Komodo Diving Holidays: An Overview
Komodo National Park, located in the Lesser Sunda Islands east of Bali, is home to some of the most exciting waters in Indonesia. With nutrient rich currents providing the perfect conditions for all sorts of marine fauna and flora, the diving here is exceptional with the added bonus of breath-taking scenery.
The islands of Komodo, Padar and Rinca along with many other smaller islands make up the stunning landscape of the national park. Best experienced by liveaboard or yacht, sailing amongst the islands of the park is magical with seemingly endless rugged hills of dry savannah surrounded by pink sands beaches and crystal clear turquoise water.
The islands are also home to the world's only 'dragon', the Komodo dragon, with around 5,700 of the giant lizards roaming the lands. The Komodo dragon is the largest living species of lizard on the planet growing to between two and three metres, 165 kilograms, and hence is one of the biggest draws to this region.
Just when you think things can't get any better, you delve into the underwater world of Komodo. The meeting of cold and warm water currents causes nutrient-rich thermoclines which in turn attracts an incredible amount of marine life from pristine reefs packed with corals to huge schools of fish, manta rays and dolphins. Currents can be strong as well as rip tides and whirl pools so you need to dive it right, but there is also plenty of diving for beginners too. The visibility can be spectacular and if you can tear your eyes away from the big stuff, there are also plenty of small reef dwellers to keep you occupied. Some of our favourite dives include Batu Bolong abundant with hard and soft corals and so many fish you can hardly see your buddy and Castle Rock which is an exciting drift dive of pinnacles populated by huge schools of fish.
Komodo is hard to beat one it comes to a diving holiday or for those that don't dive there is also plenty for them to do. Take a walk up one of the grassy hill sides to have a panoramic view of the islands, kayaking in turquoise bays or at the right time of year, surfing is fantastic.
Whether you are travelling as a family, couple, for a special occasion or on your own, a trip to Komodo will be hard to beat.
