Getting to Komodo & Away: Pink Beach

Air Travel

Main Airport

Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo, Flores Island, serves as the gateway to Komodo National Park. Daily flights connect it to major Indonesian cities.

Flight Hubs

Jakarta (CGK) offers direct flights to Labuan Bajo.
Denpasar, Bali (DPS) connects with frequent flights to Labuan Bajo.
Other regional airports may offer connecting routes.

Booking Flights

Book domestic flights in advance, especially during peak season, as capacity can be limited. Compare prices across different airlines.

Booking Resources

Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner for options.
Consider flight deal alerts from Dollar Flight Club.
Flexibility with dates can lead to better fares.

Baggage Allowances

Domestic flights often have stricter baggage limits. Check airline policies before packing.

Airport Transfers

Taxis and pre-booked transfers are available from Komodo Airport to Labuan Bajo town or harbor.

Connections

Allow ample time for connections, especially if transiting through busy airports like Jakarta or Bali.

Airline Options

Major Carriers

Garuda Indonesia: National airline, known for service.
Citilink: Low-cost subsidiary of Garuda, reliable.
Batik Air: Full-service airline with good connections.
Lion Air / Wings Air: Budget options, often with many flights.

Considerations

Punctuality can vary, especially with budget airlines.
Baggage allowances differ; check specific airline policies.
Online check-in can save time at the airport.
Flight cancellations or delays can happen; flexibility helps.

Travel from Labuan Bajo Airport

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Some local ride-hailing apps may also function here.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels in Labuan Bajo offer complimentary airport pickup services. Inquire with your accommodation.

Walking Distance

Some guesthouses and hotels are within walking distance of the airport for light packers.

Sea Travel to Pink Beach

Boat Options

From Labuan Bajo, various boat options connect you to Pink Beach and other Komodo National Park sites. Choose based on your budget and preference.

Types of Boats

Private Charter: Offers flexibility and exclusivity.
Shared Tour Boats: Budget-friendly, fixed itineraries.
Liveaboards: Multi-day trips for diving or extensive park visits.

Booking Tours

Book your Komodo National Park tour and Pink Beach excursion through reputable operators in Labuan Bajo or online in advance.

Finding Operators

Many tour agencies are in Labuan Bajo town center.
Online booking platforms offer pre-trip arrangements.
Hotels often work with trusted local tour providers.

Journey Duration

The boat trip from Labuan Bajo to Pink Beach varies in duration depending on the boat type and stops along the way.

Approximate Times

Speedboat: ~30-60 minutes, direct.
Traditional wooden boat: ~1.5-2 hours, direct.
Full-day tour: Variable, including other island stops.

What to Expect on Board

Boat tours typically include lunch, water, and snorkeling gear. Some offer additional amenities.

Amenities & Tips

Meals and refreshments are usually served onboard.
Life jackets are standard safety equipment on all vessels.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) remains important on deck.

Safety on Boats

Be mindful of sea conditions; waves can be choppy.
The sun's intensity on the water requires constant sun protection.
Never overload boats; prioritize safety.

Listen to your boat captain and crew instructions.
Cell service can be patchy at sea.
Know your itinerary and expected return time.

Land Transportation in Labuan Bajo

Around Town

Labuan Bajo is small enough to explore on foot, but taxis and ojeks (motorbike taxis) are available for longer distances or convenience.

Local Movement

Ojeks offer quick, budget-friendly transport. Agree on a fare before riding.
Taxis and private cars for hire offer more comfort and space.

Extended Exploration

For exploring Flores Island beyond Labuan Bajo, consider renting a car with a driver for day trips to attractions like local villages or waterfalls.

Island Hopping

Car rentals, often with a driver, are suited for exploring Flores.
Road conditions outside Labuan Bajo can be variable.
Plan your route with local guidance.

Motorbike Taxis Ojeks

A common, quick way to travel short distances within Labuan Bajo. Agree on price upfront.

Private Cars

Hiring a car with a driver offers comfort and local expertise for day tours around Flores.

Walking

Labuan Bajo's town center is pedestrian-friendly, with many restaurants and shops nearby.

Leaving Komodo

Flight Departures

Confirm your flight details and airline check-in times. Arrive at Komodo Airport with enough time for security procedures.

Departure Checklist

Reconfirm flight schedules 24-48 hours before departure.
Have your e-ticket or boarding pass ready.
Keep your passport and visa (if any) accessible.

Alternative Routes

While air travel is the quickest option, other travel methods exist for exploring more of Indonesia.

Further Travel

Public ferries connect Labuan Bajo to other islands like Lombok and Sumbawa.
Overland buses traverse Flores, connecting towns and sights.
Private boat charters can arrange transfers to nearby islands.

Airport Facilities

Check-in Counters

Standard airline check-in counters are available for all departing flights.

Cafes & Shops

A few small cafes offer refreshments, and souvenir shops are present.

Restrooms

Basic restroom facilities are available within the terminal building.

Final Check

Reconfirm your boat and flight times a day before departure to account for any last-minute changes.

Getting to Komodo & Away