Komodo National Park boat tour - The ultimate Indonesian experience

Komodo National Park is a natural paradise that’ll make you want to stay forever. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Indonesian adventure, then you can’t miss taking a boat tour around this national park.

All the things you need to know to have the ultimate bucketlist experience: from the most beautiful landscapes to see and fun things to do, to the best time to go and travel costs.

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The best things to see and do in Komodo National Park

Get ready for an exciting trip because there are some seriously amazing things to see and do during a boat tour through Komodo National Park.

See Komodo dragons on Komodo island

Imagine seeing giant dragons in their natural habitat. That’s exactly what you’ll get on Komodo Island. These are the world’s largest living lizards, and they’re awe-inspiring to witness.

Komodo island is one of only 2 islands in the world where you can find these dragons, and they’re protected to make sure it stays that way.

On a Komodo National Park boat tour you’ll stop at Komodo island and see these amazing creatures up close (but not too close, always follow the guide’s instructions for your own safety and the safety of the animals, too).

Snorkel with manta rays in the crystal clear waters of Komodo National Park

If snorkeling with giant manta rays isn’t on your bucketlist, we can’t be friends.

But seriously, it’s the experience of a lifetime and you get to see and swim up close with manta rays in Komodo National Park. Snorkeling with these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Enjoy breathtaking views from the many (very easy) hiking trails

If you love nature and hiking, you’re in luck. There are many, many hiking trails in Komodo National Park that’ll give you some of the most breathtaking views you’ve ever seen. Padar Island at sunset and Kelor Island for sunrise are some of the most popular, and both take less than 20 minutes to the top.

Costs of a Komodo National Park boat tour

The cost of a boat tour in Komodo National Park depends on the tour company and the type of tour you choose.

But don’t worry, you don’t have to break the bank to have an unforgettable experience. Prices usually range from 300-600 Euro per person for a three-day, two-night tour, and they usually include transportation from your hotel in Labuan Bajo, accommodation on the boat, 3 meals a day, and activities like snorkeling and hiking.

I went with Travass on a boat named Papiton Duwa and had a great experience. Just don’t book the room at the back of the boat, it’s super close to the engine so it’s loud and stinks.

More helpful travel tips for your Komodo National Park adventure

What to pack

Being on a boat for 3 days means you want to bring all the essentials without overpacking.

Consider the activities you’re going to do during your boat tour and bring clothes for swimming, hiking, and hanging out on the boat in between.

Also, to fit everything nicely into your suitcase or backpack, use packing cubes! They’re a game changer and make it possible for me to basically travel with hand luggage only whenever I go anywhere.

My favourite are these ones from traveldude, made from 100% recycled plastic so they’re super practical AND sustainable!

The best travel time to visit Komodo National Park

The best time to visit Komodo National Park is during the dry season, which runs from April to December.
That’s when the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and snorkeling.

But if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s better to go during the off-season.

I traveled in early March and the weather was amazing!

The best travel tips

Travel Tip: During high season the boat tours sell out quickly so plan in advance.

Don’t forget about travel insurance!

Better safe than sorry, so don’t forget your travel insurance before heading on your Komodo National Park boat tour.

My favourite travel insurance is this one from here because it covers xyz.

Last but not least, do you need a visa?

Check if you need a visa before traveling to Indonesia. It’d be a shame to get everything ready and then realise you’re missing a piece of paper. 🤦🏼‍♀️

Quickly find out if you need a visa to travel.

Thanks so much for reading my Komodo National Park travel guide!
I hope it has inspired you to plan your own adventure in this beautiful country.

Selamat jalan (safe travels in Indonesian),
Nadine

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I’ve edited all the pictures in this guide with my unique Lightroom presets, the Conscious Collection.

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Nadine in front of the Ferris wheel in Dubai.

Hi, I’m Nadine

Part-time traveler with full-time wanderlust.

I’m originally from Germany but have lived abroad for over 10 years, from Canada and the UK to Sweden.

I explore the world one weekend and one vacation at a time and share my experiences, travel and photography tips, and food recs on this blog.

I believe the answer to (almost) any question is traveling.
Have you tried it?

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I share my best travel tips, detailed itineraries and delicious food recommendations
over on Instagram @haveyoutriedtraveling to make your next trip epic.