About Place
- "Gateway to Komodo National Park."
- "Pristine beaches and vibrant marine life."
- "Stunning sunsets over the Flores Sea."
Reasons to Visit
- Komodo National Park:
- Labuan Bajo is the gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Home to the famous Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards.
- Unique opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
- Diver's Paradise:
- Some of the world's best dive sites.
- Rich marine biodiversity with vibrant coral reefs and clear waters.
- Attracts divers and snorkelers from around the globe.
- Breathtaking Landscapes:
- Lush hills, pristine beaches, and picturesque islands.
- Stunning sunsets over the Flores Sea.
- Ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Visa
- United States & Canada: Visa on Arrival (VoA) for 30 days, extendable for another 30 days.
- European Union: Visa on Arrival for most countries, similar terms as above.
- Australia: Visa on Arrival for 30 days, extendable.
- Asian Countries: Visa-free or Visa on Arrival for most Southeast Asian countries; others may require a visa.
- South America & Africa: Visa on Arrival for some countries; others need to apply for a visa in advance.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Destination:
- Flights from Jakarta to Labuan Bajo: ~$300 per person round trip
- Total for two people: $600
- Hotel Cost:
- Average hotel cost: $100 per night
- Total for 5 nights: $500
- Total for two people: $500
- Food Cost:
- Average meal cost: $10 per person per meal
- Total for lunch and dinner for 5 days: $200 per person
- Total for two people: $400
- Activity Cost:
- Komodo National Park entrance fee: $20 per person
- Diving/snorkeling tours: ~$100 per person per day
- Island hopping tours: ~$50 per person per day
- Total for activities: $540 per person
- Total for two people: $1080
- Near Destination Travel Cost:
- Car rental: ~$50 per day
- Total for 5 days: $250
Estimated Total Cost for Two People: ~$2830
Best Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration After arriving in Labuan Bajo, spend the afternoon exploring the town. Start with a visit to the fish market and the harbor, where you can watch the boats and enjoy the local atmosphere. For lunch, try the grilled seafood at Treetop Restaurant. In the evening, take a stroll to the Batu Cermin Cave, a unique limestone cave. Have dinner at MadeInItaly, known for its delicious Italian cuisine. End the night with a relaxed walk along the waterfront, enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Day 2: Komodo National Park Adventure Start early with a boat trip to Komodo Island. Spend the morning trekking to see the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Return to the boat for a packed lunch of local Indonesian dishes. In the afternoon, head to Pink Beach for snorkeling and swimming. Return to Labuan Bajo by evening and dine at La Cucina, offering excellent Italian and Indonesian fusion dishes. If you’re up for it, enjoy some local music at Paradise Bar.
Day 3: Diving and Snorkeling Embark on a full-day diving or snorkeling tour. Visit the famous sites like Batu Bolong and Manta Point, known for their incredible marine life. For lunch, the tour usually includes a meal on the boat, featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. After returning to Labuan Bajo, have dinner at Bajo Taco, famous for its tacos and margaritas. Spend the night relaxing and sharing your experiences with fellow travelers at your hotel.
Day 4: Island Hopping Take another boat trip to explore the nearby islands. Visit Padar Island in the morning for a hike to the viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views. Have lunch on the boat, usually a simple yet tasty Indonesian meal. In the afternoon, visit Kanawa Island for more snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach. Return to Labuan Bajo and enjoy dinner at Atlantis on the Rock, which offers a perfect blend of local and Western cuisine. End your day with a nightcap at the lounge bar of your hotel.
Day 5: Local Culture and Departure Spend the morning visiting the local markets and shops, picking up souvenirs and experiencing the local culture. Have lunch at Warung Mama, known for its traditional Indonesian food. In the afternoon, if time permits, visit the Cunca Wulang Waterfall for a refreshing dip. Head back to the hotel to freshen up and prepare for your departure. For your last dinner, try The Lounge at Plataran, offering a fine dining experience with a view. Depart Labuan Bajo, taking with you unforgettable memories of this unique destination.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Use bottled water for drinking.
- Beware of pickpockets in crowded places.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Keep emergency numbers handy.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Use registered taxis or rideshare services.
- Stay updated on local weather conditions.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers all activities.
- Be cautious when trekking or engaging in water activities.
Flights
- Garuda Indonesia: Jakarta to Labuan Bajo, ~2.5 hours, ~$150 one way.
- Lion Air: Jakarta to Labuan Bajo, ~2.5 hours, ~$130 one way.
- Batik Air: Jakarta to Labuan Bajo, ~2.5 hours, ~$140 one way.
Hotels
- Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa
- Ayana Komodo Resort
- La Prima Hotel
- Sylvia Resort Komodo
- Komodo Boutique Hotel
Contacts
- Indian Embassy: +62 21 5204150
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 118
- Firefighters: 113
Country
Closet Airport
- Komodo Airport (LBJ)
Nearest City
- Jakarta
Heritage Sites
- Komodo National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- Garuda Indonesia
- Lion Air
- Batik Air
Currency
- Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Languages Spoken
- Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia)
Real Story
The Discovery of the Komodo Dragon: The story of Labuan Bajo's fame is intricately linked to the discovery of the Komodo dragon, the world's largest living lizard. The tale begins in 1910 when Dutch sailors, anchored near Komodo Island, reported sightings of a mysterious, dragon-like creature. These initial reports piqued the interest of Dr. Peter Ouwens, the director of the Zoological Museum in Bogor, Java, who decided to investigate further.
In 1912, Dr. Ouwens dispatched an expedition to Komodo Island, led by Lieutenant Jacques Karel Henri van Steyn van Hensbroek. The team successfully captured two Komodo dragons, which were sent back to the Zoological Museum for study. Dr. Ouwens' subsequent publication on these fascinating creatures garnered significant attention from the scientific community and the general public.
The most notable expedition to Komodo Island took place in 1926, led by W. Douglas Burden, an American naturalist and explorer. Burden's team captured twelve Komodo dragons and brought them back to the American Museum of Natural History in New York. This expedition was significant not only for its scientific contributions but also for popularizing the Komodo dragon in Western culture. Burden's writings and the subsequent display of the Komodo dragons in the museum captivated the imagination of many and earned the species the nickname "Komodo dragon."
The growing interest in Komodo dragons led to increased efforts to protect them and their habitat. In 1980, the Indonesian government established Komodo National Park, which includes Komodo Island, Rinca Island, and several smaller islands. The park's primary purpose is to conserve the Komodo dragon and its environment, but it also protects a rich marine ecosystem teeming with diverse marine life.
The establishment of Komodo National Park not only helped in the conservation of the Komodo dragon but also transformed Labuan Bajo into a thriving tourist destination. Visitors from around the world come to Labuan Bajo to witness these magnificent creatures and explore the natural beauty of the region. The story of the Komodo dragon's discovery is a testament to the wonders of nature and the importance of preserving unique species and their habitats.
Cuisine
Labuan Bajo's cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Indonesian flavors with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, reflecting the town's maritime heritage. The local dishes are known for their bold flavors, vibrant colors, and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Seafood Specialties: Given its coastal location, Labuan Bajo offers an array of seafood dishes that are a must-try for visitors. Grilled fish, prawns, squid, and lobster are commonly featured on menus. One of the signature dishes is "Ikan Bakar," which translates to grilled fish. The fish is marinated with a blend of spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection, and served with sambal (a spicy chili sauce) and rice. This dish highlights the freshness of the seafood and the aromatic flavors of Indonesian spices.
Traditional Indonesian Dishes: In addition to seafood, Labuan Bajo also offers a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes. "Nasi Campur" is a popular choice, consisting of steamed rice served with a mix of side dishes such as vegetables, meat, eggs, and tempeh (fermented soybean cake). Each component of Nasi Campur is prepared with distinct flavors, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.
Another local favorite is "Sate," skewered and grilled meat served with a rich peanut sauce. While chicken and beef are common choices, seafood sate, particularly shrimp or squid, is also widely enjoyed. The combination of smoky, grilled meat and the creamy, nutty sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Unique Desserts: For those with a sweet tooth, "Pisang Goreng" (fried bananas) is a delightful treat. Bananas are coated in batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are often drizzled with honey or served with a side of chocolate sauce. This simple yet delicious dessert is perfect for enjoying with a cup of local coffee.
Overall, Labuan Bajo's cuisine offers a tantalizing journey through Indonesian culinary traditions, with a special emphasis on the bounty of the sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures, from the spicy heat of sambal to the sweet indulgence of fried bananas, all while savoring the freshness of locally sourced ingredients.
Culture and History
Labuan Bajo, a picturesque fishing town on the western tip of Flores Island in Indonesia, is steeped in cultural and historical significance. The town's strategic location along the Flores Sea has made it a melting pot of different cultures and traditions over the centuries.
Cultural Overview: The local population in Labuan Bajo is predominantly composed of the Manggarai people, who have a rich cultural heritage. Traditional Manggarai culture is characterized by its unique music, dance, and ceremonial practices. One of the most famous cultural practices is the Caci dance, a traditional ritual whip fight. This dance is not only a display of physical strength and agility but also a symbolic representation of the community's unity and resilience. The participants wear colorful costumes and perform to the rhythm of gongs and drums, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
Religion plays a significant role in the lives of the people of Labuan Bajo. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, a legacy of Portuguese colonial influence. This is evident in the town's numerous churches and religious celebrations. The Catholic festivals are celebrated with great fervor, incorporating traditional elements that reflect the syncretic nature of the local culture.
Historical Background: Labuan Bajo's history is closely tied to the maritime trade routes that connected the Indonesian archipelago with other parts of Southeast Asia. The town's natural harbor provided a safe anchorage for traders and explorers over the centuries. This interaction with various cultures has left a lasting impact on the local way of life.
One of the most significant historical events that put Labuan Bajo on the global map was the discovery of the Komodo dragon. These massive lizards, which can grow up to 10 feet in length, were first reported by Western scientists in the early 20th century. The discovery led to increased scientific interest and numerous expeditions to study these incredible creatures. In 1980, Komodo National Park was established to protect the Komodo dragons and their habitat, further cementing Labuan Bajo's importance as a center for wildlife conservation.