Why is scuba diving in Komodo more expensive than in Bali or Lombok?

Indonesia is a country known for its beautiful islands and diverse culture. Among the many travel destinations in Indonesia, Bali and Lombok are popular for their natural beauty and affordability. However, Komodo National Park, located in the eastern part of Indonesia, is known for its higher cost of living and travel. In this blog article, we will explore why Komodo is more expensive than Bali or Lombok and what factors contribute to the higher cost.

Location and Accessibility

 One of the main reasons why Komodo is more expensive than Bali or Lombok is due to its location and accessibility. Komodo National Park is a remote location that is only accessible by boat or plane. This makes travel and transportation more expensive compared to Bali or Lombok, which have more developed infrastructures and are easily accessible by plane, car, or ferry. The remote location of Komodo also makes it more difficult to bring in goods and resources, which can drive up the cost of living.

We also have to talk about the implementation of new regulations by the Harbour master that imposes all diving operators to increase their safety equipment on each boat.

komodo tax fees increase

Also, the new taxation in the National park increases only the expenses of all operators, so with the pricing of the fuel and the taxation, the prices can’t be the same as in Bali or Lombok. The average quantity of fuel used per day per operator is around 180 L for wooden boats and 350 L per speed boat. The calculation is quickly made with those data.

Limited Accommodation

Another factor that contributes to the higher cost of travel in Komodo is the limited number of accommodation options. The number of hotels and guesthouses in Komodo National Park is limited compared to Bali or Lombok, and many of them are luxury or high-end properties that come with a higher price tag. This is because the park is a protected area, and there are restrictions on development to preserve the natural environment.

Conservation Fees

Visitors to Komodo National Park are required to pay conservation fees, which are used to fund conservation efforts and support the local community. These fees are higher than in Bali or Lombok and can add to the overall cost of travel to Komodo. The fees are used to protect the Komodo dragon and its habitat, as well as other wildlife and the marine ecosystem.

Diving Location

The dive sites located in the Komodo National Park are between 1.5 to 2 hours away from Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the park. The diving boats go out for the full day and need more fuel for a day trip, hence the higher cost of day trips.

The diving sites in Komodo National Park are also more challenging compared to Bali. The currents can be strong, and the dives require more advanced skills and certifications. As a result, diving in Komodo requires a higher level of training and experience, which can add to the overall cost.

Limited Resources

Komodo National Park is a protected area with limited resources, which can make it more expensive to operate businesses and provide services. This can result in higher prices for food, transportation, and other goods and services. The limited resources also mean that some items may be harder to find or more expensive to import.

Unique Attractions

Komodo National Park is home to unique attractions such as the Komodo dragon and world-class diving and snorkeling sites. These attractions are often more expensive to visit or require special permits, which can add to the overall cost of travel to Komodo. For example, visitors may need to hire a guide to visit the Komodo dragon, and diving and snorkeling require special equipment and permits.

While Komodo may be more expensive than Bali or Lombok, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience worth the extra cost for many travellers.

By understanding the factors contributing to the higher cost of living and travel in Komodo, visitors can plan their trip accordingly and make the most of their time in this incredible destination. Whether you’re interested in exploring the underwater world, hiking through rugged landscapes, or getting up close with the Komodo dragon, Komodo National Park is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.

At Dragon Dive Komodo, we give you the best price that we can for you to enjoy your stay in Labuan Bajo as much as you can.