Se'i Sapi
Beef smoked over kosambi wood and sliced thin, served with lu'at chilli sambal. It has a distinctive smoky aroma and the meat stays tender.
Nusa Tenggara Timur
Labuan Bajo
The Gateway to Komodo Island and the Flores Sea
Destination story
Labuan Bajo in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, is the entrance to Komodo National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. The area protects the Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard, which lives in the wild on only a few islands in Indonesia.
Travel between islands is usually done aboard phinisi-style wooden boats. From the dry hilltop of Padar Island, a view of three sandy bays in different colours stretches out below, while at Pink Beach the sand looks reddish because of fragments of red coral organisms.
Between the islands, clear waters offer snorkelling among the corals and a chance to see manta rays at certain spots. In the evening, sunset from the boat's deck is a memorable way to end the day.
Why visitThe prime place to see Komodo dragons in the wild, combined with savanna islands and a wide blue sea.
Highlights & attractions
Things to do
Marine
Adventure
Must-Try Local Dishes
In Labuan Bajo, try Se'i Sapi, Kopi Manggarai, Kopi Sumba and Jagung Bose. Food from other regions
Kopi Manggarai
Coffee from smallholder farms in Flores, traditionally processed by villagers such as those in Wae Rebo. Simply brewed, it tastes clean and fragrant.
Kopi Sumba
Coffee grown in the hills of Sumba and sold by farmers as a souvenir. Brew it in the morning while looking out at the savanna.
Jagung Bose
Corn kernels cooked with coconut milk and beans until tender and savoury. A staple of East Nusa Tenggara found across many islands.
Travel tips
- Follow the rangers' instructions in Komodo habitat: keep your distance and don't carry strongly scented food.
- Wear closed shoes when hiking Padar Island because the trail is steep and rocky.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen; many spots have no shade.
- Seasickness medicine is useful for boat trips between islands.
Open trip packages to Labuan Bajo
1 package available, from Rp 2.790.000.
