Satonda Island: Enigmatic Crater Island on the Way to Komodo

Hidden quietly between Moyo Island and Sumbawa, Satonda Island is one of Indonesia’s most mysterious and beautiful natural wonders. Surrounded by turquoise waters and covered in lush tropical forest, this volcanic island holds a massive saltwater crater lake at its heart — a natural phenomenon unlike any other in the region. For travelers joining the Lombok to Komodo Island trip with Bose and KomodoExplore.com, Satonda is one of the most magical stops along the journey.

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Where Is Satonda Island?

Satonda Island lies off the northern coast of Sumbawa, within the Dompu Regency of West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It is located about 3 kilometers offshore from the mainland and roughly halfway between Moyo Island and Saleh Bay, making it a perfect destination for sailing routes heading toward Komodo National Park.

The island sits directly across from the famous Mount Tambora, which erupted in 1815 in the world’s largest recorded volcanic explosion. The eruption was so powerful that it triggered a massive tsunami and caused Satonda’s crater to fill with seawater, transforming it into a saltwater lake that still exists today.

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How Big Is Satonda Island?

Satonda Island covers approximately 4.8 square kilometers, making it a small but captivating island to explore. The crater lake itself is about 1 kilometer wide and surrounded by steep green hills. The entire island is protected as part of the Satonda Nature Tourism Park, ensuring the conservation of its ecosystem and unique geological features.

Despite its size, Satonda offers a mix of experiences from hiking to the crater rim, swimming in the clear waters around the island, to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs filled with colorful marine life.

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What’s Inside Satonda Island?

The highlight of Satonda Island is its mystical crater lake, known locally as Danau Satonda. The lake lies about 50 meters above sea level, formed inside an ancient volcanic crater. Its calm, greenish-blue water is often compared to a mirror, reflecting the surrounding cliffs and sky.

Local legends say the lake is sacred, many visitors tie small pebbles or threads to trees near the lake as a symbol of wishes or prayers, much like Bali’s wish temples. The air feels peaceful and almost spiritual, making it one of the most tranquil spots along the entire Komodo sailing route.

Besides the lake, Satonda also has a small sandy beach area where boats can anchor. Here you can relax, enjoy the breeze, and take short walks through the forest trails leading up to the viewpoint overlooking the lake.

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How to Get to Satonda Island

The most comfortable and scenic way to reach Satonda is by joining a 4 Days 3 Nights (4D3N) sailing trip with Bose through KomodoExplore.com. These sailing tours depart from Kayangan Harbor in Lombok and travel westward to Poto Tano, Kenawa Island, Saleh Bay (Whale Shark Point), Moyo Island, Satonda Island, and finally Komodo National Park.

For those traveling independently, it’s also possible to visit Satonda by hiring a local boat from Dompu or Calabai, but the sailing route offered by Bose provides a more comfortable and well organized experience, complete with meals, cabins, snorkeling gear, and professional crew.

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Are There People Living on Satonda Island?

No, Satonda Island is uninhabited. There are no villages or permanent residents on the island. Only park rangers occasionally visit to monitor the environment and ensure the protection of this natural wonder. This untouched atmosphere makes Satonda feel like a private paradise, peaceful, clean, and far from crowds.

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Can You Swim or Snorkel Around Satonda Island?

Absolutely! The waters surrounding Satonda Island are incredibly clear and rich in marine biodiversity. You can easily snorkel right from your boat or the small beach area. Expect to see colorful coral gardens, parrotfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes turtles gliding gracefully near the reef.

Swimming inside the crater lake, however, is not recommended, as it is a protected natural site with sensitive water conditions. Instead, enjoy the lake from the viewing platforms or hike up to the crater rim to capture stunning photos of the blue lake encircled by lush jungle.

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What Kind of Boats Sail to Satonda Island?

Many phinisi boats and sailing tours include Satonda as part of their route from Lombok to Komodo Island. Bose, operated by KomodoExplore.com, offers several options for travelers:

Private charter boats – perfect for families or private groups who want a personalized adventure.

Luxury shared boats – with air-conditioned cabins, fresh meals, and guided tours.

Budget-friendly boats – for backpackers looking for an authentic sea adventure.

Each boat stops at key destinations like Kenawa Island, Saleh Bay (to see whale sharks), Moyo Island, Satonda, and Padar Island before reaching the legendary Komodo National Park — home of the ancient Komodo dragons.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Satonda Island?

The best time to visit Satonda Island is during the dry season, from April to November, when the sea is calm and visibility for snorkeling is excellent. During this period, you can clearly see the coral reefs below, enjoy hiking without slippery trails, and witness stunning sunsets from your boat deck.

In the rainy season (December–March), the area is still accessible, but sea conditions can be less predictable. For a smoother journey, it’s best to plan your trip with Bose KomodoExplore.com, whose team carefully monitors the weather and adjusts routes for passenger safety and comfort.

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The Link Between Satonda and Komodo National Park Tours

While Satonda lies outside the Komodo National Park boundary, it is one of the most memorable stops along the Lombok to Komodo Island trip. Many travelers describe it as a “calm before the dragon” a peaceful prelude before exploring the dramatic landscapes and wild Komodo dragons of Komodo National Park.

By booking your trip through Bose & KomodoExplore.com, you can experience both worlds: the serenity of Satonda’s crater lake and the thrilling wildlife encounters on Komodo Island. These combined routes showcase Indonesia’s most diverse natural attractions from whale sharks and coral reefs to volcanoes and dragons.

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Final Words

Satonda Island is more than just a stopover — it’s a hidden treasure rich in history, mythology, and natural wonder. With its tranquil crater lake, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Satonda offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity for travelers seeking the real Indonesia.

Join Bose through KomodoExplore.com and embark on a journey that connects you to nature, culture, and the soul of the sea. From Lombok to Satonda and all the way to Komodo National Park, your sailing adventure will reveal the true beauty of the Indonesian archipelago — one island at a time.