Hey Lykkers! Have you ever dreamed of stepping onto an island where the air is thick with mystery, and ancient creatures roam freely?

Komodo Island, part of Indonesia's Komodo National Park, is exactly that – an adventure waiting to unfold! From the moment we stepped onto its sun-drenched shores, we knew this place would leave us in awe.

Discover the Legendary Komodo Dragons

One of the main attractions we couldn't wait to experience was, of course, the Komodo dragons. These giant reptiles, which can grow up to 10 feet long, are a must-see. We went on a guided trek through the island's rugged terrain, walking alongside these fierce creatures in their natural habitat. The guides, who are both knowledgeable and passionate about preserving these magnificent animals, provided us with all sorts of fascinating facts. Tickets for a guided tour cost around IDR 150,000 (approximately $10 USD) per person, and the entrance to the park is about IDR 250,000 (around $16 USD).

Hike to the Stunning Padar Island Viewpoint

After our Komodo dragon encounter, we set our sights on the Padar Island viewpoint – another highlight we couldn't miss. This island, though small, offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views we've ever seen. We hiked to the top, surrounded by white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and hills that looked like they were painted straight out of a dream. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and we recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Entrance fees for this part of the park are included in the general park ticket, but the experience is priceless.

Where to Stay Near Komodo Island

When it comes to staying near the island, we highly recommend the Plataran Komodo Resort in Labuan Bajo. It's just a short boat ride away from the island and provides a perfect retreat after a day of adventure. The resort offers a variety of accommodation options, including private villas and cozy bungalows. Prices start around IDR 1,500,000 (roughly $100 USD) per night, and the resort provides an excellent base for exploring the park. We enjoyed the stunning views of the harbor and the warm, welcoming staff who made our stay unforgettable.

Practical Travel Tips

Getting to Komodo Island involves a boat ride from Labuan Bajo, a charming town on Flores Island. We recommend hiring a local guide who can arrange a boat trip to Komodo and the surrounding islands, with prices varying depending on the tour package. Most tours cost between IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000 (approximately $33 to $65 USD) for a day trip, which includes visits to Komodo Island, Padar Island, and some excellent snorkeling spots.

Komodo Island is an unforgettable destination, filled with natural wonders and rare wildlife. Whether you're here to see the Komodo dragons up close or simply to soak in the beauty of the islands, we're sure that your time here will be one for the books. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure and your camera – this is one place you'll want to remember forever!