Destination
Padar Island
Padar Island is the third largest island in the Komodo National Park area, after the Komodo Island and the Rinca Island. Unlike the other two islands, Padar Island is not inhabited by the Komodo Dragons. Padar Island is the top place to see in Labuan Bajo due to its amazing 360 view.
Although the name is not as popular as Komodo Island and Rinca Island, the beauty of Padar Island can not be denied. On this island there are four small islands, each of them offers its own unique scenery. The tourists can climb the hill to enjoy the view from above or enjoy the sunrise and sunset.
Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is located in the center of the Indonesian archipelago, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. Established in 1980, initially the main purpose of the Park was to conserve the unique Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and its habitat. However, over the years, the goals for the Park have expanded to protecting its entire biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine. In 1986, the Park was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, both indications of the Park’s biological importance.
Komodo National Park includes three major islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar, as well as numerous smaller islands creating a total surface area (marine and land) of 1817km (proposed extensions would bring the total surface area up to 2,321km2). As well as being home to the Komodo dragon, the Park provides refuge for many other notable terrestrial species such as the orange-footed scrub fowl, an endemic rat, and the Timor deer. Moreover, the Park includes one of the richest marine environments including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, seamounts, and semi-enclosed bays. These habitats harbor more than 1,000 species of fish, some 260 species of reef-building coral, and 70 species of sponges. Dugong, sharks, manta rays, at least 14 species of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles also make Komodo National Park their home.
Pink Beach Labuan Bajo
ndonesia is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of the most captivating destinations in the world is Pink Beach. Located in Labuan Bajo, Komodo Island, West Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, this beach offers a unique charm that is hard to find elsewhere. Its striking pink-colored sand creates an exotic landscape that not only pleases the eyes but also provides an unforgettable travel experience.
Kelimutu Lake
Known as the magical lakes that change colors, Kelimutu is a place is naturally surrounded by myths and legends alike. Some said that the colors of the lakes foretell future events. Each lake would change color and they display different shades, despite being right next to each other. Sometimes amber, at times turquoise, then they turn green—although the science behind the changing of the color is relatively well-known, due to the lack of study conducted on the lake, scientists have yet to predict a pattern of the changing of the lakes’ colors. Go early to visit the Kelimutu lakes to avoid crowds. Depending on whether it’s high or low seasons, mid-mornings are often a good time to visit. Sunsets are particularly crowded time, while sunrises are often quite popular as well. However, rest assured that at the moment, the crowds in Kelimutu mountain is sparse and certainly not as packed as that of Bromo’s. If this is an issue to you, make sure to take notes and adjust your visit accordingly so that you’ll be able to thoroughly enjoy the enchanted Kelimutu.
Waerebo
Wae Rebo is a cultural tourism destination that offers beautiful views. The village located “above the sky” is full of culture and local wisdom of the Flores Manggarai community. It’s not easy to visit the village, you have to trekking up more than 3 hours. But after long way Wae Rebo trekking to the top you will be amazed by the beautiful scenery of the area around.
Kelor Island
Kelor is a small island located in front of the the beautiful hills of Flores. It is one of the must do in the Komodo National Park as the view from the top of the island is simply breathtaking. A short hike of 15 minutes will lead you to the top where a panoramic view on Flores, Rinca Island and many other small islands. The perfect spot to take pictures and selfies. Two white sandy beaches are perfect to relax and swim around before going back to Labuan Bajo after a wonderful trip in the amazing Komodo National Park.
Rinca Island
The first place you can visit in Labuan Bajo area is the Rinca Island. This group of islands located in the Komodo Island is indeed popular for its natural beauty and close location from Labuan Bajo. This island has the highest point with an altitude of 670 meters above sea level, so when visiting you will be able to see a very beautiful view of Flores from height.
Besides Komodo dragons, there are other animals that live on Rinca Island, such as buffalo, birds and wild pigs. So for those who want to come to Rinca island, it is better to visit the island during the morning until noon. On the island of Rinca, visitors will take part in environmental conservation activities by planting mangroves and other natural attractions.
Kanawa Island
Besides the Komodo Island, another one that you can visit with very clear water is the Kanawa Island. This 35 hectares island is located in East Nusa Tenggara Province. Kanawa has beautiful natural scenery and is also charming, especially on the coast and also under the sea.
While swimming or diving you can see very clear sea water and very clean white sand. The underwater beauty of Kanawa Island can be seen from above sea level such as the coral reefs, small fish and even the sea turtles. If you want to spend the night on Kanawa Island, there are around 13 guest houses available at a rental price of approximately Rp. 300,000 per night.
Rangko Cave
Another unique tourist attraction that you can visit in Labuan Bajo is the Rangko Cave. This cave is located in West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Actually Rangko is a cave that has various stone decoration and also stalactites filled with clear blue sea water which is very exotic and also beautiful.
But unfortunately this Rangko Cave is a quiet difficult place to access so you have to walk and also use the local tour guide services so that you don’t get lost !
Cunca Wulung
Another favorite place to visit in Labuan Bajo is the Cunca Wulang Waterfall. It is located in the Mbeliling Forest area with an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. At a glance this waterfall looks like Green Canyon because it has the same atmosphere and water color, but with a narrower version with rocks flanking along its sides.
You are also allowed to climb the rocks and even jump from a height to this Cunca Wulang Waterfall. However, you must consult first with your guide because the water volume is reduced during dry season, and of course this will be a dangerous thing to do. Other thing to note is that you have to bring food and drinks because there are no food or beverage stalls around the waterfall.
