In a historic decision, Indonesia has announced a cap on daily visitors of 1,000 at its iconic Komodo National Park which will be effective from April 2026. The main reason behind this is to protect the park from overtourism and reduce the environmental pressure caused by the increasing number of tourists. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known to be home to the Komodo dragons, which is endemic to the Indonesian islands.
Why cap is necessary
Komodo National Park is spread across the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Padar, Gili Motang, and Nusa Kode. In the last 10 years, the park has been experiencing a surge in tourism. Last year, the park recorded 340,000 visitors. The overwhelming number of tourists was concerning for local authorities, and conservationists. It started degradation of the park’s ecosystems which are extremely delicate.
Saving marine biodiversity
The park is also rich in marine biodiversity which is exceptionally sensitive to human activity. Marine life in the park is otherworldly and the coral reefs are at risk from diving and snorkelling. The waters of the park are the natural home of sea turtles, manta rays, sharks and dolphins.
The park is also a part of the Coral Triangle, which is known as the global epicenter of marine biodiversity. It is a dream destination of divers and snorkellers from across the globe as here they get a glimpse into the fragile beauty of the endless ocean.
How to Reach Labuan Bajo (getaway to Komodo National Park)
To reach the park you need to reach Labuan Bajo town which is set on Flores Island. The town is the gateway to the Komodo National Park. You can book park activities, flights, boats, and guided tours from the town only. Labuan Bajo is well connected by Komodo Airport (LBJ).
From Bali (Denpasar): This is among the most common routes and direct flights from Bali take an hour. The cost can vary from season to season.
From Jakarta or Surabaya: Direct flights are available which take about 2.5 hours.
How to reach Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo
The only way to reach Komodo National Park is by boat from Labuan Bajo.
Speedboat day trips: There are speed boats available which are perfect for short day visits to Komodo, Rinca, and Padar Islands. Prices range between US$60 (INR 5,323) –100 (INR 8,871) per person. The prices generally are inclusive of pickup and boat transport.
Public ferries: For a budget-friendly trip, public ferries are available which are cheap and slow.
Best Time to Visit Komodo National Park
April to October and November to March are considered the best times to explore the beauty of Komodo.
April to October: It is considered the best time because the weather is sunny and perfect for diving. This is the time when diving and snorkelling is at its peak.
November to March: During this time, tourism activities are low because of frequent rain and rougher seas. An advantage of visiting during this time is that there are fewer tourists and discounted prices on accommodation and tours.
Price
If you plan to visit Komodo, start saving some extra bucks. Visiting Komodo National Park can be done on several budgets.
Entrance and Activity Fees
As per latest update, visitors are required to pay official entrance:
Foreign visitors: Around IDR 250,000 (INR 1,336) per person per day.
Indonesian citizens: Around IDR 70,000–75,000 per day.
Ranger or Guide Fees: Guides are required for all on-island treks; around IDR 120,000 (INR 641) per group for short treks
Travel Tips
Book early: It’s advised to book early with the upcoming daily visitor cap of 1,000 from April 2026.
Carry enough cash: ATMs in Labuan Bajo are limited. So carry enough cash.
Respect the local rules: It’s necessary for travellers to respect the locals and their rules.
Eco-friendly travel: Avoid plastic waste, respect wildlife, and choose sustainable operators to support conservation.
Komodo National Park still remains one of Indonesia’s most amazing and biologically diverse destinations. And with this new cap system, it is expected to safeguard the beauty of the park. The 1,000-visitor limit is an important step towards protecting Komodo National Park’s fragile ecosystems. Travellers can experience the park responsibly while enjoying the unique wildlife of the park. Also, the initiative highlights Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Why cap is necessary
Komodo National Park is spread across the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Padar, Gili Motang, and Nusa Kode. In the last 10 years, the park has been experiencing a surge in tourism. Last year, the park recorded 340,000 visitors. The overwhelming number of tourists was concerning for local authorities, and conservationists. It started degradation of the park’s ecosystems which are extremely delicate.
Saving marine biodiversity
The park is also rich in marine biodiversity which is exceptionally sensitive to human activity. Marine life in the park is otherworldly and the coral reefs are at risk from diving and snorkelling. The waters of the park are the natural home of sea turtles, manta rays, sharks and dolphins.
The park is also a part of the Coral Triangle, which is known as the global epicenter of marine biodiversity. It is a dream destination of divers and snorkellers from across the globe as here they get a glimpse into the fragile beauty of the endless ocean.
How to Reach Labuan Bajo (getaway to Komodo National Park)
To reach the park you need to reach Labuan Bajo town which is set on Flores Island. The town is the gateway to the Komodo National Park. You can book park activities, flights, boats, and guided tours from the town only. Labuan Bajo is well connected by Komodo Airport (LBJ).
From Bali (Denpasar): This is among the most common routes and direct flights from Bali take an hour. The cost can vary from season to season.
From Jakarta or Surabaya: Direct flights are available which take about 2.5 hours.
How to reach Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo
The only way to reach Komodo National Park is by boat from Labuan Bajo.
Speedboat day trips: There are speed boats available which are perfect for short day visits to Komodo, Rinca, and Padar Islands. Prices range between US$60 (INR 5,323) –100 (INR 8,871) per person. The prices generally are inclusive of pickup and boat transport.
Public ferries: For a budget-friendly trip, public ferries are available which are cheap and slow.
Best Time to Visit Komodo National Park
April to October and November to March are considered the best times to explore the beauty of Komodo.
April to October: It is considered the best time because the weather is sunny and perfect for diving. This is the time when diving and snorkelling is at its peak.
November to March: During this time, tourism activities are low because of frequent rain and rougher seas. An advantage of visiting during this time is that there are fewer tourists and discounted prices on accommodation and tours.
Price
If you plan to visit Komodo, start saving some extra bucks. Visiting Komodo National Park can be done on several budgets.
Entrance and Activity Fees
As per latest update, visitors are required to pay official entrance:
Foreign visitors: Around IDR 250,000 (INR 1,336) per person per day.
Indonesian citizens: Around IDR 70,000–75,000 per day.
Ranger or Guide Fees: Guides are required for all on-island treks; around IDR 120,000 (INR 641) per group for short treks
Travel Tips
Book early: It’s advised to book early with the upcoming daily visitor cap of 1,000 from April 2026.
Carry enough cash: ATMs in Labuan Bajo are limited. So carry enough cash.
Respect the local rules: It’s necessary for travellers to respect the locals and their rules.
Eco-friendly travel: Avoid plastic waste, respect wildlife, and choose sustainable operators to support conservation.
Komodo National Park still remains one of Indonesia’s most amazing and biologically diverse destinations. And with this new cap system, it is expected to safeguard the beauty of the park. The 1,000-visitor limit is an important step towards protecting Komodo National Park’s fragile ecosystems. Travellers can experience the park responsibly while enjoying the unique wildlife of the park. Also, the initiative highlights Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
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