Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo is a harbour town on the western tip of Flores, and it exists in its current form for one reason: it is the gateway to Komodo National Park.

In a decade it has gone from a fishing village with a few dive shops to a town with an international airport (Komodo Airport, LBJ), hillside hotels and a waterfront lined with boat agents. The transformation is ongoing and visible.

Essentially everyone here is choosing between three boat formats. A one-day speedboat trip covers Padar, Pink Beach, one dragon island and a snorkel stop — fast, efficient and rushed. A two-day, one-night trip adds a sunset and a sunrise on the water, which is where the archipelago is at its best. A three-day, two-night liveaboard reaches the outer islands and the better dive sites. Boats range from basic wooden phinisi to genuinely comfortable vessels, and price tracks quality closely — this is not a place to book the cheapest option, for safety reasons as much as comfort.

Budget for several separate fees: park entrance, ranger guiding, conservation and per-activity charges, most payable in cash at the park. Rates have changed repeatedly in recent years, so confirm the current total with your operator before departure.

On land there is little to detain you, though the sunset from the hilltop bars over the islands is genuinely excellent, and Batu Cermin cave and Cunca Wulang canyon are short trips inland.

What is Labuan Bajo? A harbour town on western Flores that serves as the gateway to Komodo National Park, with an international airport and the region's boat operators.

How many days do you need in Labuan Bajo? Three to four — enough for a two-day, one-night boat trip through the park plus a day either side for arrival and a land excursion.

Which Komodo boat trip is best? A two-day, one-night trip offers the best balance, adding sunset and sunrise on the water that a rushed one-day speedboat misses.

How much are the Komodo National Park fees? Several separate charges apply — park entrance, ranger, conservation and per-activity fees — and rates have changed repeatedly, so confirm the current total with your operator.

When is the best time to visit Labuan Bajo? April to November, with August and September usually offering the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.