Labuan Bajo

🌅 Labuan Bajo, Indonesia: The Gateway to Komodo National Park

Labuan Bajo is a small but rapidly growing coastal town located on the western tip of Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Once a quiet fishing village, it has transformed into one of Indonesia’s most exciting travel destinations — the gateway to Komodo National Park, home of the world-famous Komodo dragons.

With its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking sunsets, Labuan Bajo is now known as the “Treasure of Flores” and one of the top tourism hubs in eastern Indonesia.

📍 Location

Labuan Bajo lies in West Manggarai Regency, on the island of Flores, facing the blue waters of the Komodo archipelago.
It’s part of the East Nusa Tenggara province (NTT) and serves as the main access point to Komodo National Park and nearby islands like Padar, Rinca, and Kanawa.

🌊 Top Things to Do in Labuan Bajo

1. Explore Komodo National Park
   Take a speedboat or liveaboard tour to see Komodo dragons, Padar Island’s panoramic view, Pink Beach, and Manta Point for snorkeling with manta rays.

2. Sunset at Bukit Sylvia or Amelia Hill
   The hills around Labuan Bajo offer spectacular sunset views overlooking the harbor and small islands.

3. Snorkeling & Diving
   The waters around Labuan Bajo are part of the Coral Triangle, making it one of the world’s best diving destinations. Top dive sites include Batu Bolong, Castle Rock, and Siaba Besar.

4. Island Hopping
   Visit nearby paradise islands such as Kanawa Island, Kelor Island, Bidadari Island, and Seraya Island — perfect for swimming and relaxing on white-sand beaches.

5. Cunca Wulang Waterfall
   A refreshing natural spot about 30 km from town, with turquoise pools surrounded by tropical forest.

6. Cultural and Culinary Tour
   Discover local life at Kampung Melo or enjoy fresh seafood at the Labuan Bajo fish market or rooftop restaurants with ocean views.

🚤 Gateway to Adventure

Labuan Bajo is the starting point for liveaboard cruises that sail through Komodo National Park. Travelers can choose from one-day speedboat tours to multi-day luxury liveaboard experiences, exploring remote islands, hidden beaches, and coral reefs.

🏨 Accommodation and Dining

Labuan Bajo offers a wide range of stays — from budget hostels and boutique hotels to luxury resorts overlooking the sea.
Popular options include:

• AYANA Komodo Resort

• Sudamala Resort

• The Seraya

• Loccal Collection Hotel

For dining, travelers can enjoy:

• MadeInItaly – authentic Italian cuisine

• La Cucina – sea-view Mediterranean restaurant

• Treetop Restaurant – sunset dining with local and international dishes

✈️ How to Get There

• By Air:
  The easiest way is to fly to Komodo International Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo.
  ✈️ Daily flights from Bali (Denpasar), Jakarta, Surabaya, and Kupang.

• By Sea:
  Ferry and boat connections are available from Sape (Sumbawa) or Kupang, though less common for tourists.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Labuan Bajo is during the dry season (April–November), when the seas are calm and visibility for diving and snorkeling is excellent.
The wet season (December–March) brings lush green landscapes but occasional heavy rain.