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Komodo National Park, a jewel nestled within Indonesia’s vast archipelago, is a sanctuary where wilderness meets the treasures of the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site, once a haven for divers and young intrepid travellers, has evolved to become a welcoming paradise for families and luxury-seekers alike, offering an array of experiences that cater to every type of adventurer. Spanning across the islands of Komodo, Padar, Rinca, and an additional 26 smaller islets, all in close proximity to the larger island of Flores, the park is celebrated as a marine sanctuary. It boasts an unparalleled level of biodiversity and is the habitat of approximately 2,500 Komodo dragons, the largest living lizards on Earth. Established in 1980 to protect the iconic Komodo dragon, the national park has since become a celebrated part of the Coral Triangle, offering snorkelers and divers alike the chance to explore its underwater marvels, including unmatchable coral forests.
Labuan Bajo: The Gateway to Wonder
Labuan Bajo, a small town nestled on the western coast of Flores island, serves as the gateway to Komodo National Park. The town’s transformation into a bustling tourist destination is evident from the moment visitors arrive at its quaint airport, greeted by the sight of a gigantic Komodo dragon sculpture hanging from the ceiling in hues of pink and purple.
The drive from the airport to Labuan Bajo’s town centre takes less than five minutes and the town’s main street, Jl. Soekarno Hatta, offers an eclectic mix of dining and lodging options. Diving tour shops, restaurants, hotels, bars, and ice cream parlours hang side out by side in the one-way street. From the small off-the-street Japanese den with plastic plates and amateur drawings on the walls, to the Italian breakfast restaurant with views of the harbour, there is something for everybody.
Yet it’s in the evening that the street truly bursts into life, buzzing with energy as day-trippers, divers, and snorkelers return, seeking to unwind with a delicious meal and a refreshing...