20 Best Things to Do in Labuan Bajo: Island Hopping, Dragons and More – Your 2023 Ultimate Guide

If you’re looking for a unique getaway, look no further than Labuan Bajo in Indonesia! Famously known for being the starting point for Komodo National Park – there truly are a wealth of things to do in Labuan Bajo!

Whether it’s island-hopping day trips to Komodo National Park to see Komodo Dragons, scaling clifftops for breathtaking views on Padar Island, frolicking at the most instagrammable Pink Beach or keeping it local by visiting the traditional Indonesian villages of Wae Rebo or the natural beauties of Cunca Wulang waterfall or Batu Cermin and Ranco Cave with its mesmerizing underground lake – A trip to Labuan Bajo Indonesia is truly a destination like no other and so much more than just an overnighter to your Komodo island boat tours.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

These are my top picks for TOURS FROM LABUAN BAJO AND WITHIN LABUAN BAJO

TOP ISLAND HOPPING PICK

FULL DAY OPEN KOMODO ISLAND HOPPING TRIP

5 Star Rated | 279+ Reviews | Viator Badge of Excellence

Visit Kelor Island, Pink Beach, Padar Island & See Komodo Dragons

Snorkelling with Turtles & Manta Rays

Hassle-free planned itinerary

Hotel Pick up & Drop off

Lunch, A/C vehicle & bottled water incl.

CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICING

“Excellent trip covering different interesting spots of Komodo island: trek up a volcanic hill to see the panoramic view of sea, islands and beaches; watch Komodo Dragons in the national park and snorkel to enjoy a beautiful coral reef and colourful fishes. The tour guide was very friendly and helpful, and took some excellent photographs of me and the whole group!”

TOP INLAND PICK

FULL DAY PRIVATE LABUAN BAJO TOUR

5 Star Rated | 2 Reviews

Visit Cunca Wulang Waterfall, Rangko Cave, Mirror Cave, and Sylvia Hill

Swimming, plenty of photography & gorgeous sunset

Hassle-free planned itinerary

Private Trip (only you and/or your group/partner)

Hotel Pick up & Drop off

Lunch, A/C vehicle & bottled water incl.

CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICING

“Such a well-organised trip. Our guide Vian and driver Vrian we’re both amazing-so helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. They were flexible and modified our itinerary to see some extra bits and pieces on the way around. Really enjoyable day, especially swimming in the Mirror Lake.”

Keen to Try a Liveaboard trip – wait, what’s that?

READ THIS POST: How to Choose the Perfect Komodo Island Boat Tour

As I mentioned, there are plenty of places to visit in Labuan Bajo and the surrounding islands so here’s the summary below

Some of the above Labuan Bajo tourist attractions are super popular, whereas some are definitely off the beaten path. I’d definitely say every traveller, being it the adventurer, the beach bum, the local culture connoisseur or the family-friendly crowd has something they could do in Labuan Bajo Flores.

1. Komodo National Park

Get Jurassic with the Komodos at Komodo and Rinca Island

No trip to Labuan Bajo is complete without a visit to Komodo National Park – It’s a Labuan Bajo MUST VISIT!!! Home of the iconic Komodo Dragon, the park includes both Komodo Island and Rinca Island, two incredibly diverse islands that are packed with plenty a Komodo.

As you explore the park, make sure to keep your distance from the Komodo Dragons though, as they can be intimidatingly huge and have sharp claws!

To visit Komodo National Park you will need to pay for an entrance ticket, which includes a guide that is required when exploring the park. With their help and guidance, you’ll be able to learn all about these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: My first time seeing a Komodo Dragon in Komodo National Park – I had heard about these incredible creatures, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer size and majesty of them when I finally saw one up close! Even from far away, their incredible presence made me feel both excited and a tiny bit scared – after all, these are descendants of dinosaurs!!! As we got closer and the guides explained more about them, I was amazed at their intelligence and strength as well as when and when they wouldn’t attack – whew! It was an incredible experience that I’ll never forget.

Ultimately and not surprisingly this was one of the best things to do in Labuan Bajo.

Trek to the Most Spectacular View at Padar Island

Second, on my Labuan Bajo to-do list is Padar Island. Padar Island is a stunning destination for those seeking beauty from a view!

Want to hear more about the details of PADAR ISLAND?

READ: The Ultimate Padar Island Travel Guide

This small, uninhabited island is located in the middle of Komodo National Park, and its unique landscape and configuration make it truly one of the most beautiful places on earth. The journey to Padar Island begins with a short boat ride from Labuan Bajo, followed by a steep, rocky trek up the volcano-like structure of the island.

The trek is worth it though, as from the summit you can take in truly breathtaking views of its lush hillsides and pristine beaches. On clear days, you can even see neighbouring islands in the distance!

A Shot for the gram’ at Pink Beach Komodo Islands

Pink Beach in Komodo National Park is an absolute must-see! This beach is a photographer’s dream come true, with its stunning and vibrant pink sands set against the clear blue waters. Its powdery white sands blend effortlessly with the warm reds and pinks, creating an absolutely mesmerizing landscape. The scenery here is so photo-worthy, you’ll want to post it on every social media platform!

What makes the sand pink? The pink hues of the sand come from remnants of red corals and foraminifera that are scattered in the area, making this beach even more unique. So make sure to bring your camera and get ready for some amazing shots!

READ MORE ABOUT PINK BEACH: The Ultimate Guide to the Most Instaworthy Beach in Indonesia

Another Island another Jaw dropping View at Kelor Island

It’s truly a lovely little island with a tranquil little beach – there’s literally nothing else, but follow a short, but incredibly steep and somewhat unsteady climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with an absolutely exotic view.

Although the winding sandy track is pretty tricky to climb it’s highly suggested if you’re not comfortable rather just enjoy from the beach. You’ll equally be delighted with the shimmering oceans and shallow waters lapping at your toes.

Witness the flight of the Flying Fox at Kalong Island

Kalong Island, or “Bat Island” as it is sometimes known, is an absolute must-see when visiting Komodo National Park. Every day at sunset, thousands of majestic flying foxes take to the skies creating a spectacularly awe-inspiring scene. As they soar through the air in perfect unison, their silhouettes create a mesmerizing dance against the setting sun.

The entire sky is filled with these majestic creatures, creating a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere. The flight of the flying foxes at Kalong Island is one of nature’s most incredible shows and an absolute must-see on your things to do in Labuan Bajo list.

PICTURE THIS: Imagine that with a cocktail in hand, sipping, taking in the sunset and then this majestic site unfolds before your eyes as you lay back on a bean bag on the deck of a gorgeous Phinisi Boat – Travel goals much?

KOMODO ISLAND HOPPING WITH A SUNSET

5 Star Rated | 4 Reviews

Experience Komodo National Park in a day

Visit Kelor Island (Panoramic island views), Rinca Island (Komodo Dragons), Kalong Island (Flying Foxes) Snorkel at Manjarite Beach,

See Komodo Dragons, Marine Life & Corals & Flying Foxes at Sunset

Hassle-free planned itinerary

Hotel Pick up & Drop off

Lunch, A/C vehicle & bottled water incl.

CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICING

“The flying foxes were one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen. I could not believe my eyes. That was the cherry on top of a great tour. Rinca was excellent and we saw several Komodo dragons, and the snorkelling was amazing. Baby Reef sharks were all over one of the islands we went to”

Still not sure what to do in Labuan Bajo? Let’s head back to land and check out some top things to do in Labuan Bajo city and the surrounds

2. Explore the Majestic Cunca Rami and Cunca Wulang Waterfalls in Labuan Bajo

Cunca Rami Waterfall

Located in an isolated valley just a 90-minute drive away from Labuan Bajo town, this is a beauty. To get to the stunning Cunca Rami Waterfalls, you’ll need to take a winding, narrow and bumpy road until you reach the nearest village.

TRAVELIST TIP: I highly recommend doing these off-the-beaten-path activities with a tour i.e: car and driver! Although you might think you’re a competent motorcycle driver – these roads are not your typical city streets and are very isolated so if you do get a spot of bother – it might be more serious than you think!

From here, it’s just a 40-minute hike along a small river before you can marvel at this natural wonder. Make sure to bring plenty of water and food for the journey and enjoy meeting some friendly locals who will greet you along the way.

Bring along your swim gear too because it’s very likely that you’ll want to take a dip in the serene waterfall pool after that journey.

Also, be sure to take a guide to the falls: it’s about IDR 50 000 – 100 000 (remember you’re also there to boost the economy and give these locals a chance to take care of you and snap all your instaworthy shots)

Want to explore CAVES, WATERFALLS & A SPECTACULAR SUNSET IN LABUAN BAJO?

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Enjoy this Labuan Bajo Full day Private 2 Person Tour that is 5-star rated and takes the stress out of your tour planning

Cunca Wulang Waterfall

Cunca Wulang is a spectacular waterfall located in the Mbeliling Forest area. From Labuan Bajo city centre, you’ll need to take a scenic 1-hour drive through winding roads until you reach the nearest village, then take an adventurous 20-minute hike to the top of the waterfall.

Standing at almost 2000m above sea level it’s a stunner! Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view of a deep blue lagoon and cascading tumbling waterfalls surrounded by lush green foliage.

This is an absolute must-visit when things to do in Labuan Bajo as it’s simply stunning! Take your shoes off and dip your toes in the refreshing pool of cool, clear water. it’s so inviting and tranquil!

If you’re feeling daring, you can even leap from some of the rocky outcrops around the top of the waterfall – but make sure to check how deep it is first! Check with your guide (Another reason why guides are so important) as it may be dry season and the water volume may not be sufficient for a cliff jump.

TRAVELIST TIP: Bring along your own food and drinks (and make sure to take all your litter with you) as there are usually no vendors or shops around the area.

Can I visit Cunca Wulang and Cunca Rami on the same day in Labuan Bajo?

Yes, you can visit both Cunca Rami and Cunca Wulang on the same day. If you have a private car and driver you’ll be able to customize your day and itinerary. In between, you’ll also find Melo Village (a traditional Indonesian village) which would make a great addition to your Labuan Bajo itinerary and tick off that cultural box too! >> GET YOUR LABUAN BAJO CAR AND DRIVER

3. Explore the Mystical Beauty of Rangko Cave

Rangko Cave or Goa Rangko is located on the outskirts of Labuan Bajo and is an incredible example of nature’s artistry. The ancient stalactites and stalagmites, made of colourful minerals, will make you feel like you’ve stepped into an alternate world. In addition to the dazzling rock formations and captivating colours, the mineral content in the water is also so great that you actually can float even more easily!

TRAVELIST TIP: Noon (12PM) is considered the best time to visit – BUT don’t stay for too long unless you have a waterproof torch as the cave does get fairly dark. Equally important to use a guide here as it’s not as well known of a location.

At about lunchtime, the sun shines directly into the cave illuminating and reflecting off the water.

Getting there is only a 45 minute to an 1-hour car ride to Rangko village, From the village, it’s a 10-minute boat ride to an isolated beach and then a five-minute hike uphill to the cave.

4. Discover the Thrilling Underwater World: Diving in Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is one of the most amazing diving experiences you’ll ever have. The waters are teeming with life and the coral formations are like something out of a storybook, but be sure to bring your underwater camera because this place will leave you speechless.

Diving in Labuan Bajo’s Komodo National Park means spotting things you’d never see anywhere else. From oceanic manta rays to an array of colourful fish species, there will be plenty of things that catch your eye as you explore the depths.

If you’re lucky enough, you may even spot some rare species like whale sharks or giant trevally. There are also plenty of dive spots in Komodo National Park to explore, such as:

• Castle Rock
• Manta Point
• Batu Bolong
• Mawan
• Payung and
• Crystal Rock

TRAVELIST TIP: For the best diving experience, visit between April and November when the visibility is at its highest. The water is warm and calm, making it an ideal time for beginners and experienced divers alike to explore the many wonders of the depths.

5. Get Up Close with Exotic Marine Life: Snorkelling in Komodo National Park

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Snorkelling in the waters of Komodo National Park is an incomparable experience. You’ll glide through the crystal clear aqua-blue water and explore a variety of vibrant coral formations, exotic fish species and even turtles! >>> GET YOUR SNORKEL ON: 1 Day Snorkeling tour in Komodo National Park by Dive Komodo

Head to Kanawa Island for some shallower snorkelling amongst colourful fish, or to Manta Point if you want to spot manta rays swimming by. For a more exciting experience, hop into Turtle Bay where you’ll be sure to find green sea turtles gliding gracefully in the depths below.

BEST KOMODO NATIONAL PARK SNORKELLING LOCATIONS:

• Kanawa Island
• Manta Point
• Turtle Bay
• Pengah Reef
• Batu Bolong (only for the experienced snorkeller)
• Siaba Besar
• Tatawa Kecil
• Mawan Island

The dazzling array of life under the surface will take your breath away as schools of silver fish dance around you and brightly coloured corals form intricate patterns in every direction.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: The first time I swam with a school of manta rays, I was absolutely stunned. I’d never seen a creature move so beautifully. They glided through the water effortlessly, their huge wingspan undulating gracefully in the current. As they passed me, I could feel the power and beauty of these majestic creatures. Their silhouettes were strong and beautiful against the light streaming from above and I felt mesmerised by their gracefulness and strength. It was truly one of my most amazing travel moments.

6. Experience the Unique Charm of Labuan Bajo with a Visit to Traditional Indonesian Villages

When visiting Labuan Bajo, there’s no better way to experience classic Indonesian culture than by visiting some of its traditional villages.

Wae Rebo Village

One of the most popular is Wae Rebo, an old Manggaraian-style village that has been designated by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

Travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure will find nourishment for the soul in Wae Rebo, a unique little village that’s nestled deep within the crater of a long-dormant volcano.

With its conical houses and spectacular mountain views, this hidden destination stands 1,100 meters above sea level – only accessible by car and then on foot with 4 hours from Labuan Bajo or Ruteng followed by 3 to 4 more trekking uphill through dense forests. This is truly one unforgettable experience!

Its unique seven cone-shaped buildings offer a glimpse into traditional things to do in Labuan Bajo. The village is still inhabited by the local community, and visitors can enjoy learning about their customs and traditional activities such as fishing and weaving.

EXPERIENCE THE WONDERS OF WAE REBO WITH THIS 3D2N TOUR – For those who really want to experience and immerse themselves in Local Life and Culture

5 STAR RATED AND REVIEWED

book my wae rebo adventure

Experience traditional Manggarai lifestyles in beautiful Wae Rebo Village

Meet village elders, stay with a local family, and eat homegrown food

Enjoy stunning views on the half-day hike up to the village

Includes meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and private 2-way transfers

Kampung Melo

Kampung Melo or Melo Village is another one of the things to do in Labuan Bajo and offers a more modern experience. Here, you can explore its colourful markets, take part in its vibrant festivals, or enjoy some delicious local cuisine.

TRAVELIST TIP: Take the chance to try out ‘sopi’, a local palm wine before witnessing the ‘Caci’ performances. Also important to note is that if you would like to see the Caci Dance, you have to make a reservation and there is a fee for the performance – therefore do this as part of a tour.

The Manggarai of Indonesia possesses a unique cultural tradition in the form of their Caci dance. This whip fight is more than just entertainment, as it serves to express profound philosophical values and beliefs for which this tribe stands. During these events, an entire village unites through joyous chants, songs and bells that bring out life into this communal spectacle!

Todo Village

Todo Village is a unique Manggarai settlement located in the Flores region of Indonesia that offers an alternative to Wae Rebo for those with limited time or energy.

Here you can take part in this centuries-old tradition by renting a sarong (Rp 50,000) and exploring the village, but bear in mind houses may be off limits due to local customs and ceremonies – so respect their wishes if you encounter any closures during your visit there.

7. Fall in Love with the View at Bukit Cinta (literally Love Hill)

This popular spot is known by many names: Love hill (Bukit Cinta), Sylvia hill (Bukit Sylvia), and curiously enough even Teletubbies hill (Bukit Teletubbies). Despite the name differences, this place has a breathtaking view. Do steer clear however of the resort of the same name Sylvia Resort as that’s obviously private property.

TRAVELIST TIP: I’d advise heading for the buildup to an epic sunset view. The scenery from the top of the hill and the golden hour of the sunset is simply gorgeous.

The hill itself was not really difficult to hike, it is slightly steep and sandy. I was also advised that it’s a great sunrise spot too!

8. Sip the Sunset and Take in the Views

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One of the best (well one of my favourites) things to do in Labuan Bajo is to indulge in a sunset cocktail at one of its many beachfront bars and restaurants – some even provide live music! There’s truly nowhere better (unless you’re referring to Kalong Island) to witness the beauty of nature than by sipping on a refreshing cocktail as the sun slowly sets against the backdrop of a brilliant orange sky, scattered with stars and silhouettes of nearby islands.

BEST SUNSET BARS AND RESTAURANTS IN LABUAN BAJO

• Atlantis on the Rock
• Unique Rooftop Bar
• Paradise Bar
• Le Pirate Restaurant and Deck

9. Experience the Flavors of Flores and Explore the Vibrant Labuan Bajo Fish Market

The Labuan Bajo fish market is a must when visiting this island paradise. Located in the heart of town, it’s a buzz of activity from dawn till dusk. However, if you’re looking to grab a bite, the nightly market starts just around sunset.

>>CHECK OUT THE LOCATION ON THE MAP

Experience a true feast for any seafood fan! Brimming with live lobsters, crabs, shrimps and shellfish caught fresh that day.

With options to grill or cook in curry sauce using BBQ or lemon-garlic ingredients, you’ll find exactly what your taste buds need here; tourists, as well as locals, visit this bustling spot daily so get there early to guarantee yourself some of its delicious delights!

As you make your way through the market, take in the sights, smells and sounds of this vibrant local spot. Stalls are piled high with produce, children playfully running around and vendors shouting out prices for their wares. It’s a great way to experience the cuisines and Labuan Bajo nightlife.

10. Discover the Rich History and Culture of Mesa Village Sea Gypsies

Mesa Village is a small, traditional village in Labuan Bajo that sits atop stilts. It’s an awe-inspiring sight and one of the things that make this unique location stand out amongst other villages in Indonesia.

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Nestled on Mesa Island, 15 km from Labuan Bajo, lies a unique village home to only 1,500 ‘sea gypsies’. The inhabitants have made an interesting adaptation – avoiding the storage of fresh water so as not to attract mosquitoes. It’s truly remarkable that this tiny seaside community has managed such ingenuity!

This is a great place to visit for travellers looking for an insight into local culture and traditions. Here you can learn about the history of the village, explore its stilted dwellings, chat with the friendly locals and even take part in some traditional dancing!

11. Reflecting Nature’s Beauty: Unveiling the Wonders of Batu Cermin ‘Mirror Rock Cave’

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A glimmering rock wonder awaits in Labuan Bajo with the Batu Cermin Caves. Located just outside of the city – This is one of the closest Labuan Bajo attractions on this list. This hidden gem’s name derives from Bahasa Indonesian for “Mirror Rock” due to its fascinating crystalline features that reflect and sparkle when exposed to sunlight.

With entrance available between 9 to 10 am near peak sun hours, it is a must-stop destination on any trip through Labuan Baju.

12. Paradise Found: Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Sembilan Island

Visiting Sembilan Island is like entering a paradise – its white and gold sand and shallow crystal-clear waters make it perfect for those who seek the ultimate relaxation experience. It’s pretty much isolated!

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While small in size, this unpopulated island still offers things to do; from taking leisurely strolls on its sunlit beach (especially for those epic drone shots) to indulging yourself with swimming or snorkelling!

Sembilan Island is a unique destination, formed by dead corals. Despite the uncomfortable walking surface caused by its hard coral features, visitors should not be afraid to venture into this paradise, especially because of its extremely unique natural pool pond!

This pool filled with jellyfish will make you gasp at first sight BUT they have lost their stinging ability over time from lack of predators and now can even be held with your hands (carefully!).

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The colour blue stands out amongst these creatures that are relatively small but pack quite a punch when observing them up close. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Labuan Bajo even though not too many people even know about it!

Where is Labuan Bajo situated in Indonesia?

Labuan Bajo is situated in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. The small town has become a popular tourist destination in the past few years due to it being the entry point to Komodo National Park, stunning views and plethora of things to do.

How to get to Labuan Bajo

It’s conveniently located near the Komodo National Park making it an ideal starting point for island day trips or Liveaboard boat trips. With its tropical climate and incredible charm, it’s the perfect place to explore and relax. Come experience the beauty of Labuan Bajo!

Flights from Bali

If you’re already in Bali, it’s an easy 1 hour 10 minute flight to Labuan Bajo. Bali aIr port is called Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport and Labuan Bajo’s Airport is named Komodo Airport.

BALI TO LABUAN BAJO FLIGHT SCHEDULE

Flights from Jakarta

When I first visited Labuan Bajo, I travelled from Jakarta. Unfortunately, pre-covid I couldn’t find any direct flights from Jakarta (or I couldn’t find any :/) but now thankfully there are!!!

JAKARTA TO LABUAN BAJO FLIGHT SCHEDULE

Where to stay in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. For those looking for a luxurious stay, there are upscale resorts with stunning sea views and state-of-the-art facilities.

Want the full low down on where to stay in Labuan Bajo?

READ THIS POST: The Best Seaview Hotels in Labuan Bajo for all budgets

For the more adventurous, some guesthouses and villas offer a unique cultural experience in the traditional Indonesian style. And for the budget conscious, there is a range of affordable hostels catering to backpackers and those looking for a more laid-back social vibe. No matter your accommodation choice, there’s something for everyone on the Labuan Bajo trip.

Check out these awesome accommodation options in Labuan Bajo below

What to eat in Labuan Bajo

I have a full article dedicated to the delicious and delectable places to eat in Labuan Bajo. There are a wealth of eateries and a variety of cuisines! So don’t you worry, you wont go hungry!

READ THIS POST: 10+ Delicious Labuan Bajo Restaurants to try on Your Komodo Trip

Things to do in Labuan Bajo FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is Labuan Bajo worth visiting?

DEFINITELY A RESOUNDING YES from me! Labuan Bajo is a beautiful destination in Indonesia with stunning natural landscapes, crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

You can explore the famous Komodo National Park which is home to the endangered Komodo dragons, go island hopping to discover hidden beaches and snorkel or dive to see colourful corals and fish. Equally exciting and insightful are the local Indonesian villages in the surrounding areas.

Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and accommodations to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Don’t miss out on this amazing destination!

How many days do you need in Labuan Bajo?

The duration of your stay in Labuan Bajo depends on what you want to do and see. If you’re mainly interested in exploring the Komodo National Park and doing some snorkeling or diving, then a 2-3 day trip should suffice. However, if you want to take your time and explore more of the surrounding islands, beaches and villages, then 4-6 days would be ideal.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much time you want to spend in this beautiful destination!

How to get to Komodo Island from Labuan Bajo

To get to Komodo Island from Labuan Bajo, you can take a boat tour which is the most common way to visit the island.

Many tour operators offer day trips or overnight tours that include stops at different islands and snorkelling spots in the area.

You can also arrange for a private boat charter if you prefer more flexibility in your itinerary. Another option is to take a speedboat ride, which takes around 45 minutes each way. However, this option can be more expensive than a regular boat tour.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book your tour with a reputable operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

#1 CHOICE OPEN GROUP – 1 day Open Komodo trip with Bintang Komodo Tours
#1 CHOICE PRIVATE GROUP – 1 Day Komodo Trip by Fast Boat

What is Labuan Bajo known for

What makes Labuan Bajo famous? Well Labuan Bajo is known for being the gateway to the Komodo National Park, home of the famous Komodo dragons. The town itself has a laid-back vibe and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and islands that offer plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and island hopping.

In addition to its natural beauty, Labuan Bajo is also known for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day while taking in stunning ocean views. Additionally, there are several cultural attractions in the area such as traditional villages and local markets where you can experience the unique culture of Flores Island. Overall, Labuan Bajo is a popular destination for those who love nature, adventure, and a taste of Indonesian culture.

How to get to Labuan Bajo

You can get to Labuan Bajo by plane or boat. The easiest and most common way is by taking a flight from Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya, or other major cities in Indonesia to Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo. Read the full details in the section above There are several airlines that operate daily flights to the airport such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Wings Air. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in town.

Another option is to take a ferry from Bali or Lombok to Labuan Bajo. However, this option can be more time-consuming and less reliable due to weather conditions and limited schedules. If you choose this option, make sure to check the latest schedule and book your ticket in advance.

Overall, flying is the most convenient and popular way of getting to Labuan Bajo.

How to get to Labuan Bajo from Bali

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Labuan Bajo from Bali is by taking a direct flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo. There are several airlines that operate daily flights between these two destinations such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Wings Air. The flight duration is approximately one hour and the ticket price varies depending on the airline and the time of booking.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Bali to Labuan Bajo, but this option can be more time-consuming and less reliable due to weather conditions and limited schedules. If you choose this option, you will need to take a ferry from Padang Bai harbour in Bali to Lembar harbour in Lombok, then another ferry from Lombok to Labuan Bajo. This journey can take up to 36 hours and may not be suitable for those who are prone to seasickness.

Overall, taking a flight is the most popular and convenient way of getting to Labuan Bajo from Bali.

What is the best travel destination in Labuan Bajo?

Labuan Bajo is a gateway to many stunning destinations in Flores Island such as Komodo National Park, Padar Island, Kanawa Island, and more.

One of the best travel destinations in Labuan Bajo is Komodo National Park, home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. Visitors can take a boat tour from Labuan Bajo to see these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat and explore other beautiful islands within the park.

Another popular destination is Padar Island, known for its iconic viewpoint overlooking three different coloured beaches. The hike to the viewpoint takes around 30 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

For those who love water activities, Kanawa Island is a must-visit destination. This small island boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and swimming with colourful fish and coral reefs.

Overall, there are many amazing travel destinations in Labuan Bajo that cater to various interests. It all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for!

Which is more worthwhile for a vacation in Bali or Labuan Bajo in Indonesia

Both Bali and Labuan Bajo offer unique experiences and are worth considering for a vacation in Indonesia.

Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. It’s a great destination for those looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient temples, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience traditional Balinese culture. Bali also offers a range of activities such as surfing, hiking, yoga retreats, and more.

On the other hand, Labuan Bajo is an up-and-coming destination that offers a more adventurous experience. It’s the gateway to Komodo National Park where visitors can see the Komodo dragon and explore stunning islands with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Labuan Bajo is perfect for those who love diving, snorkelling, hiking, or simply enjoying nature.

Ultimately, choosing a more worthwhile destination depends on your preferences and travel style. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday with cultural experiences, then Bali might be the better option. But if you’re seeking adventure and want to explore natural wonders such as Komodo National Park, then Labuan Bajo could be the ideal choice.

Is there shopping in Labuan Bajo

Yes, there are shopping options in Labuan Bajo. The town has several markets and shops where visitors can buy souvenirs, local handicrafts, and textiles.

One of the most popular markets is Pasar Senggol, which is located near the harbour. This market offers a variety of goods such as fresh produce, spices, clothing, and souvenirs. Visitors can find unique items such as handmade woven fabrics or wooden carvings.

There are also several gift shops and art galleries in Labuan Bajo that sell locally-made crafts and artwork.

Overall, while Labuan Bajo may not be known as a shopping destination per se, there are still plenty of opportunities to purchase unique souvenirs and support local artisans during your visit.

Best time to visit Labuan Bajo

The best time to visit Labuan Bajo is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to December. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as diving and exploring the islands.

The wet season in Labuan Bajo runs from January to March, and during this time there can be heavy rainfall and rough seas which may impact travel plans. However, some visitors still choose to travel during the wet season as it can be a quieter time with fewer crowds.

It’s also worth noting that the high season in Labuan Bajo is from July to August and around Christmas and New Year. During these peak times, prices for accommodation and tours can be higher and places can get crowded.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Labuan Bajo depends on your preferences (We travelled in October) and what you want to experience during your trip. If you’re looking for good weather and plenty of outdoor activities, then visiting during the dry season would be best. But if you don’t mind a bit of rain or are looking for a quieter experience, then travelling during the low season could also be a good option.

How to get around Labuan Bajo

Getting around Labuan Bajo city is relatively easy as it is a small town, but there are still several transportation options available for visitors.

OPTION 1: Car & Driver
The first option is to hire a car with a driver. It’s a good option if you’re travelling with a group or prefer not to hassle to find taxis.

OPTION 2: Hire a Motorcycle
One of the most popular ways to get around is by renting a motorbike or scooter. There are several rental shops in town where you can rent a bike for a day or longer. This gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace and visit nearby attractions such as waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints – WORD OF WARNING: Only rent a motorcycle if you have a valid motorcycle licence, Travel insurance and have experience riding one in South East Asian Cities.

OPTION 3: Taxi
Taxis are also available in Labuan Bajo, but they can be more expensive than other options. It’s important to discuss prices before getting in the taxi and make sure you agree on the fare before starting your journey.

OPTION 4: Hotel Shuttle
Lastly, a lot of hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services that will take you to popular destinations in the area (ours did). This can be convenient if you’re planning on doing organized tours or visiting specific sites.

Overall, getting around Labuan Bajo is fairly easy and there are several options available depending on your preferences and budget.

From its stunning coral wonderlands to its historical and cultural attractions, Labuan Bajo is a must-visit destination for any traveller looking for an unforgettable experience. With such a variety of things to do in Labuan Bajo, there’s something for everyone – from thrill seekers to leisurely holidaymakers!

So what are you waiting for? You’ve just read this travel guide – Pack your bags, and get ready to explore the wonders of Labuan Bajo!

Have you ever been to Labuan Bajo? What was your most memorable experience there? Share with me in the comments below!

Kaylini

thecuratedtravelist.com | Read more posts

Moving to Indonesia as an Audiologist, I was stunned by the beauty and adventure Indonesia had to offer, It's certainly not only Bali and Bintangs 😉 Now a travel blogger, Sharing my local insights and knowledge having lived in the country for the last few years, planning trips and discovering popular and hidden gems has been a highlight and I hope you'll fall in this country as easily as I did.

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