Overview
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link.
This is a free way to support us and allows us to continue creating even more inspiring travel guides. Thank you for supporting the love we put into Coordinotes!
Rangko Cave
The Rangko cave is a hidden gem, close to Labuan Bajo. Inside this beautiful limestone cave, you can float in the clear blue water while enjoying the mysterious silence of the cave. It is a very unique experience and a must-do if you are exploring Labuan Bajo. The scenery gets even more magical, when the sunlight hits the water. That’s why you can best visit the Rangko cave in. the afternoon on a sunny day.
It’s a 30 minute drive, followed by a 15 minute boat ride to reach this place. You can either drive there yourself and negotiate with the locals to get a boat, or you can join an organized tour.
Practical
Entrance fee: 50.000 IDR per person
Boat: 250.000-300.000 IDR per boat, you have to negotiate with the locals
Daily: 06.30am - 6.00pm
No time to read now?
Save this post on Pinterest!
Komodo National Park
Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park. There are numerous unique things to do in Komodo including meeting the famous Komodo Dragons, climbing to the viewpoint of Padar Island, island hopping, and sunbath at Pink Beach. To explore Komodo, you can join a one or multiple-day boat tour from Labuan Bajo. Read here everything you need to know on visiting Komodo National Park.
Cunca Plias Waterfall
The Cunca Plias is a small waterfall, located about 45 minutes drive from Labuan Bajo. The reason you should visit Cunca Plias is not because of the waterfall itself. A little passed the waterfall, at the top of a second waterfall is a small natural infinity pool from where you have an incredible view of the valley. The water is clear and very refreshing. To get to the waterfall and the infinity pool, you have to go do a short, but sometimes steep and slippery trekking through the ‘jungle’ with a local guide.
Practical
75.000 IDR for 2, including guide
Daily open from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
Climb one of the hills to watch the sunset
Right outside the center of Labuan Bajo, you find multiple hills from where you can watch a magical sunset. The most famous hills are Bukit Cinta (or Love Hill) and Sylvia Hill. It is a short drive from the center and only a short hike to the top of the hills.
Batu Cermin
Located in the dark stone hills of Labuan Bajo, you find the Batu Cermin cave, also known as the Mirror Stone Cave. It is a unique cave system that gets its name from the reflective limestone walls. At the right time of the day, somewhere around midday, the sun shines directly on this wall, creating this special mirror-like effect.
Practical
75.000 IDR person
Daily open from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
Cunca Wulang
Cunca Wulang is another waterfall located in the area of Labuan Bajo. The special feature of this waterfall is that it is located in a beautiful canyon, where you can jump and swim in the river. Also here, it is mandatory to take a guide, although the path is very clear, he can tell you exactly where you can jump from the 5-meter-high cliffs into the water. Please note, only for people who can swim well because there seemed to be some current on the water.
Practical
50.000 IDR per person + 50.000 IDR for the guide
Daily open from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
Fish Market
The Labuan Bajo night fish market is your place to be if you want to try some local and affordable seafood. You’ll find many different kinds of fish, prawns, squid, lobster… fresh and locally caught. Even if you don’t like eating seafood, it’s still an interesting place to pass by and see all the different types of seafood on display in the different stalls.
Go Diving or Snorkeling
A must-do activity in Labuan Bajo is exploring its vibrant underwater world through snorkeling or diving. This city is known for its stunning coral reefs with diverse marine life. Here, you even have the chance to snorkel or dive with manta rays.
There are many companies offering snorkeling and diving tours to different places. Popular diving spots are Batu Bulong, Manta Point, Mawan, Sebayur Kecil, and Tatawa Besar. Taka Makassar, Kanawa Island, and Manta Point are the most famous spots to witness Labuan Bajo’s rich underwater life through snorkeling
Keep in mind that some of these places are known to have very strong currents. So, inform yourself in advance about what level of experience you need.
General Information
Best time to visit Labuan Bajo
The climate in Labuan Bajo is tropical and there are two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The best time to visit Labuan Bajo, particularly if you plan to explore the Komodo National Park and engage in outdoor activities, is during the dry season, between April and December. You can, of course, expect dry weather during dry season, but the sea conditions are also more favorable for activities such as diving and snorkeling. Know that the period from July to August is considered high season that is when you can expect bigger crowds and higher prices. Therefore, we recommend you visit Labuan Bajo from April to May and September to December. While it may be slightly less crowded than the peak months, the weather remains dry and pleasant.
While the rainy season can still be a viable time to visit, it’s important to be aware of the weather conditions. The landscapes are lush and green during this time, but outdoor activities such as diving may be more challenging or even canceled due to the rain. The multi-day boat tours along Komodo National Park, between Lombok and Flores usually do not even sail during this period.
How to get around
One of the best, easiest, and cheapest ways to explore Labuan Bajo and the best things to do in the area, is by scooter. Prices vary from 60.000 to 100.000 IDR per 24 hours. The roads in and around Labuan Bajo are generally in good condition.
The town of Labuan Bajo itself is relatively small and walkable. You can explore the local markets, waterfront, and nearby attractions on foot. Another option to explore the city center is by booking a motorbike taxi in the Grab app. If you require a car taxi, you can just grab one in the streets but don’t forget to bargain and agree on a fixed price before you get in.
If you prefer not to drive a scooter yourself to explore the surrounding area, you can also hire a private driver or book specific day trips. For some activities, you’ll require an organized tour or boat trip. There are numerous tour operators in Labuan Bajo that offer organized day trips and excursions to popular destinations like Komodo Island, Rinca Island, Padar Island, and Pink Beach. These tours often include transportation.
How many days for Labuan Bajo
There are numerous activities and day trips that you can do from Labuan Bajo and the town itself is also a very nice place to stay. The ideal number of days for Labuan Bajo depends on which places you want to visit and the activities you plan to do. We recommend around 3 to 5 days to fully experience Labuan Bajo and its surrounding attractions and activities.
How to get to Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo has its own international airport. It’s well-connected to major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Denpasar (Bali), and Surabaya, as well as to some international destinations.
If you have the time and you are coming from Lombok, we highly recommend doing the 3day-2night or 4day-4night boat tour along the Komodo National Park. It is a unique experience, a fun way to discover multiple islands in one tour and at the same time your transportation between the two islands.
Where to Stay
Even though Labuan Bajo is not a very big city, you will find plenty of accommodations there. From budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to more luxury resorts, there is something for every budget.
Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
Thank you for visiting our blog
We hope you find our free travel guides and tips useful. If you want, you can support us virtually by ‘buying us a coffee‘.
Every contribution, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated and will help us continue to share our passion with you and grow this blog.
Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
