Things to Do in Labuan Bajo – Gateway to Komodo Dragon

Guide to Labuan Bajo and Komodo

Labuan Bajo is the main entry point to Komodo National Park. It is a town on Flores Island. Many people only see the marina. This is a mistake. You should explore the town and the islands nearby.

Why You Should Stay in Labuan Bajo

You need a plan for your stay. Do not just arrive and leave on a boat.

1. The Two Night Stay. This is the best choice. Use the first day to relax. Use the second day to see the town. This helps if your flight is late.
2. The Four Night Stay. This is for explorers. You can visit waterfalls and local villages. You can rest after a long boat trip.

How to Get to Labuan Bajo

You can reach the town easily from Bali.

• By Air. Fly from Bali to Komodo Airport. It takes 90 minutes. Many airlines fly this route every day.
• By Sea. You can take a Komodo tour from Lombok. This is a multi day trip on a boat. It is good for people who love the ocean.

Things to Do in the City

The town has many interesting spots. You can visit them in one day.

• Mirror Stone Cave. This is a quiet spot with a view of the bay. It is a spiritual place.
• Bukit Cinta. You can reach this hill in 15 minutes. It offers a great view of the sunset.
• Local Market. Go here in the morning. You can see fresh fish. Go at night for local street food.

Best Food and Dining

Labuan Bajo has great seafood.

• Seafood Avenue. This is a famous street. You pick your fish. The chef grills it for you.
• Fine Dining. Visit the Plataran Komodo Resort for a fancy meal.
• Local Soup. Try Ikan Kuah Asam. It is a sour and spicy fish soup. It is very fresh.

Day Trips from Labuan Bajo

You can explore the land around the town. Rent a scooter or a car.

• Cunca Wulang Waterfall. It is a 90 minute drive. You can swim in turquoise pools. You can jump from the rocks.
• Hobbit Cave. This is where scientists found ancient remains. It is a three hour drive. It is great for history fans.
• Traditional Villages. Visit Melo or Bena. You can see how local people live. You can see traditional houses.

Island Excursions

You can visit small islands near the town. These are perfect for a Labuan Bajo day trip Komodo.

• Angel Island. It is 20 minutes away by boat. It has white sand and clear water.
• Kalong Island. Go here at sunset. You will see thousands of bats fly into the sky. It is a famous sight.
• Sebayur Island. This island has a nice beach club. You can enjoy a long lunch and swim.

Choosing Your Boat Trip

Your boat choice defines your adventure.

• Shared Speedboat. This is fast. It hits the top spots in one day. It is good for people with little time.
• Liveaboard Cruise. This is the standard Komodo sailing trip Indonesia. You sleep on the boat. You can choose a Komodo tour 2D1N or a Komodo tour 4D3N.
• Private Luxury Boat. This is for total privacy. You decide the schedule. It is a true Komodo luxury boat trip.

Where to Stay

The town has many luxury options.

1. Plataran Komodo Resort. This is the top choice. It has private villas and pools.
2. Ayana Komodo Resort. It is a large resort with many pools. It has a beautiful rooftop bar.
3. Sudamala Resort. It is stylish and right on the beach.

Best Time to Visit

The weather matters for your trip.

• April to October. This is the dry season. The sun is out. The water is clear. This is the best time for snorkeling.
• April. The islands are still green. It is a beautiful time for photos.
• July to September. This is the peak season. It is very busy. You should book your Labuan Bajo luxury hotel early.

Practical Advice

• Bring Cash. Small shops do not take cards. Use Indonesian Rupiah.
• Use Sunscreen. The sun is very strong. Use reef safe cream to protect the coral.
• Book in Advance. High quality tours sell out fast. This is true for any Komodo tour package.