Explore Indonesia’s Komodo Island: Home to Giant Lizards and UNESCO Heritage Wonders

Why must you visit Komodo to see the Komodo dragons at least once in your lifetime?

Komodo Island, inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1991 and recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2018, is a breathtaking destination. Nestled within the Komodo National Park, which lies between the picturesque islands of Flores and Sumbawa, this enchanting island is a treasure trove of natural wonders.

Have you ever heard of the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest and only venomous reptile? These awe-inspiring creatures are found exclusively on four Indonesian islands. In recent years, poaching has severely impacted their ecology and population, leading to a temporary closure of the island for a year.

However, to support the local residents’ tourism-based livelihoods, the island was reopened to visitors in September 2019. Now, you have the unique opportunity to encounter these ancient, dinosaur-like beings!

The only places on Earth where you can witness these majestic and prehistoric creatures are within the Komodo National Park and the surrounding small islands of Flores. With a global population largely concentrated here—approximately 1700 on Komodo Island alone—these dragons are the park’s star attraction.

While it’s an incredible experience, visitors must be extremely cautious and maintain a safe distance. When approaching these dangerous lizards, always have a local guide with you and follow all their instructions, even if they appear docile.

In addition to seeing the Komodo dragons, there are three hiking trails of varying lengths on Komodo Island, allowing you to explore and search for these magnificent creatures based on your personal preference. No matter which route you choose, a professional guide will accompany you, sharing insights into the island’s ecology and the unique characteristics of the Komodo dragons, while ensuring your safety.

As soon as you step into the park, an unforgettable journey begins. You’ll get up close and observe the Komodo dragons, living dinosaurs that have survived from ancient times. Don’t be fooled by their slow movements; they are incredibly dangerous. Always move with a local guide by your side.

The history of the Komodo dragon dates back to 1910 when Europeans first discovered them. In 1912, Peter Ouwens, the director of the Zoological Museum in Bogor, Java, wrote a groundbreaking report that introduced the Komodo dragon to the world. In 1980, the Komodo National Park was established to protect this unique species. The Komodo dragon (scientific name: Varanus komodoensis), also known as the Komodo monitor, is the largest living lizard species, found only on four islands in Indonesia.