Visit, Dive & Love the Komodo National Park

World-famous & UNESCO-listed

The Komodo National Park was created to protect the legendary Komodo dragon and its unique ecosystem. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve, combining dramatic volcanic islands, turquoise bays and some of the richest marine life on the planet.

• Main islands: Komodo, Rinca, Padar and part of western Flores
• Dozens of smaller islands and remote reefs
• Dry, savannah-like climate with strong seasonal winds

Why base yourself in Labuan Bajo?

Labuan Bajo, on the island of Flores, is the main gateway to the park. This is where:

• All dive boats and liveaboards depart
• You arrange park fees & permits
• You can combine diving, dragons, and island-hopping

Komodo Island

Home to many of the park’s dragons and spectacular hills. From here you can access iconic dive sites like Golden Passage and reefs on the western side of the park.

• Dragon trekking with park rangers
• Sunset viewpoints over bays and islets

Rinca Island

Often slightly quieter than Komodo Island and excellent for seeing dragons in a more rugged, wild landscape.

• Short, medium and long trekking routes
• Good chance to spot deer, buffalo and birds

Padar & Small Islands

Padar is famous for its sunrise hike and panoramic views, while nearby small islands offer white and pink sand beaches.

• Instagram-famous ridges and viewpoints
• Snorkelling and easy beach time between dives

Dry & sunny most of the year

Komodo has one of the driest climates in Indonesia. You can expect:

• Dry season (approx. April–November): hot, sunny, great for trekking & manta season peaks at different times.
• Rainy season (approx. December–March): greener hills, occasional showers, often calmer seas in the north.

When to come for diving?

• Year-round diving is possible with changing conditions by area.
• We adapt itineraries between north, central and south according to season, wind and current.
• Ask us for tailored advice for your dates and level.

What to expect

The famous Komodo dragon can reach over 3 metres in length and weigh more than 70–90 kg. They are powerful predators and scavengers, and must be respected at all times.

• You must always be accompanied by a park ranger.
• Stay on the path and follow the ranger’s instructions.
• Keep a safe distance and never try to feed or touch dragons.

Dragon Trekking Tips

• Wear light, breathable clothes and proper walking shoes.
• Bring water, hat and sun protection – it gets very hot.
• Inform your guide of any medical issues before the trek.

Why Komodo is a top dive destination

• Mix of colourful reefs, walls, pinnacles and drifts
• Regular manta encounters on cleaning stations and feeding routes
• Macro life on sand slopes and coral gardens
• Cooler nutrient-rich waters in the south = incredible biodiversity

Choosing the right trip for you

Komodo offers everything from relaxed reef dives to advanced current sites. At Dragon Dive Komodo we:

• Match dive sites to your level & last-dive date
• Keep small groups and clear briefings
• Offer day trips and liveaboard options

Understanding the fees

Daily tickets and activity fees in Komodo can look complex at first (different fees for weekday/weekend, trekking, diving, snorkelling, camera, etc.).

• We summarise all main components on our Park Fees page.
• Our team handles the permits and payments for your trip days.
• You receive a clear breakdown with no surprises.

Essential rules in the park

• No touching or chasing marine life, mantas or turtles.
• No standing on coral or collecting shells, sand or stones.
• No flying drones without proper permits.
• Respect local villages and cultural sites.

Step 1 – Fly to Labuan Bajo (LBJ)

• Daily flights from Bali (Denpasar), Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and other Indonesian hubs.
• The airport is only a short ride from the harbour and from Dragon Dive Komodo ( 5 min).

Step 2 – Choose your experience

• Daily dive trips to central and northern Komodo
• Liveaboard cruises for multi-day exploration
• Day tours combining dragons + snorkelling + Padar

Our commitments

• Small dive groups and careful site selection
• Briefings focused on buoyancy & marine life respect
• Minimising single-use plastics on board

How you can help

• Bring a refillable bottle and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Control your buoyancy to avoid touching the reef.
• Follow park rules and your guide’s instructions at all times.

Is Komodo safe for beginner divers?

Yes, if you dive with a centre that matches sites to your level. We combine easy reefs, pool refreshers and clear briefings before taking you to more challenging current sites.

Can I see dragons and dive on the same day?

Yes – many itineraries combine a morning of dragon trekking with afternoon snorkelling or diving, depending on conditions and your schedule.

Do I need to book in advance?

For high season and specific dates it is strongly recommended to book ahead, especially for courses and liveaboards.

Are park fees included in your prices?

Some packages include fees, others list them separately. Check each offer and our Park Fees page for full details.