We set off for the port Labuan Bajo for a two-days-one-night trip in the Komodo National Park nestled between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa in Indonesia. The Komodo Tour Package included a visit to the islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar. The Komodo Island and Rinca Island are both homes of the famous Komodo Dragon also known as the Komodo Monitor. Let's use Komodo Dragon as it's a killer name!
The Komodo Tour Package was our golden ticket to encounter the world's largest living lizard and a stunning array of corals, fishes, seabirds and sea turtles flourishing near the volcanic islands. We were so excited to hunt down the legendary Komodo dragon.
The local wooden boat was old and rusty. Most boats operating in the park were old and rusty unless you spend a lot. The boat was basic with no cabins, no shower but a ‘clean’ western toilet. We were warned to stock up on beers, soft drinks and snack as only tea, coffee and ice-cold water were available. The crew, made of a captain and a deckhand, were not speaking English but were smiling and courteous. They were not the entertaining kind of guys but we didn't mind. The three other Spanish tour companions turned out to be great guys and the ambience on board was light and friendly.
After sailing through a beautiful scenery and taking fresh air from the bow of the ship, we arrived at Rinca Island. In January, the season was not started yet. Only five boats were anchored. Come in July and August, and you will share the island with 10 times more visitors. We learned that Rinca Island, which is often overlooked by tourists, had even more Komodo than the Komodo Island! (Maybe they should substitute the name). The better-looking island was often a better place to spot the lizards in their natural habitat.
As we bought our tickets, we saw five Komodo dragon lounging near the rangers office, attracted by the smell of the food. The rangers assured us they were not fed as it was important to keep their killer instinct. The giant lizards were not the only mortal creatures living on the islands. Cobras, Russel's Pit Vipers and the Green Tree Vipers were as dangerous as the lizards. It was forbidden to venture to alone. So, we hired a ranger.
We were offered a choice between three tracks on the reserve. A short 40 minutes trek, a 90 minutes trek mainly in the shade of the forest and a 2-hours trek more exposed to the elements. We opted for the medium trek as there was more chance to see the cold blood killers shielding in the forest. The trail was flat and smooth. We wandered the bush in search the beasts. Dragons are solitary, coming together only to eat or breed. One by one, we came close to several Komodo including a baby dragon and a female protecting her nest. The guide let the baby Komodo dragon approached us. Slowly, in silence, the amazing creature passed by us. Happiness, fear, awe, all feeling were mixing together.
After the hike, we embark for quick lunch and a nap on the longboat as we cruised to Komodo Island. The engine stopped. We were arrived and ready to see more dragons. Once again we were lucky and saw up close several animals. The ranger armed with a stick - which didn't seem like enough in case of a Komodo dragon attack- was looking after us. But still, we were concerned about our safety. As we carrying on, we encounter Crab-eating macaques, water buffalos and Rusa Deer which were all on the menu of the world's largest living lizard.
After sweating up on both trek, we were thrilled to reach Pink Sand Beach, which when we swim ashore was indeed pinkish due to crushed red coral mixed with the sand. The reef was a great place for snorkelling. Since all fishing activities were stopped in the national park, the marine life was abundant and colourful. We saw a huge sea turtle that we chase for 15 minutes amongst countless colourful fishes and stunning bright corals. It was already time to leave the unusual coloured beach and end the with by a dinner on the embarkation.
After dinner, the crew set up the mattresses, and we slept on the open deck. The night was quiet. We could hear from a distance a party boat where the music must have been unbearable for the boat moored close by. Our captain took the precaution to dock its boat further down ping beach. Soon enough we fell asleep in the only place in the world where we could see the Komodo dragons in the wild.
How much does the Komodo Tour Package cost?
We paid IDR 1,250,000 per person for a group of 5 in a boat with no cabin but a toilet.
Practical informations about the Komodo Tour Package
- Most boats don’t have a shower. Bring some water to fresh up in the morning. Wet tissues are great to wash off the sea water.
- The food on the boat can be average. Bring some snack.
- Don’t forget your snorkelling equipment (goggles, fines,...). Rent one if it’s not provided by the boat.
- The sun is scorching hot on the islands. Don’t forget to protect yourself with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- The boat doesn’t always come with electric plugs. A power bank will be essential for charging your phone, GoPro and camera. Make sure you pack all the cables.
- Bring sea sickness medication if you’ve ever experienced seasickness.
