This open trip is built around the idea that Komodo is best seen from morning to dusk. The boat leaves Labuan Bajo early, spends the middle of the day at Komodo or Rinca and in the water, and finishes with a sunset stop near Kalong Island, where thousands of flying foxes leave their mangrove roost at dusk. Joining an open trip means sharing the boat with other travelers, which keeps the price down and makes the day social. The advantage over a shorter tour is the finish. Most day trips return before the sun sets, but this one is designed to catch the light, which is when the islands look their best and the bats put on their show.
As with the other shared trips, the exact route depends on the operator and the conditions. Expect a dragon walk, a swim or snorkel stop and the sunset viewing, with the return to port after dark. The boat will be navigating at night, so choose an operator with a good safety reputation and make sure life jackets are on board.
The flying fox show is natural and weather-dependent. Large fruit bats stream out from Kalong Island across the water as the light fades, and the best viewing is from the boat, quietly, a little way offshore. Bring a camera that works in low light and a layer for the breeze, because the ride home can be cool.
This is a good fit if you have only one day and want to pack in as much as possible without paying for a private boat. If you prefer a slower pace, a two-day open trip with a night on board covers the same ground with more breathing space.
Practical notes
Ask whether dinner or a snack is served on the way back, and bring a small snack of your own in case the schedule runs long. A head torch or phone light is useful on the jetty at the end of the day.
What to expect
The experience
A shared open-trip day from Labuan Bajo that combines a dragon walk, swimming and a sunset stop at the flying fox roost.
Best time
The dry season gives the clearest skies, and the flying foxes leave their roost around dusk.
How long
About twelve hours, finishing after sunset.
Tips
Bring a layer for the return ride, a camera that handles low light and a torch or phone light for the harbor.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors with one day who want dragons, swimming and the sunset bats together.
- Families
- Possible with older children, but the late finish makes it long for younger ones.
- Couples
- A scenic day that ends with one of the best sunsets in the region.
- Pair with
- A rest day at your hotel, then Rangko Cave or Wae Rebo.
- Time needed
- One long day.
Good questions
Where is the sunset stop?+
Typically near Kalong Island, where flying foxes leave their mangrove roost at dusk. Confirm the stop with the operator.
Is it safe to travel after dark?+
Reputable operators have lights, life jackets and experienced crew. Check reviews and safety equipment before booking.
What is an open trip?+
A shared trip where several travelers join the same boat, which keeps the cost down.
Will I see Komodo dragons?+
The route normally includes a dragon walk, but confirm it with the operator and expect that sightings are likely but not guaranteed.
Is it better than a two-day trip?+
It covers more in less time, but a two-day trip is more relaxed and includes a night on board.
