Padar Island
Padar Island Padar Island is a part of the cluster of Komodo National Park. This small island is as exotic as Labuan Bajo. Since this island is addictive, skipping a piece of happiness on this island is something you would regret. Therefore, you have to find out, at least, ways to reach there, what you can see, what you need to pack, and where to stay. So, let’s start the journey! If it feels expensive to rent a speedboat, the simpler way is you can benefit from a travel agent service providing a complete package to explore Labuan Bajo. Joining an open trip with other travellers could be considered as well. These ways make you less overwhelmed thinking about the transportation, accommodation, meals, and how to get around the island. The pursuit to heaven is not done yet, by the way. When you finally anchor at the island, you have to hike to the peak to see the landscape in panoramic view. At this point, you would need around 30 minutes trekking to finish the 45 degree slope angle. What is there in Padar Island? Speaking of nature, exotism and satisfaction, this island offers them all. Although you need a little bit of effort on the journey, the end result would be so much worth it. You wouldn’t regret the breathtaking view when you first arrive. As mentioned earlier, hiking to the peak of the hill lets you find out why it is called exotic. The combination of hills surrounding the sea and the sea itself creates harmony. When you visit in the rainy season, the hills will be covered by grass and they will look green and blue creating a beautiful landscape. It is going to be totally different if you come in the dry season because the hills will be so dry that the green view turns into a sandy one, like a beautiful savana. Both views spoil your eyes and soul in different ways. Besides, the beautiful orange sunset could be enjoyed there, if you plan to spend your time in the evening. It is also kind of the best moment when you come there very early in the morning waiting for the sunrise. Everything just feels so pretty. If you mind being exposed to the sun along your hiking, you might not want to visit the island at noon. Let’s move on to the sea surrounding the island. Imagine the blue and green color seen from the water with white, pinkish, and black sands on the seaside. Yes, what’s so unique about Padar island is that it has several beaches with different colors. Amazing, right? If you are a sea person who loves to dive, this is the right place to do diving and snorkeling. This little paradise has wonderful underwater scenery with 42 attractive diving spots. Things to Pack The route and the trek to get to Padar Island is not too difficult but at the same time not that simple. Being fit physically is a must. Along with that, footwear choice matters. You had better wear sports shoes, non-slippery shoes, or you can also put hiking boots/slippers on. As for emergency rescue, packing first aid is a good thing. Along the way trekking the hills, you wouldn’t find any banister. If you want to have something to hold on to keep your balance, you can also bring a hiking stick. Since the slope is quite steep to get to the peak, it is better for you to bring a lightweight luggage on your back. This is significant to eliminate your load, and you will feel less exhausted. Lastly, bring some drinking water if you don’t want to get dehydrated. Where to Stay Still and all, please put in mind that Padar Island is quite far. Don’t be stressed out, there are some recommended lodgings not too far yet providing a nice staying experience. If you decide to stay in a resort, Ayana Komodo Resort would be one of the best. It offers you an amazing view directly to the sea with such a magnificent design. The resort creates a kind of bridge to hub a certain dining area so it is like you can walk across the sea. In a different way, hostels have recently become travellers’ favorite. They are simple and usually budget friendly. One of the popular ones is One Tree Hill Hostel. Despite the affordable rate, this hostel also pampers you with an aesthetic view to the sea. It is such a complete package for travellers. How to Get There You would need more time to enjoy the whole island and its beautiful neighbors. It is suggested to spend around four days exploring due to the route and journey. Starting from Denpasar, you would need to take a flight to Labuan Bajo first, and it would take approximately 30 minutes. After stepping onto Labuan Bajo, continue your trip by reaching Loh Liang dock in Komodo Island to get to Padar Island by speedboat in around three hours. Source: https://www.indonesia.travel/
Manta Point
Manta Point The breathtaking underwater splendor of Manta Point Labuan Bajo awaits you as soon as you reach its waters. You may see the manta rays’ elegant movements in their natural environment here. Manta rays, which can grow up to 7 meters wide, are frequently spotted playing and feeding in the crystal, clean waters surrounding this location. For everyone who enjoys aquatic life, seeing these gentle giants in person is a breathtaking and unforgettable experience. But manta rays aren’t the only thing that make Manta Point Labuan Bajo so beautiful. There are many more types of marine life in addition to manta rays, such as sea turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral reefs. You will be transported to a colorful and dynamic world beneath the placid water surface if you dive or snorkel here. Explore the Underwater Wonders: An Unforgettable Experience Manta Point Labuan Bajo is a must-visit destination for underwater adventure enthusiasts. Here, you will be invited to explore the stunning underwater natural wonders. Located near Komodo Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Manta Point offers an unforgettable diving and snorkeling experience with majestic manta rays. As you enter these waters, you will be immediately captivated by the stunning underwater beauty. Manta Point is known for the presence of graceful and large manta rays, which are often seen swimming and playing in the surrounding waters. You can witness their elegant movements as they glide among the coral reefs and tropical fish ponds. Besides manta rays, you can also find various other species, ranging from colorful fish to adorable sea turtles. The experience of witnessing the abundant marine life at Manta Point will leave a lasting impression on every visitor. Location and Accessibility Manta Point is located near Komodo National Park on Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Its strategic location makes it an easily accessible destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from all over the world. In addition to being famous for its clear waters, Komodo Island is also home to the ancient dragon, the Komodo Dragon, which is a unique tourist attraction. To reach Manta Point, you need to head to Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, which is the main gateway to Komodo National Park. Labuan Bajo can be easily accessed by air or sea. The nearest airport is Komodo Airport, which is only a few kilometers from Labuan Bajo. Several airlines operate flights to Komodo Airport from major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya. For those who prefer sea travel, there are several ferry services connecting Labuan Bajo with other cities in Indonesia, such as Bali and Lombok. In addition, you can also rent a boat or private yacht for a more luxurious experience. Although it is not fast, this sea journey will give you a unique and enjoyable experience. However, this is the right choice if you are planning a slow journey with many stops along the way. Upon arriving in Labuan Bajo, you can continue your journey to Manta Point using a speedboat or a traditional boat. The journey takes about one to one and a half hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. It is recommended to book a tour with a reputable operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. With easy accessibility and its beautiful location, Manta Point Labuan Bajo is an ideal choice for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park Flores is one the most fascinating and beautiful island, located in the southern part of Indonesia in East Nusa Tenggara province. Geographically, Flores is part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. From west to east the main Lesser Sunda Islands are Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba, Timor, Alor archipelago, Barat Daya Islands and Tanimbar Islands. Long hidden in the shadows of its more famous neighbor Bali, the island of Flores is finally emerging as a unique destination of its own. So, after visiting the lair of the Komodo dragons, take time to marvel at some of the wonders of Flores. Here, you can swim in pristine lakes and waterfalls, dive at one of the 50 spectacular dive sites, go kayaking among craggy coasts and mangrove shores, explore mysterious caves and be warmly welcomed by the island’s people in their rituals, dances and daily life. Flores spell adventure, diving, eco-tours, and mountain climbing interspersed with visits to prehistoric heritage sites, traditional villages and cultural events. Find some of the world’s most exotic underwater life, dive in the pristine seas of Komodo, or swim along with huge manta rays, dolphins, and dugongs on the island of Flores! One of several histories of the name “Flores” was said to come from Tanjung Bunga, a sub-district in East Flores. In the 1500s a Portuguese navigator António de Abreu reach this place and saw blooming flowers all over the island. Then came S.M Cabot who described this place as Cabo das Flores, translated as the cape of flowers. In 1636 Hendrik Brouwer, the Dutch Indies Governor General validated Flores as the official name for the Island. Flores also was known as Nusa Nipa, or the Snake Island. The name was said to depict due to the shape of the island, the fact that Flores is a habitat for snakes and the ancient belief that the snake was the ancestor of the island. You can come by to the Blikon Blewut Museum in Maumere, and learn a glimpse of Florinese history. There are 8 major ethnic groups in Flores, namely the Manggarai, Riung, Ngada, Nage-Keo, Ende, Lio, Sikka and Larantuka. There are also 8 regencies in Flores: West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Nagekeo, Ende, Sikka and East Flores. Labuan Bajo is the capital of West Manggarai, the gateway to many splendors of Flores. You can watch Caci dance in Manggarai, a live war dance performed in numerous traditional ceremonies. The dance is also popular as a warm greeting to welcome important guests. In East Manggarai, you can visit Rana Tonjong, a vast lake covered with giant lotus flowers that bloom from April to June. If you love beaches, don’t forget to sunbathe at Laing Lewe! In Ngada, you can come by and explore Taman Laut 17 Pulau. Translates as The17 Islands Ocean Park, it was also named in accordance to Indonesia’s anniversary date on the 17th. Here, you can discover exotic wildlife on land and beneath the ocean’s waters. Nagakeo is famous for Pulau Pasir Putih Rii Taa, a pristine pearly white-pinkish sandy island located just around an hour boat ride from the Marapokot harbor in Mbay city. The renowned three colored Lake Kelimutu is located in Ende. An amazing natural wonders that you definitely must experience yourself. While in Ende, you can also visit the unique Pengganjawa beach. With black sand and plenty of stones in turquoise hues scattered on its shore, a sight that you don’t see often! Maumere is the capital of Sikka. Besides the museum and beaches, you can head to Tanjung Kajuwulu and Nilo hill, to enjoy the soothing view unfolding beneath you. Last but certainly not least is Larantuka, the capital of East Flores. The city is famous for its Easter celebration named Semana Santa. A festive march carried off the day of Good Friday, across the heart of Larantuka. Source: https://www.indonesia.travel/
Saleh Bay, Sumbawa
Saleh Bay – Sumbawa When it comes to Sumbawa Regency tourism, many tourists have been aware of Teluk Saleh or Saleh Bay. It becomes the home of small exotic gilis or islands, after all. That means the bay has attracted tons of tourists over time. Aside from the popularity and presence of beautiful small islands, the bay is also known for its wonderful sea panorama and underwater beauty. No wonder, most people would enjoy several activities like snorkeling, photography, diving, and sightseeing. Some people visit the Tanjung Saleh to conduct island hopping as well! It is because the accessibility is excellent, so tourists are able to get from one island to other islands. The Nuance Both the nuance and beauty is not inferior to that of Lombok Island. With several exotic islands on it, Saleh Bay has an unlimited option of attraction! In fact, each island offers a distinct beauty to visitors. As for the location, the bay is bordering with the Flores Sea. Due to the nice accessibility, the site also becomes a perfect location for fishing! The combination of abundant fishes and clear seawater satisfies everyone, for sure. Exploring Saleh Bay The first allure in Saleh Bay is the crystal clear waters. This beauty amazes everyone and never runs out popularity in fact. Tourists can enjoy the sea scenery while exploring Saleh Bay or during island hopping. This is why everyone must carry enough cash to rent a boat for the exploration. From the boat, tourists are even able to watch fishes and corals directly! Thanks to the clarity of seawater Indonesia. The sea looks like a giant aquarium, somehow. The only consideration is only the weather. Tourists should only come during a good weather. The next allure in Saleh Bay is definitely the formation of small islands. Each of them has a unique beauty, so tourists should explore them all later. For example, Gili Meriam is suitable for camping and spending the comfy night in nature. One thing, tourists must come with enough equipment and supplies during island hopping. Importantly, they must find a reliable boat service first. As for a tour guide, it depends on each person’s preference. What is more? Well, Saleh Bay is known for the sunset. The good thing is tourists can enjoy these panoramas from different spots. Aside from the sun views, the next impressive sight is the famous Tambora Mountain on the horizon. It often becomes a background for photography, in fact. The next thing to enjoy when visiting Saleh Bay is water sports. It can be swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Nearby Attractions Moyo Island Liang Island Ngali Island Moyo Island Liang Island Ngali Island How to Get There In order to reach Saleh Bay, tourists should head to Sumbawa Regency first. They can get there faster by airplane, actually. For example, the flight may take around 4 hours and 5 minutes from Soekarno – Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) to Sultan Muhammad Kaharuddin Airport in Sumbawa. Once arriving at Sumbawa Besar City, the next thing to do is to reach the local port and ride a boat to explore Saleh Bay! Source: https://indonesia-tourism.com/
The Whale Sharks of Teluk Saleh, Sumbawa
The Whale Sharks of Teluk Saleh, Sumbawa Located on the island of Sumbawa in the Indonesian archipelago, Teluk Saleh has quickly become a must-visit destination for diving and snorkeling passionates. This place is especially renowned for its spectacular encounters with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. Teluk Saleh boasts the second-largest concentration of whale sharks after Cenderawasih Bay. Another advantage of Teluk Saleh is its easy accessibility from Bali, Komodo, or Maumere during our cruises, making it an ideal destination for diving and marine life enthusiasts. A Sanctuary for Whale Sharks Teluk Saleh is a true sanctuary for whale sharks, attracting these marine giants with its plankton-rich waters. To date, around 110 whale sharks have been recorded in the region, making it a prime site for scientists and ecotourists. Marine Conservation and Sustainable Development Initiatives in Saleh Bay The Indonesian government, in collaboration with the Institut Français and Konservasi Indonesia, is working to create a Marine Protected Area (MPA) to preserve this unique ecosystem and foster a sustainable economy for local communities. This project aims to protect whale sharks while supporting economic development through responsible tourism. The Sumbawa Whale Shark Experience in Teluk Saleh For divers and snorkelers, Teluk Saleh offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Swimming alongside these gentle giants is an impressive and moving adventure. Whale sharks come under the bagans, traditional Indonesian fishing platforms, to suck on the fishermen’s nets. They remain just below the surface, allowing interactions both while snorkeling and scuba diving. For divers, the immersion is in shallow waters, which allows for particularly long underwater observation of these sea giants. It is not uncommon for some dives to last around 2 hours or even longer! The excursions are carefully organized to minimize impact on the animals while maximizing observation opportunities. The whale sharks of Teluk Saleh are accustomed to human presence, allowing for respectful and safe interactions. These encounters offer not only a chance to marvel at nature’s beauty but also to realize the necessity of protecting these vulnerable creatures. A Harmonious Collaboration Between Nature and Culture Tourism around whale sharks in Teluk Saleh goes beyond marine observation. It also includes cultural elements, allowing visitors to discover the richness of local traditions. The communities of Sumbawa actively participate in these initiatives, offering authentic and educational experiences. The involvement of these communities in protecting whale sharks is crucial to the success of conservation efforts. Adelaar Liveaboard Whale Shark Trips to Sumbawa Many Adelaar cruises include swimming and diving in Teluk Saleh, and they all feature the name “The Whale Sharks of Sumbawa.” To increase our chances of observing the maximum number of individuals under the bagans during our visit, we have chosen to coincide these visits with new moons, as this seems to be the best time. Best Time to See Whale Sharks in Sumbawa Whale sharks can be seen in Sumbawa year-round, during the new moons which offer the best opportunity to spot whale sharks, as previously mentioned. However, to experience the best and most optimal weather, like in the case for most of Indonesia, the dry season would typically be more preferable for most visitors. Whale Shark Sumbawa Trips Schedule Every year, from May to November, we offer several cruises to Sumbawa aboard our luxury liveaboard boat, the Adelaar, departing from Bali, Komodo, and Maumere. Choose from scheduled trips lasting 6 to 10 nights, or opt for a private charter for a customized adventure. Source: https://adelaar-cruises.com/
Kenawa Island, Sumbawa
Kenawa Island, Sumbawa For the next holiday, tourists must consider exploring Sumbawa Regency. It is the home of exotic culture and beautiful nature, after all. The region even has a stunning archipelago, located in the north part of it. One of the best islands to visit, in this case, is called Kenawa. It belongs to Poto Tano Sub-District and offers a serene landscape and majestic sea scenery. That means the island is suitable to enjoy a peaceful vacation and conduct photography. Some people even take the chance to enjoy camping and snorkeling there! The Nuance The nuance is both serene and comfortable. It is because Kenawa is considered an uninhabited island. Only several traditional buildings reside on it, especially the huts located near to the pier. The total size is around 13 hectares and it features numerous stunning landscapes too! For instance, a small hill resides in the midst of it. Plus, the island is covered by a savanna and several trees. When it comes to the shore, it has a white shoreline with its soft-textured sand. The sea is calm and the water has a nice clarity for snorkeling and swimming! Exploring Kenawa Island One of the reasons why Kenawa Island famous is due to the fact that it once becomes a movie set for Serdadu Kumbang. Tourists are interested to watch the beautiful landscape directly, therefore. The thing is the island is uninhabited, so visitors won’t find facilities and accommodations there. That means tourists would feel uncomfortable if they decided to spend the night on the island, without lighting and a proper place to sleep. Despite this issue, Kenawa offers perfect scenery and great landscapes for numerous types of tourist activities! The most common thing to do in Kenawa Island is to explore the shoreline. Usually, tourists may reach the pier and enjoy either sightseeing or photography on it. That spot is also suitable to witness the stunning sunrise early in the morning! What is more? Aside from sightseeing and photography, tourists usually enjoy water sports like swimming and snorkeling. Within the range of 3-5 meters, the shore feels like a swimming pool with its excellent clarity and shallowness. For those who can’t swim, in this case, they can simply conduct beach walking and hunt for small creatures like starfishes and shells. Later, tourists also need to explore other parts of the island especially the lonely hill located in the midst of the island. From the top of the hill, tourists can even see fishermen’s boats on the horizon! Nearby Attractions Namo Beach Pasir Putih Poto Tano Pulau Ular Namo Beach Pasir Putih Poto Tano Pulau Ular How to Get There From Jakarta City, a trip to Sumbawa Regency takes about 4 hours and 5 minutes by airplane. Tourists only need to get the suitable airplane at Soekarno – Hatta International Airport and head to Sultan Muhammad Kaharudding III Airport right away. Once they arrive at Sumbawa Besar City, their next destination is the Badas Port. This may take about 25 minutes to reach Kenawa Island, actually. For those who come from Poto Tano Port, on the other hand, may spend about 1 – 2 hours to get there.