- Location: East Small Sunda Islands, Indonesia
- Water area: Indian Ocean
- Area: 390 square meters. km
- Highest point: 823 m
- Population: 2000 people.
- Density of population: 5.128 people / sq. Km. km
- Year of foundation of the park: 1980
- Website: komodonationalpark.org
Between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa , in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, lies the island of Komodo. He was famous for his famous lizards - Komodo lizards. But not only is the island famous. Let's find out what else attracts many tourists here.
Geography and population
Komodo is considered the territory of the homonymous national park and belongs to the Small Sunda Islands. Here is where the island of Komodo is located on the world map:
As for the local population, this is mainly the descendants of prisoners who were once landed on this island. Gradually, they mingled with the tribe of the Boogis, residing in Sulawesi . The entire population of the island (about 2000 people) is concentrated in the large village of Kampong Komodo.
There is a beautiful legend about the inseparable connection of aborigines with the Komodo dragons. It says that at the beginning of everything there were 2 eggs. From the first hatched man - "orang komodo", and he was called the elder brother. And from the second there was a dragon - "ora", and began to be called younger. They were bound by destiny itself, and they can not exist without each other. True or fiction, it is unknown, but in favor of the legend says the following fact. When the government tried to move people from the territory of the national park to the neighboring island of Sumbawa, the dragons followed them. And then people had to return.
Flora and fauna
The most famous representative of the fauna of the island of Komodo is the Komodo lizard, the largest lizard in the world. They belong to the family of lizards and grow up to 3 m in length. Adults weigh about 80 kg. These animals are predators and extremely dangerous for humans. Take a look at the photo of one of the dragons of the island of Komodo:
In addition to surveying the terrestrial fauna, tourists are offered to descend under the water. Diving in Komodo provides an opportunity to see coral reefs and seamounts, admire the secluded bays. Reef sharks, dugongs, sea turtles, dolphins and several species of whales are found here.
Because of its volcanic origin and arid climate, the flora of the island of Komodo is rather poor compared to other islands of Indonesia , overgrown with jungles. The main interest is mangrove forests.
Visit
Most organized excursions to Komodo depart from Bali . Visiting the park is relatively safe, as it is accompanied by an experienced guide. Tourists will visit the habitats of the lizards and will be able to see from afar the huge lizards, who look menacingly at people, often sticking out bifurcated languages. Such an excursion promises an unforgettable experience!
An entrance ticket to the territory of the Komodo National Park costs 150 thousand rupees (on weekdays) or 225 thousand (on weekends). This is $ 11.25 and $ 17 respectively. Additional costs - tracking and guide services, they are not included in the price. Going to the island on your own, tickets should be purchased at the office of the park in the town of Loch Liang.
Where to stay?
Since the island is a protected area, it is illegal to build hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities in Indonesia . Tourists often come only for 1 day, but if desired, you can stay in the village of Kampong Komodo, with local residents. There are several guest houses (homestay).
How do I get to Komodo Island in Indonesia?
You can get to the island in two ways:
- Having bought a sightseeing tour on the island of Bali or in Jakarta .
- Arriving in Labuan Baggio, from where the island of dragons thrice a week goes public boat. The island has Komodo airport , the most convenient way to get there by air.