Komodo Island is located in Nusa Tenggara Islands, Indonesia, precisely to the east of Sumbawa Island and separated by the Sape Strait.It is famous as the original habitat of Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), a giant reptile species that can only be found in the area. It’s part of the Komodo National Park, which is managed by the central government to protect the biodiversity in the region.
Komodo Island began in 1910, when a Dutch lieutenant, Steyn van Hens Broek, investigated reports from Dutch troops regarding the presence of a large dragon-like animal on the island. then, Van Hens Broek managed to kill a Komodo dragon and took his documentation to the Bogor Museum and Botanical Gardens. Since then, Komodo Island has become known to the world as the original habitat of this unique species.
In 1991, Komodo Island and the entire Komodo National Park area were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The National Park includes Komodo Island, Rinca Island, Padar Island, and Gili Motang and other small islands. All of the islands have high ecological value and are world tourist attractions. In addition, in 2011, Komodo National Park was declared one of the winners in the “New Seven Wonders of Nature.”
The indigenous people of Komodo Island are the Komodo Clan. And then, they call themselves Ata Modo and refer to their island as Tana Modo. In the 1930s, the population of this clandwas recorded at around 143 people, and in 1977 it increased to 505 people. They live side by side with the Komodo dragons and have their own unique traditions and culture.
Administratively, Komodo Island is included in the West Manggarai Regency, Komodo District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia. This island has an ideal environment for Komodo dragons to live and breed. In August 2009, the population of Komodo dragons on this island was estimated to be around 1,300. If added to the number of Komodo dragons on Rinca Island and Gili Motang, the total Komodo population reaches around 2,500. In addition, around 100 Komodo dragons are also found in Wae Wuul Nature Reserve on the mainland of Flores Island.
In addition to its unique fauna, this Island also has extraordinary flora wealth. Some types of plants on this island include sepang wood. It is used by the local community as a medicine and natural dye, and the nitak tree (Sterculia oblongata), whose seeds have a savory taste similar to peas.
Tourists can take a guided trekking tour to see Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. There are several trekking routes with different levels of difficulty, such as short, medium, and long routes. During the trip, tourists can also observe other flora and fauna.
The waters around the Island have extraordinary marine biodiversity. Some famous spots for snorkeling and diving are Batu Bolong, Manta Point, and Pink Beach, where tourists can see coral reefs, colorful fish, and even giant manta rays.
This pink sandy beach is one of the main attractions on this Island. The unique color of the sand comes from red coral fragments mixed with white sand. This beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling.
Padar Island offers spectacular views from its peak. The climb takes about 30-45 minutes, but once you arrive at the top, tourists will be presented with an extraordinary panorama of hills and beaches.
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Komodo National Park is to take a boat tour or liveaboard. This tour allows tourists to visit various islands in the national park area and enjoy the experience of staying on a boat.
With its extraordinary biodiversity and various interesting tourist activities, this Island is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers.
