Rinca Island Loh Buaya
Witness the legendary Komodo dragons at Loh Buaya, Rinca Island, a vital part of Komodo National Park. Experience prehistoric wildlife in its natural,...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
More active dragons
Rinca Island Loh Buaya
Best Time
More active dragons
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the legendary Komodo dragons at Loh Buaya, Rinca Island, a vital part of Komodo National Park. Experience prehistoric wildlife in its natural, rugged habitat.
"Blessed to see a Komodo Dragon once in a lifetime! God, you make my dream come true!"
Always use a ranger
Essential for safety and spotting dragons. They know the best spots! :shield:
Book tours in advance
Consider 2D1N or 3D2N trips from Labuan Bajo for a full experience. :boat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Komodo Dragon Encounters
Loh Buaya, Rinca Island
Witness the majestic Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Rangers ensure safe viewing distances.
Loh Buaya Ranger Station
Rinca Island
The primary visitor hub with new elevated decks for viewing and information.
Rinca Island Landscape
Rinca Island
Experience the rugged beauty of Rinca Island, a vital part of Komodo National Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Komodo Dragon Viewing Tips
Navigating Rinca Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Always use a ranger
Essential for safety and spotting dragons. They know the best spots! :shield:
Book tours in advance
Consider 2D1N or 3D2N trips from Labuan Bajo for a full experience. :boat:
Wear comfortable shoes
Trekking is involved, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Always use a ranger
Essential for safety and spotting dragons. They know the best spots! :shield:
Book tours in advance
Consider 2D1N or 3D2N trips from Labuan Bajo for a full experience. :boat:
Wear comfortable shoes
Trekking is involved, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
Respect wildlife
Maintain a safe distance and never feed the Komodo dragons. :dragon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the thrilling experience of seeing Komodo dragons in their natural habitat at Loh Buaya, Rinca Island. The presence of knowledgeable rangers and the recent facility upgrades enhance the visit. However, some note that the souvenir offerings could be improved, and the dragons can be less active during midday heat.
"Komodo Island will be closed from 2020. If you want to see Komodo dragons your place is here! I don't remember for the tickets fee+guide fee but it's definitely worth it. The dragons are lazy between 1200-1600 even that we seen 5-6 of them and half of them was freaking big. When do I say freaking it means like 30 years old around 70kg 2-3 m long."
Gergo Bognar (Russki)
"Thank God this place is exist so I can see a Komodo dragon today. I really hope Indonesian governments take this seriously to this conservation and take a good responsibility to the Komodo dragon’s life in the future. Komodo lives from the dead body of its bitten prey weeks before. So to keep them alive government should provide and monitored the population of buffalos, Deers and others Komodo’s prey. Since Loh Buaya is inside the Komodo National park all visitors should pay around IDR 90,000 for local and around IDR 150,000 for oversees passport holder. Another fee like local contributions fee around IDR 50,000. This ticket valid for 1 day only. So if you want to visit another island in a different date you need to pay again with the same amount. So if you go here with a tour boat, you need to check the itinerary and if it is possible of course you have to tell your guide to make the trip for all area in just 1 day only. But sometimes weather are changing so sometimes you have to visit all the island in two days."
Stefanus Saputra
"What do you expect, except see the ancient animal..!! I feel so blessed can see Komodo Dragon once in a lifetime. God really blessed my life. The ranger is really helpful to give the information. And they help you to get closer with the Komodos. Once I feel so scared, but after that I feel so lucky! God, you make my dream come true! Another bucketlist this year. Checked!"
Anisa Prella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Loh Buaya on Rinca Island is by boat from Labuan Bajo. Boat trips typically take 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions. Many tour packages from Labuan Bajo include Rinca Island in their itinerary.
You can choose between public ferries, private speedboats, or join a liveaboard Phinisi boat for multi-day trips. Liveaboard tours offer a more immersive experience and often cover multiple islands in Komodo National Park. +1
Yes, Rinca Island is a popular destination for day trips from Labuan Bajo. Many tours offer a 1-day itinerary that includes Loh Buaya and other key spots in the Komodo National Park.
No, there are no airports on Rinca Island. You must travel by boat from Labuan Bajo, which is the nearest town with an airport (Komodo Airport - LBJ).
Travel time by boat from Labuan Bajo to Loh Buaya on Rinca Island is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the boat speed and weather conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for Komodo National Park, including Rinca Island, are approximately IDR 90,000 for Indonesian citizens and IDR 150,000 for foreign passport holders. There may also be a local contribution fee of around IDR 50,000. These fees are typically valid for one day.
Yes, a ranger or guide fee is mandatory for visiting Rinca Island to ensure visitor safety and proper wildlife management. This fee is usually included in tour packages or paid upon arrival.
While specific pricing can vary, it's advisable to check the latest fee structure with your tour operator or at the park entrance. Fees are generally consistent for the park itself.
It's recommended to confirm if online ticket purchases are available. Often, tickets and park permits are purchased upon arrival or as part of a pre-booked tour package.
The entrance fee grants access to the Komodo National Park, including Loh Buaya on Rinca Island, for a single day. It contributes to conservation efforts and park maintenance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Komodo dragons are often more active in the early morning and late afternoon. During the hottest part of the day (around noon to 4 PM), they tend to be lazier and may be resting, making them easier to spot.
Loh Buaya features new elevated decks and buildings for viewing. Trekking routes are also available, guided by rangers, allowing visitors to explore the island's terrain.
A typical visit to Loh Buaya, including a guided walk and dragon viewing, can take around 1 to 2 hours. This can vary depending on the tour itinerary and how many dragons you encounter.
Yes, Loh Buaya has a ranger station, ticket and information desks, and new elevated viewing decks. Restrooms are also available for visitors.
Wear light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The elevated decks offer great vantage points for photographing the Komodo dragons and the surrounding landscape. Rangers can guide you to safe and scenic spots.
Always maintain a safe distance as advised by your ranger. Do not use flash photography directly at the dragons, as it can startle them.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing close-ups of the dragons from a safe distance. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscape shots of Rinca Island.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. It's best to check the latest regulations before your visit.
The main restriction is to ensure the safety of yourself and the wildlife. Avoid disturbing the animals or entering restricted areas for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to book a family-friendly tour that caters to younger travelers. Ensure your children understand the importance of staying close to the ranger and not making loud noises. Bringing snacks and plenty of water is essential, as facilities can be limited. The sheer size and prehistoric appearance of the Komodo dragons are sure to captivate young minds, making it a memorable learning experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
While Rinca Island itself has entrance and guide fees, opting for a shared boat trip helps manage overall expenses. Be prepared for simpler accommodations on budget boats, but the experience of exploring Komodo National Park is well worth it. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money on board.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early morning and late afternoon light can create dramatic scenes. Remember to respect the wildlife and follow your ranger's guidance to get the best shots without disturbing the animals. The new elevated viewing platforms provide stable and elevated perspectives for your photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Komodo Dragon: A Living Legend
Visitors to Loh Buaya are always accompanied by rangers who are trained to manage interactions with the dragons safely. These rangers not only ensure your security but also provide fascinating insights into the dragons' behavior, diet, and conservation status. They are adept at spotting dragons that might otherwise go unnoticed, often camouflaged against the dry landscape.
It's important to remember that while the dragons may appear slow at times, they are capable of surprising bursts of speed. Always follow your ranger's instructions, maintain a safe distance, and avoid any actions that could provoke or disturb the animals. The conservation of these unique creatures is paramount, and responsible tourism plays a vital role in their survival.
Navigating Komodo National Park
Tour options range from single-day trips to multi-day liveaboard adventures on traditional Phinisi schooners. These boats provide a comfortable way to explore the archipelago, often including stops at iconic locations like Padar Island for its panoramic views, Pink Beach for snorkeling, and various smaller islands for diving and wildlife spotting.
When planning your trip, consider the green season (typically November to March) which offers lush landscapes, though it can also bring rain. The dry season (April to October) generally provides calmer seas and clearer skies, ideal for island hopping and water activities.
Conservation and Management at Loh Buaya
+1 The Indonesian government has invested in these improvements to ensure the long-term protection of the Komodo dragons and their habitat. Conservation in Komodo National Park is a continuous effort, focusing on protecting not only the Komodo dragons but also their prey species like deer and wild boars. The park's management aims to balance tourism with the preservation of its unique biodiversity. Visitors play a crucial role by adhering to park rules, respecting wildlife, and supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Discussions online highlight the importance of responsible tourism and the need for continued government support for conservation. While souvenir offerings at some park locations have been noted as basic, the primary focus remains on the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of the area.
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