Komodo Island is one of the best-kept secrets in Indonesia. If you love engaging in adventure-filled activities, Komodo Island should be in your bucket list. Here, you will get an opportunity to explore wonderful beaches, color-filled exotic corals, and lush hills.
If you are considering embarking on a Labuan Bajo to Komodo trip, these tips will ease the planning process.
Plan Your Route
Komodo Island is situated along the minor Sunda Islands and lies east from Bali and Java. You can access the island through Bali or Jakarta via an international flight. Once you are in either city, board a domestic flight from Labuan Bajo to Komodo, an airport known as Komodo Airport in Flores, which also happens to be the center for Komodo tours.
Flying from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo will take you approximately 2.5 hours. If you choose to fly from Bali, the trip will take one hour. A multiple-day boat trip from Lombok is also quite popular among backpackers.
Pick the Best Time of the Year
While you can explore Komodo Island any time of the year, it’s advisable to understand what to expect at different times of the year. For instance, the land is calm and green between April and June. the sea is also clear during that time.
You are likely to spot different wildlife such as whale sharks, mantas, and sperm whales between September and November. Between July and August is high season. This means that many visitors will be flocking the Island.
For the best experience, try to avoid visiting during peak season. However, if you have to visit, book your accommodation areas early in advance. The monsoon season happens between January and February and many tours don’t operate then.
Have an Itinerary
There are many beautiful things to see in Komodo Island. These range from underwater coral gardens, to green scenic hills. The beaches are alluring and you will want to visit the popular Pink beach.
There are other small exotic islands dispersed around the mainland too. Creating an itinerary will help you make the most out of your Labuan Bajo to Komodo trip. You will have an easier time however if you are using the services of a tour company.
Choose a Tour Company
Numerous tour companies operate in Komodo Island. Research their services and understand what they offer beforehand. Each tour company is unique and comes with different advantages. Some companies offer a wide range of packages complete with varying highlights.
Remember, you can select a tour or boat service on arrival. However, you may end up being overcharged or with substandard services. Enjoy exclusive and good quality services by placing early bookings.
Pack Appropriate Clothes
To get the most out of your Labuan Bajo to Komodo trip, you will need to trek for long distances. Pick the right clothes such as cotton-based ones that can easily absorb sweat, and comfortable shoes.
Mountain sandals will be ideal. Remember, there are picturesque beaches in Komodo Island and dynamic marine biodiversity. Pack your swimsuit and take a dip in the sea for effective exploration.
Have Enough Cash
Convert your money into Indonesian bills. There are no ATMs in the Komodo islands and surrounding small islands. Withdrawing money past Labuan Bajo will, therefore, be an arduous task. Having ready cash comes in handy when you need to purchase food or souvenirs for your friends and family.
Sun Protection and Cameras
The weather on small islands can be unbearably hot. Remember to pack your sunscreen and make sure it has the highest SPF. wear a hat while exploring the Island in the open. A good quality camera is a must-have tool when you travel to Komodo Island.
There is a lot to capture both on the island and under the seawater. Include and underwater camera, telephoto lenses, and macro lenses. These tools will help you capture great memories that will always remind you of your trip.
Finally
Before you can embark on your Labuan Bajo trip, familiarize yourself with safety practices. While Komodos will not attack you unless provoked, you want to be on the safe side and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
