Labuan Bajo

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
Discover the breathtaking coastal view of Nusa Tenggara Barat with vibrant waters and scenic trails.
Dimitri Dim, Pexels

Labuan Bajo serves as the main entry point to Komodo National Park, offering opportunities to see Komodo dragons, explore pristine beaches like the iconic Pink Beach, and experience world-class diving and snorkeling in vibrant marine ecosystems. Beyond the park, visitors can discover waterfalls, caves, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over a landscape of numerous islands.

The town center of Labuan Bajo provides various options for socializing, including restaurants, bars, and a lively night fish market at Kampung Ujung, where fresh seafood can be enjoyed by the waterfront. Several bars, such as Paradise Bar and Le Pirate Lounge and Deck Bar, offer live music, sunset views, and a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, facilitating interactions between locals and tourists. Hostels like La Boheme Bajo and Seaesta Komodo Hostel & Hotel are known for their social common areas, making it easy for solo travelers and backpackers to connect with others.

Top 5 Things to do in Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, island exploration, and natural wonders, alongside opportunities for cultural immersion and relaxation.

1. Komodo National Park Island Hopping

This full-day or multi-day boat tour embarks from Labuan Bajo, providing an immersive journey through the diverse landscapes and unique wildlife of Komodo National Park. Visitors typically trek on Komodo Island to encounter the famed Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, always accompanied by a park ranger for safety. A rewarding hike up Padar Island offers breathtaking panoramic views of its distinctive multi-colored beaches and surrounding islands. The journey also explores the unique Pink Beach, where the sand gets its hue from microscopic organisms, providing opportunities for swimming and relaxing. For those seeking underwater adventures, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs at spots like Kelor Island and swimming alongside majestic manta rays at Manta Point are common inclusions. Many tours also feature a stop at Taka Makassar, a small, crescent-shaped sand island ideal for swimming and photography.

Cost: The overall cost for a Komodo National Park tour varies significantly based on duration (one-day speedboat versus multi-day liveaboard) and the type of tour (shared or private). Entrance fees to Komodo National Park for international tourists typically range from IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000 per person, which often covers the park entry, trekking, snorkeling, and ranger fees . A one-day shared speedboat tour can start from approximately IDR 1,400,000 per person . For a multi-day liveaboard experience (e.g., 3 days and 2 nights), prices can begin from around IDR 3,550,000 per person for shared trips, with luxury options going much higher . Most tours do not include the Komodo National Park entrance fees in their initial price, requiring direct payment at the ranger posts .

Transport: All Komodo National Park tours depart from Labuan Bajo harbor. Many tour operators provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off services from hotels in Labuan Bajo to the harbor .

2. Rangko Cave

Rangko Cave is a hidden natural wonder featuring a crystal-clear, saltwater pool nestled within a limestone cave. The most enchanting time to visit is around midday when sunlight streams through a cave opening, illuminating the water with a magical blue glow. The water's unique mineral content can make floating effortless, offering a truly relaxing experience in a secluded environment. The journey to the cave involves a scenic boat ride, enhancing the sense of adventure.

Cost: The entrance fee to Rangko Cave is IDR 50,000 per person . To reach the cave by boat from Rangko Village pier, a private boat rental typically costs between IDR 250,000 and IDR 400,000 for a capacity of 5 to 7 people, with negotiation possible . Alternatively, half-day tours that include transfers, boat access, snorkeling gear, and the entrance fee start from approximately IDR 600,150 per person .

Transport: To get to Rangko Village, a 30-minute drive by car or scooter from Labuan Bajo is necessary . Scooter rentals are available for IDR 75,000 to IDR 150,000 per day . A car with a driver can be chartered for around IDR 550,000 for 6 hours . From Rangko Village, a 15 to 20-minute boat ride takes visitors to the cave's pier .

3. Batu Cermin Cave (Mirror Cave)

Batu Cermin Cave, also known as Mirror Cave, is a fascinating limestone formation situated near Labuan Bajo town. This cave is notable for a natural phenomenon where sunlight, particularly around midday, filters through an opening and reflects off its silica-rich walls, creating a mesmerizing 'mirror' effect. Exploring the cave reveals various stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing intricate formations shaped over centuries. Navigating some of the narrower passages adds an element of adventure to the visit.

Cost: The entrance fee for Batu Cermin Cave is IDR 10,000 per person, with an additional mandatory guide fee of IDR 20,000 per group . Combining this with a visit to Sylvia Hill, a half-day tour can be booked from around IDR 274,010 per person .

Transport: The cave is located approximately 4 kilometers from Labuan Bajo town, accessible by a 30-minute ride via motor vehicle . A local taxi can cost between IDR 50,000 and IDR 100,000 , while a rented scooter is an option from IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000 per day . From the parking area, a 10-15 minute walk leads to the cave entrance .

4. Sylvia Hill Sunset Viewpoint

Sylvia Hill provides a magnificent vantage point to witness the spectacular sunsets over Labuan Bajo and the surrounding islands of Komodo National Park. A relatively short trek to the summit reveals panoramic vistas, making it a favored spot for photographers and those seeking a tranquil end to their day. The lush natural surroundings contribute to the area's scenic charm.

Cost: There is generally no entrance fee to access Sylvia Hill . Some tours may include a visit as part of a larger package .

Transport: Sylvia Hill is about a 20-minute drive from the center of Labuan Bajo. It can be reached by scooter, which typically costs IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000 per day for rental , or by local taxi, costing approximately IDR 50,000 to IDR 100,000 . Public transportation such as an 'angkot' (local bus) is also an option, followed by a walk of about 3 kilometers .

5. Labuan Bajo Night Fish Market (Kampung Ujung)

As evening descends, the Labuan Bajo Night Fish Market at Kampung Ujung transforms into a lively culinary hub. Here, visitors can personally select from a wide array of fresh seafood, including various types of fish, crabs, and shellfish, and have it grilled immediately to their preference. This market offers an authentic glimpse into local life and provides a delightful opportunity to savor delicious, freshly prepared seafood by the waterfront.

Cost: The cost of food at the Night Fish Market varies depending on the type and quantity of seafood selected. Prices are generally considered reasonable for fresh seafood, though some visitors have noted potential tourist pricing .

Transport: The Night Fish Market is centrally located in Labuan Bajo and is often within walking distance from many accommodations in the town center .

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