bit harder to spot as they hide away.

The wet season is from November to March. Skip it if you can as the seas get rough, tours often stop running, and strong currents make boat trips dicey.

Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores is your main launch pad into Komodo National Park. There aren’t any direct flights to the Komodo Islands from Australia, but luckily smooth connections are available.

You can see the park in one day, but if you’ve got time, a few days on the water gives you the full experience.

Perfect if you’re short on time. You’ll tick off Komodo Island, Padar Island, Pink Beach, and Manta Point in one big day. Get an early start (around 6am) to beat the crowds and catch Padar’s famous sunrise view.

Three days, two nights is the sweet spot for most travellers. More time means more snorkel stops, sunset dinners on deck, and the chance to see quieter spots.

If you’re a certified diver, this is the way to go. The Komodo area is home to some of Indonesia’s best dive sites: Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Manta Alley just to name a few. Multi-day liveaboards usually include all gear, meals, and up to three dives a day. 

Independent trips are possible, but not easy. You can charter a private boat or take a public ferry to Komodo Village. Just keep in mind that you can’t hike or explore without a guide, so you’ll still need to organise that once you arrive.

The park entry fee starts at IDR 150,000 on weekdays (IDR 250,000 on weekends). Komodo and Padar islands charge additional fees. You’ll also pay for guides (mandatory on land), plus separate fees for activities like snorkelling or diving.

Planning to fly a drone? You’ll need a permit, which costs about IDR 2,000,000 per day. You can arrange this in Labuan Bajo before you set off.

Tip: Bring cash and more than you think you might need. Card machines don’t exist on the islands.

The main star. Early morning treks give you the best chance to see dragons out and about. Rangers love sharing stories about dragon run-ins, so stay close to get the best insight.

Smaller and closer to Labuan Bajo. Easier trails, great for families, and often better dragon sightings outside peak season.

That iconic three-bay view? This is it. A short but steep hike gets you to the top. Go at sunrise for the best light (and much cooler temps).

A blush of coral fragments gives the sand its colour. Best enjoyed before 10am, when the pink tones really pop.

One of the best places in the world to swim alongside manta rays. The shallow cleaning station means you don’t even need to dive. Grab a mask and snorkel, and you’re sorted.

At sunset, watch thousands of bats take flight all at once. Boats cut engines, so all you hear is the sound of little wings.

A tiny sandbar that appears at low tide. Pure white sand and glassy turquoise water. Time it right, or you’ll find nothing but sea.

Close to Labuan Bajo and perfect for a short hike and a swim to cool off. Great for a warm-up day before longer trips.

The waters around Komodo are some of the best in the world. We’re talking big schools of fish, colourful coral gardens, graceful manta rays, and turtles drifting by like they own the place. Whether you’re a certified diver or just keen to float with a snorkel, there’s something here for every level.

Most travellers base themselves in Labuan Bajo, but there are a few options on the Komodo Islands too.

With Traveloka, you can sort your entire Komodo trip in just a few taps. Book flights to Labuan Bajo, find a place to stay, and lock in your island tours, all in one go.