The Komodo Islands: Looking Beyond the Lizards

When most people think of the Komodo Islands, they picture Komodo Dragons, the giant lizards that make the islands their home. They’re the largest lizards in the world and can grow up to 10 feet long. While the Komodo Dragon is a great reason to visit this beautiful spot, especially since its one of the only places they live, there are plenty of other exciting things to do there too.

Scuba Diving

The Komodo Islands are one of the best places in the world to go scuba diving. The waters are clear and filled with big, colorful fish, coral, sea turtles and manta rays. There are even areas called manta points, because they’re the spots where you’re most likely to see the creatures. Just watch for their fins skimming the surface as they glide by.

There are various dive centers located on the main street in Labuan Bajo where you can sign up for dives. It’s highly recommended that you get scuba certified before you come. If you can’t though, snorkeling and swimming around the islands are incredible too.

Boat Tours

Boat tours provide another way to explore the magnificent waters of the Komodo Islands. You can travel the beautiful waters on a sailboat, cruise ship or even a Komodo liveaboard yacht.

There are tours available that take you to all the best diving, swimming, hiking and nature spots on the islands, so that you don’t miss out on anything Komodo has to offer.

Some of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Komodo area can be best seen from on the water. Spending the evening out on a boat provides you with an unobstructed view of the pink and orange sunset and, at night, the Milky Way Galaxy.

To help you pick the best liveaboard, check out this article about Scuba Diving Liveaboard in Komodo by DiveIn.

Hiking

One of the most popular things to do in the islands is hike so don’t forget hiking poles. Perhaps the most popular trek in the area is the Padar Island Hike. It’s relatively easy and, once you get to the top, you’re treated to a view of the island and its three beaches, each of which is a different color. There’s a pink sand beach, a white sand beach and a black sand beach separated by just a few ridges of land and blue waters.

Another short hike, this one near Labuan Bajo, will take you to Cunca waterfall, a dazzling scene in a verdant jungle. You can also take a bike or motorbike to the area if you prefer, and local guides are available to show you the way.

Beaches

The beaches on Komodo Island are as striking and unique as the place itself. They feature various colors of sand, beautiful weather and water that’s perfect for swimming. If you’re worn out from hiking, scuba diving and other such adventures, a day lounging on the beach may be just what you need. There’s no better place for it than Komodo!

Yes, Komodo Dragons are impressive. No one could deny that, but don’t miss out on everything else the islands have to offer in your pursuit of those giant lizards. Hiking, diving, swimming and beaches are some of the other features of the islands that make them one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world.