Things to do in Labuan Bajo – People always talk about running away to the beach, and honestly? It makes sense. There’s something about being near a body of water that clears your head without even you trying. Scientists say it can actually help you process emotions, but you don’t need a study to feel that. It will be obvious once you’re there.
If you’re looking for a place that gives you that, go to Labuan Bajo. Blue water, open sky, and the kind of silence that doesn’t feel awkward. You’ll come back sunburned, probably tired, but with your head a little cleaner than before.
For a better itinerary, here are things to do in Labuan Bajo for you!
Labuan Bajo: All You Need to Know
Labuan Bajo is a picturesque district located on the western tip of the island of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.
It’s known for being the gateway to the Komodo National Park, home to the famous Komodo dragons, a.k.a the world’s largest living lizard species. The district is situated on a hillside overlooking a beautiful natural harbor, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands.
The beauty of Labuan Bajo lies in its rugged and untouched landscapes, with lush green hills, clear blue waters, and a mix of white as well as pink sandy beaches.
This tropical haven has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere for everyone, with waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and offering panoramic sunsets.
The local markets also provide an opportunity to experience the region’s culture and taste traditional Indonesian cuisine, perfect for daredevils who are not scared of being one with the culture down to its extremes!
Amazing Things to Do in Labuan Bajo
1. Visit Komodo National Park
Photo: Awal Nugroho via Pexels
If you ask anybody about things to do in Labuan Bajo, we can bet all our money that visiting Komodo National Park would be the first thing they recommend.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the home of legendary Komodo dragons, the apex predator that you can only find in southeastern Indonesia.
You can join guided tours to get the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures, known for their impressive size and unique features. You can also explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park, which includes endemic species and a variety of ecosystems, from savannas to rich mangroves.
2. Frolic Around at Pink Beach
Photo: @m_photo via Unsplash
Don’t forget the Pink Beach, known for its rosy sands created by the mixing of white sand with red coral remnants!
On this surreal beach, you can relax on the beach, take a dip in the clear waters, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery. The contrast of the pink sand against the blue water and green hills provides a truly picturesque setting for relaxation and photography.
Read more: 10 Best Beaches in Lombok You’ll Fall in Love With
3. Go to Rangko Cave
Not too far from Labuan Bajo beaches, you can find Rangko Cave, a site known for its pristine blue waters inside a cave.
One of the unique charms of this cave is its salty waters. It contains so much salt that it will help you float easily!
People come here to swim, relax, and explore the ancient cave. You can also hang around the mouth of the cave to witness the mesmerizing sight of Labuan Bajo beach next to it.
4. Discover Labuan Bajo’s Marine Life
Experience the underwater paradise of Labuan Bajo with its rich marine biodiversity. The crystal-clear waters around the islands offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving to discover vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.
The region’s diverse underwater landscape caters to both beginners and experienced divers, so no need to worry about your diving skills at all! You can go snorkeling and diving at any point in Labuan Bajo. We recommend you hire an experienced guide for safety reasons.
5. Hike to Padar Island
Photo: Pexels
Next on our things to do in Nusa Penida is hiking up Padar Island, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of its unique landscape.
The hilltop viewpoint offers an awe-inspiring sight of Labuan Bajo’s top three beach points, which are white, black, and pink, all set against the backdrop of the brilliant turquoise sea. This hike provides ample opportunities for photography and a deep appreciation of the natural beauty of the island.
6. Explore Labuan Bajo’s Local Market
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling local markets in Labuan Bajo. Sample Flores’ traditional dishes, including fresh seafood and grilled meat.
You can also interact with the friendly locals to gain insight into the regional flavors and culinary traditions, creating a memorable cultural experience of a lifetime!
Read more: 6 Traditional Dances and Ceremonies in Bali, from Energetic Moves to Sacred Rituals
7. Explore Kelor Island
Photo: Simon Spring via Unsplash
Kelor Island feels like it was made for people who don’t have patience for crowded beaches. The water is so clear that you can look down and actually see your feet in 4K.
The hike up the hill gives you a full view of the surrounding islands that look straight out of a screensaver. It’s not a long climb, just enough to make you feel like you did something productive before you collapse back on the sand.
8. Visit Cunca Rami & Cunca Wulang Waterfall
These two waterfalls are basically Labuan Bajo’s hidden gems for when you’ve had enough of saltwater and need some fresh water energy.
Cunca Rami is lush and peaceful, surrounded by so much green that it almost looks fake.
Cunca Wulang, on the other hand, is where you go if you’re into cliff jumping or at least want to watch your braver friends do it. The canyon walls are insane, and the water is the kind of blue that makes you want to dive in even if you can’t swim that well.
9. Diving in Komodo National Park
The next agenda in your things to do in Labuan Bajo list is diving in Komodo National Park. Diving in Komodo National Park feels like you’re stepping inside your computer’s screensaver.
You will be surrounded by coral gardens, manta rays, turtles, and fish. It’s surreal in the best way possible. This spot is perfect for experts or even beginners. There are guides who’ll make sure you don’t end up lost or panicking underwater.
Read also: 3D2N in Lombok: From Cultural Village to Snorkeling in the Gilis
10. Experience the Charm of Wae Rebo Village
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Wae Rebo sits high up in the mountains, surrounded by mist and forests, and it’s home to traditional cone-shaped houses.
The hike to get there is no joke, but when you finally arrive, it’s all worth it. Staying overnight is the real deal. You sleep in one of the houses, eat local food, and wake up to the sound of roosters instead of alarms.
11. Enjoy seafood at Labuan Bajo Fish Market
Forget fancy restaurants, this is where the real food magic happens. The Labuan Bajo Fish Market is messy, loud, and smells like the ocean (because, duh, it’s right next to it). You pick your seafood fresh, hand it over to the vendors, and watch them grill it right in front of you.
The best time to go is after sunset, when everything lights up and locals start flooding in. You’ll probably end up sharing a table with strangers, laughing over spicy sambal and grilled squid. By the end of the day, you’ll smell like smoke and seafood, yet somehow, that’s not a bad thing.
Read also: Don’t Forget to Do These Awesome Things in Nusa Penida
12. Explore Gua Batu Cermin
Gua Batu Cermin, or “Mirror Cave,” is like nature’s version of a light show. Sunlight bounces off the cave walls and makes everything shimmer; it’s weirdly hypnotic.
You’ll be walking through narrow tunnels, ducking under rocks, and trying not to bump your head while the guide tells you about the cave’s history. It’s a quick visit but a cool one, especially if you’re into places that feel slightly mysterious without being creepy.
Explore Labuan Bajo with Bobobox
Photo: Bobobox Internal Asset
If you’re planning to explore the raw beauty of Labuan Bajo, there’s one place that’ll make your adventure feel ten times more magical: Bobocabin Umarato, Sumba. Nestled between rolling hills and endless skies, this stay is not your usual accommodation.
Each cabin is designed for comfort and peace, with smart features that make everything feel effortless. You can adjust the lighting and music with just a touch, and the massive glass window lets you wake up to a postcard-perfect view every single morning!
So before you book anything else, picture ending your Labuan Bajo adventures with a night under the Sumba stars, in a cabin that feels like it was built just for you. Download the Bobobox App to book your cabin and turn your Labuan Bajo trip into an unforgettable story worth retelling!
Writer: Samala Mahadi
Featured Photo: FIFANI CAHYADI via Unsplash
