Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Labuan Bajo is generally safe for travelers. As with any destination, practice common-sense travel safety, especially when trekking or joining boat tours.

Absolutely. It offers a unique mix of nature, adventure, and culture. You can hike, dive, explore remote islands, and connect with local communities.

It’s best known as the gateway to Komodo National Park, home of the Komodo dragons, as well as world-class diving, island hopping, and scenic viewpoints.

The area is mainly home to the Manggarai ethnic group, known for weaving and traditional ceremonies. Visitors can experience village life, local markets, and Flores cuisine.

Labuan Bajo is on the western tip of Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. It’s about a 1-hour flight from Bali.

Absolutely. Many beaches — especially Pink Beach, Kanawa, and Siaba Besar — have shallow coral gardens perfect for snorkelers.

Yes. Beaches like Waecicu and Pede Beach are easily accessible from town. Others, like Pink Beach or Kanawa Island, require a boat tour.

Yes, if the beach is within Komodo National Park (like Pink Beach). Local beaches near town (Waecicu, Pede) are usually free.

The dry season (April–October) offers calm seas and clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Pink Beach is the most famous, known worldwide for its rare pink sand and vibrant coral reefs.

Yes! Rangko Cave has a swimmable natural pool, and Cunca Wulang Waterfall offers cliff jumping and swimming areas. Always check conditions first.

Not always, but hiring a local guide is recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights, especially for waterfalls located deeper inland.

Most caves and waterfalls are within 30–90 minutes’ drive from Labuan Bajo. Rangko Cave requires an additional short boat ride.

Comfortable clothes, good shoes, swimwear, towel, snacks, water, and a waterproof bag for electronics.

• Batu Cermin Cave: easiest to reach from town.
• Rangko Cave: most unique (swimming inside a cave).
• Cunca Wulang: best waterfall for adventure and swimming.

Yes. Many tours include snorkeling stops at places like Pink Beach, Manta Point, and Kanawa Island, which are perfect for non-divers.

Not always. There are beginner-friendly sites like Siaba Besar, but many sites (like Batu Bolong or Castle Rock) require advanced certification due to strong currents.

Day trips usually cost US$80–150 for 2–3 dives (equipment included). Liveaboards start at US$400 for 3 days and can go much higher for luxury options.

Expect manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, colorful coral gardens, and thousands of reef fish. Lucky divers may also spot dolphins or even whale sharks.

Manta rays can be seen year-round, but sightings are most common between December and February.

Yes, if you’re already in Flores. Overland trips from Maumere, Ende, or Ruteng are popular, with scenic stops at Kelimutu, Bajawa, and rice terraces.

Yes. Direct flights operate daily to Komodo International Airport (LBJ) from Bali (DPS), Jakarta (CGK), and Surabaya (SUB). The flight from Bali takes about 1 hour.

Komodo Airport is only 10 minutes by car from town. Many hotels provide free or paid shuttle transfers. Taxis and private drivers are also available.

The overland and boat trip from Lombok to Labuan Bajo usually takes 4 days and 3 nights, often including island-hopping stops. Ferries can take 24+ hours depending on the route.

There are no direct fast ferries, but Pelni ferries operate between Bali and Labuan Bajo. Most travelers prefer flying, as ferries are long and schedules can change.

Some viewpoints (like Amelia Hill) can be reached independently. Others, like Padar or Komodo, require joining a boat tour.

For Komodo and Rinca, yes — rangers are mandatory. For other islands and hills, guides are optional but recommended for safety.

Most hikes are short but steep (15–45 minutes). You don’t need to be an experienced hiker, but bring good shoes and water.

Padar Island is the most famous hike, offering the iconic postcard view of three crescent-shaped beaches.

Sunrise and sunset hikes are the most rewarding, with cooler temperatures and dramatic colors.

Yes, but check with the operator. Some hikes (like Padar) are steep, and boats may not have child safety equipment.

Yes. Most day trips combine Komodo Island, Padar Island, Pink Beach, and snorkeling stops in a single itinerary.

It’s possible to book in Labuan Bajo, but during high season it’s best to book online or through your hotel/tour operator in advance.

Shared 1-day tours start at US$50–120 per person. Private charters can cost US$400+ per boat, while multi-day liveaboards range from US$300–800+.

Essentials include: light clothing, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, water, snacks, and a waterproof bag for electronics.

Yes. Both Komodo Island and Rinca Island can be visited on day tours, where rangers guide you to see the dragons safely.

You can only reach the park by boat from Labuan Bajo. Options include one-day speedboat trips or multi-day liveaboards.

Entrance fees start at IDR 150,000–250,000 per person, plus additional activity fees (diving, trekking). Tours cost extra depending on boat type.

Yes, as long as you follow park rules and stay with rangers. Komodo dragons are wild predators, so visitors must always keep their distance.

The best time is during the dry season (April–October) when seas are calmer and trekking conditions are better. The wet season (Nov–Mar) can bring rough seas.

Yes, but always inform the operator if traveling with kids. Some treks and boats may not be suitable for very young children.

Yes. Most operators allow online booking. During peak season (July–September), it’s recommended to book ahead.

Some tours include park fees, others don’t. Always check before booking — fees are typically IDR 150,000–250,000 per day (more on Sundays & holidays).

If you’re short on time, a 1-day tour covers the highlights. For a more complete experience, choose a 2–3 day liveaboard trip.

Shared 1-day tours cost around US$50–120 per person. Private boats and luxury options cost more, starting from US$400 per boat.

Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is needed for small shops, markets, and island tours.

No. Visits to Komodo Island and Rinca Island require licensed guides and rangersfor safety. You can book day trips or multi-day tours from Labuan Bajo.

Most travelers can get a visa on arrival in Indonesia, including entry to Labuan Bajo. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Check our Visa Information page for the latest details.

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to dive, snorkel, or take boat trips. It should cover medical emergencies and adventure activities.

You can get around by scooter rental, taxis, private drivers, or on foot in the town center. For island trips, you will need to book boats or tours.

A 3-day trip is enough to see Komodo dragons and visit nearby islands. For diving, snorkeling, and exploring Flores inland, plan 5 to 7 days.

Yes, Labuan Bajo is generally safe. As with any destination, use basic precautions: keep valuables secure, follow local advice, and ensure you book tours with licensed operators.

The dry season (April to November) is ideal for island hopping and diving. The rainy season (December to March) brings lush scenery and fewer crowds.

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are available in town, but it is best to carry cash in small denominations for markets and smaller shops. 

Bring light clothing, sturdy shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, insect repellent, and motion sickness tablets. A dry bag is useful for boat trips.

Yes. Many tours offer 1-day island-hopping trips from Labuan Bajo that include Komodo Island, Padar, and snorkeling spots.

Yes. All visitors must be accompanied by an official ranger when trekking on Komodo and Rinca Islands for safety.

For the highlights, 3 days is enough. To explore further into Flores and dive multiple sites, plan for 5–7 days.

Not at all! While it’s a world-class diving destination, you can also enjoy hiking, beaches, waterfalls, cultural villages, and island hopping.

The most famous attraction is Komodo National Park, home to Komodo dragons, Padar Island, and Pink Beach.

Yes. Resorts like Ayana Komodo and Sudamala Resort offer 5-star experiences with pools, spas, and ocean views.

Some do! Many mid-range and luxury hotels can arrange island-hopping or Komodo tours directly. Always ask when booking.

• Budget: under US$20 per night
• Mid-range: US$40–100
• Luxury: US$150–500+

The Harbor area is best for convenience and easy access to tours. For quiet and sunsets, choose hilltop hotels, and for luxury, pick a beachfront resort.

Popular hostels like Seaesta and guesthouses near the harbor are excellent choices for backpackers and budget travelers.