Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park, the home of gentle sea giants, living dinosaurs and breathtaking panoramic vistas that deem it worthy of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. 

Whatever adventure you’re into, there’s something amazing for everyone in Labuan Bajo. Located on the island of Flores, this paradise on earth is only a 2.5 hours flight from Jakarta and an easy 10 minute drive from the airport to the harbor. 

With so much beauty to explore, it’s no wonder that Labuan Bajo is one of Indonesia’s Best Ever Destinations. Not sure where to begin your exploration? These celebrities have curated a list of must-do attractions just for you while exploring Komodo National Park. 

BOARD THIS: Sail the timeless Indonesian phinisi ship around the islands of Labuan Bajo

Get lost in time as you sail your way through the national park on a phinisi ship. 

Celebrity thumbs up: Travel influencer Marischka Prudence recommends sailing around Komodo National Park on a Phinisi to spoil yourself in luxury and the abundance of nature, while chilling in a jacuzzi.

If your definition of fun is spending days on end surrounded by azure waters and jumping right in after sunbathing on the deck, find more magic by aboarding a phinisi to wake up to jaw-dropping sunrise sceneries and watch the colors of dusk paint the skies at sunset. 

The legend of phinisi ships stretch as far as 120 years ago with origins from the Buginese epic of Sureq Galigo. Up to today, many believe that the descendants of the tribe are the master of phinisi ship builders – that’s a smooth sailing trip around Komodo National Park, guaranteed!

SPOT THIS: Playful giant manta rays in the wild at Manta Point

Intelligent creatures of the sea, manta rays happily swim like dancing black kites in the waters.

Celebrity thumbs up: Actor and adventurer Hamish Daud recommends diving into the waters of Manta Point for an awe-inspiring, majestic moment as you watch the manta rays glide above you. 

The crystal clear waters of Komodo National Park sits right in the middle of the Coral Triangle, making it home to a rich marine biodiversity with seascapes unlike any other. In Manta Point, not only would you be welcomed by colorful corals, you can also catch sight of the world’s largest rays swimming in glee.

While Manta Point is the world’s largest manta ray sanctuary, meeting them can sometimes boil down to luck. Bigger odds might be in your favor if you get a guide, as they’re rumored to have a sixth sense to spot mantas before you even get wet!

PHOTOGRAPH THIS: Lunch time for komodo dragons at Komodo Island

The local tribespeople of Ato Modo believe that komodo dragons are reincarnations of their ancestors.

Celebrity thumbs up: Award-winning singer Isyana Sarasvati recommends visiting Komodo Island to also learn about the Ato Modo tribe, as they are the reason why komodo dragons are well taken care of in the island.

Watch these apex predators roam free in their natural habitats in Komodo Island as they carefully hunt their prey and use their poisonous bite to secure their lunch. Upon your lookout for komodo dragons, you can also take in the marvelous view of the island’s Jurassic Park-like savannahs. 

Komodo Island is the last place on earth where you can watch them in the wild. And when you see these living dinosaurs, they might look chill and relaxed. But don’t be fooled, as once hunger strikes, these dragons can run pretty fast. It’s best if you stick to your guided trek and follow your park ranger at all times. 

PACK THIS: Comfortable shoes and sunscreen

Padar Island, a trek that you cannot afford to miss when you visit Labuan Bajo

With Labuan Bajo’s landscapes of green rolling hills, packing a trusty pair of comfortable shoes goes a long way – literally! You can find multiple places to trek around Komodo National Park and whatever the course, each trek is guaranteed to take your breath away. 

Sunscreen is a no-brainer as the tropical heat in Labuan Bajo can leave some nasty sunburns, especially during a long trek finding hungry komodo dragons, or spending your day lazing on a sunbed at your phinisi sailing trip. 

Health & safety protocols to note

When you’re traveling around Indonesia, don’t forget that health and safety protocols are still strictly enforced. Major tourist destinations will have temperature checks and won’t let you enter without your masks. Vaccine certificates are also required upon entry across all establishments, so have it ready from your PeduliLindungi app. 

Certain international travelers are allowed to enter Indonesia with strict regulations, so be sure to keep checking before you book your tickets and start packing. Domestic travel across the archipelago is open for vaccinated travelers, but remember to remain safe and be responsible for yourself and others.