Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park lies in between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. The main attraction of the park is the last surviving species of Dragon, the Komodo; a verity of Lizard.
 
The park was established in 1980 with the initial agenda of conservation of the exclusive Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and its dwelling place. Although down the years the motive has shifted from solely Komodo to protecting the biodiversity of the entire region. The park was selected as one of the World Heritage Sites and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. These recognitions indicated the biological importance of the park worldwide.

Komodo National Park is spread over an expansive area of 1817 sq. km including both marine and land covering three islands, Komodo, Rinca and Padar along with numerous smaller islands.

The surface area of the park is projected to be increased to 2,321 sq. km. The park is not just the home to the Komodo Dragons but it also provides the ideal habitat to the other terrestrial species like the orange-footed scrub fowl, an endemic rat, and the Timor deer. Another colorful façade of the park is its rich and colorful reservoir of the marine animals.

One can enjoy the brilliant stretch of coral reefs, seagrass beds, seamounts and mangroves. One can also enjoy the beauty of the semi-enclosed bays which are truly captivating. The marine life also includes around 1000 species of fish, a staggering 260 different species of reef-building coral and 70 beautiful kinds of sponges. The playful display of the Dugong, sharks and manta rays along with 14 other species of whales, sea turtles and dolphins are the bonus for the visitors.

The park serves as the ideal habitat fro the endangered species of the Komodo Dragons along with the other species with its ideal climate and the facilities.

The nearest airport to Komodo National Park is Komodo Airport (IATA: LBJ, ICAO: WATO). Distance to Komodo National Park from the Airport is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles). Komodo Airport is the primary gateway for visitors to Komodo National Park. After landing at Komodo Airport, visitors can take a short boat ride from Labuan Bajo to the islands within the national park, where they can see the famous Komodo dragons and explore the area's natural beauty.