RRI.CO.ID, East Nusa Tenggara - Komodo National Park has become one of Indonesia's premier natural tourist destinations, offering a blend of natural beauty, underwater wealth, and the experience of seeing the ancient Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) in its natural habitat.

Komodo National Park is located between the provinces of East Nusa Tenggara and West Nusa Tenggara. This park consists of three main islands, namely Komodo Island, Rinca Island, and Padar Island, as well as dozens of other small islands. This park has also been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve since 1991.

Quoted from the official Wonderful Indonesia website, here are several interesting activities that tourists can do when visiting Komodo National Park:

1. Seeing Komodo dragons in their natural habitat

The main attraction of Komodo National Park is the opportunity to see Komodo dragons up close. This Indonesian endemic reptile can grow up to about three meters and weigh more than 70 kilograms. Tourists must be accompanied by official rangers and maintain a safe distance for their safety while in the komodo habitat area.

2. Enjoying the unique landscape of Komodo nature

The Komodo National Park area has a unique terrain with a combination of hills, dry savannas, and rich waters. The dry climate with a long dry season creates a natural panorama that is different from other tourist areas.

3. Exploring the richness of terrestrial and marine fauna

In addition to komodo dragons, the archipelago is home to various wildlife such as Timor deer, wild buffalo, wild boars, and orange-legged sea eagles. Under the sea, tourists can find more than 1,000 species of fish, coral reefs, turtles, dolphins, whales, and even manta rays.

4. Diving at world-class spots

Komodo National Park has around 100 dive sites scattered around Komodo, Rinca, and Padar Islands. The underwater beauty with its rich ecosystem makes it one of the favorite locations for divers worldwide. Tourists are advised to use experienced operators because some locations have quite strong currents.

5. Hike up Padar Island and enjoy the iconic panorama

Padar Island has become one of the favorite locations for tourists to enjoy the view from a height. From its peak, visitors can see a panoramic view of the sea with a crescent-shaped beach cluster that is the island's hallmark.

6. Relax at Pink beach, Komodo Island

Pink Beach, the famed pink-sand beach, has become one of the unique attractions of Komodo National Park. The color of the sand comes from a mixture of white sand and crushed red coral. Apart from enjoying the scenery, tourists can also go snorkeling to see the underwater beauty.

7. Discovering the lifestyle of the Bajo tribe community on Mesa Island

Pulau Mesa offers an experience of observing the life of coastal communities, particularly the Bajo Tribe known as sea nomads. Tourists can witness the activities of residents processing marine products and the traditional life in the fishing village area.

8. Snorkeling at Kanawa Island

Kanawa Island is a choice for tourists who want to enjoy the clarity of the sea water and the beauty of the coral reefs. From around the pier alone, visitors can see tropical fish and a well-preserved marine ecosystem.

9. Witnessing the sunset phenomenon on Kalong island

In the evening, tourists can witness thousands of bats or flying foxes leaving their habitat in the mangrove forest area of Kalong Island. This phenomenon has become one of the unique natural attractions with a sunset backdrop.

10. Observing Komodo dragons on Rinca Island

Rinca Island offers an experience of seeing Komodo dragons in a more natural setting. However, due to the aggressive nature of the Komodo dragons, tourists must follow the ranger's instructions and prioritize safety, especially while in the area.

With a combination of ancient wildlife, natural panoramas, local cultural heritage, and underwater richness, Komodo National Park has become a tourist destination that offers both adventure experiences and conservation education for visitors.