14 Most Amazing Things To Do In Komodo Island - Updated 2024

William
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read
things to do in komodo island

Being home to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon, this island is a magical destination to explore. Apart from the lizard, you’ll see wild animals like Timor deer and wild pigs, birds like owls and fruit birds, fish like manta rays, starfish, and catfish, as well as venomous snakes. The island boasts of about 4,000 species of birds, 14 species of whales, and 1,000 species of fish. For exciting recreational activities like hiking, swimming, and fishing, visit places like Pulau Kalon, Pink Beach, Pulau Kelor, and Komodo National Park. You’ll meet friendly and helpful people, guides, and instructors as you indulge in fun activities. Read on to find out about the most amazing things to do in Komodo Island.

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1. Go on a hiking adventure at Padar Island

Most amazing things to do in Komodo Island
Source: Pxfuel

If you’re looking to exercise your muscles through hiking while enjoying nature, visit Padar Island and have a fun-filled adventure. Take in the serene environment and scenic views of the island at strategically located viewpoints. Hiking is not challenging here, as there are stairs along the trails that help you pass through hilly and rocky places. This activity is best for friends or families who are looking to bond or foster team building. To make sure you fully enjoy the adventure, wear comfortable shoes that are ideal for hiking, carry plenty of water, bring sunglasses, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen.

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2. Relax at Pink Beach

Pink Beach, Lombok  (DSC7088)
Source: Photo by user Schristia used under CC BY-SA 2.0

There are a lot of fun things to do in Pink Beach, Komodo Island to pass the time and create fun memories. Some recreational activities to indulge in include bicycle riding, playing beach volleyball, swimming, fishing, and jet skiing. Have an adventurous day or simply relax on the beach while enjoying the incredible view. Spend a day lazing around the sand, and from here you’ll see boats passing by carrying tourists to the dock. You can also capture fun moments by taking pictures or videos of this unique, pink-hued beach. The sunset views here are spectacular and worth the trip to see.

Pink Beach

Address: Komodo National Park Komodo, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia

Traveler's tips

Good Tip

Few places can match the captivating allure of Flores' Pink Beach. Nestled away from the beaten path, this hidden gem reveals a secret of nature's whimsy—the enchanting blush hues of its sands. 

This unique beach owes its distinctive color to microscopic marine organisms known as Foraminifera. Their vibrant red and pink pigments blend with the pure white sand, creating an otherworldly palette that will leave you in awe. It's a whimsical work of art crafted by Mother Nature herself.

Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Pink Beach, where time seems to stand still. Getting there might not be straightforward, but the journey was and is worth it. Let the beach's serene ambiance wash away your worries (what it was doing to me in the picture), transporting you to a realm of pure tranquility.

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3. Dive at Cunca Waterfall


Cunca Waterfall has a beautiful canyon that’s perfect for diving. Get adventurous and dive into the waterfall’s clean and warm waters from a height of five or ten meters (16 or 32 feet). Later, engage in a refreshing swim at the base of the waterfall and enjoy the cool and relaxing environment. There are local guides around the waterfall who can attend to tourists looking to explore the cave.

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4. Catch sight of the Milky Way

Moai Stargazing at Ahu Tongariki, Easter Island
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Anne Dirkse used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Komodo Island is notorious for getting magnificent views of the Milky Way. This stunning galaxy is easy to see with your naked eyes from the island. The star-lit sky is definitely a sight to behold. Chat the night away with friends or family or stare contentedly at the sky above in absolute silence.

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5. Go swimming at Rangko Cave

things to do in komodo island | go swimming at rangko cave
Source: instagram

Swimming at Rangko Cave is fun because the water is clean and warm due to the relatively hot environment. This private, natural swimming pool is 15 to 20 minutes away via a private boat that you can hire on the mainland. There are friendly and informed tour guides who will tell you about the local culture, the community, and the surroundings. You can climb up the cave for a thrilling dive into the water, or head out to experience spectacular sunset views. As the cave is dark and has slippery rocks, remember to carry a bright flashlight and some water shoes.

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6. Enjoy Kanawa Island's sandy beach

Kanawa Island
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jordy Meow used under CC BY 3.0

Head to Kanawa Island and enjoy a fun beach day on your trip to Komodo Island. Coupled with amazing views of the sea are amazing recreational activities you can indulge in, including swimming and marveling at the clear waters, seeing the marine life, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the good weather. Sip your favorite drink from the sand or plan a barbecue with family and friends.

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7. Take a speed boat tour around Komodo Island

See the beauty of Komodo Island aboard a private speed boat. There are a variety of speed boats to choose from, and they vary in size and comfort. You can book the trip online or at the tour operator’s offices in Labuan Bajo. The good thing about these trips is that you can customize them however you like. You’ll pass through many places like Manta Point and Taka Makassar Island, all the while seeing species of fish, maybe some Komodo dragons, and even turtles. You’ll also meet some of the locals as well, and the crew and tour operators are welcoming, knowledgable, and will serve you to the best of their abilities. A lunch box is included for some of the tours, and there are recreational activities you can enjoy, like fishing, diving, and snorkeling.

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8. Enjoy sunset views at Kalong Island

Dusk & Dawn in Kalong Island, Labuan Bajo
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Khoirul Amri used under CC BY-SA 4.0

For terrific sunset views and a superb chance to enjoy nature, visit Kalong Island. While the sun is setting, it leaves a stunning background color in the sky, sometimes yellow-orange, other times it’s a pink hue that’s a sight to behold in the afternoon. Tourists flock the island just to witness these spectacular views. It’s an ideal place for a romantic date or a sunset boat cruise. Later, enjoy seeing the flying foxes that are found in this region.

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9. Indulge in snorkeling

See the colorful aquatic ecosystem by engaging in deep-sea swimming at Komodo Island. Famous for its beautiful snorkeling sites, you’ll see reef corals, mangroves, turtles, and fish species like starfish, trout, and triggerfish. The water is cool and clear, making swimming easy, explorative, and fun. Major snorkeling spots on the island include Manta Point, Cannibal Rock, and Kanawa Island, as they’re endowed with breathtaking views and a unique collection of aquatic species. You can also feed the fish while snorkeling. There are trips for the entire family to enjoy, and they take place day and night.

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10. Trek through Rinca Island

Rinca Island
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user prilfish used under CC BY 2.0

Take a short, medium, or long trek on Rinca Island while enjoying superb views of the savanna. Explore the wilderness on this adventurous trip and see animals like monkeys, deer, Komodo dragons, buffalos, and bird species like eagles. Remember to carry your sunglasses and wear some sunscreen lotion, as there are little to no trees to provide shade, and the island is hot. Wear comfortable shoes and carry plenty of water for an enjoyable hike.

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11. Explore Batu Cermin Cave

Traverse this tourist destination that was once in the ocean and get a chance to see turtle fossils and coral reefs. Batu Cermin Cave is about 15 to 20 minutes away by motorcycle from the town center. It’s pitch dark on the inside and there are bats hanging on the walls. From the outside, there are huge tree roots, creeping plants, and a beautiful bamboo forest that is part of the surrounding environment. There are tour guides that are helpful and well-informed about the history of the cave and its surroundings, and they will show you around for a fee. You’ll be given helmets before you enter the cave to protect you from falling rocks. Carry a bright flashlight to use as you explore the cave. After the tour, enjoy local food and drinks at food joints nearby.

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12. Catch the sunrise from atop Kelimutu Volcano

Kelimutu Eastern Crater
Source: Photo by user Michael Day used under CC BY 2.0

Catch striking views of the sun coming up from the crater in the morning as you enjoy a cup of local coffee or tea. You’ll see the lake at the volcano crater change color to reflect the shifting light. You’ll also have panoramic views of the area, making the journey worthwhile.

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13. Take a sightseeing tour around Komodo National Park

In this World Heritage Site, you’ll see wild animals like the Komodo dragon, Timor deer, birds, and snakes at close range. Take a guided tour in the park and learn about the vegetation, history, and wildlife. This spectacular forest landscape has a cool and quiet environment and is endowed with exotic trees and rugged hills that you can explore. You can also take a boat ride across small islands and see the different species of fish like manta rays and coral trout. Keep your eyes peeled for the Komodo dragons that inhabit the area. The beaches are surrounded by mangroves and have crystal clear waters perfect for diving, snorkeling, and swimming. During the trip, you’ll interact with informed and welcoming tour guides and instructors.

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14. Indulge in scuba diving

If you’re looking to explore Komodo Island’s aquatic ecosystem, then indulge in scuba diving. With the island’s clear waters, you’ll be able to enjoy diving or even snorkeling because you’ll have good visibility. Enjoy seeing a variety of fish species like manta rays, parrotfish, gobies, and surgeonfish that inhabit the island’s beaches and coral reefs. The best time to indulge in this recreational activity is from March to November when the weather isn’t as harsh. You’ll certainly marvel at the thriving marine life on Komodo Island.

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Unforgettable Komodo Island

Komodo Island is a must-visit tourist destination in Indonesia. With its beauty comes fun activities like the ones mentioned above that you can indulge in and enjoy. Additionally, you get to meet friendly locals and see incredible landscape views.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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William believes that we should strive to make the world a better place. He's passionate about landscapes, the ocean, and people. When not traveling, he enjoys swimming, hiking, and planning for...Read more

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